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Football kick-off - 3 launch - 4 Good work - 6 Community care - 9 GOOD NEWS ▲ FOR & NORFOLK Harvest 2011: FREE Celebrate faith - 12 Norwich foodbank appeals for tonnes of food ■ Norwich Foodbank has launched a harvest appeal to "None of this could have happened without the won- "We resorted to borrowing a raise six tonnes of food in just two months and revealed derful support we have received from local people who tin of soup from next door plans to set up distribution centres across Norfolk. want to help their neighbours in need via our local to feed our 18-month-old Manager of the Christian charity, Grant Habershon, Christian charity. However to keep pace with the daughter. The problems revealed that the demand for the emergency food demand and our plans we are now launching our 2011 came when my partner got parcels is growing every month. Harvest Appeal to collect six tonnes of donated food in ill and received no sick pay. "In June we provided 253 local people with three days just two months," said Grant. It was snowing and we were of emergency food and in July we fed 279 local people. Foodbank is appealing for help from churches, struggling to afford food Over 40% of these people were under 16. We have schools, Cubs, Brownies and other organizations and and heating. In the end the seen the demand for our services increase each month supporters during September and October to organize cupboards were bare. I don't since we launched in October last year. Harvest food collections. know what we would have "In September 2011 we will open our sixth Distribution If you want more information on how to get involved done without the foodbank." Centre around the Norwich area and soon we hope to visit www.norwichfoodbank.co.uk or contact Project Ann Marie. announce centres being launched around Norfolk. Manager, Grant Habershon on 07955 920590. Korean Rev is first for the East ■ AYLSHAM: Some 130 years after English missionaries helped take the Christian Gospel to Korea, the Rev Seung-Wook Jung based at Thousands put Aylsham, has become the first-ever Korean Methodist minister to serve in East Anglia. From September 1, Rev Seung-Wook Jung is the new minster at Aylsham Methodist Church and he comes to Norfolk with his wife Eun-Hee and their three children So Lee (10), So Yun (7) and Yunsang (4), pictured above. Seung-Wook said: "I aim to serve the church faith into action through leading worship, administering the sacraments, pastoral care, enabling spiritual initiatives: "Although Newday development and by seeking opportunities to By HELEN BALDRY & isn't politically motivated we see engage with the community beyond the church." He said he sees minister and congregation AARON CURRAN the social action projects as a great learning from each other and together seeking to way to encourage people to make discover where God is leading them. He hopes housands of young a real difference in their communi- that people's personal relationship with God Christians put their faith ties. The young people are voting would be deepened by his ministry. T into action in local commu- with their feet and demonstrating Seung-Wook attended Seoul Theological nities across Norfolk during that the church has a key role to Seminary in Korea for his ministerial training and August as part of the Newday play in helping tackle local issues." then worked as an assistant minister for 15 youth event, held once again at the Norwich North MP, Chloe years in the Korean Holiness Church. Royal Norfolk Showground near Smith, said: "The New Day project He has studied at London Theological Norwich. is always impressive. To have Seminary and Bristol Trinity College. He was Around 6,700 young people thousands of youngsters ordained in 2008, and served the Korean from across the UK and Europe volunteering to help out in north Christian Fellowship in Chessington and has attended Newday, organised by Norwich is valued and welcomed also been a local preacher in the Kingston-upon- the New Frontiers group of and they can achieve so much in Thames circuit of the Methodist Church. churches. They enthusiastically their few days on the ground. I North Norfolk Circuit Steward, Cedric Brown, enjoyed a packed programme of know that Catton and Mile Cross said: "Having previously had a minster from worship, games, teaching and residents enjoy working alongside America for a year we are really looking forward concerts. them and gain a lot in the to the ministry of the Rev Jung who comes from But there was also a social community year-round from the further afield in South Korea and for a longer period. It is good to receive the insights of action dimension to the event. project. It is an excellent example Christians from other cultures and experience Around 3,000 of the teenagers of the 'Big Society' in action." and I am sure we have a great deal to learn from signed up to one of 25 social action Newday has been running for each other. initiatives around Norwich and eight years, the last three in throughout Norfolk. There were Norfolk, and has increased in scale projects in Catton, Mile Cross, and momentum each year. , Norwich city centre, Owen Hylton, who heads up Church doubles up , and pastoral care, said, "Newday ■ NORWICH: A city church is so full every . Partnering with gathers thousands of young Sunday morning that it started running two sepa- local New Frontiers and other people from a wide variety of rate services every week from the beginning of churches, the youngsters painted backgrounds. They come from September. Eternity Norwich, based at Earlham fences, cleared gardens, washed every type of area; rural villages, Green Lane in Norwich, is repeating its Sunday cars and put on fun days and suburban housing estates and morning service twice every week. sports events for local people. urban flats all together in one Having been at full capacity for some time Sue Browne, Chair of the Catton place. now, the leadership, led by Pastors Paddy and Residents Association, summed up "This event builds their faith Jennike Venner, decided that it was time to 'dou- the mood around the Catton and passion for Jesus. For many it ble in a day'. The two meetings, named Massive community after Newday: is a totally new experience; they Xpress and Massive, will run at 9.30am and "Everyone was over the moon have never been anywhere like 11am respectively, with Children's Church and with the work that was done in this before." crèche facilities at the first meeting. The same Catton. Residents are now taking Owen said what is remarkable is message will be preached at both, and the wor- more pride in the area where they the leaders' passion for Jesus ship, lead by the Eternity Band, will be as high- powered as ever. live and the young people gave which drives them to serve and Pastor Paddy said: "If it's true that a church them that incentive" lead. Numerous volunteers take will never grow beyond seven eights of its build- Toby Skipper, from Kings time out from work to serve year ing capacity, we believe this is the faith step Community Church Norwich, after year. Since the event has been required to create space for more people to ■ Story continues on page 3 helped to organise the social action engage with the House of God.” 2 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorfolk.co.uk GOOD NEWS FOR NORWICH & NORFOLK We are all called to share Good News ■ Good News for Norwich & Norfolk is published by Festival Norwich, 48 St Giles St, ■ Those of us who live in the Norfolk are the ones called to put that plan into Geoffery Norwich, NR2 1LP. countryside will, in recent weeks, have action. We as Christians have the solemn Darrah was ■ Website: www.networknorfolk.co.uk noticed a significant change in colour: responsibility to share the good news of the a great ■ Editorial (01508) 488318. e-mail stories to cereal crops, oat, wheat and barley, were gospel. influence for [email protected] or send recently a dark green, but changed over the We do not have to be evangelists to do copy to Pear Tree Farmhouse, change in weeks of the summer. this: each one of us is called to be a sharer Norfolk in the Road, Wreningham, Norwich NR16 1AT. In Jesus' day cereals were harvested of the Good News, however ill-qualified we ■ Advertising: Peter Barnes (01603) 743786 with scythe and sickle; in our day with feel. 70s and ■ Distribution: Les Champion (01603) 402310 combine harvesters. But in each case men Perhaps the most important, but the most onwards, as ■ Editor and designer: Keith Morris were needed. difficult, place for us to do that is with our an Anglican ■ Regular writers: Peter Barnes, Kevin Gotts, When Jesus said, “The harvest is ready”, own families and friends. vicar in Mike Wiltshire, Sandie Shirley, Aaron Curran, he was not thinking of wheat and barley. He Every effort to share needs to be soaked Norwich and Helen Baldry, Les Champion. ■ was thinking of the spiritual harvest. Men in prayer. Everyone we meet, in school, Winfarthing. Printed by Archant Print. and women were hungry for spiritual food. college, the work place or the pub is fertile ■ Churches, Christian organisations and If that was true in Jesus' day, it is ground for the seed of the gospel. individuals from within Norwich and Norfolk are certainly true in our own day, though most Jesus commanded us to ask the Lord of invited to send news, events and pictures which relate to the demonstration of the Gospel in social people do not recognise it. 95% of people the harvest to send labourers into the action, community care and evangelism generally. in this nation are not Christians. The future harvest, and that commandment is as This will not only encourage those Christians for them is bleak in the extreme. urgent today as ever. 'Whom shall I involved in similar activities but also inform leaders God, however, has a rescue plan, and we send?...' 'Here I am, send me.' in other churches who are contemplating similar forms of outreach.

■ The deadline for material for the Christmas edition is Friday November 4. It will be available for distribution from Friday November 26. Rev Janice is online ■ While every care has been taken in compiling this publication and the statements contained within are believed to be correct, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies. Reproduction of any part of this publication village shepherd without permission is strictly forbidden. But please ask as we are usually happy to oblige for a credit writing gained momentum when she took line in non-commercial situations. By SANDIE SHIRLEY over a rural benefice in South Norfolk for ten years. Children's stories, with a simple gospel ith a treasure box of ideas and a truth, were unleashed. Her first volume, anyone computer, Norfolk priest, Rev Janice which will also strike a chord with adults, has W Scott, is working on her latest novel. since hit the bookstalls and two subsequent no charge The retired minister, and one of the first ones are due for release. no hassle Anglican women priests in the country, is a "They are an ideal resource for school no age limit prolific writer. assemblies," says Janice. With a hotchpotch of confidential Through various websites, two novels and a characters and talking animals they also help host of children's stories and sermons, her address the problems that children face today work is available in book form and on the including bullying, she explains. internet, as the Village Shepherd. A new marketing strategy came when she All this activity goes a long way to putting was approached by a small American family Drugs Alcohol the gospel into the hands of thousands world- business that had spotted her prolific material wide and her fiction is proving a gentle, on the internet. It took over the running of the Making a difference to young absorbing way to share her faith message with site, and became a book publisher for her chil- people and adults many. dren's stories. Having retired, Janice has put Yet all this would have seemed unlikely a the pen to work again, writing about the ups few decades ago when the mother of three, and downs of parish life. Her latest fiction - 24/7 helpline who had sat in the pews since she was a small Heaven Spent and Babies and Suckling's girl, had a crisis of faith. "I remember being (available from Jarrold, Norwich) is set in a 0800 764754 asked to write down what God meant to me rural Norfolk benefice and were published during a Lent course and I suddenly drew a during the last 12 months. blank." Janice reflects on her real-life adventures as The former physiotherapist, who had a minister in a country benefice: "I learnt so Could you help us helped at the London City Mission, and much from the people there and the collabora- help others? moved to to set-up a health tive work of encouraging their talents that business with her husband, walked away from included joining six churches within two small Call church as her faith was lost in an instant. benefices together for increased unity and 01603 626123 "I realised I did not have any evidence of a strength." personal understanding of God's love but for The move also helped inspire the Christmas the first time I felt marvellous and was able to Tree Festival in Dickleburgh, when 3,000 peo- www.matthewproject.org be myself," says Janice. It took soul-searching Online shepherd, Rev Janice Scott. ple make the annual trip to light candles and and communication, through a new spiritual say prayers. "It became an all-embracing mis- Supporting people with drug and alcohol related issues began studying theology and her writing Providing innovative education about the risks of drugs and realisation, before her belief was restored. It sion that was hard work, using a big alcohol came when she recognised her huge, unlocked began in earnest. "I had always loved to write; Christmas tree as the focus in the church," Empowering people to make more informed choices potential could be given to God, the one that together with sport it was the only thing I recalls Janice who has seen its continue lived within her, for it to be outworked. "That could do at school and some ten years before I to thrive. 24 Pottergate, Norwich, NR2 1DX realisation brought into focus all sorts of rich- had won a writing competition." www.janice-scott.com Registered Charity No.1122801 ness," she recalls. The essays for her training easily flowed. www.sermonsuite.com/the-village-shep- Registered in England No. 6388343 It included a call to the priesthood that she As a curate in Fakenham and later Eaton, near herd.html initially tried to ignore. But in 1985, Janice Norwich, her sermons continued to flow. Her www.authorsden.com

Greeting Cards – Stationery Helium Balloons Cards ‘n’ Things Cylinder Hire Corporate buffets, fresh bread, cakes, The Specialist Card Shop filled rolls, sandwiches, Party Products Gluten & Wheat Free Products, Reepham Road, Hellesdon, Norwich. Tel: 01603 442165 187 Reepham Road, Hellesdon Christian Books & Church Resources Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 3 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian online shop at www.norwichchristian.co.uk Record start to new season

league news. By KEITH MORRIS Website designer, Helen Baldry, said: "We have aimed to produce an attractive and he Norfolk Christian Football League intuitive site which will provide an effective kicked off its new season at the start of and efficient means of communicating with all T September with a record 56 teams, a new the league's stakeholders, including , management committee, a new website and a parents of youth players, managers, referees, new logo. churches and potential new teams among Mike Culwick, from Heartsease Churches FC, others. Important league information can be has been voted in as Chairman (with Youth communicated both quickly and effectively Leagues oversight), and Jim Green, from using both the website and the new e-mail Norwich Vineyard FC, has been named as Vice newsletter." Chairman (Adult League oversight). James Former league vice-chairman, Tim Leck is the new Adult League Secretary. Stapleford, who helped commission the new Stepping down will be former chairman Gary website, said: "As a league we want to network Ryan and long-standing league servant, Tim effectively with other youth support organiza- Stapleford, who will both still be involved with tions and communication networks. The web- the League in other roles. site will help us to do this and to greatly Also added to the team is the new position of enhance our communication and publicity of General Secretary, which has been filled by events, vision and most importantly the YMCA Norfolk Health and Well-Being Christian message." Development Worker, Jessica Tyson, taking New teams joining the league include East over from Katharine Hume who will become Norwich Youth Project (ENYP) U12, the new league Respect Officer. Athletic U10 and Worstead Wolves U16. In the Jess will be working for the League for one Men's league Kings have entered a second team day a week, based at the YMCA Norfolk offices plus a new team from Holy Trinity. at and is the main point of contact for Those playing in the U10, U12 and U14 age league matters on 01603 630049 ex 129 or at groups have been encouraged to pair up for [email protected] home venues so that a friendly match can also Mike said: "I became involved in the be played after the main match, this gives the Christian League when Tim Stapleford started young people more opportunity to play football the youth league in 1995, and thought this and ensures everyone on the team has a chance would be a great opportunity to witness to Holy Trinity Under 12s claimed their first silverware in their Norfolk Christian Football League Youth Cup Final against Ospreys. to play. young people on the Heartsease estate. Football General Secretary for the league, Jess Tyson, is the means to the end - the end being sharing support. Where would Jesus be on Saturday Norfolk website. said: "I am excited to be part of such a the Good News of Jesus with everyone mornings? In the early morning prayer meeting The new website at www.norfolkcfl.co.uk dedicated and enthusiastic group of volunteers involved in our football teams. praying for those lads, 'what are their names will carry all the latest fixtures, results and that make the Norfolk Christian Football "A few years ago we lost two young men, now?' No, he would be out there getting to league tables, as well as news updates, league League thrive year on year. The opportunity for one 17 and one 18, both connected to the know them, showing them how much he cares and team pages, picture galleries and document young people to play football in a safe and Heartsease Football club and this really brought for them." downloads, among other features. happy environment whilst also hearing about home to me how important our message is. The League has launched a new website in A central part of the website will be a regular and seeing demonstrated the love of Jesus is "Churches please give your full support to time for the new season in partnership with the new weekly e-newsletter service which aims to amazing. I know it's going to be a great the teams you sponsor, I mean your physical team behind the popular Network Norwich & provide the latest results, league tables and season!" Putting faith into action

■ Story continued from page 1 of us were involved in helping to clear held in Norfolk there has been a huge gardens, trim hedges and also paint fences increase in the number of churches going for the people of Catton who are unable to and there is incredible support from all get out and do it themselves,” said Aaron. denominations of churches in Norfolk. "The other highlight for me was being able Age-appropriate seminars take place each to witness 309 people get healed and 365 day covering topics including science & the young people give their lives to God during Bible, abortion, identity, dating and how to the Thursday evening meeting whilst Adrian thrive at university. Holloway was preaching. It was a real Other activities include an ice rink, bouncy testament to God's love and also power to castle, skatepark, climbing wall and creative see so many lives impacted on that night. arts such as drama, songwriting, prophetic “The most incredible experience for me art and dance. was standing in a tent with 6,500 other Evening meetings are eagerly anticipated young people knowing that we all had one at Newday and are approached with the thing in common - a love for Jesus - was expectation that God will speak. The Big Top mind blowing and for me sums up what comes alive with young people dancing, Newday is all about." jumping, laughing and putting their hearts While young people learn about into worship. Hundreds of people respond themselves and their own faith at Newday, regularly to the message and a ministry the focus is very much outward-looking; on team is on hand to pray and talk with relationships with others, communities and people. issues in the wider world. An offering is Late-night concerts included Phatfish, taken on the last night and everybody is Shackleton and Philippa Hanna. encouraged to think about how to contribute Aaron Curran, from City Church Norwich, to this. attended for the first time: "One of the Organisers envisage that Newday will highlights of the week for me was being able keep on growing; there is scope for to do outreach in Catton. Having lived in thousands more people on site and they Norwich all my life, it was such a good have announced that they will be returning experience to go into a local community and to Norfolk for the next three years. be able to make a difference. A large group www.newdaygeneration.org 4 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorfolk.co.uk

New name for Norfolk street charity

■ NORFOLK STREET PARTNERSHIP towns like , Great Yarmouth and (NSP) is the brand new name for the Diss to have their own board of trustees Splag Christian charity which puts high profile and administrative centres is quite impracti- street pastors out on the late-nights streets cal. ■ CHRISTIAN YOUTH OUTREACH BUS SEEKS in the centres of places such as Norwich, "In practical terms, this should make no VOLUNTEERS: An exciting youth outreach bus Dereham, Great Yarmouth and Diss. difference to the wonderful work that our project which supports marginalised young people in Formerly known as Norfolk Street paid staff and volunteers do in town and the community where they live has two volunteer Pastors, the charity is changing its name city centres across Norfolk." posts for a Treasurer and a Secretary to help them but not its work or mission, which will The work of CNI has been backed by the take the project forward. For further information and remain exactly the same, according to Right Hon. Dr John Sentamu, Archbishop job description, please contact Project Coordinator chairman, Richard Pennington. of York, who said: "I welcome these night- Peter Dinsmore at [email protected] "The essential work of providing time initiatives such as Street Angels. You Christian love and support on the streets of are working hard to help the communities Norwich and elsewhere in Norfolk remains as Norfolk. Some of our staff recently in which you live by making the streets All Saints’ Centre our mission but now under a new name, attended an inspirational CNI meeting in safer and I am extremely grateful to you all which reflects the teamwork of prayer London which was addressed by Christian for that. I pray that these initiatives continue pastors and street pastors, as well as to result in reduced crime and the fear of ■ NORWICH CHRISTIAN CAFE SEEKS MP, Stephen Timms." trustees and supporters," said Richard. crime. Keep up the good work!" VOLUNTEERS: All Saints' Centre, Norwich is The name change was agreed at a The change has been made following the currently in need of a volunteer to deal with Gift Aid recent meeting between the trustees of recent decision of the Norfolk charity to administration. It is also in regular need of volunteers Norfolk Street Pastors and the manage- Volunteers needed leave the management of Ascension Trust to serve in its coffee bar. Other needs include help at ment of Ascension Trust. ■ An appeal has been put out for more vol- (the umbrella organization for Street fund-raising events and someone to make preserves Richard said: "The main reason behind unteers to join Norfolk Street Partnership Pastors nationally) and join the Christian to sell (ingredients provided). the move from Ascension Trust is that, and become street pastors. A four-day Nightlife Initiative (CNI). CNI is an affiliation Please phone 01603 633726, or email while the model of street pastors used by training course is set to run on Saturdays of Christian groups working in the night- [email protected] or call in and see us. them works very effectively in a metropoli- from September 24 at Gage Road Chapel time economy, including the -based www.allsaintsnorwich.org.uk tan borough with clear boundaries, a rural in Norwich from 10am to 4.30pm. Town Pastors, Street Angels and many county like Norfolk is a very different set- For further information and to obtain an other groups as well. up. application form, contact Gail Halley at Richard said: "We are thrilled to be asso- "In Norfolk, the centre for street pastors [email protected] or on 01603 EP Youth Project ciated with the Christian Nightlife Initiative is in Norwich which deals with the adminis- 617598. which supports the county-wide model tration, training, fundraising, finance and www.nspuk.net ■ ARE YOU CREATIVE AND MOTIVATED? which is so essential to a rural county such uniforms for the whole county. For smaller www.cninet.weebly.com Do you have some spare time? Are you over 18? Do you like working with young people? Do you enjoy working in a team? EP Youth is a Christian charity which aims to make a positive difference in the lives of young people by supporting, motivating and enabling them to achieve their highest potential. YFC launches fourth We aim to empower young people to make informed choices and increase young people's participation and volunteering in their local communities. If you answered 'yes!' to the above questions, call us: 01328 851020 or email [email protected] new Norfolk centre

Musicians Training Day with Taste on Explore By KEITH MORRIS February 18, 2012. In the run-up to Easter, NBYFC plans to work with the churches in ■ COULD YOU BE THE ANSWER? We're looking for: fourth Youth for Christ centre was the area to have a youth-led social action couples brave enough to answer questions about their launched in Norfolk on September week, plus schools work and various clubs marriage; Adviser-coaches; Prayer partners; 16 and aims to demonstrate God's springing up in the villages. Fundraisers and Management committee members A love to young people in the North Breckland Youth for Christ is an international Explore is a unique, national, schools-based educa- area. movement working in more than 100 tional charity. For more information, please contact Angela Fox, who has been working for countries around the world to give young Karen Nice at [email protected], tel: 01603 Norwich Youth for Christ for the past seven ested in supporting the Centre people a clear, relevant and engaging 470731 or visit www.theexploreexperience.co.uk years and has been a volunteer for 20, has "We have been offered some financial understanding of the Gospel. taken up the post as Director of North support but would always welcome more to It has a strong in Norfolk Breckland Youth for Christ. further the work. We have secured some dating back to the 1950s, and has existing Angela said: "I'm very excited to be funding which is released when we can established centres in Norwich, Great Volunteer link service involved at the beginning of this new match it from other sources. We are looking Yarmouth and Diss. Centre. I have a passion for reaching and to sustain the work through local giving as For more information contact Angela Fox ■ The Norfolk Christian Volunteer Link is a service discipling young people and training and far as possible as the work is for the youth on [email protected] or visit: provided by the NetworkNorfolk.co.uk website which equipping them to live life to the full. I want in North Breckland." www.northbrecklandyfc.org.uk aims to promote volunteering opportunities to people them to know the love of God and recognise Director of Norwich YFC, who have the time, skills and passion to fulfil the roles how He works in their lives. Mark Tuma, said: "It's enormous- offered. We recognise that many Christian groups rely "We will aim to cover the Breckland area ly exciting to see another new heavily on volunteers to ensure that their work contin- north of the A11 corridor and also cover YFC centre being born in our ues and thrives. Hingham. Integrate YFC covers south of the area, and it's particularly encour- Subscription to the volunteer link scheme costs A11 and we will work together in that area. aging to see this new growth £100 for the year and includes: up to six volunteer "Last summer God began to speak about coming from within our team vacancy 50-word adverts on the website; entry in the moving on and to a harvest field where we here in Norwich. Ang is faithful- Projects Directory on Network Norfolk; inclusion in hadn't sown. We sensed we should look ly and courageously following the weekly e-newsletter; inclusion in a special regular south of Norwich and at the NYFC Annual God's call as she steps into this volunteer e-newsletter; 50-word advert Good News Thanksgving I was called to start a centre in new role and I'm convinced that for Norwich & Norfolk newspaper; promotion at the Breckland area," said Angela. it will change the lives of young annual Celebrate Norwich & Norfolk event "We have already been offered use of people in that area!" Or... advertise a one-off volunteer vacancy for £35 buildings for an office and for activities and NBYFC was officially launched To add a vacancy or for more details email have recruited a number of key volunteers, on September 16 at Wellspring [email protected] prayer team and an amazing group of Church, Dereham. www.networknorfolk.co.uk trustees. We will be continuing to establish Other events already planned relationships with the local churches and include a Volunteers Training congregations and with those who are inter- Day on October 22 and a New NBYFC director Ang Fox. Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 5 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian online shop at www.norwichchristian.co.uk

Left, the new foyer inside Mason Road looking towards the large cafeteria, above, the NFLC Sunday congregation and right, senior pastor Trevor Pimlott and his wife Joyce. Milestone for church

large Norwich church has just international speakers visit. reached an important milestone By MIKE WILTSHIRE Trevor says the new facilities A in the transformation of its enhance the church's emphasis on 'new home' on an industrial estate, just multimedia systems. The complex providing "a loving welcome for off the Ring Road at Mile Cross Lane. includes a visitors' welcome lounge, everyone, a place where people find a Just 15 months after moving into a large cafeteria, children's areas, a youth spiritual home and receive balanced spacious industrial complex on hall and a substantial admin area. preaching and Bible teaching." Pentecost Sunday in May 2010, Already, outside business and While maintaining strong links with Norwich Family Life Church has educations organisations and Christian other churches and the wider totally refurbished the building located ministries are showing interest in community, NFLC also runs 'life on Mason Road, next to the Hughes hiring the facilities for one-off events. groups' for pastoral care and shared OPTOMETRISTS & Electrical Store, opposite Comet. The move to Mason Road is a vital interests, usually meeting in local DISPENSING OPTICIANS "It's a big step for us. This place was step towards NFLC's vision to build a homes. "As the church gets bigger, we just an empty shell when we moved 45,000 sq ft church and community must get smaller," explains Trevor. in," says senior pastor Trevor Pimlott. complex at its Heartsease home site Among a dozen ministry areas at QUALIFIED ADVICE IN The move to Mason Road also marked where the church still maintains close NFLC are children's and youth groups, ALL ASPECTS OF EYE CARE the 45th anniversary of the church links with the community through its plus 'discovery' groups for new (formerly known as Mount Zion pre-school and other community visitors, marriage-related courses, CONTACT LENS CENTRE Family Life Centre) which had been activities. leadership training, women's events, located at a six-acre site at Heartsease - NFLC's first year at Mason Road has plus projects to give practical help in ALL TYPES OF LENSES INCLUDING until a devastating fire destroyed the seen a series of special events ranging the community, and a keen interest in DISPOSABLES FITTED & SUPPLIED premises in February 2006. from a Bible reading marathon in overseas work in the Philippines, Since then, Mark Nolan, a director of March to celebrate the 400th India, Ghana and Israel. the Norwich architectural firm of anniversary of the King James Bible, a Pastor Trevor, who is chairman of TEL: NORWICH (01603) 626750 Chaplin Farrant, has been "a great major missions conference and a 'Unite' - a prayer initiative among inspiration" in the transformation of 'summer camp re-union' which drew Norwich ministers - says he is also the industrial unit at Mason Road, says people from all over the world who encouraged by the number of 19 CASTLE STREET, NORWICH NR2 1PB Pastor Trevor. had been involved in these events on spontaneous inter-church 'prayer www.dippleconway.co.uk NFLC's comfortable new venue has the Norfolk coast between 1970 and groups for revival' that have sprung up two conferences halls, plus a large 2001. across Norfolk in the past year. carpeted sanctuary, equipped with This year has also seen a number of www.nflc.org.uk 6 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 FEATURE Chaplains on workpl

Throughout Norfolk, he largest chaplaincy organi- Hospital at Gorleston and is participants at other ports, as the from King's Lynn to zation in Norfolk is Good chaplain to the sugar beet factory at Mission to Seaman is a network of T Work (formerly the Norfolk Cantley. He also supports Angle, a chaplains in 240 ports across the Great Yarmouth, and Waveney Industrial Mission). It grouping of companies in the world. is a charitable trust limited by area. He acts as deputy to the port He tells of a Polish crew who there is a small guarantee providing chaplains in chaplain of Great Yarmouth, taking requested a prayer and praise group of clergy various workplaces. on the role when Peter Paine is service on shore, where the The role of the Good Work absent on holiday or is unavailable uninterested Russian captain chose that provide a vital chaplains is to give comfort and for any reason. to stay on board. From this Peter frontline work of support to anyone in need of ■ Rev Peter Paine, a Baptist passed a copy of the Y-Jesus DVD support when they have problems minister. He works full-time for the (in Russian) via the First Officer to supporting people in or concerns in their life, whether Trust. He is the Port Chaplain for the Captain. Some days later the their working lives in physical, emotional, financial or the port of Great Yarmouth, working chaplain in Belfast phoned Peter related to work, family or other to the requirements of the Mission to excitedly to report that the Captain times of need. relationships. Seafarers who oversee the welfare of had become a Christian! Kevin Gotts and The charity currently has all sailors visiting the port. He is ■ Good Work has no income- four chaplains and operates also chaplain to the Town Hall in earning capacity. It survives Sandie Shirley ecumenically. Great Yarmouth. As port chaplain financially with monies and grants report. ■ Stephen Andrews, who is an he visits nearly every ship that from the Mission to Seafarers and Anglican ordinand. He works part- comes into port and helps the crews, others including churches, Port Thetford workplace chaplain, David Freeman. time providing chaplaincy in Gt many of whom come from other Authority, businesses and individual Yarmouth to Asda (staff and parts of the world and who have no gifts. Despite this help it has made a shoppers), to Camplings Linen local connections or support, but loss in the last few years and its David stepping Services, to the manual work force who need help to get in touch with reserves are dwindling fast. of the Borough Council and to the their homes. The port chaplaincy Good Work chairman, and former local employees of NORSE labour offers literally a 24/7 service, where Norfolk County Council chief force. a call from the Coast Guard or executive, Barry Capon appeals, down from role ■ Rev Chris Copsey, an Anglican hospital could require a visit to a "Anyone wishing to give to the minister. She works full-time for the seaman. cause, become a ships visitor with ■ THETFORD: David Freeman's colourful working Trust, providing chaplaincy at Peter, a former RAF Air-Sea training, to pray, or volunteer then past has made him a man of the people during his County Hall in Norwich, and for the Rescue employee, has real empathy please contact Peter Paine. ten-year post as Thetford's chaplain in the workplace. Coroner's Service county wide. with seafarers who may well be "The work of the chaplains today At 68, the Methodist circuit preacher is stepping ■ Rev Peter Glanville, a Roman away from their homes on voyages is even more important than it has down from a role that has seen him give hope and Catholic lasting up to nine months. ever been. People are under encouragement to hundreds of factory workers and deacon. company directors at crucial times in their lives. "While modern ships have increasing stress and pressure at He gives Over the last decade, David has been chaplain to excellent facilities, the sailors like to work, at home and generally. So the police, fire-brigade and forces in South Norfolk. In part-time relax, use IT or meet up with other often they need an understanding, a roles past or present, David's philosophy has been support crews off shore," he said. listening ear, someone independent, simple and unchanging: "I listen, care and pray as I to the When on board a vessel, Peter unbiased, uncritical to whom they aim to leave people in a happier state than when I Trust. explains, "I treat it as their home and can talk completely confidentially," met them." He is part will deal with any faith questions. said Barry. His part-time workplace chaplaincy (with funding of the Generally I find seafarers as God Contact Peter Paine on 01493 support from Thetford Christians Together and the team of loving people, 90% would have a 850270 (ext 4), 07788 111823 or email Norfolk & Waveney Industrial Mission), began with chaplains strong faith - all faiths and none." [email protected] introduction letters and meetings at major companies at the Peter gets involved with prayer More details of Good Work on: and continued with relationship building at smaller James meetings, services and Alpha www.good-work.org.uk firms. Those early seed-sowing days resulted in Paget courses which would continue for By Kevin Gotts sharing the tears, joys and challenges of life with a growing workforce in over 50 companies. David’s own career saw him rise from the shop floor to management with a stint in personnel, purchasing and sales. This helped him to gain empathy with those he worked alongside as he understood production, quality control, competition and redundancy concerns. He also provided a listening ear for more personal issues. "It has been important to tune into people and sense what to do or say, recognising that everyone will have a need for prayer support and encouragement at some stage in their life." He has made a note of prayer needs and has often woken in the night or early morning to pray on specific dates and times for people. "If you pray for them and God does something in their lives, that is powerful," says David, who has seen a young man return to work after being ill for years and a woman cured from a flying phobia. David's own faith was tested after taking up the workplace chaplaincy. With an old car that eventually gave out, he was at a loss at how to continue the regular trips to factories and offices from his home near Diss. After immediate prayer, expressing the desire for a low-maintenance, affordable car, he saw a swift solution. "That afternoon a message was left on my telephone from a chaplaincy contact. Someone was selling the exact make of car I had asked God for Broads and with my wife's unexpected pension, the vehicle, vision for with its low mileage, was mine." Rev Briant By Sandie Shirley Smith. Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 7 Norwich & Norfolk Christian online shop at www.norwichchristian.co.uk

Christmas Good News

■ The Christmas edition of Good News for Norwich & Norfolk will be distributed in an innovative new way to help ensure the many positive faith-based stories it contains get into as many different ace frontline local homes as possible. Last Christmas, for the first time, the paper was printed as part of the Norwich Advertiser and all copies were distributed with it to homes across Norwich. This year we plan to print and distribute around 20,000 copies inside the Norwich Evening News, with another 15,000 copies available separately for churches who wish to distribute it at services or door-to-door in their local areas with their own Christmas literature, from the end of November. If you wish to have free copies, to distribute in this way, please contact Les Champion at [email protected] or on 01603 402310 before the end of October. Please do not take previous arrangements for granted. It is essential you make a specific point of contacting Les (preferably by email), with your requirements. Please ensure your church or organisation is clearly identified, and give a contact name and phone number. Making a difference on the city streets

■ Every weekend Norfolk Street Partnership (formerly Norfolk Street Pastors) street pastors are out on the night-time streets of Above Stephen Andrews Norwich, Dereham, Great who is chaplain to Yarmouth and Diss pro- Camplings Linen Services viding a helping hand to among others and, left, Rev Peter Paine, Port all those in need. Chaplain in Great Yarmouth. This is what people have said about our work in Norfolk:

"The street pastors are doing a fantastic job." General Sir Richard Dannatt, ex head of the British Army

“The street pastors know what friendship is and that is what they are offering in some of the busiest places which are also some of the loneliest." Bishop of Norwich, The Rt Rev Graham James

"The street pastors really are 'the stars of the night'. It was a pleasure and a privilege to go out with them for an evening." Charles Barratt, High Sheriff of Norfolk Love for Broads inspired mission "They are a inspiration to everyone." Jemma, Norwich nightclubber

■ BROADS: Rev Briant Smith's visit to the and river systems with their varied wildlife "I had been at a boarding school from To keep this vital service going, Norfolk Street Partnership Norfolk Broads when he was 13 inspired a and village and urban communities. "The the age of 11 where matins and evensong needs a helping hand. Please give what you are able to. long-lasting love affair with the area. Now, culture and history, with ancient religious were compulsory, but they did not help my more than 50 years later, the former buildings and other historic icons, continue spirituality," he said. "A few years after leav- ■ I would like to support the work of Norfolk Street Partnership. biologist, who has retired from the to help individuals and groups with their ing, I was working on a farm on the Isle of ❑ I enclose a cheque for £...... Methodist circuit, is putting his unique ongoing personal development," he says. Wight. As I looked out towards the sea and Please make cheques payable to “Norfolk Street Pastors” stamp on the magical waterways that have "An increasing number of people are the surf and the white cliffs, I had to turn off ❑ As a taxpayer, I would like you to reclaim Gift Aid on any become his 'parish'. searching for spiritual meaning in their lives the tractor as the view was so spectacular donation (please tick box) The part-time chaplain for the Broads and part of their search involves a deeper and if I had not prayed, I would have wept." ❑ I would like to make a regular donation, please send me details ventured into new waters four years ago appreciation of the natural world for His course and resources for 'seekers with a job that has fostered his love for spiritual exploration, growth and and searchers' visiting the Broads allow Name...... nature, art and spirituality. The man, who development," says Briant, whose findings them to leave the material world and wallow E-mail...... was also a biology teacher for 25 years, is are included in the five-year blueprint for in the beauty through recreation. "It is about

busy developing educational resources for the Broad's sustainable tourism. stopping, looking and immersing yourself in Tel No...... ✃ school visits as well as running courses, Ongoing work is to seek to help visiting the moment and perhaps writing, taking a walks and sailings on a unique trading schools engage with 'mind-mapping' about photograph or drawing and thinking, where Address...... wherry while being Vice President for the Broads through wildlife, environment, is God in all this?" says Briant. Broads Tourism. literacy and the weather for example and His Broadside series of photographs and ...... "A lot of what I do is about gently youngsters can also expand their under- meditations encourage further reflection For more information and to return this form, please contact: pushing doors and seeing what happens," standing using websites. The resources will while various Pilgrim trails are also Gail Halley, 64 Connaught Road, Norwich explains Briant, as he builds relationships initially be available for use by local available through the chaplaincy which was NR2 3BS, e-mail: [email protected] with tourists and those that work in the schools, but Briant's dream is that they appointed by the East Anglia District of the or ring 01603 617598 area, particularly businessmen. become a national resource. The subject Methodist Church. "There is a great deal to offer in terms of is close to his heart, after a dramatic www.broadsspirituality.org.uk Registered charity number 1122478 spiritual heritage," says the nature lover, awareness of the Creator through the www.churchestogetheronthebroads.org.uk www.nspuk.net who is at home amongst the waterways wonders of creation. By Sandie Shirley 8 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian volunteer opportunities at www.networknorfolk.co.uk

Christian Books ■ meet the Good News team: Sandie Shirley

■ "I have had the privilege of this plucky woman of faith has gone & Bibles unearthing many amazing stories of from the slums of Antigua to the sub- miraculous healings, divine encoun- urbs of London and the wilds of ters, invincible courage and amazing Norfolk to pursue her destiny as a Church Resources sacrifice and I want others to hear teacher in the classroom for 50 years about them to fuel faith and build until she was 70," says Sandie, a available at… hope," says Good News for Norfolk member of Norwich Aglow writer Sandie Shirley, who is busy International and the Association of launching a website of faith stories Christian Writers. (www.refreshingwaters.co.uk). A second book is now underway, Cards ‘n’ Things "I have loved writing ever since I detailing the story of a baby born with can remember and at 19 it became a no lower arms and a badly twisted leg career and later, a heart for ministry. who was locked away from the out- 193 Reepham Road, Hellesdon, Over the years I have worked for side world in a Romanian orphanage. secular magazines and newspapers "Today that little baby is a confident Norwich. Tel: 01603 485832 across East Anglia and further afield, young man of 18 who has just com- as an employee and freelance," says pleted his first year at Oxford Sandie, who is now available to talk at University. His life was turned around churches, outreach meetings and by a chance encounter with a UK women's groups. aid worker who together with her "I help compile a regular outreach husband adopted him. It began an D.J. HOOD magazine of testimonies on behalf of unrivalled story of love, faith and hope Hope Community Church, when he was brought back to Wymondham, where I worship. I also England for surgery," adds Sandie AUTO-BODY SERVICES write a regular column for the Village who is also looking to publish a series People magazine, unveiling the men of poetry cards. ■ Servicing ■ Specialists in and women who make life tick in rural This autumn she will take on a PR ■ South Norfolk where I live," says role to help educate people about MOT preparation repairing and painting Sandie, who is married with two Myasthenia Gravis, the terrible rare ■ Accident repairs plastic car parts children and five step-children. neurological disease that currently ■ Caravan repairs ■ Free estimates Last autumn she saw the launch of affects her son. Sandie will work with Courage to Dream - the Impossible the Myasthenia Gravis Association to becomes Reality (www.lastwordpubli- highlight the personal stories of TELEPHONE 01603 487869 cations.com and Jarrold, £7.99) a sufferers and their carers to heighten book co-authored with grandmother, awareness of the disease through the MOBILE 07765 306972 Coralita Martin. "Despite poverty, media. Visit www.mga-charity.org abuse and unprecedented suffering e-mail: [email protected] Journalist Sandie Shirley. Financial angels come to rescue from local Christian leaders who reassured him By MIKE WILTSHIRE that God does speak in strange and challenging ways. Christian business man told a Norwich Peter West and his adult son, Paul, flew to audience recently about a 'financial Europe in faith and subsequently arrived in A miracle' in his life when a complete Douglas, wondering where in the world they stranger on the other side of the world felt were supposed to go until they stopped at a prompted by God to come to his rescue. tram terminus and asked the ticket lady if she Former banker Pieter van Rooyen had knew any church with the words 'apostolic prayed earnestly that God would deliver him ministry' in the title. from a personal debt of more than £214k after a The lady became excited and said it was the business arrangement went very church where her trou- wrong through no fault of his bled teenage son had recently own. found great help - and the Pieter was a successful church was located above the banking executive on the Isle tram terminus. of Man, a leading offshore There they met Pieter van financial centre. At weekends he Rooyen - including the youth also acted as a leader in a pastor who had asked God to thriving Christian congregation send angels to deliver Pieter in Douglas, the capital and from his financial crisis and largest town on the island. subsequent court case. The Perhaps naively, a youth church leaders were astound- pastor in the church had asked ed by their Australian visitors God to 'send angels to deliver who gave Pieter the message: Pieter and his family' out of the 'Everything is going to be OK'. financial crisis they faced. However, Pieter's leading Unknown to them all, Peter advocate only agreed to take West, a businessman and on Pieter's case if they never Christian leader in Queensland, Peter van Rooyen. mentioned the name of Jesus or Australia, was woken one night miracles in his presence. with what he believes was a clear message But the lawyer was so impressed by the from God 'go to Isle of Man and give a six- generosity and faith of Peter West in support- word message to a pastor that everything is ing Pieter van Rooyen, that he eventually wrote going to be OK.' to say that he had himself become a committed The next day Peter West stumbled across a Christian. picture of Douglas and saw the words Today, Pieter is a business mentor and Bible 'Apostolic ministry' in a magazine. He felt in teacher whose story is told in the book, his heart that God was giving him further 'Business Unusual; banking on God'. directions. Nevertheless, he sought advice He told his story to the Norwich FGBMFI. Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 9 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian online shop at www.norwichchristian.co.uk A hub of community care

Passion to "I get to see and help a lot of different people," teach: Paula says Paula, who may teach 45 students in a single ■ church profile: Mullane. lesson. "Language is like planting a seed that begins by Sandie Shirley to blossom. Those who have zero ability are learning to communicate with practice. I love seeing the results as it opens up new opportunities for their careers and in society," says Paula. The Hub in She attributes success to her beliefs: "It is the Wymondham is a fast kindness and mercy of Jesus' identity that lives in -growing expression of and through me," says Paula. Her inspiring faith community care in the and resulting vocation comes from her late mother who was a teacher and church planter in Brazil. heart of town. The "Her home was always an open door for love and former Job Centre care," recalls Paula. with its modern re-fit, Paula taught at primary and secondary schools in Brazil before visiting England in 2002 before is used by a team of Christmas, ready to start an intensive three-week volunteers from Hope course in Bournemouth in the New Year, before Community Church, finally flying back home. But with fast evaporating funds, she was at a loss to know how to finance her Wymondham, to value stay until she met a group of Brazilians in London's and uphold today's Oxford Street. Their suggestion to accompany them diverse and changing to King's Lynn to find work began a life-changing society. chapter. "I was soon employed in a chicken factory, Through the Hub earning more in a week than I could earn in a Community Project, a razilian-born Paula Mullane has a passion to "It is important to be patient and develop learning month in South America," says Paula. As she new route of practical teach. She taught English in South America strategies for different abilities," explains Paula, conversed with her colleagues her English speaking B before travelling to the UK with a return a volunteer whose popular two-hour lessons, skills quickly developed without the need for a empathy is being ticket, to enhance her vocabulary skills. But her visit that include a refreshment break, are building specialised course. "I wanted to stay in the area to channelled into the became a one-way trip following an unscheduled friendships and understanding with those from give back my blessing from God," says Paula. She lives of mums, young- visit to Norfolk that birthed a new adventure as an Brazil, Portugal and France. put down roots when her children joined her from interpreter and English speaking teacher. sters, the elderly and During the week, Paula is busy using her inter- Brazil and she attended a church in King's Lynn The member of Hope Community Church, preting skills from Thetford to Great Yarmouth in a where she started English speaking lessons for a their carers and those Wymondham, provides English speaking lessons at growing, cross-cultural society. She is a national reg- growing influx of immigrants before moving to from overseas, the town's Hub Community Project. The weekly istered interpreter, holding a Diploma in Public Wymondham last year. through regular expert Saturday sessions are paving a new path of commu- Service Interpreting since 2007. Her lessons help English speaking lessons are held on Saturdays nication and confidence for a variety of immigrants facilitate new and ripening lives and she is often (2-4pm) at The Hub Community Project, 27 Fairland sessions. from Wymondham, Attleborough, Dereham and called on to interpret at hospitals, police stations Street, Wymondham. Contact: paulamullane@black- Watton, since they were launched six months ago. and court hearings as well as help with form-filling. berry.orange.co.uk or [email protected]. Making an art of growing old

■ Retired teacher, Libby Creber, dedicated Through the Hub Community Project, they promote a sense of purpose and dignity for her MA in counselling dissertation to her late bring a new and enlivening dimension to carers, all who attend," says Libby, whose sessions mother's desire to make growing old an art. From and those they care for, who sometimes battle currently attract the over 50s, but carers in other this has come a unique, social life-line for carers fatigue and isolation. The sessions with music, age groups are welcome. and those they care for at Wymondham's Cup of singing and refreshments also feature past and Her mother-in-law died recently, having Caring. present themed events including holidays and a suffered from aphasia (loss of language) for over Libby knows the heartache and hard-won Royal Wedding celebration meal in April. Cup of five years. Libby also saw the effects of dementia understanding that comes while caring for two Caring opened last September and it attracts when her mother, a committed Christian, lived in elderly family members. One suffered from senili- those from near and far with diverse needs, a residential home for 30 months. "During one ty and a lack of mobility and the other from a including lack of mobility, senile dementia and visit I found some of her notes that read: loss of coherent language, caused by a stroke. Parkinson's Disease but all are welcome, 'Growing old is an art - it depends on mind, Her empathy and understanding of others was explains Libby. heart, emotion and security. By themselves also enlarged during her six case-studies of car- "We provide an accepting, informal meeting these are powerless, unless surrounded by ers for the elderly during her recent UEA degree. place where visitors don't need to feel at all love'," recalls Libby, who sees them as helping to "God first led me to do counselling 12 years embarrassed and where carers can define her purpose. ago and I felt it always had to have a purpose," communicate with one another and share Cup of Caring meets on the last Thursday in says Libby, who now shares her knowledge and insights," said Libby, whose volunteer team have the month (10.30-12noon) at The Hub professional qualification at the monthly sessions all cared for close family members. Community Project, 27 Fairland Street, with a 12-strong volunteer team from Hope "I have learned that it is important to be quiet Wymondham. Contact: [email protected] Community Church. and listen, respond to body language and or Debbie ([email protected]). Cup of caring: Libby Creber. BRIGHT QUALITY PLUMBING K.P. ELECTRICS NO JOB TOO SMALL ONE YEAR WARRANTY ON ALL WORK FOR ALL YOUR DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS. AVAILABLE WEEKENDS AND EVENINGS FREE ESTIMATES. NO EXTRA CALLOUT CHARGE NEW ADDITIONS, REPAIRS AND EMERGENCIES. HANDYMAN SERVICES ALSO UNDERTAKEN FAST, FRIENDLY, RELIABLE SERVICE

PLEASE PHONE GREG BRIGHT PLEASE PHONE 01603 744208 HOME: 01603 479216 MOBILE: 07814182940 MOBILE: 07770 921399 10 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 NEWS Norwich & Norfolk Christian news at www.networknorfolk.co.uk Army’s aim is to mend broken lives

■ NORFOLK: During the have had to cope with job loss- month of September members, es, poverty and loneliness. friends and volunteers of The This is why the role of The Salvation Army in Norwich and Salvation Army is more impor- the surrounding areas will be tant than ever. With cuts to out collecting in the community public funding we receive, pub- to raise vital funds for the lic donations to our Annual Annual Appeal campaign. Appeal are vital to ensure we Collectors will be going door to can continue our work in door and 100% of all dona- mending broken lives from tions made to the Appeal will services such as our help people in need. Lifehouses (Hostels) support This year the theme for the and provide accommodation Annual Appeal is ‘Mending for people and families who Broken Lives’ and illustrates are homeless, and our care the life-changing impact that homes and day centres for unconditional Christian love, older people. practical support and profes- Please watch out for official sional help can have on people Annual Appeal collectors who who come into contact with all carry a permit, which can be produced on request, and The Salvation Army though A Salvation who will only be asking for any of our 800 social and com- Army officer cash donations (using blue munity centres across the UK reaches Salvation Army donation and Republic of Ireland. out to a envelopes/sealed Salvation This has been a particularly homeless Army collection tins). hard year for many people who man. PAT electrical testing from Norwich-based - Alan Lawn Norwich duo Any number of items undertaken Free quotations - so why not give us a ring. CALL US TODAY on 01603 499571 or 07849 688202 plan city ball or [email protected] By KEITH MORRIS

wo women from a Norwich church are organising a charity Ball to raise £10,000 T for a Christian charity, founded in Norfolk, which supports street children in one of the world's most violent cities. Valerie Thorne, from Hellesdon, and Lisa- Marie Platford, from , both attend City Church in Norwich. They are organising a Ball to be held at the Ramada Jarvis Hotel in Boundary Road, Norwich, next March for the charity Let The Children Live! after reading about its plight in the Eastern Daily Press. Valerie saw an article about the work of the charity and its need for funds in the paper: "I knew instantly this was the char- ity I wanted to support and Lisa-Marie was in full agreement. You could say God moved in a dramatic way." The pair are now looking for people to Pictured above are get behind them and to sponsor the event Valerie Thorne, right, and also to buy tickets. and Lisa-Marie Let The Children Live!, which was Platford, who are founded in Walsingham, near Fakenham, organising the charity supports children in Medellin, ball. Courtesy of EDP. Colombia's second largest city, after stories Left, is singer Glen emerged of youngsters being murdered, Cooper hooked on drugs, separated from their families and forced into prostitution. Valeria said: "Neither of us have done any fundraising like this before and had and people can enjoy a four-course dinner and never heard of Let The Children Live! But music from solo vocalist Glen Cooper and a when we read this story we knew straight disco with Chris James. away that we had to do something to help and Tickets are £27.50 per person and can be we're going for it in a big way. We are hoping booked by calling 01603 412520 or from the to sell all 250 tickets and are looking for people Dixon Centre, Reepham Road, Hellesdon. to come forward now and sponsor the event." Anyone wishing to sponsor the event should Let The Children Live! has a large day centre make cheques payable to 'Let The Children and a residential home in Medellin and it Live (Norwich) and send them to 48 Woodland provides children with food, medical and Road, Hellesdon, Norwich, NR65RW or call dental care, education, social interaction and 01603 412520. psychological support. For more on Let The Children Live! visit the The black-tie Ball will be on March 24, 2012, website: www.letthechildrenlive.org Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 11 EVENTS Norwich & Norfolk Christian online shop at www.norwichchristian.co.uk

■ Sally-Anne Lomas, a former Norwich Art School pupil, drifted away from her Christian faith, unable to find a congrega- tion where she felt comfortable. The Divine Burning Bush Barn opened when she moved to Rockland St Mary and she was invited to a prayer painting workshop. “Now I pray and paint every day. I feel the love of God working through my life. I have found a new, creative, imaginative, creativity private, contemplative form of Christian worship and a community I feel part of which has awoken the flame of love inside me," said Sally-Anne. "Finding a place and a way that leads me to God, I pray that many more people burns sense the fire burning so brightly here in this tiny parish and walk as I did towards brightly the light."

By SANDIE SHIRLEY

Norfolk barn has become the only centre of its kind in the UK to explore and extend the A boundaries of divine creativity. Revd Wendy Shaw, co-founder, co-ordinator and sojourner with God, has tapped into the mysteries of spiritual art to help launch the Burning Bush Barn at Rockland St Mary from a restored stable. With its lofty white minimal space, the sanctuary of quiet, unhindered expression and contemplation is both healing and affirming, explains Wendy, who Right Rev believes God wants to be actively creative through Wendy Shaw, his people. above the "I hope the barn is a ready place to respond, Burning Barn rediscover and uncover the gospel through creative and some of experience," says Wendy. "We have a sacred space its art works. for the Holy Spirit to dwell where there is nothing to distract, or anything of ourselves, so we can have a deep need to live a creative life, with a encounter God. Here is an unspoken honesty - a creative spirituality, explains Wendy, who hosts the place to be vulnerable on Holy ground where art- early morning sessions for weavers, sewers, painters, making is a way to experience closeness with God doodlers and sculptors to kick-start their day with and when God is our creator so we are creative," fresh insight and shared support. adds Wendy. "It is spirituality and creativity with a capital 'S' The Church of England priest, a painter who sews and 'C' where art-making is about making sense of and sculpts, is seeing the spiritual freedom that our lives and not about making a great picture," Night Stop Plus Scheme comes with making and creating. She also believes in insists Wendy, who opened the centre with co-part- seeking God's provision for the projects and pro- ner, Kate Litchfield, who is also a counsellor. Wendy and Kate shared a similar vision when they ■ Do you have a heart for young people? met in 2003. Both were artistic and hungry to meet God through the joint harness of creativity and spiri- ■ Do you have a spare room in your house? tuality. They experimented with art - making marks, smudges and lines as well as a riot of primary and metallic colour - as they learnt and understood the ■ Are you willing to support YMCA Norfolk in transforming young developing process of non-verbal prayer through lives? God's releasing. They believe they have uncovered a more natural way of praying, when God sometimes ■ seems beyond words for many people. Nightstop is a scheme that provides up to three nights’ They began hosting workshops in South Walsham emergency accommodation to homeless young people between but demand out-stripped availability. As the partner- the ages of 16-24. ship continued, the ensuing vision for the Burning Bush Barn came when Wendy's husband, Revd John ■ Nightstop is an immediate solution for a short-term problem grammes that flow out of the Barn which, in itself, Shaw - Priest of the Rockland Benefice - was moved enlarges the creative process. to his present location. The run-down stable along- and aims to prevent young people from getting sucked into the The result has been revolutionary as the Holy side their home provided a potential base. With a institutional homeless system. Spirit inspires definitive and figurative art for major financial contribution from the Diocese of visitors, explorers and partakers to touch the heart of Norwich, together with trust funds and personal ■ You might be an owner occupier, council tenant or renting our creator, remarks Wendy, who has seen a fresh donations, the vision became reality 21 months ago. unleashing of paint and prose through those who Wendy's creative ability was encouraged and privately and are prepared to offer a temporary home to a young never saw themselves as artists. released at secondary school. Today she works with person across Norfolk. This pioneering ministry maintains a passion for diverse materials - machined fabrics, silken threads, creative use of liturgy and The Sacraments liturgy clay, vibrant acrylics and even black soot and ashes - ■ For supporting young people in this amazing work you will within art meditations yet the off-beat agenda some- at the Barn and her own purpose-adapted studio how provides an open door for every genre and age. next-door, as her passion for art and faith has placed receive expenses and support from the YMCA Norfolk team. It includes prayer painting, breakfast meetings and her on new spiritual ground. contemplative sculpture and interactive installations. Wendy once engaged with profoundly deaf ■ If you would like to find out more please contact: There are also meditative exhibitions (or 'shewings'), children and has a passion for non-verbal visual Mark Ash, Nightstop Manager various workshops and a library of 500 art books and communication. "As a priest I now help make faith DVDs that can be lent to those unable to visit. visible and tangible for people who for, whatever Tel: 07894 935778 or at: The regular Thursday breakfast meetings have reason, are unable to hear the word of God and are [email protected] swelled since their inception in the lounge of her deaf to his love because sometimes we need to see house three years ago. Some are Christians, others His word as well as hear it," she said. www.ymca-norfolk.org.uk are not and some are unsure but it doesn't matter. All www.burningbushbarn.blogspot.com 12 Good News for Norwich & Norfolk, Harvest 2011 NEWS www.networknorfolk.co.uk

'The path to recovery…' Can you help women with serious drug and alcohol addiction to find Celebration of faith fills their way to a new life? Could you: Become a volunteer? up Norwich city centre Support us in prayer? Consider giving a donation housands of people witnessed the sights or regular contribution? and sounds of Christians celebrating the Consider legacy giving? T many different local expressions of church life for three days in June (10, 11 and 12) centred on the Forum and Millennium Plain in To find out more Norwich. about our work, or This is the third year Celebrate has been held to offer help in any and it showcased the vast array of Christian of the above ways, groups, activities and services offered across please contact us Norfolk. Celebrate project director John Betts said, at: 10-12 Stanley "I think we have a great deal to celebrate and Avenue, Norwich, that is why we were doing it. We are saying to NR7 0BE everyone - this is what God is doing in and Tel: 01603 439905 through his people." Email: The Forum atrium and Millennium Plain [email protected] were filled with around 40 different local Christian organisations and projects who spoke to people about their work, gave out informa- www.hebrontrust.org.uk tion and encouraged people to get involved. Shoppers stopped in their tracks as the Above Sheringham Gospel choirs, bands, musicians, street entertainers Voices Choir, left evangelist Chris and artists performed. Duffett and below, the Norwich Passers-by were encouraged to join in with Global Day of Prayer. games, street art on a giant canvas and there was even the opportunity to whizz up a banana smoothie on a pedal-powered bike! Chris Duffett, an evangelist with the Light Project who took part in Celebrate, said: "I have had lots of positive conversations and encoun- ters. What an impact this is having on many, many people." On the Sunday morning, there was a Café Church in the Forum, more music and during the afternoon spitting rain could not dampen the enthusiasm of several hundred Christians from different denominations gather on Millennium Plain to celebrate the Global Day of Prayer.

■ The 2012 dates for Celebrate Norwich & three years. Norfolk have been announced along with a "We are looking to develop Celebrate in new new addition to the team behind it and the Celebrate 2012 directions and are seeking people who can opportunity for others to contribute. join the team and take responsibility for that From Friday June 8 to Sunday June 10 the Norwich Youth Project director, Danny Doran- development. We would like people to consider Forum in Norwich, Millennium Plain and St Smith. what they could bring to Celebrate as we seek Peter Mancroft Church will showcase a huge Danny said: "I am pleased to be able to be to enlarge the scope of what we do and devel- array of Christian groups, activities and servic- part of the Celebrate team for 2012, and to op the effectiveness of our work. es from across Norfolk, including the popular build on some of the activities we were able to "We will also be looking to add new dimen- Christian Community Action Exhibition. do this year in engaging with young people sions, including more activities focused on There will also be a wide-ranging pro- and their families" young people, with Danny's help, and also gramme of Christian music, arts and dance Celebrate project director John Betts, said: some elements linked to the London Olympics both local and nationally-known. "We are delighted to be able to announce and the More than Gold initiative, which follows Joining the team, to lead activities and the dates for next year's event which aims to shortly after our event." events focused on young people, will be East build on what has gone before over the past www.celebratenorfolk.co.uk

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