THE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2011 No: 6098 www.churchnewspaper.com PRICE £1.25 1,50j US$1.80 THE ORIGINAL CHURCH NEWSPAPER ESTABLISHED IN 1828 NEWSPAPER Do we really England need On Sunday Halloween? Terry Waite speaks up for palestinians p16,14 Stand-off at St Paul’s By Anna Matthey We are not a bunch of unem- what do if he were here today. ployed people. We have to work Others complained there had DEMONSTRATERS camped out- and take time off to do this.” been little chance to discuss prob- side St Paul’s Cathedral have no Asked about the objectives of lems with the Dean and Chapter. plans to move. They feel their the protest, Ruth, a woman in her From their side the Dean and protest is important and their sixties said it was not the respon- Chapter clearly see no way to point of view needs to be heard. sibility of the campers to produce reopen the Cathedral. As things “We are angry about being detailed policy recommendations. stand at the moment there is like- made to pay for a crisis we didn’t They were drawing attention to ly to be no Lord Mayor’s Show at cause,” said Peter Vaughn, who is abuses that needed to be reme- the Cathedral, no carol services, a volunteer for the occupation. died. It was up to the banks, cor- and no Christmas services. “Libraries are closing, services porations and the Government to Canon Giles Fraser who initial- are being cut, young people are come up with some policies. ly allowed the protestors to camp unemployed because there was Pressed to say why the demon- at the Cathedral, said: “I remain no proper regulation of the finan- stration had closed the Cathedral, firmly supportive of the right of cial services. Press and Communications Offi- people to protest peacefully. But We want to stay as long as pos- cer Hannah Talbot gave CEN a given the strong advice that we sible. Closing the Cathedral is the list of problems. These included: have received that the camp is choice of the church. It is their presence of unknown quantities making the Cathedral and its decision if there are no Christmas of flammable liquids; smoking occupants unsafe then this right services. We want to continue the and drinking within the tented has to be balanced against other dialogue with the Cathedral.” areas; potential gas safety within rights and responsibilities too. Bryn Phillips who works in PR the catering facility; compro- The Christian gospel is profound- claims that the church is split and mised fire exits; dangerous slips, ly committed to the needs of the many Christians support Occupy trips and falls at night time; con- poor and the dispossessed. Finan- . He is a member of the cern about sanitation, food cial justice is a gospel imperative. Church of England who believes hygiene and rodents; and the risk Those who are claiming the deci- the Dean and Chapter are being of fire within the tented area. sion to close the Cathedral has influenced by City companies and A major worry of the Cathedral been made for commercial rea- big investors. “It stinks of corrup- authorities is that if fire would sons are talking complete non- tion,” he said. “St Paul’s is trying break out in the Cathedral or the sense.” to discredit the demonstrators. Chapter house, it would be diffi- The media are doing the same cult for the London Fire Brigade when they say only 10 per cent of to get close to the site. ISSN 0964-816X the tents are occupied at night. One camper asked what Jesus 43

British Summer Time ends: The clocks will go back by one hour at 2.00 am on Sunday 30 October. At 2.00 am, the clocks will return to 1.00 am as British Summer Time ends for another year. 9 770964 816085

LETTERS 8 • COMMENT 9 • ALAN CRAIG 9 • THE REGISTER 12 • ANGLICAN LIFE 13 • PAUL RICHARDSON 14 • SUNDAY 15 • FAITH MATTERS 16 2 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday October 28, 2011 News Inside... Brontë Church needs help Britain’ s leading evangelical newspaper By Michael Brown

HAWORTH church, in the dio- cese of Wakefield, is calling for volunteers to support its plan to sustain the Victorian building through the 21st century. St Michael and All Angels is undergoing a three-stage restoration that is expected to cost more than £1m. The first stage, restoration of the south-facing roofs, could be completed next year with the aid of a grant from English Her- News ...... 1-7 itage. Your Church ...... 2 Church leaders are proposing to form a Friends of Haworth UK News ...... 1-5 Church group. It’s inaugural World News ...... 6-7 meeting will be held in Haworth at 7.00pm on Wednesday of next Comment week. Letters ...... 8 in charge of Haworth Alan Craig ...... 9 church Peter Mayo-Smith said: Leader ...... 9 “While we are making splendid progress towards making the Anglican worship but also as an People from Britain and many allow people to enjoy this we England on Sunday south-facing roofs waterproof historic building with important other countries come here to need an organisation whose Terry Waite ...... E1 again, we need to think about literary links. make that connection each focus is on the building and Whispering Gallery ...... E2 the future of the church build- “The Brontë legacy is some- year.” enabling a quality visitor experi- Andrew Carey ...... E2 ing not only as a centre for thing we take very seriously. Mr Mayo-Smith added: “To ence.” Arts & Media ...... E6 Book Reviews ...... E7 Catherine Fox ...... E8 Crossword ...... E8 Leicester Cathedral fights “tyranny of hate”

The Record By Anna Matthey dents and crimes within Leicester, Leices- Classifieds ...... 10, 11 tershire and Rutland. Clergy moves ...... 12 IT HAPPENS everyday, everywhere: peo- The activities programme, which was Anglican Life ...... 13 ple are attacked, hurt or even murdered facilitated by faith communities, the Cathe- Paul Richardson ...... 14 just because of their ethnicity, religion, sex- dral and the Diversity Unit, lasted for one Spiritual Director ...... 15 ual orientation, etc. In order to remember week and lead up to the International Day Sunday Service ...... 15 those affected by hate crime, a short inter- Against Hate Crime on Friday 28th Octo- Steve Morris ...... 15 faith prayer service took place in Leicester ber. Halloween ...... 16 Cathedral on Monday 24th October. According to a spokesman for Leicester People ...... 16 The event marked the launch of a week Cathedral, the historic church “will contin- Milestones ...... 16 of activities developed by the local police ue the work of fostering a society in which Next week’ s news ...... 16 and Stamp It Out, a community led project everyone can participate fully, free from the which aims at tackling hate motivated inci- tyranny of hate.”

News from Your Church your diocese

Bradford: The of Brad- King James Bible. Bishop Baines kept in the private domain? To Head quarters, 280 Bishopsgate, which the church in the UK can ford preached at a special said: “On this Bible Sunday, in the what extent is radical religious London EC2M 4RB. Registration and does engage with our young “Tongues of Fire” service for the 400th anniversary year of the belief a ‘threat’ to democratic soci- costs £65 and includes buffet people”. Diocese at Bradford Cathedral on King James translation, we give ety? Is toleration and mutual lunch, tea & coffee breaks and Sunday as it closed the year-long thanks for the Word of God which respect possible? The debate finishing with a wine reception. York: As part of his Year of the Illumination exhibition celebrat- has come to us through so many takes place between 10am and To book, telephone 020 7213 Environment celebrations, the ing the 400th anniversary of the faithful servants – fishermen and 1pm at Augustine House, Canter- 0660. , Dr John Sen- tax collectors, rabbis and schol- bury Christ Church University tamu, has invited people to view ars, saints and martyrs, and ordi- Library, Rhodaus Town, CT1 2YA. The Christian Child Care Forum online the Autumn update from nary people - gossiping the The debate is free to attend. will be discussing Children, Bishopthorpe Gardens. This is Gospel, passing on the wonder of Churches and the Big Society: the third seasonal update about the Word of God.” London: The Churches Conser- Calling Church and Nation from the flora and fauna habitats within vation Trust, the national charity 11am on November 2 at Regent the grounds at Bishopthorpe Canterbury: Canterbury Christ protecting historic churches at Hall, Oxford St, London W1. Ple- Palace. Written by Garry O’Rea- Church University will host the risk will host a conference on nary speakers include The Rev- gan, the Head Gardener, it fea- Big Debate: Religion and Public financing the future of historic erend Steve Chalke of Oasis and tures the introduction of spring Life on October 29, as part of the buildings on November 17. The the Bishop of Southwell and Not- bulbs in preparation for next year, Economic and Social Research Unique Regeneration Conference tingham, the Rt Rev . the tree chosen to celebrate the Council’s Festival of Social Sci- is aimed at heritage professionals, Ten keynote workshops will also Year of the Environment planted ences. Open to the public and church professionals, volunteers, be held. The Forum’s chair, by the Archbishop, clutches of chaired by the Canon Treasurer community groups and trades- David Lane, said: “With young eggs hatched from the bird boxes of , Dr people with an interest in the people having hit the headlines so and the squirrels busy burying Edward Condry, the event will maintenance and development of dramatically in the riots earlier conkers in the lawn. Dr Sentamu seek to address a number of fun- historic churches and other com- this year, the questions our speak- said: “Autumn is a wonderful sea- damental questions, such as: munity buildings It will last from ers are asking – and the answers son, a time of harvest and a time Should religion have a role in 9.30 am until 4.30pm at the Royal we hope will emerge – will we of thanksgiving for what nature public life, or is faith a matter best Bank of Scotland’s Corporate hope demonstrate the extent to gives us”. Get more news online, click on www.churchnewspaper.com for updated stories News Friday October 28, 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com 3 ’ expenses published Call to let local people DETAILS OF EXPENSES for bishops in 2009 are now available on the Church of England web site. The report lists details for expenses for 113 Church of England bishops, including 44 diocesan bishops and 69 suffragan and full-time assistant bishops. It goes into some details about the work and responsibilities of divide budgets bishops. Altogether the Church of England spent £15.6 million on episcopal ministry in 2009 including £0.7 million of By Bob Wainwright across the UK, delivering ten work- expenses incurred by the Church Commissioners. shops to help communities understand Of this total, £5.1 million went on stipends and £5.9 CHURCH ACTION ON POVERTY is how to create their own People’s million was spent on the homes, offices and gardens of calling for local people to decide how Budget. The campaign is being sup- diocesan bishops. This includes the money spent on one per cent of all council budgets are ported by Church Urban Fund, the the upkeep of Lambeth Palace and Bishopthorpe at spent. The proposal is for a People’s Joseph Rowntree Trust and other York. Budget to be created to give communi- organisations. The dioceses themselves are responsible for housing ties a say on how to use tax income A PB event in County Durham in suffragan and assistant bishops. Attempts by the more efficiently. June attracted over 800 people. In the Church Commissioners to reduce costs by moving As cuts bite, Participatory Budget- former mining village of Manton in bishops out of their historic homes have caused contro- ing (PB) would be used to get funds Nottinghamshire almost a quarter of versy. where they are needed. PB is a the population has voted in Participa- In Carlisle the Commissioners have agreed to allow process that began in Porto Alegre, tory Budgeting events and been the Friends of Rose Castle two years to raise funds to Brazil, in 1989. A pilot project was responsible for spending around buy Rose Castle, home to the Bishops of Carlisle since launched in the UK in 2006. PB chan- £500,000. the thirteenth century. The present , nels cash from councils, housing asso- Phil Trace, Director of the Participa- the Rt Rev James Newcombe, is living in the new Bish- ciations, and police authorities to tory Budgeting Unit, said: ‘Through op’s house in Keswick. community groups via a public vote. Participatory Budgeting local politi- PB does not have responsibility for ernment continues to make massive cians get to share responsibility for allocating money to statutory services. cuts, ordinary people should have a decision making and engage on a It aims to make a difference to neigh- much bigger say in deciding how tax- deeper level with a much broader sec- bourhoods by focussing funds on payers’ money should be spent. tion of the local community. It gives areas particularly affected by social A People’s Budget would help create them a part to play that is really posi- deprivation. a big society that hands real responsi- tive and tangible. Local communities evaluate how the bility and power back to communities. People often feel that decisions are money has been spent before receiv- But for it to work, politicians need to made by the person who shouts loud- ing further funds. Groups are required back up their rhetoric with a commit- est. But Participatory Budgeting is a to scrutinise council budgets before ment to the direct devolution of one much fairer process. There is obvious- coming to a decision, fostering per cent of all public budgets back to ly a need to prioritise spending where engagement with the political process. the people.’ there is no money. It is particularly Although it has been encouraged by Instead of just handing over small crucial over the following year that the Big Society Network, there is con- pots of money, CAP would like to see communities are involved in big deci- cern that enthusiasm for PB is waning PB managing larger pots over a longer sions that are going to affect their because of budget cuts. period. services. CAP Poverty Campaign Coordina- CAP has supported over 100 organi- Participatory Budgeting brings peo- tor, Alan Thornton, said: ‘Billions of sations to get involved with PB ple together. It makes us realise that pounds of our money is being used by through its dedicated Participatory we are not on our own; and that we can The Rt. Rev James Newcombe public bodies without any involvement Budgeting Unit. Over the next few do something to make a difference to by local people. But now, as the Gov- months Unit staff will be travelling our lives and our communities’. Facebook comment leads to pay cut COMMENTS ON FACEBOOK have Colleagues then complained to the that happen in offices and factories up cost a manager employed by a Man- Trafford Housing Trust which started and down the country every day. Noth- chester housing association 40 per cent disciplinary proceedings. Although ing he said was offensive or abusive. of his salary. Smith was found guilty of gross miscon- His comments were calm, measured Adrian Smith has worked for 18 years duct it was decided not to dismiss him and reasonable. for the Trafford Housing Trust but he because of his loyal service of over 18 Adrian has been treated dispropor- was demoted and had his salary years. tionately and even those who disagree reduced after he posted comments on After losing an appeal to senior man- with his opinion will surely agree that Facebook saying that he thought regis- agers, Smith is now taking his case to he has been treated unfairly’. tering homosexual civil partnerships in court, seeking compensation for his In a statement posted on their web- churches was ‘an equality too far’. loss in income and a declaration that his site, Trafford Housing Trust states that Smith made the comments in his own employer’s actions are an unlawful in 2010 they updated the Code of Con- time on his personal Facebook page but interference with his rights to free duct for Employees to set out what use Trafford Housing Trust maintains that speech and religious liberty. The Chris- employees can make of such social net- they damaged the Trust’s reputation tian Institute is supporting his legal working sites as Facebook. and amount to gross misconduct. appeal. ‘Some three months after this code Two colleagues saw the comments Smith solicitor, Tom Ellis, said: ‘Adri- was issued’, the Trust states, ‘Mr Smith, when they were posted back in Febru- an was shocked and distressed to have without our authority or knowledge and ary. One posted a response asking been disciplined in this way for express- on a Facebook page that identified him Smith to say what he meant. ing his opinion on his Facebook page. as a manager at Trafford Housing Smith posted his reply. ‘I don’t under- Adrian took it as far as he could within Trust, made comments that were stand why people who have no faith and the Trust but the Trust is standing by found, by a full disciplinary investiga- don’t believe in Christ want to get its decision. tion in which he had Trade Union rep- hitched in Church. The Bible is quite As a Christian, Adrian believes in the resentation to be in breach of the specific that marriage is for men and values of fairness, courtesy and respect company’s code of conduct and other women. If the state wants to offer civil of the opinions of others. These are the policies. marriage to the same sex then that is up values of a mature and healthy society. Mr Smith was disciplined for his to the state; but the state shouldn’t Surely that leaves room for colleagues breach of company policy. The Trust Adrian impose its rules on places of faith and to discuss and even disagree about the made no comments about any personal Smith conscience’, he wrote. topics of the day. Conversations like beliefs that he holds’.

Get more news online, click on www.churchnewspaper.com for updated stories 4 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday October 28, 2011 News

Keep hospitals nearby What the Blogs Say At the Episcopal Cafe, Derek Olsen blogs on com- SOCIAL and not just clini- the clinical? case load of Birmingham municating the ethos: “Where we partici- cal issues should be con- “Will you ensure that Children's Hospital sug- pate in corporate worship and the experience that sidered when deciding geographical proximity of gested that the Birming- we find there has a major effect on our experience where to site centres for services to children's ham service should be, as of the Christian life with God and shapes our theol- children’s heart services, homes is taken into it were, a fixed point. ogy and spirituality. Yes, we all use the Book of the and account when the time “However, I am afraid Common Prayer, but the question is how we use it. Leeds has warned. comes to make final deci- that the same cannot be How do we embody the texts of our liturgy? How Bishop John Packer has sions in this matter?” applied to Leeds because do we clothe it? How do we own and incarnate the raised in an article about Health minister Earl although the Leeds catch- words and phrases to bring them to life in the the possibility of a reduc- Howe said the joint com- ment area has a high pop- peculiar particularities in which we live our lives? tion in the number of mittee of primary care ulation it has a much “It’s fair to say that an ethos is a combination of: places where pediatric trusts was due to make a lower case load than that Architecture, Music, Ceremonial, Liturgy, Decora- heart care is provided and decision on children’s of Birmingham. tion, Attitude and Execution of the Liturgy by the the suggestion that New- congenital heart services “The analysis of the Clergy, and Attitude and Execution of the Liturgy castle could take over later this year and he was expert group suggested by the Congregation. The last two cannot be over- from Leeds as the centre “confident that the review that there needed to be looked. Reverent, pompous, attentive, energetic, catering for Yorkshire. will take those matters two centres in the north bored, sloppy: it’s remarkable how one community In the House of Lords, into account”. of England because of the can project a completely different ethos from Bishop Packer asked Pushed further on the population density; that another even when many of the other elements are health minister Earl issue of deprivation, Lord was either Liverpool and the same.” Howe: “Do you agree with Howe said he agreed it Leeds or Liverpool and The Cranmer blog revels in the death of the for- me that, especially where was an important consid- Newcastle. It was not pos- mer Libyan leader: “Today, Muammar Gaddafi children from deprived eration. sible to have a Leeds and stands before his Maker. He will have discovered Bishop John backgrounds are con- But he added: “The pop- Newcastle combination by now that Allah isn't quite what he believed him Packer cerned, it is crucial that ulation density of the since Newcastle could not to be, and that divine justice is inescapable. Those social and personal issues West Midlands conurba- achieve a credible net- who waved their guns and rejoiced with cries of are considered alongside tion and the very high work.” 'Allahu Akbar' ushered their former leader into the presence not of Allah the most merciful, but before the Throne of Judgement of the One True God. There will be no lakes of wine; no endless stream Bishops back school worship Williams demands of virgins; no pat on the back from his inspirational prophet; no utterance from Allah of ‘Well done, TWO BISHOPS in the House of more segregated system within our thou good and faithful servant” (in Arabic, of Lords have opposed a move to end country. Most Church of England safety for Copts course). No, the wages of sin is death. And the requirement on schools to pro- schools are not in any way segregat- because Gaddafi has committed one or two sins of vide a daily act of worship. ed; they are primary schools which THE ARCHBISHOP of Can- some considerable magnitude, was quite unrepen- work with their local village. terbury has criticised the tant, and did not accept Christ as his Lord and Sav- Liberal Democrat backbencher “The fact that a very small number Egyptian security forces for iour, His Grace suspects that things might be a Lord Averbury proposed an amend- of children are withdrawn from wor- failing to guarantee the safety little warm for Muammar today. His lake of wine ment to the Education Bill that would ship seems to indicate that parents, of Christians in the country. will be a lake of fire: his tongue will burn and his have required religious schools to including those who do not them- A peaceful protest this thirst will never be quenched. The only virgins continue with daily worship, but selves take part in Christian worship month by Coptics demon- he’ll meet will be the worm variety, for the pit of allowed other schools to decide the or worship in the tradition of other strating against the destruc- Hell is a place of decomposition and destruction; of issue for themselves. faiths, are willing for their children to tion of a church ended with the deaths of 25 weeping and gnashing of teeth. Muammar Gaddafi The Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, be present at worship.” people in clashes with the military. has gone to the place prepared for the devil and John Packer, warned the move could He warned against marginalising At question time in the House of Lords, Dr his angels, where the beast and the false prophet create a “rift between schools with a worship or spirituality and said that Rowan Williams said: “Part of the underlying will be, to be tormented day and night for ever and religious foundation and those which children “need to know what prayer is problem in the situation that we have seen ever.” do not”. about”. unfolding recently is a prolonged failure on the One contributor writes “I don't think I can begin During report stage debate on the The , Peter part of the security forces to guarantee the to agree with you on this one. Gaddafi may have Bill, Bishop Packer said: “Many Forster, said what currently hap- safety of Christian personnel and property, not been a disreputable human being according to the Church of England schools have sig- pened in schools was “not ramming only in the Aswan province in recent months values of the vast majority of other human beings, nificant numbers of Muslim pupils. worship down people's throats”. but over a longer period. but to suggest he has gone to Hell is not yours to Indeed, in hundreds of them more “That is not what school worship is “It seems clear to many of us that this is call - if you profess to be a Christian. The Domini- than 80 per cent of the pupils are like,” he said. “It is part of an educa- bringing Muslims and Christians in Egypt cal message to us is that "vengeance is mine saith Muslim. tional experience and preparation for together in great distress and anxiety about the Lord. I will repay." It is not our business to be “Through the constructive and pos- life. You never know when you will go the dismantling of a long history of fruitful co- passing red cards to God and giving advice on the itive use of the law as it stands, they to a Remembrance Day service, a operation and coexistence in the country. occupancy or otherwise of "the many mansions". have been able to integrate those wedding or to many other places.” “A commission of inquiry has been prom- Hell may have some surprising guests as much as pupils with pupils from Christian He said there was a case at some ised by the Egyptian Administration. I hope Heaven itself.” backgrounds and pupils from families point for a “cool, considered look at that Her Majesty's Government will continue At the Guardian, Symon Hill blogs: “Less than a with no faith background. the provisions of collective worship” to press contacts within that Government, not week into the protest camp near the London Stock “The danger is that, if we split com- but it must be done “in a way that only on the objectivity and proper distance of Exchange, there are complaints that it is putting munity schools from those with a reli- enhances the spiritual experience of that inquiry from the military establishment, off tourists from visiting St Paul's Cathedral. But gious foundation, we shall create a education”. but also for consideration in such an inquiry of the Christian Church does not exist for the pur- the record of the security forces over this peri- pose of maintaining tourist attractions, as if Jesus od.” intended his followers to be a branch of English Foreign Office minister Lord Howell of Heritage. Fuel poverty warning Guildford said there had been a “long history “Where would Jesus be this week? Would he be THE HIGH cost of fuel is inhibiting diocese of Blackburn, the very high of these pressures and difficulties” and there camping outside in this freezing weather, speaking the economic recovery, the Bishop of cost of diesel and fuel is inhibiting the was now a “rising tone of extremism in clashes out against inequality, or inside the religious build- Blackburn has warned. stimulus to economic recovery.” that have occurred”. ing, worrying about the revenue from tourists?” Bishop Nicholas Reade has ques- He asked Government transport He added: “The understanding is estab- One contributor writes: “My reading of the tioned what plans the Government spokesman Earl Attlee: “Will you tell lished that this must be a clear and full inquiry cleansing of the temple is this: Jesus was angry has for helping to mitigate the effects us what plans Her Majesty's Govern- into what really happened; that the control and that the temple was being used as something other of fuel prices. ment have for helping such communi- policy of the security forces must be even- than a house of prayer. So my guess would be that AA figures show a typical family ties, especially in the light of the handed; and that there must be work towards a he would have sympathy for those who go to St with two cars spent £241.54 more on modest reduction in global oil unified law. Pauls to pray and pretty annoyed if anyone stops fuel this summer than last year. prices?” “That means equal rights for all faiths and that.” At question time in the House of Lord Attlee said he fully appreciat- religions in the matters of building mosques Another writes: “I bet Jesus wouldn't be too Lords, Bishop Reade said: “In the ed “the impact of very high fuel and churches, and in the security forces pro- happy about the Cathedral charging a £14.50 northern and very rural part of my prices”. tecting them from violence.” admission fee either.”

Get more news online, click on www.churchnewspaper.com for updated stories News Friday October 28, 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com 5 Vatican wants global finance regulation Dr Sentamu to visit A NEW REPORT from the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace has stirred up controversy in the Catholic Church with conservative groups in the US hastening to point out that it merely repre- sents the view of a department at the Vatican and Southwell & Nottingham does not carry the authority of the Pope. But the report’s call for a global authority with power to regulate markets and reign in ‘the inequalities and distortions of capitalist develop- By Penelope Cresswell ment’ has been welcomed by liberal Catholics who say the message is similar to demands made ARCHBISHOP JOHN SEN- by protestors on Wall St, in the City of London TAMU will be spending two and elsewhere in the world. days in the Diocese of South- The head of one advocacy group in Washington well and Nottingham on told the ‘New York Times’ that ‘in the next Repub- October 31st and November lican presidential debate someone should ask 1st. Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum, both proudly A highlight to the visit will Catholic, whether they support the Vatican’s call be a special event on Monday for more robust financial ’. evening designed around the The report was presented on Monday at the theme of light and aimed at Vatican by Cardinal Peter Turkson, who heads children, young people, fami- the pontifical council. ‘The time has come to con- lies and people of all ages. ceive of institutions with universal competence, This will take place in South- now that vital goods shared by the entire human well Minster, the historic family are at stake, goods which the individual cathedral of the diocese, and states cannot promote and protect by them- will include a range of activi- selves’, he said. The Archbishop echoed the ties including drumming, report’s call for a supranational authority to place glass painting, lamp-making, the common good at the centre of all economic shadow puppets, candle mak- activity. ing, bubble prayers and para- Commentators said the language of the docu- chute games. ment was strong by Vatican standards. The full A local charity, Pulp Fric- title of the sixteen-page text is ‘Towards Reform- tion, will show the Archbish- about developments in can- He will have lunch at a people and meet with asylum ing the International Financial and Monetary Sys- op how to make juice using cer research at the university. church-run club for older seekers in the afternoon. tems in the Context of Global Public Authority’. It peddle power. The Archbish- argues that the current economic crisis has seen op will lead a short act of wor- growing inequality between the rich and poor of ship. the world and claims that the global financial cri- After the event in the NEW sis has revealed ‘selfishness, collective greed and Cathedral there will be a din- RESOURCE the hoarding of goods on a great scale’. ner in the Great Hall at South- The document gives support to the so-called well Minster at which he ‘Tobin’ tax (named after the economist James High Sheriff, Sir John Pearce, Tobin who first proposed it) in which there would will be a guest. The dinner be a tax on international financial transactions will focus on a number of and the money used to support the economies of charities, including the poorer countries. Southwell Palace Project (the In response to comparisons with the demands palace is a former medieval being made by such groups as Occupy Wall home of the Archbishops of mentoring matters Street or Occupy London, a Vatican official York). denied that the report was a ‘manifesto for dissi- Earlier on the first day of Sharpen discipleship and leadership in your church dents’. his visit the Archbishop will ‘The document proposes ideas that seem to be tour Staythorpe Power Sta- in line with those proposed by the demonstrators, tion, visit youth employment but really we are in line with the Magisterium of and housing projects in Sut- Everything you need to start a the Church’, said Bishop Mario Toso, secretary ton-in-Ashfield, and stop at a church-based mentoring network to the Pontifical Council. ‘It is a coincidence that farm that supplies milk for we share some views. But after all, these propos- Stilton Cheese. als are based on reasonableness’. On Tuesday the Archbish- Discover more at The report does aim to get directly involved in op will open a multi-faith cen- policy making but it does assert the need for ethi- tre at Nottingham Trent www.cpas.org.uk cal principles to shape economic activity. University and be informed Fuel poverty in Northern Ireland

SOME 44 per cent of homes in N. Ireland are faced with a choice between fuel and spent over 10 per cent of their income on food. fuel in the past two winters according to The Department for Social Develop- Mentoring event the Board for Social ment is advocating a new means of calcu- Theology in Action. lating fuel poverty but the Church of Warwick, This is the level of expenditure on fuel Ireland Board warns that while it may be 19 November which is regarded as marking fuel pover- right to give more attention to the needs Book online ty. In N. Ireland 13 per cent of the popu- of those most acutely at risk the needs of lation spend 20 per cent of their income the less acute should not be forgotten. of fuel. The province has a higher inci- The Board calls on the Government to dence of fuel poverty than anywhere else consider all ways to alleviate fuel poverty in the UK and one of the highest in the and also urges Christians, as winter developed world. The old and the infirm approaches, to be alert to the needs of making disciples are the most at risk because of fuel pover- those who are vulnerable ‘perhaps calling ty. in from time to time on elderly neigh- developing leaders The Church of Ireland Board quotes a bours and on those living alone to offer Citizens’ Advice Bureau Report showing support, friendship and maybe even a hot growing churches that nearly two thirds of disabled people meal’.

Get more news online, click on www.churchnewspaper.com for updated stories 6 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday October 28, 2011 News US Executive Council rejects Anglican Covenant

By George Conger synod to reject the agreement. With liber- importance of the role of the laity and their to both the Constitution and Canons which als and conservatives united in opposition full expression of ministry in all spheres of would significantly alter our current under- THE EPISCOPAL Church’s Executive to the proposed agreement – though for the life of the church.” standing of what it means to be an Council has rejected the Anglican different reasons – the political future of According to the task force report, 29 of autonomous province.” Covenant. the covenant is grim. the church's 110 dioceses responded to While the executive council remained On 24 Oct 2011 the council unanimously While Sydney rejected the covenant out requests for comments about the covenant. committed to “continuing engagement in endorsed a resolution recommending the of concern for its theology, the executive A press release noted that some dioceses thoughtful dialogue within the Anglican General Convention – the governing body council rejected it for not been sufficient had endorsed the covenant, but their views Communion around issues that may be of the Episcopal Church – not endorse the welcoming of diversity. A report submitted were not included in the report as they had divisive,” it could not “recommend adop- covenant as it now stands. The Anglican by an executive committee task force stat- not been transmitted to the executive coun- tion of the covenant in its present form.” Covenant was a political and theological ed the Episcopal Church must heed “the cil. The resolution adopted by the executive threat that would alter the American work of the Spirit in new understandings of Suggestions the Episcopal Church adopt council calls for the Episcopal Church to church’s power base and undo the how we are called to be in community and those portions with which it agreed were “recommit itself to dialogue with the sever- advances made by the church’s liberal relationships. We believe our unity is best rejected by the task force in the belief that al provinces when adopting innovations wing in recent years. expressed in our efforts to be a church that “this would not honor the intention of the which may be seen as threatening the The US recommendation to reject the fully welcomes those who have not always covenant’s creators that the document unity of the communion." It also pledges covenant likely spells the death blow to the been welcomed. This understanding of stand as a whole. We also do not believe "continued participation in the wider coun- ’s plan to forge who we are as a church does not allow the that using language such as ‘receive’ the cils of the Anglican Communion" and dia- an agreement that sets limits on the accept- Executive Council to support any covenant covenant without approving it honors the logue "with our brothers and sisters in able parameters of doctrine and discipline that might jeopardize this vocation.” intention of the document.” other provinces to deepen understanding within the Anglican Communion, and fol- The covenant was too clerical, the task The report further noted that “to adopt and toensure the continued integrity of the lows upon last week’s vote by the Sydney force said and “consistently ignores the the current version would mean changes Anglican Communion." Sharia law for the Sudan S.A. churches denounce SUDAN’S President Omar al- Bashir has announced that the government spying Sudan will become Africa’s first theocracy and will give state CHURCH LEADERS in South Africa place at the same venue” in Johan- sanction to Sharia law. have denounced the government of nesburg. In a 12 Oct 2011 speech to President Jacob Zuma for its The Chief Whip’s office added that university students in Khar- attempts to spy on the country’s faith “after being informed by the chair- toum, President al-Bashir stat- groups and turn them into vassals of man of the meeting that he was in ed: “Ninety-eight percent of the the ruling African National Congress the wrong hall, he duly apologised people are Muslims and the (ANC). On 18 Oct 2011 the National for the confusion caused and pro- new constitution will reflect Church Leaders’ Consultation ceeded to the next hall, the correct this. The official religion will be issued a joint statement saying they venue for his meeting,” adding that Islam and Islamic law the main “resent the efforts” of the ANC’s “walking into the wrong meeting is a source [of the constitution]. chief parliamentary whip Dr Math- simple mistake that anyone can We call it a Muslim state.” ole Motshekga “to muscle in on and make.” Sudan’s Churches have dis- Omar al-Bashir manipulate Church Leadership “We are therefore taken aback that puted the president’s claim of a Structures.” the church leaders are turning this near uniform Muslim popula- ment to mine the bed of the forces and have been forced to However, the chief whip’s office little, innocent incident into some- tion, noting that over a million Red Sea—with the kingdom flee south for safety. rejected the charges as being thing major,” Dr. Motshekha’s Christians reside in the North. providing the financing for the Sudanese newspapers report “absurd,” saying this was “nothing spokesman said. However, their complaints are project and royalties shared that the Khartoum government but a storm in a teacup." However, Cardinal Wilfred Napier not likely to deter President al- between the two states. Last has begun the process of “We are leaders in our own right told the Associated Press that three Bashir. The International week Iran’s President Islamisation in the North as and lead by Biblical mandate,” the of Dr. Motshekha’s aides were dis- Criminal Court (ICC) in 2009 Ahmadinejad travelled to Khar- well. Three churches in leadership council said, stating they covered rifling through the church issued a warrant for the arrest toum and gave his country’s Omdurman, Khartoum’s sister were “deeply offended by efforts by conference’s papers when they were of the Sudanese president on support to the embattled presi- city across the Nile, have been [Dr. Motshekga’s aides] to infiltrate discovered. “This is direct interfer- charges of war crimes and dent. notified that the land upon our meeting in Johannesburg with- ence by a political party in the affairs crimes against humanity in While Sudan is overwhelm- which they were built is owned out invitation.” of the church,” he said. Sudan's Darfur region. Presi- ingly Sunni Muslim, with only a by the government. The “This is an unwarranted intrusion Long a supporter of the ANC’s dent al-Bashir was the first sit- small Shia presence in Khar- churches have protested this on our discussions and compromises leadership, relations soured in 2008 ting head of state to be charged toum, the government of Presi- claim and offered title deeds in our freedom of association and of when the South African Council of by the Hague-based court with dent al-Bashir has adopted a support of their ownership, but religion,” they said, noting “Dr Mot- Churches attempted to mediate the war crimes, and the first Arab pan-Muslim domestic policy. the government has slated the shekga does not enjoy our confi- internal ANC leadership dispute leader to face the prospect of Christians and animists have buildings for demolition. dence” and should “back off.” between President Thabo Mbeki and being tried for atrocities by an been the target of the regime’s The Barnabas Fund has The consultation is an umbrella then Vice President Jacob Zuma. international tribunal. ire. reported the government has organization comprising the leaders During the leadership struggle, Mr. In 2008 the ICC's chief prose- Migrants from the southern increased “threats and pres- of the South African Council of Zuma moved away from the South cutor, Luis Moreno-Ocampo of half of the country before parti- sure on churches.” Some pas- Churches, and the Anglican, African Council of Churches after he Argentina, accused Bashir of tion this year, Southerners are tors “have been warned not to Catholic, Reformed, Evangelical, accused them of backing his rival. directing a campaign of mass considered foreigners under conduct church services, on Independent and African churches The break also came in a transition murder that has left more than laws introduced by President pain of death, while some in South Africa. in leadership among the country’s 300,000 civilians dead and driv- al-Bashir’s government, and churches are closing their The Chief Whip’s office responded churches, with alliances formed dur- en more than 2.7 million from have until the Spring of 2012 to schools and considering emi- that the “accusation stems from an ing the anti-apartheid era between their homes in Darfur. obtain residency papers or gration to the South.” innocent mistake today, in which the the ANC and churches superseded International condemnation leave the country. “The future for non-Muslims Chief Whip’s Political Advisor mis- by a new generation of leadership. has not halted al-Bashir and his Along Sudan’s unsettled bor- and non-Arabs in Sudan is look- takenly walked into the hall where The current generation of leaders government is currently being der with South Sudan in South ing increasingly untenable, the National Church Leaders’ Con- has challenged the government on courted by rivals Saudi Arabia Kordufan State, Nuba Chris- threatening the very existence sultation was meeting. The meeting, social and economic policies, and no and Iran. Saudi Arabia and tians are being driven from of the Church there,” the Barn- which the Political Advisor was due longer gives their automatic support Sudan have signed an agree- their homes by government abas Fund said. to attend, happened to be taking to the ruling party. News Friday October 28, 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com 7 Wisconsin dioceses to merge

By George Conger Bishop of Eastern Michigan, Ed Archbishop calls for Liedel, was appointed to a 15-month TWO RURAL American dioceses have part-time term as provisional bishop voted to amalgamate to form a diocese for the rural diocese. covering the northern two-thirds of The task force formed by the two the state of Wisconsin. dioceses on amalgamation, stated in its govt to return On 22 Oct 2011, the annual conven- September report a merger would pro- tion of the Diocese of Fond du Lac and vide synergy. “It is hoped that a new a special meeting of the Diocese of Eau diocese would be greater than simply Claire convention each voted to ask the sum of its parts, the Dioceses of the General Convention of the Episco- Fond du Lac and Eau Claire. It is nationalised schools pal Church to approve their “junction”. hoped that there would be greater According to a Fond du Lac press opportunities for ministry, greater ARCHBISHOP Valentino Mokiwa has urged a statement, the amalgamation would vitality and energy, and greater leading candidate for president to promise to begin next year and would be complet- empowerment of laity for ministry.” return mission schools nationalized by the gov- ed by 1 January 2013. Eau Claire Bish- The two Wisconsin dioceses are ernment to the church. op Ed Liedel posted a note on his among the smallest in terms of active Speaking at a school fundraising event on 24 diocesan website stating, “Never members in the Episcopal Church. Oct 2011 in Dar es Salaam, Dr. Mokiwa asked before have two dioceses in the Epis- Eau Claire has 21 congregations and Edward Lowassa MP to return the schools if copal Church 'junctioned' together. So, one summer chapel while Fond du Lac he wins the presidency. Elections are sched- today we begin a new journey to create has 34 congregations and two chapels. uled in the east African nation in 2015 to suc- a new diocese in northern Wisconsin." Twenty congregations between the ceed President Jakaya Kikwete. While Mr. Should General Convention approve two dioceses have an Average Sunday Lowassa has not formally announced his candi- the junction, Bishop Russell Jacobus of Attendance (ASA) of less than 25 peo- dacy, he is considered a front runner for the Fond du Lac, as the senior bishop of ple. post. the two dioceses, would call an organ- The merged diocese, which is sched- Following independence in 1961, church izing convention for the new diocese to uled to hold its organizing convention schools received financials support from the elect its first bishop. in Sept 2012, will “worship in 55 con- government as long as they followed the The two dioceses have been in talks gregations. It would have an ASA of Department of Education’s national curricu- for over twenty years, a 20 Sept 2011 2,967 and a baptized membership of 7, lum. Government policies changed, however, report on the merger stated, but took 592,” the merger report said. The following the promulgation of the Arusha Dec- on a new urgency following the 2008 majority of the state’s Episcopalians laration on 5 Feb 1967 by President Julius translation of Eau Claire Bishop Keith live in the Diocese of Wisconsin, which Nyerere. The Arusha Declaration outlined the Whitmore to become the Assistant has approximately 10,000 members principles of Ujamaa -- African socialism -- and Bishop of Atlanta. In 2010 the retired and an ASA of 4300. called for the overhaul of the economic system and self-reliance in locally administered vil- lages through a villagization programme. Abortion clinic too close to flats The villagization programme, implemented between 1973 and 1976, created a collective By Tim Williams “We are extremely in abdication of your farming system through the resettlement of concerned that the responsibilities to us as peasants who lived and worked their own land BOTH MUSLIMS and ground floor at 32-36 your local tenants, you onto new villages that could provide economies Christians in Stratford Romford Road, did not see fit to consult of scale. The programme also saw a push Archbishop are campaigning against Stratford E15, has or even inform us.” towards self-reliance in industry and educa- Valentino an abortion centre been leased out to abor- Local Catholic priest tion. In 1974 the government nationalized pri- Mokiwa opened in a busy resi- tion-providers BPAS to Rev Mark Swires led the vate primary schools established by the dential centre. Opposi- carry out group on Saturday in Anglican, Catholic and Lutheran churches, and tion to the British terminations up to, prayer outside the BPAS forced many missionary school teachers to blessed to win the presidency, please make Pregnancy Advisory currently, 14 weeks, and centre. leave the country. sure that you return former church-owned Service (BPAS) clinic furthermore that this Alan Craig, former African socialism proved to be an economic schools to us... there are many properties gained momentum at the has been done without leader of Newham Chris- and education catastrophe for Tanzania, and in belonging to the churches that were taken over weekend when a large any informed consulta- tian Peoples Alliance and the 1980’s the government permitted new pri- by the government,” said Dr Mokiwa accord- group protested and tion,” they wrote. ex-Newham councillor, vate schools to be opened. The government’s ing to local press reports. held a vigil. The letter continued: criticised BPAS for the failure to maintain the confiscated schools and The Anglican Church in Tanzania has urged Residents have written “Abortion is a very sensi- decision and said it had its disinclination to invest in education has led the government to return its confiscated to One Housing, which tive issue to all con- no concern for the inter- to a boom in private school enrollment, accord- schools, arguing that it is able to educate more owns hundreds of prop- cerned, and we object ested of women and chil- ing to a UN report, such that over half of all stu- children at a higher standard for less cost than erties in London, strongly to the crass dren. dents in Tanzania are now privately educated. the government. expressing their con- insensitive decision you He added that some of In his speech to kick off the fundraising drive The nationalization campaign had scared cern that abortions will have made to allow the waste from the cen- for the Bishop John Sepeku School in the many people, Dr. Mokiwa said, and it was now be carried out just BPAS to use your prem- tre would be deposited Yombo Buza district of Dar es Salaam, Arch- time to set politics aside for the good of the metres away from where ises here. Furthermore near the entrance to the bishop Mokiwa asked the political leader to nation and support the best interests of chil- they live. we strongly object that, residents’ quarters. pledge to return the schools. "If you are dren. US diocese asked to rehabilitate Pelagius The Diocese of Atlanta has been asked to “And whereas his restitution as a viable tion through personal betterment rather that neither our will nor our action is rehabilitate Pelagius. theological voice within our tradition might than grace, he argued. In the Letter to helped by divine aid…he believes that God Delegates to the diocesan convention encourage a deeper understanding of sin, Demetrias, Pelagius argued that Adam’s does not help us to will, that he does not will be asked to reverse the condemnation grace, free will, and the goodness of God’s sin was not what caused us to sin. Humans help us to act, that he helps us only to be of the Council of Carthage upon Pelagius, creation, and whereas in as much as the were born good, but over time became able to will and to act.”(On the Grace of and to explore whether the Fifth century history of Pelagius represents to some the wicked through voluntary acts. “Over the Christ, V.6). heretic may inform the theology of the struggle for theological exploration that is years our sin gradually corrupts us, build- The proposed resolution has brought Episcopal Church. our birthright as Anglicans, be it resolved, ing an addiction and then holding us bound mixed responses from the Episcopal Resolution R11-7 before the convention that this 105th Annual Council of the Dio- with what seems like the force of nature Church’s House of Deputies chat room, states in part: cese of Atlanta appoint a committee of dis- itself.” with some ridiculing the notion that the “Whereas the historical record of Pelag- cernment overseen by our Bishop, to The Council of Carthage in 416 con- Diocese of Atlanta believed itself capable of ius’s contribution to our theological tradi- consider these matters as a means to honor demned Pelagius’ teaching. Augustine redefining church doctrine. However, tion is shrouded in the political ambition of the contributions of Pelagius and reclaim argued that the British monk’s teaching other deputies have endorsed the resolu- his theological antagonists who sought to his voice in our tradition.” contradicted Paul’s words in Philippians tion saying it gives a breath of Celtic Chris- discredit what they felt was a threat to the A British monk, Pelagius rejected the 2:12-13 because Pelagius located the capac- tianity to the Episcopal Church and empire, and their ecclesiastical dominance, doctrines of original sin, substitutionary ity “to will and to do” what pleases God in enhances the church’s theological diversi- and whereas an understanding of his life atonement, and justification by faith. human nature rather than in God’s grace. ty. and writings might bring more to bear on Mankind possessed an unconditioned free (On the Grace of Christ, V.6 and VI.) The vote on Pelagius takes place on 4 his good standing in our tradition;” will and was able to obtain his own salva- “We must realize that Pelagius believes Nov 2011. 8 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday October 28, 2011 Letters

THE OF CHURCH ENGLANDNEWSPAPER Write to The Church of England Newspaper, 14 Great College Street, Westminster, London, SW1P 3RX. Fax to 020 7878 1031 or you can send an E-mail to [email protected] If you are sending letters by e-mail, please include a street address NB: Letters may be edited

Hymn Request Innacurate Sir, I hesitate to set this out as another let- Time management ter, but I am slightly bemused to find that reporting some people have apparently misunder- Sir, As part of their commitment to going for growth, the Archbishops' Council and stood my query. I am not looking to obtain the House of Bishops have established a task group to assess credible options for Sir/Madam, I note on page 3 of the current a copy of “Sacred Hymns and Solos”. As I reducing the time spent by parish clergy and church members on the management edition of CEN (Friday 21st October) in the stated in my earlier letter to CEN, my of structures and processes. article headed 'More dioceses vote for query arose because I found Fanny Cros- This is potentially a very wide canvas. To help focus the work, the group is keen to women bishops' that you state 'Amend- by’s hymn on the “Favourite Hymns” calen- receive suggestions about areas that might benefit from simplification, together with ments to secure stronger provision for tra- dar published by the Judge’s Postcards practical ideas about how that might be achieved. The group will then seek to pro- ditionalists failed in all diocese except company in Hastings, which a friend kindly duce an initial assessment, for the Council and the House, of credible options (includ- Wakefield...' This is inaccurate and mis- gave me last Christmas. I contacted the ing as necessary ones that might require legislation) within 12 months. leading, firstly because no amendments to company to enquire from which book they The members of the group are: the Rt Revd , ; the the Synod motion could be put in any had copied this hymn (and also to query Revd Canon Robert Cotton, Rector of Holy Trinity and St Mary’s, Guildford; Mr Diocesan Synod so your correspondent their inclusion of Blake’s “Jerusalem”, Andrew Britton, Chair of the Council's Finance Committee; and Mrs Mary Chapman, clearly didn't understand the procedures, which is not a hymn) but I did not receive a formerly CEO of the Chartered Management Institute. and secondly I have well-informed sources reply. Hence my letter to CEN with a Submissions can be made by email to: [email protected] or by which lead me to believe that following request for information. Now I know that post to Nicholas Hills, Church House, Great Smith Street, London SW1P 3AZ, by 9 motions to make the provisions more the hymn came from Sankey’s book and so December 2011. acceptable to traditionalists may well have that answers the question! William Fittall been passed in several Dioceses. John Humphrey, Archbishops' Council As a member of the Blackburn Diocesan Sevenoaks, Kent Synod I have certain knowledge that the following motion passed overwhelmingly was saddened to read your headline (Octo- taken her life because she feared she was by 79 votes to 55 against with no absten- ber 14) ‘Embrace ambiguity’, describing seriously ill; in fact she had started to men- tions. Problems of animal his message to Malawians during his struate. Please ensure a correction and apology recent visit. This suggests the ‘all things to Chad founded Samaritans in the crypt of is published, together with properly farming all men’ approach of compromise, so differ- St Stephen Walbrook church in London. researched information about the Dioce- ent from the insistence by Jesus and the From one man and his phone, his legacy san votes on the following motion. Sir, The Revd Robert Barlow's letter last Apostle Paul that no one comes to the has inspired Samaritans’ 18,750 volunteers Rev R Marshall week linking unproductive farming and Father but through Christ, who alone gives who ensure they are available 24/7 for any- via Email hungry people in the world portrays an access to heaven and eternity (Ephesian one who needs them, and the movement apparent lack of concern for animal wel- Letter ch.2) has gone international through 40 coun- fare, so he needs to be reminded of Canon Ian Leakey tries. Samaritans is evolving – we’re now Proverbs 12, 10: “Whoever is righteous has (Via email) embracing things like social media. We Craig vs Law regard for the life of his beast, but the have a partnership with Facebook where mercy of the wicked is cruel.” (ESV). people can report to us wall posts or com- Sir, I read with interest your interview with “Righteous” and “wicked” are strong ments from friends whom they’re worried Professor William Lane Craig, the US words. Bias about. Christian apologist. Having attended his Using hearsay about one farm to illus- Elspeth McAusland debate last week with Professor Stephen trate his point, Revd Barlow then alleges Sir, The Christian Institute this week high- Samaritans Law in Westminster Central Hall, it is the immorality of lack of food production lighted the fact that just three homosexual encouraging to have someone with his “to indulge the vegetarian conscience of groups in Scotland jointly received about intellect fighting for the Christian faith. the affluent” in “a world.....with 25,000 ten times more government funding than Law, more-or-less, had one argument dying each day [from hunger]”. Finally, he all church groups combined over the past Men & Worship which he used throughout the evening proclaims his own meat-eating as “a moral decade. Critics point to a succession of sur- which was based on his paper called ‘The choice.....based on stewardship.” veys which indicate that around 70% of Sir, I enjoyed reading Bob Mayo’s piece on Evil God Challenge’. With this he gave These are, frankly, astonishing state- Britons self-identify as Christian and 1.5% ‘A Gospel for men?. It is good to see that, Craig the challenge of explaining why ments. Although one can argue about as homosexual or bisexual. finally, this thorny issue is starting to be belief in a good god is more reasonable details, it is well established that worldwide While we’ve long known about such more talked about in our churches. Howev- than belief in an evil god, ‘the latter being meat (and dairy) production depends on class discrimination (and, as ever, the privi- er, I do not entirely agree that men do not absurd’. grain and pulses fed to animals (around leged are likeliest to be blind to it), we can enjoy talking about faith as much as Not everyone followed Law’s argument 80% of the world's soya and up to 70% of the now estimate the precise degree of bias. women. Many men at my church in East in the auditorium, as evidenced on his global cereal crop) which if fed directly to According to this decade-long indicator, a London are ferocious prattlers who debate blog. However, Law believes he won the humans could feed 8-10 times as many peo- given homosexual gets around 450 times well into the night about the issues in their debate, although admits Craig surpassed ple. Animal farming is responsible for as much as a given Christian: a 44,000% Christian life. Of course, others enjoy prac- him on presentation skills and rhetoric. around 20% of the world's GHGs and cli- bias in need of correction. There’s no pay tical tasks perhaps more than some women Whoever, won this debate – personally, I mate change hurts the poor most. Further- gap to justify it (quite the reverse); and - fixing pipes, electronics, running the PA, think Craig had the upper hand most of the more, the volume of animal products those discriminated against (Christians) negotiating with builders – however, there evening- it proves that the general popu- currently demanded – and due to double are the social group likeliest to give some- is not a great deal of difference between lous enjoy this type of evening. There were by 2050 - makes low welfare factory farm- thing for nothing. the sexes when it comes to discussion. literally hundreds there last Monday. Any- ing systems inevitable. Dr Christopher Shell Having said this, men often struggle with one who looks back nostalgically at photos In fact, to adapt Revd Barlow's own Hounslow modern forms of worship. Many choruses of packed Billy Graham meetings should phrase, it is the “indulgence of the afflu- are far too intimate for men, who perhaps be encouraged that Craig’s events are well ent's taste for meat” which causes so much struggle with voicing feelings. I sometimes attended. It demonstrates that people are suffering all round. Samaritan think we have a healthier ratio of men and still searching; they just like to have more Barry Miles women at my church because of the choice than one viewpoint on offer. In a deeply London Sir, I’m from the press office at the helpline of music. A hearty hymn is easier for men sceptical culture, the only power people charity Samaritans. 12 November marks to connect with rather than a passionate trust in is their own ability to reason the 100th anniversary of the birth of love song to Jesus. Especially if, of course, between contradictory viewpoints. Per- Samaritans’ founder, Reverend Prebendary followed up by a hearty ale and some theo- haps Billy Graham and his ilk would not No ambiguity Chad Varah. Chad set up the world’s first logical banter. work with this generation. Sir, After your coverage of Archbishop 24 hour telephone support line following Charlie Green Jeff Watson Rowan’s courageous visit to Zimbabwe, I the death of a 14-year-old girl who had East London Essex

Get more news online, click on www.churchnewspaper.com for updated stories John Martin'sdramatic canvases are apocalyptic blockbusters bristling with damnation and brimston

By Matt Cresswell

THE WEST is unaware of the injustices taking place in Palestine, says former church envoy and one-time hostage Terry Waite. Having returned from the Occupied Territories, he said the differences between the two communities were shocking. Waite, the founder of Y-Care’s international division, who was incarcerated in Lebanon for five years in the late 80s and early 90s, said he was concerned about both sides in the Israel/Palestine dispute, but said this trip exposed considerable ‘unfairness’ towards the Palestinians. Waite met with young ex-detainees suffering from psychosocial counselling after being EnglandOn Sunday imprisoned in Israeli jails as children. He also met with young people receiving vocational training. SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2011 Waite also met with leading Palestinian negotiators, local leaders and youth workers. Commenting on the recent release of Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit for 1,000 Palestinian soldiers, he said: “My visit did happen to coincide with the release of the 1,000 prisoners but that was purely coincidental, my visit was not connected with that at all.” He added: “What was very interesting, of course, was the fact that the prominence in the media was given to the one released Israeli prisoner and there was no prominence given at all to the 1,000 others who were either labelled as freedom fighters, on the one hand, or as terrorists on the other. This illustrated the deep divide that exists between the two communities, Waite said. Waite argued that there was an increasing problem with illegal Israeli settlements between Hebron and Bethlehem which were taking land used by the Palestinians. If the land remained uncultivated for more than three years, the famers lost it, he said. Waite spoke with a Palestinian farmer who said that Israeli settlers had taken land owned by his Grandfather. The farmer also said that he had dug a well, which the Israelis had filled in because he was unable to obtain a permit. Waite said the farmer was not even allowed to make repairs to his house. “These are the things in this country [UK] that we do not know about - the settlements - and they’re wrong. They are flagrantly against international justice.” On the recent death of Libya’s former leader, Colonel Gaddafi, Waite said he was shocked by the manner of his execution. Waite, who negotiated with Gaddafi in the 1980s, said: “Gaddafi was a very unusual man, there is no

“I thought the manner in which Gaddafi died and the portrayal of his death added nothing to our Waite speaks understanding of human dignity” doubt about it and I would certainly say that he was engaged in supporting violent activities around the world which caused the death of many people and that I cannot in anyway possibly condone. Having said all that, I thought the up for manner in which he died and the portrayal of his death added nothing to our understanding of human dignity. I thought it was barbaric, absolutely barbaric.” In 1987 Waite travelled to Beirut as a church envoy to negotiate the release of several hostages held there. He was eventually released on Palestinians November 18 1991 after 1,760 days of solitary confinement. He says the experience has helped him relate to ex-prisoners.

ANDREW CAREY E2 • RUTH GLEDHILL E3 • RECIPE E5 • ARTS & MEDIA E6 • CATHERINE FOX E8 • CROSSWORD E8 E2 www.englandonsunday.com October 30, 2011 Andrew Carey: Bad beginnings There is some debate about whether Muammar Gaddafi was executed or caught in crossfire after being dragged from hiding in a sewer pipe yet the glee which greeted his death worldwide was shameful. Lambeth Notes There are further question-marks facing the new regime including Islamism and embracing Sharia law. Even worse though is the claim by Human Rights Watch Observers that 53 prisoners may have been massacred in the last weeks of the fighting by anti-Gaddafi militias. While it is right to salute the role of coalition forces in averting humanitarian catas- trophes there is now some well-founded suspicion of the anti-Gaddafi forces. This is not the most auspicious beginning for a new democracy. Time to move on Bishop breaks ranks For most of the blitz the doors of St Paul’s tion of safety laws which has given her stayed open and the building miraculously branch of law and regulation a bad name. In recent years the Church of England has adopted a depressingly naïve campaigning survived prolonged bombing of the area. She said: “Don’t use health and safety law green outlook. They have embraced alarmism and catastrophism about climate change How strange it is now that a protest encamp- as a convenient scapegoat or we will chal- with little recognition that they are thereby abandoning Christian hopefulness on the ment should induce such a strange lily-liv- lenge you.” basis of uncertain evidence. ered approach to so-called ‘’elf ‘n safety’. It is true that we have a culture of liti- This is not to say that climate is not warming due to human-caused pollution, but that St Paul’s is particularly guilty of unclear giousness but a bureaucratic, risk-averse the certainties have been exaggerated. This movement has caused immense damage communications about the basic causes of mindset is a far greater problem. by threatening to hold back badly needed development in poverty-stricken regions, the closure. This has helped the protesters Last week, I criticised St Paul’s for not tak- and has plunged many Britons into fuel poverty. to score points and make counter-claims. ing account of the potential long-term At last the Bishop of Chester, Peter Forster who comes from a scientific background, The dean has claimed that the closure is on nature of the encampment, but this week far has broken ranks. In an article on the website of ‘The Global Warming Policy Founda- the basis of advice from the Cathedral’s greater blame must be laid at the feet of the tion (www.thegwpf.org) he argues that policy-makers should be looking to adaptation independent fire, health and safety advisers protesters themselves. Their choice of a site and a “more sensible set of policies”. and is in order to comply with the law. This is all about opportunism and convenience. “The churches have tended to follow climate alarmism with uncritical enthusiasm is much too vague to be a reasonable expla- By refusing to move, albeit following St but it is now time to take stock,” he writes. nation. Paul’s wrong-headed decision to close, they He adds: “The moral issues surrounding UK climate policy, as well as the underlying As recently as July, the chairman of the have demonstrated the same selfishness scientific and economic issues, are much more complex than is usually acknowledged. Health and Safety Executive, Judith Hackitt, which they themselves criticise on the part It is time for the churches to recognise this, and to lead a debate which helps our soci- complained about the over-zealous applica- of rich bankers. ety to a more sensible set of policies.”

Rapture ready? Midsummer madness

You’ve checked the weather, Midsummer Murders seems to get crazier maybe taken a peep at the and crazier. One critic dubbed the latest share prices but have you episode a comedy show rather than a mur- checked the Rapture Index? der mystery. One feature that never This popular American web changes is the programmes hostility to the site does not predict the rap- church. Vicars are never shown in a ture but it does set out to favourable light. In the latest programme a measure ‘the type of activity mad cleric in a cassock led a community of that could act as a precursor temperance ladies who sang temperance to the Rapture. ‘You could hymns from the C19th. Inevitably he suc- say’, the web site comments, cumbed to the demon drink. Some critics ‘that the Rapture index is the Dow Jones Industrial Average of end time thought the anti-religious slant was down to activity’ before adding that it would be better viewed as a ‘prophetic John Nettles but he has left the series. Per- speedometer’. ‘The higher the number, the faster we’re moving towards haps it was caused by producer Brian True- the occurrence of pre-tribulation rapture’ it warns. At the beginning of May who has had to leave after saying there this week the index stood at 181. Advice when it moves above 160: Fasten were no black people in rural England. Now he has gone, can we have a black your safety belt. Vicar who isn’t mad, doesn’t get murdered and actually does some good in the community? We can suggest plenty of role models. The Whispering Gallery... Rev goes to Lambeth Steve Jobs and faith.

Rowan Williams is well known as a fan of According to the new biography by Walter Isaac- the Simpsons. He has also made known son, Steve Jobs lost his faith at 13 and never went his liking for Father Ted and for the new back to church. Jobs saw a photograph of starv- comedy series ‘Rev’. This is soon due to ing children in the old ‘Life’ magazine and asked return to our television screens. Mean- his pastor in Sunday School whether he thought while the Archbishop has entertained God knew what was happening. Turning his Tom Hollander and the cast to Lambeth back on Christianity did not mean that Jobs was Palace. When he first invited them they a total sceptic without any faith at all. He made a couldn’t make it so the invitation was study of Zen Buddhism (some people see marks renewed. ‘Rev’, which features the very human Rev Adam Smallbone, of ‘Zen design’ in Apple products) and kept tak- won a Bafta award in 2011 for the best situation comedy. Hollander has ing up different diets, usually vegetarian. The said that playing Smallbone has made him think again about Christiani- name ‘Apple’ came to him when he was on a ty. Williams is known to believe that one of the strengths of the pro- ‘fruitarian diet’. He told Isaacson at the end of his gramme, filmed in St Leonard’s, Shoreditch, is that it raises real religious life that he had begun to think about God again issues. We actually see Smallbone in prayer, wrestling with his faith in a and that the thought the possibility of God’s credible way. This is something the Vicar of Dibley never quite man- existence was 50-50. “I find myself believing a bit aged. more but it might just be the cancer”, he said. Octobe3 20, r011 www.englandonsunday.com E2 Ruth Gledhill View from Fleet Street St Paul’s, the price of protest

My life at the moment centres around St Paul's Cathedral which finds itself at the centre of it's own particular cross. In nearly 25 years on The Times, nearly all on the religion beat, I struggle to think of another story that has within it so many of the fascinating tensions that comprise our country's ecclesias- tical and spiritual establishment and its relationship with the world around it. The arrival of the Occupy London encamp- ment in the churchyard has divided the chapter down the mid- dle, the Dean Graeme Knowles on one side, that of the establishment, law and order, and his canon chancellor Giles Fraser on the other, that of the poor, the dispossessed and all those suffering as a result of our present economic crisis. Giles welcomed the protesters when they arrived with their tents nearly two weeks ago. Had he told them to go away with- in 20 minutes, and called the police, they would not be there now. Under trespass law the police could have used reason- able force, which amounts to quite considerable force, to move them on. But because he not only welcomed them but actually told the police to move on instead, the only way they can be shifted now is through the courts. Except this one to go all the way to Strasbourg and even then, they might not go. Could we see local businesses suing St Paul's for loss of trade caused by the encampment? These are uncharted waters. I can't help but wonder at the irony of it. A standard of the journalist's trade is what is know as "the doorstep". I have doorstepped clergy at St Paul's in the past. I have stood behind barriers at big services, obeyed police orders to move when I crossed a line with my notebook, switched off my mobile when admonished with a fierce look by a scowling verger. I am among the reviled, no doubt about it, down there with tax collectors and the like. So imagine my angst, on being sent to cover this story and arriving to see the sacred ground over which I have tiptoed so many times in fear of admonition, being occupied by dozens of smoking, drinking, hairy, sometimes masked men and women, many in need of a good bath to put it politely, with Occupy London tents, and posters full of rude words, and to see them being protesters outside ALLOWED TO STAY. Truly where was the justice in this? I St Paul's have always tried to be so "good" Cathedral unveil a and here were people with manners giant monopoly “It is difficult to I have been taught all my life are board to front "bad" being feted for their dispos- their campsite. grasp why session. closure of this St Paul's is the place where many of those who it is popular to blame What would Jesus have made of St Paul's? And the clergy who find themselves at the great cathedral for the crisis, namely bankers, wor- helm of this great mother ship of the Anglican Castle, to what extent are they the rich ship when engaging in livery com- men in their castle, shutting the doors on the poor man at their gate? Literally? was so urgent” pany or related activities during the If only it were that straightforward. course of their work. In particular A fortnight ago, I couldn't understand why the Fire Service could not screech in, sirens those at the very top of the very top blazing, and wash them all away. institutions in the City have close Now I am no longer so sure. It is difficult to grasp why closure of this great cathedral links with the cathedral. It is where they go to praise God and was so urgent. If the Church is not going to stand for, rather than against, the dispos- give thanks after a hard day's industry making millions on the sessed, then who is? And one small group of so far unacknowledged victims of this markets. In my role as Religion Correspondent for The Times, should be mentioned. As the parent of a new chorister at another establishment, the I sometimes join them there, reporting on the service or the Chapel Royal at Hampton Court, I understand as never before the importance of the sermon, particularly if the Queen is in attendance as she often weekly and monthly rhythm of divine service, and the chorister's progression from pro- is, or the Archbishop of Canterbury is preaching as he often bationer, as ours has just gone, to a boy fully surpliced with his own music. The pride in is. Money changers certainly go there regularly to pray, that moment, and then from there to corner boy and for some, head chorister, is although I've never seen one practising his trade there. The immense. Biology does not stop for closure or protest. Boys at St Paul's will be getting only table is the altar. older, their voices developing, while they are deprived of singing the services. Soloists And it is the altar that now risks being overturned because will now be missing once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to fill the Dome with glorious song. I at the heart of this crisis looms the unanswerable question: wish the cathedral could re-open, if only for them. E4 www.englandonsunday.com October 30, 2011 Praying in the City

By Matt Cresswell

CITY WORKERS will meet on November 16 to pray for the financial district. This year the growing popularity of the annual City Prayer Breakfast (CPB) prompted the organisers to run a simultaneous event at Regents Hall in the West End for the first time. Jeremy Marshall is the chief executive of British bank C Hoare & Co, a family owned bank in Fleet Street whose clients have included Samuel Pepys and Jane Austen. As chairman and one of the founders of CPB, he believes there is a real hunger in the City for faith. “When things are going well, then people tend to say ‘Oh we don’t need all this Chris- tian rubbish’ but when there is a general dissatisfaction, as there is now with the protests and so on, then there is an oppor- tunity for the church to say ‘look here is a for the financial district to clean up its act. different way of doing things.’” “There are thousands of Christians who This year, city workers can expect a full every day go into their offices and spend English Breakfast or a healthier continen- time working with their non-Christian col- tal option. “We like to give people spiritual leagues. Obviously the local church is and physical nourishment,” explains Mar- important as well but City vicars cannot shall. In addition, they will hear a talk from enter their office buildings.” He went on to Michael Farmer, founder of RK Capital say: “So we want to equip and encourage under as many questioning eyes as before.” are very angry and as Christians that gives Management whose main fund, Red Kite, is Christians to do two things. One: to stand Commenting on the increasingly difficult us an opportunity to say, ‘yes, we live in a one of the biggest industrial metals hedge up and be counted and not to be embar- task of being a Christian in the work place, fallen world which is a sinful world, so don’t funds in the world. Known as “Mr Copper”, rassed to be a Christian and to tell their col- he said: “I think some people are intimidat- be surprised if things go wrong.’” He Farmer is known for giving evangelistic leagues in a friendly way while looking for ed by, rightly or wrongly, the fact that they added: “One thing that strikes me is that talks throughout the city and for being out- opportunities to share the Christian faith. may have a feeling that some companies there is a lot of hopelessness or cynicism at spoken on political issues. Last year former Secondly: to live and work in a way which are not that friendly toward Christian the moment. So the Christian message has Lazard chairman Ken Costa spoke at the reflects Christian principles. Obviously, beliefs.” He went on to say: “They tend to got to be one of hope above everything. I City Prayer Breakfast. that is particularly important in these keep their heads down and, in this climate, think there are maybe more opportunities Marshall said they would pray both for rather difficult times, when let’s face it, the I feel for people who may lose their jobs.” in some ways for us to share our faith with city workers to be stronger Christians and City of London has probably never been He said the temptation to burrow down in our colleagues and explain how we think the undergrowth was very real, especially Christian principles should actually apply with impending job cuts. “Maybe the last than there were a few years ago.” thing you want is to stick your head up and Several hundred are expected at the two say ‘hang on a minute, what about the Lord events next month. Jesus?’” He said he agreed with those angered by For more information click on this link: the behaviour of the banks. “I think people www.cityprayerbreakfast.com Wine of the week

Reales Vinedos Tempranillo 2006 Majestic £6.24 (buy 2, at £4.99)

This bottle is from near La Mancha, in Castile: but there’s nothing, thank goodness, of Don Quixote about this enjoyable Spanish red. Interestingly, too, though it comes from a five year’s ago vintage— an acceptable year—and has therefore clearly had some time in oak, such tannins are gently subtle. In fact, it is fruit which is predomi- nant on the nose, rising up from the deep, deep, red of the wine in the glass. On the palate, quite full-bodied, yet not overwhelmingly so: interest is immediately aroused by the complexity and power of the fruit, ripe raspberries, redcurrants and cranberries, with hints of spice. It’s smooth, and yet at the same time fresh, with a certain liveli- ness. This carries on to the finish, which continues with this mas- terful mix. At just under £5, price each for two, a great bargain, which, clothed in that traditional Spanish gold wire, will appear more costly than it is when on your dining table. Make sure it has been opened at least an hour before, and is at room temperature. Alcohol by Vol. is 13.5%. I’d suggest matching particularly with smoked ham hock, though it is also an enjoyable rich aperitif.

Jeremy Marshall Graham Gendall Norton October 30, 2011 www.englandonsunday.com E5 Church on the Bus, set up by Church Army Evangelist Alan Park, offers practical and spiritual support to more than 60 homeless and vulnerable people every week. Alan explains the development of this fresh expression of church Ticket to faith with mobile church

t all started in 2004 and we now have two buses, one single-decker and the Iother a double-decker, which make various weekly ‘stops’ in Derbyshire to bring the Gospel to those who would never normally set foot inside a church building. Before I became a Christian I was homeless for seven years, but my life was changed when I came to know Jesus. Since then, I’ve wanted to share the hope of the Gospel with others. The buses, staffed by 45 trained volunteers from different churches, travel to Chesterfield, Matlock and Clay Cross four nights a week. Lots of people comment on the fact that it’s very peaceful and calm on board and that helps to break down many barriers. We have built up a firm foundation of trust and respect so it’s very easy for people to mention God and talk about faith. We also help with practical things our visitors may need, like food, warm drinks, toiletries and clothes. It was great to show the Archbishop of Canterbury what we were doing when he came to see us as part of his trip to the Derby Diocese. I know he was glad to hear that, as a mobile church, we have seen God move dramatically in people’s lives. Some people come to us specifically for prayer but we are there to minister to others no matter what and that means sometimes you can come away happy and sometimes you can come away sad. Every day is different; you never know who you are going to meet. We always stop in the same place as part Captain Alan Park of our weekly round so we are in with Archbishop Chesterfield on Monday and Thursday, Rowan Williams Matlock on Tuesday and Clay Cross on Wednesday. As a result people know where we are if they want to reach us. with them. expand the work of Church on the Bus to pray for nurture groups as we work I have been in situations on the bus One man we saw had been homeless for and as part of this we hope to begin through how to disciple those who come where it is simply raw evangelism. I think 25 years and if you mentioned Jesus Christ visiting an estate in Matlock ministering to to faith with us. I am thankful to God for this is what more believers should be he physically attacked you. At one point he single parents. We are also in need of everything that has been done through the doing because Christians have been trying attacked me and I turned the other cheek. more volunteers to join the team as well as buses so far and I look forward to what He to get people to go into church buildings That clearly spoke to him because after six people to support us in prayer and finance. has in store for us in future. for years and years and they simply won’t months he turned up again at the bus and Currently the project is part-funded by do it. With Church on the Bus we are not said, ‘Who is this Jesus guy? I want him in Church Army while the rest of the money just talking about reaching those in need, my life.’ He’s still homeless but now he comes from donations. For more information, please visit we are doing it. This is a fresh expression carries a Bible in his pocket at all times I pray that more and more people will www.churcharmy.org.uk/AlanPark and of church serving a marginalised group of and evangelises other homeless people. come to know Jesus Christ through www.churchonthebus.com or ring Church people and building Christian community Over the coming years we are looking to Church on the Bus. It would also be good Army on 0300 123 2113

Recipe of INGREDIENTS METHOD the Week Serves 4 Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Toss potato Prep 15 mins wedges in a large roasting tin with 1 tbsp oil and Cook 35 - 45 mins lemon juice. Spread out in a single layer. Bake for 35-45 mins, turning halfway, until golden brown and crisp. 4 baking potatoes , unpeeled, each cut into 8‐ 10 wedges Meanwhile, place the breadcrumbs in a mixing 2 tbsp olive oil bowl and moisten with 2 tbsp cold water. Add the zest and juice 1 lemon mince, Parmesan, parsley, garlic and lemon zest. Season, mix well, then shape into 4 large, flat pat- 50g fresh breadcrumbs ties. 500g pack pork mince 50g grated Parmesan Heat remaining oil in a pan and cook the patties 2 tbsp chopped parsley for 7 mins on each side, or until they have a golden crust and are cooked through (alternatively, cook 1 large garlic clove , crushed on the barbecue). Serve with the wedges and a tomato and rocket salad, if you like

Italian pork patties with potato-wedges E6 www.englandonsunday.com October 30, 2011 Epidemic stalks the world

Perfect Sense (dir. David Mackenzie, The Debt (dir. John Madden, cert. 15) is a remake cert. 15) is frightening. No bumps in of an Israeli film Ha-Hov (2007, never released in the night, no chainsaws, no asteroids the UK) about a Mossad mission to bring a Nazi war heading for earth (or a planet in the criminal to trial in Israel. In East Berlin, under the case of Lars Von Trier’s new film assumed name of Doktor Bernhardt, Dieter Vogel Melancholia) – just the concept of an (Jesper Christensen), “the surgeon of Birkenau”, epidemic that gradually robs the practises medicine – gynaecology to be precise. human race of sensory perception. That’s in 1965, but the film really starts with a It begins with isolated cases of book launch in Tel Aviv in 1997. The book is the Severe Olfactory Syndrome (SOS) story of the mission, and what went wrong, as Vogel around the world. Epidemiologist never got to trial. It’s written by Sarah (Romi Susan (Eva Green) is working in a Aboulafia), daughter of two of the agents who later Glasgow laboratory with colleague married each other but then separated, and the Samuel (Stephen Dillane) to seek a launch event has her mother Rachel (Helen Mir- cause other than the wilder specula- ren) reading part of the story, a device to cut to the tions of capitalist conspiracy or aliens. events as described in the book. On the rebound from her ex- Rachel’s facial scar is soon explained, in a scene boyfriend, Susan takes a new lover, largely repeated later in the film but with a twist cru- chef Michael (Ewan McGregor), and cial to understanding why the three agents, Rachel, what’s a chef to do when everyone’s David (Ciarán Hinds) and Stephan (Tom Wilkin- taste buds are useless? Create sensa- son) are not enjoying their celebrity. In a leaky flat tions of texture and temperature, of in an East Berlin, young Rachel (Jessica Chastain), course (and eat soap while sharing a David (Sam Worthington) and Stephan (Marton bath with Susan). Csokas) are holding a man captive. The plan has The loss of sense is often preceded already gone wrong, but is about to go more wrong. by strong emotions. Grief, rage, para- The relationship between Rachel and Stephan is noia, euphoria are all part of the pack- tense, as are most scenes. Deliberately or not, the age. In one case it’s sudden hunger tension is highest when Christensen is on screen, where raw fish, or even the rabbits in either when Rachel, pretending infertility, is in the the laboratory cages, become the stirrups in his surgery, sneaking photos to confirm object of desire. his identity, or when he’s talking to his captors. Danish writer Kim Fupz Aakeson It gives him the chance to appear both sympathet- wraps the disintegration of society ic to Rachel’s loss of her mother (in the war) and to around the relationship between explain coldly that the Jews going to the gas cham- Michael and Susan – there’s no loss of bers did not resist. “You Jews do not know how to libido – and cinematographer Giles kill – only to die.” It’s chilling stuff, even with no Nuttgens captures the look of the city shortage of previous material about the Holocaust. from the Clyde bridges to the Necropo- ing and who carries on trying to keep matter but each other? The publicity suggests it’s based on real missions lis. The story is interspersed with life normal. (Summer previews in Scot- David Mackenzie is maybe Scot- to kidnap war criminals and put them to trial in archive footage and acted scenes in land prefigured August’s English land’s current leading director, with Israel, but the same publicity says it’s an “espionage various other places round the world. riots.) Young Adam and Hallam Foe his best thriller”, which it isn’t. It is a decent and gripping An anonymous narrator, like a As Michael rages obscenities at works (his nearest rival is Lynne Ram- story, leaving the audience to surmise a lot of what Shakespearean prologue, explains Susan, a precursor to losing his hear- sey). A subtle musical score by Max has gone on in the heads of the principal characters, what’s happening, not in a matter-of- ing, she flees, but – no happy ending – Richter completes the atmosphere of and with an open if rather implausible ending. fact way but in poetic analysis of how they eventually search for each other, vague hope amid huge despair and des- Steve Parish people react, to see who turns to loot- for in such a world, what else would peration. Art Review: French Expressions in Manchester

If he hadn’t taught L S Lowry, Adolphe died in his late teens. There are self-por- made possible the Impressionist dedica- Valette’s name might not be well-known traits too, and pictures of the art tion to painting en plein air. The reality in the UK, or anywhere. Earlier this year school’s life models (a middle-aged man of a painter’s life is also represented, an exhibition of his work in France, in and a young woman), but it’s the street with Valette working for a printer, and Montbrison not far from his birthplace scenes of Manchester that grab the doing commercial work with an advert of Saint Etienne, revived local interest attention. for pastis. but it was his first exposition in France “Manchester as Paris”, “The Monet of Gabriella died in 1917 and he married since shortly after his death in 1942. Manchester”, are the epithets cast Andrée, a French lecturer at Manches- A French painter bringing Impres- around, and there are plenty of compar- ter University, and in 1920 he was pro- sionism to Edwardian Manchester isons with Valette’s stay-at-home con- moted to Principal Master. For health shows a degree of adventure, even if no- temporaries’ work (and of Monet’s reasons he gave up the post but worked one is sure why Valette came to England pastel drawings of London). Some of his at Bolton Art School until his return to in 1904 in his late 20s. Trained in his major works have stayed in the Man- France in 1928. home town, and in Lyons and Bordeaux, chester City Art Gallery (a 20-minute From his rural retreat at Blacé in he enrolled as a student at Manchester tram ride from the exhibition at the Beaujolais, he painted landscapes and Metropolitan School of Art but was Lowry, and also holding a special Ford the local people, including labourers in a swiftly made Master of Painting and Madox Brown exhibition) but on display vineyard. These light and airy paintings Drawing. here is the brave attempt to give the seem simple and effective, but the high- Teaching within the class, in which River Irwell the cachet of the Seine, with lights on display are those murky Lowry was a student, his style clearly Manchester Cathedral rising through scenes of the Ship Canal, a railway had some influence – paintings by the fog behind the Victoria Bridge. viaduct with a curiously out of scale Lowry and Valette are shown in juxtapo- Curator Cecilia Lyon appealed for and train, and those tantalising comparisons sition – and some of the fun in this Sal- got pictures out of private collections, between the tutor and his more famous ford exhibition is in seeing the and several had not been displayed pupil. comments of Lowry about his tutor, since they were sold; pages from two some complimentary, some dismissing catalogues are blown up as background Until January 29 at The Lowry, Salford the idea that there was any influence. to one wall. Lyon’s book on Valette pro- Quays. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free (or Valette married a Venezuelan student, vides much of the story. donation). Gabriella – what was she doing in Man- This includes some good didactic Manchester City Art Gallery, 10 a.m. to chester? – and several paintings are of points, such as how the invention of 5 p.m. (closed Mondays). her and their son Peter (Tita), who sadly tubes of paint and the foldable easel Steve Parish October 30, 2011 www.englandonsunday.com E7 Speaking the language of faith

Learning to Speak Christian, difference,” Hauerwas comments, “is Hauerwas and on contemporary American America. Separate congregations can easi- Stanley Hauerwas thought to be something to do with God, theology. ly become a refuge for people who share a SCM, pb, £25.00 but it is not clear exactly what difference Hauerwas worships in an Episcopalian common culture and way of viewing the that difference is to make for the perform- congregation and the book is dedicated to world. Membership in a global church The title of this collection of sermons and ance of your office.” the Church of the Holy Family but his forces Christians to enter into dialogue papers comes from a Commencement Few people will agree with everything ecclesiology is a blend of Congregational- with people whose interpretation of the Address Stanley Hauerwas gave to the stu- Hauerwas says in this book but almost ism and Anabaptism rather than Anglican. gospel is very different from their own. dents of Eastern Mennonite Seminary in everyone who reads it will find his views In the past he has worshipped in Methodist There are many passages in this book 2010. It is an address everyone engaged in thought-provoking. I am looking forward to and Roman Catholic congregations. As he that cry out to be quoted. It is not always theological education should read. hearing the reaction of my Roman Catholic tells us in an essay on the ‘global church’ easy to follow the argument despite the “If you are to serve the church well in the friends to his argument that papal social (not a phrase he likes) what matters is that conversational tone Hauerwas often adopts ministry,” Hauerwas told the students, teaching and papal encyclicals on the fami- we see ‘the lordship of Christ embodied in and sometimes he makes a case in a one- “you must become a teacher and, in partic- ly and birth control should be seen togeth- concrete communities of witness’. This is sided way but there are insights on almost ular, a teacher of the language called Chris- er. Clifford Longley, writing recently in The true and echoes a point every page. The footnotes deserve close tian.” As Hauerwas sees it, many of the Tablet, praised the social teaching often made by Lesslie attention. Jean Vanier and Mother Teresa problems of the church today stem from and condemned the Church’s teach- Newbigin but what are both praised for their lack of conde- the loss of the ability of Christians to speak ing on sex. This is a common reac- would need to be con- scension towards the poor and needy. the language of faith. Hauerwas realises tion but Hauerwas would argue that sidered is whether Vanier befriended the people he tried to that it is not just those who have compro- both social teaching and papal teach- concrete communi- help and did so because he believed they mised with secularism and sought to water ing on sex are designed to challenge ties can witness to the gave him a great gift: they led him to Jesus down the language of faith who have done the common assumption that we can Lordship of Christ in and the Good News. “The life and work of this; in his own country it is those of the live as if God did not exist. isolation. Jean Vanier,” Hauerwas comments, “make political right who have allowed the lan- For those familiar with Hauerwas’ In a sentence sense of believing in a God who alone is guage of faith to be misused by politicians work there are many familiar themes Hauerwas does not good.” who have probably made the biggest sell- in this collection. Alasdair Macintyre, quote, H Richard Life and faith go together for Hauerwas. out. John Howard Yoder and Karl Barth are Niebuhr once As Wittgenstein remarked when he passed Here in Britain many fall into a trap writers to whom Hauerwas often described 11.00 am by a street preacher, ‘If he really meant Hauerwas describes of seeing the ministry acknowledges a debt but in this book on a Sunday as the what he was shouting he wouldn’t use that as a ‘helping profession’ so that a minister there is an essay devoted to H Richard most segregated tone of voice’. is a social worker with a difference. “The Niebuhr and the influence he has had on hour of the week in Paul Richardson Apocalypse at the Tate Britain John Martin: Apocalypse

Tate Britain until January 15, 2012

Huge conflagrations consume the earth as fire rains from heaven. Grim clouds swirl over stricken land- scapes. Crowds flee in terror from collapsing monu- ments and torrents of lava. Visions of apocalyptic doom, heavy with divine judgement, give way to vistas of beau- tiful mountains and tranquil lakes, promising heavenly redemption. Such is the awesomely ‘Sublime’ imagery of the Biblically-inspired panoramas of the remarkable Vic- torian artist John Martin (1789-1854). Far more popular in his time than contemporaries Constable and Turner, he achieved a phenomenal public following, as his pictures were displayed across Britain in theatres and public halls as well as galleries, and mass circulated as prints. For much of last century secular art opinion dismissed Martin as a religious eccentric, but recent decades have seen his work deservedly rediscov- ered. Tate Britain’s landmark exhibition John Martin: Apocalypse, with 120 works, is a comprehensive show- case of his panoramic oils, his famous mezzotint illustra- tions for the Bible and Milton’s Paradise Lost, and accomplished watercolour landscapes. Born into a poor Northumberland family, he trained in heraldry decoration with a Newcastle coachmaker and learned basic painting from an Italian artist. Moving to England, adhering to its 18th-century Deism seeing God for advancing London’s water, sewage and railway sys- London when 17, by 1812 he was exhibiting dramatic, in the order and beauty of nature – yet his art supremely tems. Sadly unsuccessful, they reveal a zeal for practical big-scale works and became drawing master to Princess expressed that Millenarian sentiment widely prevalent in improvement complemented his mystical vision. Exhibi- Charlotte, daughter of George IV. 1816 saw ‘Joshua Com- the wake of the Napoleonic War and Industrial Revolu- tion climax is his astonishing 1853 triptych of ‘The Great manding the Sun to Stand Still upon Gibeon’ – a Biblical tion upheavals. Prince Albert and the King of Belgium Day of His Wrath’ ‘The Last Judgement’ and ‘The Plains panorama of epic landscape, towering Canaanite city, were among illustrious patrons – but the Royal Academy of Heaven’, presented Victorian-style with sound and teeming armies, and Joshua imploring heaven – shown scorned him as too populist. lighting effects in a darkened hall – with the white-robed to great acclaim at the Royal Academy. Themes of Divine Judgement resonate through major Christ in majesty judging the world as memorable cen- If this drew inspiration from Turner’s grand land- works. ‘Belshazzar’s Feast’ (1820), ‘The Destruction of tre-piece. scapes, Martin’s superbly imaginative ‘Fall of Babylon’ Pompeii and Herculaneum’ (1822), ‘Pandemonium’ An inspiration to generations of Hollywood disaster- (1819) was utterly original: the vast city with Tower of (1841) and ‘The Destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah’ movie creators, Martin’s apocalyptic images give rich Babel to the rear, is depicted under attack from the Per- (1852) are archetypal Martin subjects, vividly depicting insight into Victorian piety – and resonate with today’s sian horde, flames engulfing distant edifices. Fascinat- catastrophe on a vast scale, with crowds of diminutive anxieties over climate catastrophe and nuclear Armaged- ingly, this Old Testament image, wrought with detailed humans engulfed by fire and destruction. In all, his use don. attention to Ancient World architecture, struck a ready of colour is overwhelmingly dramatic: overarching black chord with evangelicals of the day, for whom Babylon’s and red skies with glimpses of rich blue, dark green John Martin: Apocalypse is at Tate Britain until fall and freedom for the Jews typified liberation from the crags and valleys, ochre edifices of ancient cities. 15 January, 2012. powers of evil through Christ. A man of diverse talents, Martin devoted much of later Admission £14; concessions Martin himself staunchly supported the Church of life to promoting his grand-scale engineering schemes Brian Cooper E5 www.englandonsunday.com October 30, 2011

observations. The protest camp sits there, like an outward and visible sign of something in our collective unconsciousness. Uncomfortable and incon- venient. It’s a giant question mark against what we are doing. But it’s only there by accident. The question was not really being asked of the church in the first instance. The protesters are only outside St Paul’s because they CCaatthheerriinnee FFooxx were bounced from their intended site, the home of the London Stock Exchange, Paternoster Square. The land they now occupy—who owns it? A novel view of the week Apparently, this is not clear, legally. St Paul’s now stands ambiguously in the midst of all this as well. Is it a beleaguered national symbol, as it was during the blitz; or is it selling out the Gospel message and siding with the rich, the powerful? Where is Christ? Inside the cathedral under siege, misunder- stood, misrepresented? Or outside with the protesters? Or both? The C of E has traditionally tried to steer a middle way—whether that’s over the Calvinist/Catholic divide, or the pro-gay/anti-gay issue, women bishops/no women bishops, Liberal/Evangelical—and this may prove to be yet another instance. St Paul’s takes its mission to the dispossessed and powerless very seriously. But unless the state takes over the funding of our hugely expensive cathedral buildings, St Paul’s also needs to fund its daily St Paul’s quandary enterprise. The trouble with holding out a hand to both sides is that you end up vulnerable, in danger of being torn in half. But perhaps that’s not a bad thing for a faith that is, at heart, cruciform.

Is your walk with the Lord the most important Praise the Lord? Well, no. Not if the seafaring thing in your life? Do you have a sense that your believer is contemplating the wonders of God, Questioning Alpha spiritual life, the state of your soul is your true and instances of divine providence from the autobiography, that the secret working of grace deck of a slave trading vessel. It seems incon- All this has started me thinking about question marks. As you know, the through external circumstances is what truly ceivable to us now that John Newton could have Alpha Course logo (sudden anxiety: should start protesting against this counts? Perhaps if you sat down to write a mem- held public worship twice a day on board his global brand?) is a poor bloke struggling along under the weight of the big oir, this would be the angle you’d take. You’d ship without perceiving the dissonance with the red question mark he’s carrying. It’s actually Tin-Tin, if you look closely, want to show the reader how the events of your Gospel. How could he not make the connec- and there’s a big health and safety issue here. He’s not lifting from his personal history led up to the point of conver- tion? Until I read Out of the Depths I’d always knees. Tin-Tin will put his back out if he carries on like that, and take his sion, and then how God has worked in and understood that Newton was a former slaver, employers to court and make a killing. I assume he’s carrying that question through you since then. The habit of spiritual who was converted and renounced his evil mark to a specific destination to exchange it for some other piece of punctu- introspection and soul-searching has a venera- trade. But the truth is nowhere near that neat. ation. An exclamation mark, if all goes well. Or perhaps a colon, followed by ble history. Consider the following extract from This image has remained with me as a very a dash, followed by a close brackets symbol. one of our great hymn writers: potent indictment of our privileged life in the The question mark that currently haunts me is more like the kind that ‘A seafaring life is necessarily excluded from developed world. These days the slaves are not appears in the margin of a book. It implies someone has read this text and the benefit of public ordinances and Christian literally yards under our feet rotting in chains thought, ‘Really? Are you sure about that?’ It’s as if the text were my mem- communion. In other respects, I know not any while we contemplate God’s wonders and give oir (a work in process) and the reader God. calling that affords greater advantages to the thanks for his providence. But what if this is the awakened soul… In these circumstances, one question we are asked on the Last Day: But how Close Encounters—Partner Dioceses is out of the reach of innumerable temptations, could you not make the connection? How could The chancellor is currently in South Africa, in the Diocese of Matlosane, one with opportunity and turn of mind disposed to you not hear the dissonance with the Gospel? of Lichfield partner dioceses. He has taken six members of the Cathedral observe the wonders of God in the great deep. This is by way of a very long run-up to the Anti- Youth Fellowship, along with a couple of adult helpers. They have been The two noblest objects of sight, the expanded Capitalism protest camp outside St Paul’s cathe- helping lay the foundations of a new church building, funded by a gift taken heavens and the expanded oceans, are continu- dral. As I suspected, my comments in last last year from the cathedral. The money was raised by the Traidcraft stall in ally in view. Interpositions of divine providence, week’s column were out-of-date by the time the congregational coffee after the main Sunday service. It’s probably true to in answer to prayer, occur almost every day… CEN went to press. say that the amount wouldn’t keep poor old St Paul’s cathedral open for one All these are helps to quicken and confirm the I’ve been trying in vain to come up with a hour. In Matlosane it can build a new church. There’s that question mark life of faith.’ coherent opinion here. Instead, I’ll make a few again.

PRIZE CROSSWORD No. 770 18 Such hands make a was found in Ezra ch. was King Cyrus' man poor, says 6 (8) decree in Ezra ch. 5 Proverbs ch. 10 (4) 4 ..write it on a ______(5) 19 ..using this ______(Isa 30.8) (6) 21 Pronoun used to iden- as a trap (John 8.6) (8) 5 C losed, like the gate in tify something close at 22 He circ umcised Isaac Joshua ch.2 (4) hand (4) in Genesis ch. 21 (7) 6 In ch. 1, Luke 23 Occur afterwards as a describes itself as Solutions to last week's result (5) such an account (7) crossword 24 Facial features men- 7 U nclean (5) tioned in Psalm 115 12 Succeeds, like one Across (5) who cherishes under- 7 Estate 8 Palace 10 Cream 11 25 ..to treat with ______standing in Proverbs Quarrel 12 Plain 13 Dean 17 the sacred offerings ch. 19 (8) Nain (Lev 22.2) (7) 14 Beggar in Luke ch. 16 18 Smoke 22 Lantern 23 Naomi (7) 24 Nested 25 Relent Down 16 Most like the forest cut down in Zechariah Down 1 His son Jehiel took ch. 10 (7) care of the king's sons 17 Season chosen to 1 Fence 2 Utter 3 Stumble 4 in 1 Chro nicles ch. 27 gather crops by a wise Laban 5 Barrier 6 Ceiling 9 (7) son in Proverbs ch. 10 Equipment 2 Shape of the loaf of (6) 14 Inkling 15 Lioness 16 barley bread in Judges 18 ..do not __ ___ to imi- Skinned 19 Peter 20 Wo men 21 ch. 7 (5) tate (Deut 18.9) (5) Filth 3 C itadel where a scro ll 20 Formally send out, as

The first correct entry drawn will win a book of the Editor’s choice.

Send your entry to Crossword Number 770, The Church of England Newspaper, 14 Great College Street, Westminster, London, SW1P 3RX by next Friday

Across 9 Rock thrown by an angel in Rev- Name elation ch. 18 (7) 1 An abundant one comes fron the 10 Peculiar things (8) Address strength of am ox, says Proverbs 11 Ephraim's hair is sprinkled with ch. 14 (7) this in Hosea ch. 7 (4) 5 Sharp weapon used in Ezekiel 13 eg Patmos in Revelation ch. 1 (6) ch. 5 (5) 15 Addressed a solemn request to Post Code 8 Tiny fragment of bread (5) God (6) Leader & Comment Friday October 28, 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com 9 Comment Some unintended Confronting The consequences Gaystapo We seem to have news stories full of unintended consequences at the moment. Mr Cameron’s ‘head boy’ approach to his ‘fags’ came very unstuck as they were not bullied off their determination to get the EU debated on the floor of the Commons. Instead of being a free and easy a war-monger. He was scorned as a political has- discussion of the merits of the EU and the terms of UK membership, it Alan been, out of touch with the then-modern main- turned into a trial of strength and regenerated a mood of confidence stream. amongst Tory back benchers. Mr Hague certainly lost credibility, and But he saw clearly the hidden hegemonic ambi- altogether this looks damaging to the rather upper-crust Tory elite and Craig tions of the Nazis and their intended assault on our their aloof mode of management. The event may even trigger a greater civilization, our values, our way of life. To the fury sense that Parliament does matter and that MPs can say what they of the Nazi leadership in Berlin he exposed the sin- think for a change rather than being mindless functionaries of the ister truth, gave a trumpet-call for resistance and party whips. rearmament, and in due course galvanised the Let us hope that another unintended consequence does not spring nation for an epochal battle against the fascist men- from the success of the rebels in Libya. NATO has been utterly vital in ace. bringing down the Gaddafi regime, but the barbaric nature of his mur- Our civilisation, our values, our way of life – der followed by the announcement that Sharia will be the basis of the Having forcibly - and understandably - rectified the indeed our national character - are inevitably new nation’s law has sent a shudder down the spines of many politi- Versailles-type injustices and humiliations foisted formed from the values of the Christian faith, as cians. Who have we just eased into power? Will this be yet another on the homosexual community, the UK’s victorious over a thousand years and more ‘Christianity’ and attempt by the West to start a liberal democracy but end up with an Gaystapo are now on a roll. Their gay-rights storm ‘Englishness’ have become fully entwined and equally autocratic Islamicist system, far from encouraging freedom troopers take no prisoners as they annex our wider fused. So erase Christianity and you erode English- and protection for other faiths? There is now nothing at all that the culture, and hotel owners, registrars, magistrates, ness and the nation loses its identity and confi- West can do to shape what happens next. As we pointed out before the counsellors, foster parents and adoption agencies dence. In recent decades gay militants have been in Iraq invasion, it is easy enough to bring down a regime, but impossible find themselves crushed under the pink jack-boot. the van of the secularist and new atheist assault on to change a people’s culture, as Afghanistan is also showing daily. Thanks especially to the green light from a per- Christianity, and as a consequence our culture has And then there is the Pythonesque theatre of the absurd now going missive New Labour government, the gay Wehrma- corroded and debased and national confusion and on outside St Paul’s Cathedral, indeed closing St Paul’s and costing it cht is on its long march through the self-doubt has grown. vast amounts of money needed for its upkeep and repair. In an act bor- institutions and has already occu- Christian believers have been a dering on politically correct self-parody, a highly paid dignitary of the pied the Sudetenland social uplands lone voice against the resulting sexu- cathedral invited the protesters to camp outside, a gesture of left wing of the Home Office, the educational alisation, narcissism, hedonism, self- anti-capitalist solidarity, giving no doubt a rosy glow of righteousness establishment, the politically-cor- ishness and materialism. to the Dean and Chapter. We even had mildly absurd remarks from our rect police and the Guardianista Marginalised and dismissed as bigot- liberal dignitaries to the effect that it was marvellous to see all the tents management of the BBC. Following ed and homophobic, Christians are facing East, as if in an attitude of worship. But the protesters are now a plethora of equalities legislation, now despised as has-been and out of there for good, shutting the cathedral and bankrupting their kindly homosexuals are now protected touch with the cool cosmopolitan hosts. As is often the case, noble protesters are in fact also ruthless and privileged by sexual orientation mainstream. anarchists with a very negative aim, rather than helping others at all. regulations and have achieved legal But the hidden hegemonic ambi- So this is now looking very queasy: the dignitaries can hardly now call equality by way of civil partner- tions of the Gaystapo have been for the removal of the protesters despite their decreasing credibility, ships. exposed recently by their plans to and must be hoping that other authorities will take on that task and But it’s only 1938 and Nazi expan- annex and redefine ‘marriage’. They clear up their folly. The Telegraph reports that nine of ten tents are in sionist ambitions are far from sated. already have achieved equal rights fact empty, just put there for nuisance value and TV coverage. The Flattered by appeasers and feted by through civil partnerships, so to message from this unintended consequence must be that the church the political class, the Oberkom- covet the word and undermine a should be very careful about making political gestures. mandos from Stonewall and Out- foundation-stone of our civilisation – Rage! have expansive goals for and nurturing place for our children - cultural hegemony and have long betrays other more ominous inten- The Church of England Newspaper wanted to march on the next territo- tions. They want to change our lan- with Celebrate magazine incorporating The Record and Christian Week ry. 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They The eradication of marriage as “the Publishing Director & Editor: CM BLAKELY 020 7878 1001 culture at its want SSM - same-sex “marriage”. life-long union between a man and a Chief Correspondent: The Rev Canon GEORGE CONGER 020 8133 2867 And, unbelievably, the Conserva- deepest level” woman” is a huge next step along their Reporter: MATT CRESSWELL 020 7878 1005 tive prime minister, betraying a thou- way. sand years of Christian marriage in Cometh the hour, cometh the man Advertising: CHRIS TURNER 020 7878 1006 his green and pleasant land and or woman. Who will stand up and pub- Advertising & Editorial Assistant: PENNY NAIR PRICE 020 7878 1007 naively revelling in his Munich moment, makes licly confront this new domination and intolerance? virtue out of vice, holds a piece of paper aloft and In 1938 it was perfectly reasonable to like the Ger- Subscriptions & Finance: DELIA ROBINSON 020 7878 1008 declares triumphantly to the Tory party confer- man people but hate Nazi ambitions and ideology. Graphic Designer: PETER MAY 020 7878 1003 ence, “It’s Gay Marriage in our time”. Today it is perfectly reasonable to warmly engage Someone once said, “There is a time for silence with your gay neighbours while at the same time The acceptance of advertising does not necessarily indicate and a time to speak… a time for peace and a time forcefully confronting the vaulting ambitions of gay endorsement. Photographs and other material sent for publication for war”, and SSM could be the invasion of Poland, leaders and their atheist and humanist fellow-trav- are submitted at the owner’s risk. The Church of England Newspaper the catalyst for war and a cultural fight-back. ellers. does not accept responsibility for any material lost or damaged. Catholic bishops are incendiary, evangelicals are There is a season and a time for everything under Christian Weekly Newspapers Trustees: Robert Leach (020 8224 5695), Lord Carey appalled and even the dear old Church of England the sun. For Christians, the season of appeasement, of Clifton, The Rt Rev Michael Nazir-Ali, The Rt Rev Pete Broadbent, Dr Elaine seems to think SSM is a step too far – “The fear and cowering in the corner is over. “Whom Storkey, The Rev Peter Brown Church’s view remains of marriage as the life-long shall I send,” said the Lord, “and who will go for union between a man and a woman,” said an Angli- us?” The Church of England Newspaper, can spokesperson. Now is the time for people of courage to rise up Religious Intelligence Ltd Cometh the hour, cometh the man. For years and defend marriage, our children and the very 14 Great College Street, London SW1P 3RX Winston Churchill was a lone voice against the bur- foundations of our civilisation. The only right Tel: 020 7878 1001 geoning darkness of Nazi ideology and intolerance. response? “Here I am, send me.” Fax: 020 7878 1031 In the wilderness and with few public friends, he E-mail: [email protected] was marginalised and dismissed as belligerent and [email protected] Website: www.churchnewspaper.com Get more news online, click on www.churchnewspaper.com for updated stories 10 www.churchnewspaper.com Friday October 28, 2011 Classifieds

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CLERICAL All Classified Advertising

CHURCH PASTORAL AID SOCIETY & PATRONAGE TRUST £11.00 per single column centimetre (+ vat if applicable) BENEFICE OF FAIRLIGHT AND PETT All classified ads also SUBJECT TO PASTORAL REORGANISATION The challenges facing the new Dean of Rochester will include: appear on our website INCUMBENT • to nourish and encourage the worship of the Cathedral in its life as a praying community www.religiousjobsite.com • to work with the Bishop and other members of his staff team in forming the aspirations for the common The joint patrons, CPAS and the , seek to appoint a gifted life and purpose of the diocese and to develop the Cathedral’s role as an expression of this Recruitment: and able candidate for these evangelical close to Hastings and in the picturesque Rye deanery who will: • to work with the cathedral community and wider society to develop a vision of the next stages of the THREE weeks journey for the Cathedral • have both the vision and heart for the gospel in relation both to church • to oversee the implementation of an HLF development project for the price growth and wider outreach and mission. • to explore possible roles for the Cathedral in the realm of public theology and debate. of TWO • be a person of prayer, immersed in God’s Word, who lives, preaches and teaches according to Scripture. Deadline: • be an easy communicator, able to collaborate, share responsibility and work with ordained and lay colleagues with a view to fostering full 2pm Monday participation by all in the life and work of the church. • be enthusiastic for collaborative ministry in the widest sense amongst all ages and with local schools. Diocese of Chichester Rye Deanery • be willing to be a visible presence in the villages and be willing to take part fully in wider community life and that of the deanery. Incumbent of the Parish of Westfield • have a passion to lead people to faith in Christ and to become his and of Guestling disciples. DIOCESE OF LLANDAFF (to form part of a new United Benefice) Full details are available from The Bishop of Lewes seeks to appoint an energetic priest to these two The Diocese of Landaff is: The Archdeacon of Lewes & Hastings rural broadly evangelical parishes, that are poised to move into a new The Ven. Philip Jones, 27 The Avenue, Lewes BN7 1QT United Benefice. Situated in delightful rural settings, the parishes are SEEKING TO APPOINT A NEW INCUMBENT WITH AN OPEN EVANGELICAL 01273 479530 [email protected] within easy reach of Hastings, Rye and Battle. Mission and outreach are MINISTRY AND A VISION FOR THE PEOPLE AND PARISH AT to whom completed applications should be sent high on the agenda. The post is for someone with proven qualities of leadership, able to build up the spiritual life of the parishes, and to lead Enhanced CRB is required St. Catherine's Church, Pontypridd the parishes into growth. Closing date: Friday 18 November Worship • evangelism • compassion (www.st-caths.org) Are you that person? Interview date: 09 December The person appointed should demonstrate: • Do you have a vision for Gospel purpose and mission in rural • strong Leadership skills communities? • a passion for mission • Are you faithful to Scripture in lifestyle, preaching and teaching? • an ability to work collaboratively SIMEON’S TRUSTEES DIOCESE OF CHICHESTER • Are you committed to sensitive evangelism and pastoral care? • Do you have a flexible approach to worship styles, being willing to • a powerful and Spirit-led ministry affirm the traditions and sense of identity of both churches and to work • an enthusiasm for the opportunities provided by a town centre ministry VICAR with them? and • Can you build on existing work among children, young families and in • commitment to the community CHRIST CHURCH, ORE, HASTINGS the local Church of England school? This is an exciting opportunity to lead a lively and committed • Do you have a leadership style that is collaborative, that draws out the congregation in the town centre of Pontypridd. The new incumbent ● Are you an open-hearted evangelical, committed to the Bible, talents and enthusiasm of others, that is willing to delegate and to share will join a parish with an active ministry team including clergy, laity, a and a lover of people, who could join us in our mission ‘to know in active mission? full time children's worker, and a full time older people's worker. Christ and to make Christ known’ in our local community? • Are you keen to pursue ecumenical contacts and willing to work with other churches? An application pack is available from the Secretary to the Board of ● Are you a leader who is also a team player and able to develop • Are you willing enthusiastically to participate in the life of the wider Nomination new leaders? village communities and in the Deanery? The Rev'd Michael Komor, The Rectory, Merthyrmawr Road, Bridgend, ● Are you prayerful, open to the Holy Spirit, good at building The full details are obtainable from CF31 3NH relationships with others and at communicating the faith? The Archdeacon of Lewes & Hastings Telephone: 01656 652247. e-mail: [email protected] ● Have you an enthusiasm and a faith which encourages and The Ven. Philip Jones, 27 The Avenue, Lewes BN7 1QT Deadline for receipt of applications: Monday 7th November 2011 01273 479530 [email protected] inspires others? Interviews will take place on Tuesday December 6th. to whom completed applications should be sent ● Have you the vision and compassion to pastor, teach and minister Enhanced CRB disclosure required in our relatively deprived area, where the church building is on Closing date for applications Friday 18 November 2011 the main street at the heart of our ‘village’ (pop. c 10,000)? Interview date to be announced. SUBSCRIBE to If so, might God call you to join us at Christ Church in our ministry The Church of England Newspaper to those of all ages within the church and beyond the church, including our local schools? and receive your copy direct to your home each Other ‘attractions’: the sea 1 mile and 5 bedroom vicarage! week, with access to our online edition included. www.christchurch.ore.org Use the form on page 12 or ring Delia Robinson For an application form and a parish profile, please contact: on 077111 30706 and pay by credit or debit card. Mrs Ann Brown, Simeon’s Trustees, [email protected] 7 Closing date: 18 November Visit & Interviews: 8-9 December Alternatively, you can order a regular copy of Enhanced CRB Disclosure required ( 9,*;69 the newspaper through your local newsagent.

The with    The Church Patronage Trust invite applications for the post of      PRIEST-IN-CHARGE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING RATES • Seek to deepen the spiritual life of all who worship, while Shirley Parish Southampton Run-on-lineage style We are a large evangelical Anglican Church with the vision that through us 45p per word (+ vat if applicable) God will transform our community with the love of Jesus. • Offer pastoral care to all our parishioners, including those (Minimum 12 words) We are seeking to appoint a Priest-in-Charge who is: • Seek to further, in a creative fashion, the existing outreach with  A person whose life and ministry is rooted in the Bible who can effectively Displayed (boxed) style communicate its truth to our contemporary culture  Able to take a strategic lead in developing our mission and vision working £11 per single column centimetre with the PCC and staff team *36:05. +(;,;/ 56=,4),9  (+ vat if applicable)  A team builder with a collaborative style geared to equipping and releasing others  Recruitment ads:  A maker of disciples with a clear vision of how to do this in the 21st century.  3 weeks for the price of 2 To download our Parish Profile and Application Form visit our website:  www.shirleyparishchurch.org.uk Deadline for next week: 2pm Monday   To arrange informal contact or a visit, contact the Parish Office Send completed applications to: All classifieds also appear on our website. Miss Nicky Chapman, ’s PA, Bishop’s House, www.downanddromore.org Contact us at: St Mary’s Church Close, Wessex Lane, Southampton SO18 2ST Tel: 023 8067 2684 Email: [email protected] [email protected] by 10.00 am on Friday 25th November Interviews: 10th and 11th January 2012 www.religiousjobsite.com 077111 30706 The post is subject to enhanced CRB disclosure Classifieds Friday October 28, 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com 11

APPOINTMENTS & SITUATIONS VACANT RESOURCES FOR CHURCH & HOME

SOUND & VISUAL HOLIDAY BROCHURES

Project: 053 of Siloam Christian Ministries Charity No. 327396 NEW CHRISTIAN GUILD 2012 Holidays and Breaks brochure now available. To request your copy call RESOURCES FOR CHRISTIAN 01629 580550 or visit VISUAL COMMUNICATION www.christianguild.co.uk THORNLEIGH 2012 brochures now Great for Church available. Lake District hotel and biblical, all age, Accompanied Overseas holidays. & School groups ‘New’ Cruise Club. 015395 32733 / Candle glows, year [email protected] planners, story rolls, challenging! gospel visual aids freephone 08000-27-79-17 including posters & story HOLIDAYS bags and much more! ministries COTSWOLDS AND STRATFORD www.decadeministries.co.uk NEARBY. Spacious second floor self-contained apartment in pretty HILLTOP Alcester, Warwickshire. Sleeps 2/3. COMMUNION WINES Use of cinema room and large AUDIO VISUAL private garden. Ideal touring base. Discount for Clergy and Churchworkers. Short breaks •Sound reinforcement possible. Tel. 01789 764640 or •Induction loop email [email protected] •Video Projection APPEAL MUSICIANS SPONSORING •DigitalHymnal WILL YOU SUPPORT US 2Rising Lea,Derby Road Risley, Derbyshire IN SENDING THIS PAPER STUDENT SPONSORSHIP. Will 0115 9395 995 TO PRISON CHAPLAINS? you sponsor an Indian student? [email protected] www.hilltopav.co.uk Eachweekwesend copiesofthis Contact Rev Shrisunder, 01924 newspaper to Prison Chaplains, 513548. who greatly appreciate having PILGRIMAGES suitable literature to hand out, because prisoners have to JESMOND PARISH CHURCH HOST FAMILY spend so much time in their cells. A Christmas Present from We have always been glad to Music Co-ordinator do this, but the postage costs have escalated over the years, We are looking to appoint to our senior pastoral team an able We urgently need and we need help to contin- musician with organ and piano skills to lead and develop our [ for accompanied Christian holidays overseas ] ue and hopefully expand this ministry of music, both traditional and contemporary. The accommodation service. For example, it now successful candidate will be a committed evangelical and an within family as paying costs £1.51 to post six copies. experienced leader. guest, easy reach of cen- 8-15March 2012 led by Revd John Hudson We would be most grateful for tral London, for a young donations towards the cost of JPC is an evangelical Anglican church in the centre of Newcastle distribution, which may be sent German lady on work pp in twin accommodation plus air fare from upon Tyne, with Sunday attendances of around 1000, and a Manchester, London Heathrow or Luton. to: The Editor, staff of over 30. We have a music group of 40 singers and experience with CEN The Church of England News- instrumentalists that meets weekly. We also have seasonal musical until December 22. Discount of£100 perperson, if booked paper, groups including a choir that sings at, among other occasions, our Age 18, speaks fluent English! before 25th December, with this advert attached. 14 Great College Street, Carols by Candlelight services attended by 5000; an orchestra; London SW1P 3RX Email: Telephone 015395 32733 for a Brochure. (cheques payable to and a brass group. [email protected] Religious Intelligence Ltd). FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT Rev Jonathan Pryke, Executive Minister, Jesmond Parish Church ADVERTISING A JOB? Some forthcoming 0191 2125127 • [email protected] features GODLY LIVING • CHURCH GROWTH • CHANGING BRITAIN We offer www.church.org.uk • www.clayton.tv in which you might want THREE weeks for the price of TWO to advertise Weekly deadline: 2pm Monday 11 November YOUTH, CHILDREN & FAMILY MINISTRY Email us at: Bible & Theological Colleges Covering vocational training & distance Greenside Parish, Durham Diocese learning opportunities for everyone PT CHILDREN/YOUTH WORKER [email protected] Committed, Spirit-filled Christian • Avg.15 hrs pw £9.50ph 18 November App Form: www.greensideparish.org.uk/vacancies.htm More info: Revd Clive Devonish 0191 413 8281 BANNER ADVERTISING ON THE Prison Week feature [email protected] CEN WEBSITE Featuring interviews with those minister- Closing date 30 November 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com ing to or seeking to befriend prisoners Why not try an advertisement on our website? PENFRIENDS 25 November We can offer you a variety of sizes which run Christmas Books feature R Penfriends equired throughout the site for one month’s duration: Our annual round-up of suggestions for LifeLines supports and befriends prisoners on Death Row 728 pixels across x 90 pixels down £250 per month books you might like to give, or receive, throughout the United States, through letter writing. It is the first 468 pixels across x 60 pixels down £200 per month this Christmas established organisation of its kind, and has spread both 120 pixels across x 600 pixels down £250 per month nationally and internationally, with members all over the world. To book advertising space in these We urgently seek penfriends for many waiting prisoners. 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Christ Church (London): is now Vicar, Romiley (Chester). Team Vicar, Harogate St Wilfrid; and Chaplain to the APPOINTMENTS The Rev Canon Philip Rawlings, Forces (Ripon and Leeds): has resigned with effect from to be Oldham Anglican Inter-faith Officer (Manchester). 31 May 2011. Remaining Chaplain. The Rev Ruth Brooker The Rev Peter Rugen, The Rev Christopher Turner, (Lichfield): to be Administrative Assistant, Transforming Priest-in-Charge, Norley, Crowton and Kingsley (Chester): Rector, The Quinton (Birmingham): to retire with effect Communities department (same diocese). to be Vicar. from 31 October 2011. The Rev Elizabeth Hazel Clarke, The Rev Preb Amanda Rylands, The Rev Julian Waite, Priest-in-Charge, Dodleston (Chester): to be Rector. (Lichfield): to be Shrewsbury Episcopal Area Representa- Chaplain, HM Prison Swaleside (Canterbury): to retire The Rev Alison Dobell: tive for Women in Ministry (same diocese). with effect from 2 March 2012. to be Chaplain, St John’s Winchester Charity (Winches- The Rev Graham Shaw, The Rev Irene Watkins, ter). Assistant , Camberley St Paul (Guildford): is now NSM (Assistant Curate), Lawton Moor (Manchester): to The Rt Rev Geoffrey Graham Dow, Assistant Curate (Vicar Designate), Plas Newton with retire with effect from 1 November 2011. Hon Assistant Bishop (Chester): is now also Hon Assistant Chester Christ Church (Chester). The Rev Alan Wheale, Bishop (Manchester). The Rev Irene Smith, NSM (Resident Minister, House for Duty), Tamworth The Rev Debra Dyson, NSM (Assistant Curate), Moston St Chad (Manchester): is (Lichfield): to retire with effect from 30 October 2011. Assistant Curate, Lichfield St Michael with St Mary and now also NSM (Assistant Curate), Moston St John; and Wall (Lichfield): to be Vicar, Wigginton (same diocese). NSM (Assistant Curate), Moston Newton Heath (same LAY & OTHER The Rev Sylvia Earle, diocese). APPOINTMENTS Assistant Curate, Whitkirk (Ripon and Leeds): to be Priest- The Rev Dr Preb Jane Tillier, in-Charge, Collingham with Harewood; and Priest-in- Priest-in-Charge, Barlaston; and Ministry Development Charge, Spofforth with Kirk Deighton (same diocese). Adviser, Stafford Episcopal Area (Lichfield): to be also Mr Paul Cross, The Rev Jane Haslam, Diocesan Adviser for Women in Ministry (same diocese). Youth Pastor, Bayston Hill (Lichfield): has resigned with Rector, Alfred Jewel (Bath and Wells): to be also Area The Rev Stephen Walker, effect from 4 September 2011. Advisor for Women’s Ministry (same diocese). Priest-in-Charge, Theydon Bois and Theydon Gardon Mrs Patricia Guthrie, The Rev Rachel Hill-Brown, (Chelmsford): to be Vicar. Personal Assistant to the Chaplain with Deaf People (Lich- NSM (Assistant Priest), Dorridge (Birmingham): to be The Rev Neil-Allan Walsh, field): has resigned with effect from 30 September 2011. Chaplain, Birmingham Children’s Hospital NHS Trust Assistant Curate, Little Ilford St Michael (Chelmsford): to Miss Rebecca Harrison, (same diocese). be Priest-in-Charge, Leytonstone St Margaret with St to be General Office Assistant, Saint Mary’s House (Lich- The Rev Gillian Hubbard, Columbia (same diocese). field). NSM (Assistant Curate), Gloucester St Paul and St The Rev Janet Waterfield, The Rev Christopher Howitz, Stephen (Gloucester): to be Priest-in-Charge, Mow Cop Team Vicar, Bilston (Lichfield): to be Priest-in-Charge, Priest-in-Charge, Higher Openshaw (Manchester): to be (Lichfield). Lichfield Christ Church; and Priest-in-Charge, Longdon Anglican co-chaplain, Oman (The Protestant Church of The Rev Richard Kirby (Lichfield), (same diocese). Oman). to be NSM, Wellington All Saints with Eyton; and Chair of The Rev David Williamson, The Rev Canon Richard Lowndes, the Mercian Trust (same diocese). Director, Time for God: to be Priest-in-Charge, Shepton Chaplaincy Team Leader (Senior Manager for Spiritual The Rev Paul Larcombe, Mallet with Doulting (Bath and Wells). Care, Bereavement Care and Voluntary Services), Rector, Worle (Bath and Wells): to be also Assistant Rural The Rev Jacqueline Wise, Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust (Winches- Dean, Locking Deanery (same diocese). Assistant Curate, Crewe All Saints and St Paul with St ter): to be Coaching and Lay Training Officer (Llandaff, The Rev Joycelyn Lewis-Gregory, Peter (Chester): is now Assistant Curate (Minister), The Church in Wales). Assistant Curate, Hall Green St Peter (Birmingham): to be Heswall (same diocese). Dr Gillian Meller, Priest-in-Charge, Cotteridge; and the Bishop’s Adviser for to be Diocesan Officer Among Deaf People (Lichfield). Minority Ethnic Anglicans (same diocese). RETIREMENTS & Mr Christopher Sprules: The Rev Dr Edmund Newey, RESIGNATIONS to be Lay Chair, Wednesbury (Lichfield). Vicar, Handsworth St Andrew (Birmingham): to be also Mrs Sara Taylor, Area Dean, Handsworth Deanery (same diocese). The Rev Stella Halmshaw, Personal Assistant to the (Lichfield): to The Rev Canon Anthony Oehring, NSM (House for Duty Priest), Wittersham with Stone and retire with effect from 30 November 2011. Priest-in-Charge, Faversham; and Assistant Curate, Pre- Ebony (Canterbury): to retire with effect from 1 January ston next Faversham, Goodnestone and Graveney; and 2012. CORRECTION Area Dean, Ospringe Denery (Canterbury): to be Co-ordi- The Rev Jennifer Pilcher, nating Chaplain, HM Prison East Sutton Park; and Chap- NSM, Eastry and Northbourne with Tilmastone and The Rev John Gooding, lain, HM Prison Blantyre House (same diocese). Betteshanger with Ham (Canterbury): to resign with Diocesan Director, Mission, Evangelism and Parish Devel- The Rev Richard Pennystan, effect from 31 October 2011. opment (Guildford): to retire with effect from 29 February Recently Assistant Curate (Associate Vicar), Fulham The Rev John Thompson-Vear, 2012.

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Get more news online, click on www.churchnewspaper.com for updated stories Comment Friday October 28, 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com 13 Reformation plans religious society as ‘model to wider church’

By Paul Dawson “Reform members are now vote against women firm guarantees, and there- involved in innovative ways of bishops unless changes were fore are completely inade- Reform members have voted reaching into local communi- made to the draft legislation. quate. So there is now a real to back the creation of a reli- ties with the good news of These figures are critical, as incentive to find a way of gious society within the Jesus Christ. Many are in the legislation requires a two- making appropriate provi- Church of England for con- churches with a good num- thirds majority across all sion, otherwise the whole servative evangelicals who ber of younger men and three voting houses (bishops, legislation could fail. A reli- want to promote the church’s women being trained for clergy, laity). If such a majori- gious society with a clear mission but are opposed to future gospel work. We have ty is not achieved in just one statutory role has not been the consecration of women as a mission-focus which brings of the three houses, then the fully considered, and could bishops. health and life that is good for whole legislation would fail provide a way through.” Speaking at the network’s the wider church, and a reli- and have to be re-visited. Although some senior fig- annual conference yesterday, gious society would enable us Revd Thomas said: “The ures within the church are attended by over 170 mem- to continue that focus. recent elections provided the known to be broadly support- bers, Revd Rod Thomas, the “In light of the recent first real opportunity for ive of the creation of a reli- Reform chairman, said: “This results of elections to Gener- grass-roots members of the gious society, Revd Thomas is a very positive move not al Synod, our proposal takes Church of England to have said that there is “a lot of just for us, but for the wider on even greater weight,” he their say on women bishops. detail to be worked out” as to church. The creation of a added. There are many who remain the exact way such a society society can both provide a Revd Thomas revealed to firmly opposed to the idea, would operate, but reckoned model of how the church can the conference that analysis because the Bible says that that within 6-12 months the change to become more of the election results there should be different framework could be clear. focused on mission, not main- showed that over one third of roles for men and women tenance, and a way forward the house of laity and just one both in the family and the Revd Paul Dawson, through the dilemma it faces member short of a third of church. For them the cur- Reform media officer, over women bishops. the house of clergy would rent proposals provide no www.reform.org.uk

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ful not to identify with the old order. They cannot claim the glory of over- This was a mistake the Coptic Pope throwing the dictatorships even if in the PP AA UU LL made: Shenouda stuck with Mubarak past they suffered at the hands of the until the very end. In the late 19th and dictators. Al-Qaeda was certainly not in RR II CC HH AA RR DD SS OO NN early 20th Centuries Christians were at the vanguard of demands for reform. the forefront of the Arab awakening. Although elections may well bring Church and World Today they could still make a big contri- Islamists to power they will probably bution if they try to take advantage of have to form coalitions with other par- the opportunities democracy will bring. ties. The Muslim Brotherhood has said Among the middle class in Egypt it will only contest 40 per cent of the there is still a desire to move beyond seats in Egypt. Its vice-president is a sectarianism. The highly regarded Min- Christian and it is possible that it will ister of Finance resigned over the way form an alliance with the liberal Wafd the government had handled the Party. In Tunisia the trade unions are Arab Spring or demonstration and the military had to quite powerful. plead with him to return for the sake of Evidence suggests that once democra- economic stability. Although the excus- cy takes root extremist religious parties es offered did not sound convincing, the begin to lose support or to change their army did at least see the need to apolo- nature. Voters judge parties by whether gise and explain its actions after 25 they deliver stability and prosperity; reli- Copts had been killed, many of them by gious purity cannot compensate for Winter? military vehicles. political and economic failure. Often par- As well as worries about sectarian vio- ties are forced to compromise and modi- Is the Arab Spring turning into a harsh win- to fan hostility to the demonstrators as it lence there is also concern about the fy their platform in the search for allies ter? Many fear this to be so after the attacks was under Mubarak. position of women in the new Arab and votes. Rabble-rousing demagogues on Coptic demonstrators. Concern is also Democracy has not yet arrived in Egypt. democracies. The number of women in can come to power in a democracy but growing in Syria about deepening religious Parliamentary elections are to be held next the Egyptian cabinet has fallen to one more often the democratic processes tensions with many Christians and Alawites month but the military is dragging its feet and women are unlikely to win many encourage moderation and collabora- worried about what will happen to them if over a new constitution. A presidential elec- seats in the Parliament. Men jeered at a tion. the regime falls. tion may not be held until 2013. Stoking up rally for International Women’s Day and Democracy in the Middle East is not The Copts have many justifiable griev- sectarian violence may be one way in which told the women to go home and feed without its dangers. The future is uncer- ances. They are discriminated against in sections of the military who are not yet rec- their babies. tain. It will take time before people adapt terms of public spending and access to onciled to change hope to cling on to power. There is no doubt that many working to new ways. In Egypt we are likely to office. Getting permission to build churches Bashar al-Assad is certainly stoking sectari- class Egyptians will vote for the Muslim see attempts by the military to cling on is a long and complex business. an fears in Syria by telling the minorities Brotherhood, which has a record of pro- to the privileged position it has occupied Although Mubarak claimed to be a there only he can keep Islamic extremists viding food and essential services in for 60 years. defender of minority rights he never really from massacring them. poor districts. Extreme Islamist parties But the sceptics need to ask: what is offered Copts protection against Islamist Understandably Christians in the Middle may also do well. Although there is talk the alternative? It was repression that extremists. What he pursued was a policy of East are fearful. Iraq’s Christian population of Turkey as a model for democratic produced religious extremism. Al- divide and rule. stood at 1.4 million before the American Arab nations, 44 per cent of Egyptians Qaeda was not born in a democracy. Its Elements in the ruling military govern- invasion of 2003. After that event Christians told one poll that Saudi Arabia was the leaders have come from Saudi Arabia ment want to continue the same policy. suffered terrible violence and more than country they most admired. and the old Egypt of Sadat and There are reports that government agents half fled the country. Copts are talking of Yet there are a number of reasons why Mubarak. The hope must be that when infiltrated the demonstration by Copts in emigration as the only solution to their we should not lose hope for Arab people learn how to practise democratic Cairo in order to inflame the situation and problems. democracy. Islamists have not been at politics they will see no further need for provoke violence. State television was used Despite fears, Christians need to be care- the forefront of demands for change. terror and violence.

contined from the back page me what I want – or else.’ Is this really something that we want to evil through his death on the teach our children? cross. So in every area there are argu- That victory was demonstrated ments against Halloween. To by Jesus’ resurrection (Colos- some extent it is immaterial sians 2:15) and, through the Holy whether or not we believe in the Spirit, God’s people have power existence or not of spiritual pow- over evil (Matthew 28:18; Romans ers. Halloween stands con- 16:20; Ephesians 6:11-18; Colos- demned on other grounds: it is a sians 2:9,10; Hebrews 2:14-15; dark celebration that focuses on James 4:7; 1 John 3:8; 4.4). evil, horror and wrong. A key Although these powers are ulti- point is that in the modern Hal- mately defeated they still have loween there is no element of enormous potential for harm. So good triumphing over the dark- for Christians, even if children ness. No, there is too much bad dressing up as witches and wiz- news and no good news about ards is not a serious attempt to Halloween. get involved in the supernatural, Practically, if you are someone it is not something to be encour- who has to make a decision about aged. The precautionary principle whether you and your family or of ‘when in doubt, don’t’ applies your organisation is involved in here. Halloween, can I suggest that you However, two sorts of people at least limit, if not cancel it? If are likely to object to this argu- you are at home and you don’t ment against the magical or want to subscribe to Halloween supernatural element. The first is then I recommend that you put a the atheist, who says that there is note on your door saying ‘Hal- no spiritual world and so Hal- loween not celebrated here, but loween poses no risk. Let me we do celebrate life and truth so make two responses here. tian rejection of Halloween would macabre? Why dress up in a way distorted body and being evil. knock on the door and we will First, to deny the existence of be one who accepts the existence that portrays death and decay? Being ugly and being wicked are give you some delights’. To the spiritual world is as much an of a spiritual world but sees it as a Even the most resolute atheist two very separate things. defuse any ill feeling, draw a nice act of faith as to say that it exists. harmless realm. But is there any must surely be troubled at the Finally, what about the mali- smiley face underneath! Second, if we examine human cul- hint of this at Halloween? What is growing trend for ever-more- cious element in Halloween? I I urge you to think through the ture worldwide and over time, we celebrated is not the good side gruesome masks and costumes. know that in most cases the tricks issues that Halloween raises. Do find that the vast majority of peo- but the very darkest side of the And why should ugly, scarred or are fairly harmless but in some we really want to celebrate evil, ple have believed in spiritual supernatural. burnt people be associated with cases they aren’t. But trick or glorify the macabre and encour- forces of some kind or another. Now let us turn to the macabre evil? In an age where the media treat is a curious principle, isn’t it? age the malicious? I think not. Complete rejection of the spiritual aspect of Halloween, the celebra- only parade beautiful bodies we Normally we would call it world is rare. tion of the ugly, the scarred and need to say loudly and clearly that ‘demanding with menaces’. It may J John (Canon) A second sort of person who the horrific. This raises many there is absolutely no relationship only be youngsters and sweets would be unhappy with the Chris- issues. Why celebrate the between having a deformed and but it’s the same principle: ‘Give www.philotrust.com Sunday Friday October 28, 2011 www.churchnewspaper.com 15

‘Alone with none but thee my God/ I journey chose to trust in the unseen God who on my way./ What need I fear when thou art promised to be with him. near/ O King of night and day./ More safe The theme is embedded in the Psalms, am I within thy hand/ than if a host did THE SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR one of the most well-known being Psalm round me stand.’ Attributed to St Columba 23: ‘Even though I walk through the valley By the Rev Dr Liz Hoare of the shadow of death, you are with me’ There is a plaque in Stroud close by (v4); or Ps 139 where the psalmist medi- where John Wesley preached which reads: tates on all the ways God shows himself to ‘and best of all God is with us.’ Wesley had Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching and family and set out not knowing where be with him and concludes :’When I awake, good news to preach and left thousands of them to obey everything I have command- he would end up. All Abram could be sure I am still with you.’ (v18b) And of course at sermons. For someone, who heard him, it ed you.’ But it wasn’t a command issued in of was that God had made a promise about the Incarnation, Mary gave birth to a son was this wonderful promise that he spoke a vacuum. He began by stating that ‘All the future and as he journeyed, the Lord named Emmanuel, meaning ‘God with us.’ of that stood out. Day and night, God never authority’ had been given to him and ended kept on speaking to him and re-iterating (Matt 1:23) ceases to watch over his loved ones, what- with the promise: ‘surely I am with you his promise. The Celtic Christians loved to We have no idea what lies ahead in life. ever the journey of life might throw at always, to the very end of the age.’ Without picture themselves as imitating biblical We do not know what God might ask us to them. In our puzzling over life’s questions, such assurance the disciples would have characters and perhaps Columba had do or where he might take us in the future. even apparently unanswered prayer, this fallen at the first hurdle, if they had ever set Abram in mind as he too set out on a per- We can be sure of one thing, however, and Gospel truth never fails us. out at all. ilous journey, trusting that the God of that is his promise that he will be with us. At the end of St Matthew’s Gospel Jesus It’s a great theme to trace through scrip- Abram would lead him forward too. As a gave his disciples the Great Commission to ture, noting the ways in which God contin- prince of the Irish, Columba could doubt- The Rev Dr Liz Hoare (née Culling) is tutor ‘Go make disciples of all nations, baptising ued to be with his people. We might think less have commanded a huge army to pro- in prayer, spirituality and mission at them in the name of the Father and of the of Abram whom God told to leave his home tect him, but like the biblical saints, he Wycliffe Hall

SUNDAYSUNDAY SERVICESERVICE

Sunday Readings for 6 November 2011 Unity in Christ 3 before Advent - Trinity 20 - Year A that the louder I speak the more chance Steve Morris finds that the there is that the person may understand Cross is a common language me. I made a kind of chicken sound and Wisdom 6.12-16 pointed at the menu – but this got no 1 Thessalonians 4.13-18 In the rollercoaster that has been my response. Five minutes later we were no monthly ‘pastoral’ column there have further forwar d and my fragrant lady wife Matthew 25.1-13 been some ups and some downs. At times was looking daggers in my direction. It we’ve been at quite an intense emotional was that look of, ‘you are embarrassing God has endowed us human beings with different kinds of faculties for different purposes, pitch. So I do hope that just for this one, me, please stop it at once.’ equipping us to live in an astonishingly complex world, to grow in knowledge and under- my esteemed and rather marvellous edi- And then a breakthrough. I noticed that standing of his creation, and to come to know and love him who made us and sustains us tor, will allow me to write one that is sim- dotted around the restaurant were statues in being from moment to moment. There is no conflict between science and religion, only ply sweet. of Jesus. In fact they were all over the a false distinction which serves to cause tragic misunderstanding. The more we know This is the story. My wife and I had place. And then a brainwave. about the material universe, the more we gasp at the beauty of God’s handiwork, and been invited to a wedding of a dear friend. “Ah,” I said. “Jesus ist goot yah.” recognise the power of the one we have long addressed as Almighty. It is his gift of faith It was taking place in Germ any in a small Now I admit that the only smattering of which opens our eyes and our perceptions to the presence of God in our lives, so that we village called Kremen just outside Berlin. the lingo I have were gleaned from read- begin to grow in Wisdom, whose treasures are given freely to those who seek her. With The hotel was pretty amazing: an old ing war comics as a lad, but what I said these insights we come to see that we are far more than ephemeral creatures subsisting manor house that had been virtually sounded pretty authentic. My wife let out for a time: we are made in the likeness and image of God, with a divine purpose and des- destroyed while Kremen was in the hands a larg e breath. I tried again. tiny, which is to be with him for ever. of the Communist East German authori- “Jesu… he ist goot.” Because of God’s gracious revelation to us in history and in the scriptures, we know that ties. It had been the home of the secret To my amazement our server was smil- we are not soulless matter in a random universe but made to live in his presence, assured police. Now it was reborn with some state ing a smile so wide you could have con- of our salvation and worshipping him as the source of life itself and as the goal of our funding. Our room looked out onto a large structed an autobahn through it. It was earthly pilgrimage. In order to bring this about, God has revealed himself supremely in stork nest and we took some delight in simply joyous. And my wife and I couldn’t his Son, who has united himself with us in his life, death and resurrection, so that by faith watching these magnificent birds hover help but join in. We were smiling too… we may be united with him in his glory as God’s own sons and daughters. We do not know and then land. well more laughing with joy. the day when he will come to inaugurate the new world which is the fulfilment of God’s O but there was something sad and “Jesu goot…” purpose for creation, and our journey is made in faith and hope and eager expectation. It empty about Kremen. The vast grey sky. And in that phrase and in those smiles makes no difference whether or not we witness his coming in this life, or in the life which The seemingly deserted houses. And as and connection and warm th I had the is to come, for the resurrection of Jesus is our assurance of his promise of eternal life. we cycled into the village centre we were sound of those Russian tanks in my head Those who have no faith in him must grieve at the loss of the things which this world both stru ck by the tragic legacy of the war again and all that death and misery, but affords, and their separation in death from all those whom they love. But for those who and the disaster that befell the people of through it all there were faithful Germans trust in God the future is a bright and joyful prospect, in which we will be united for ever Germany before, during, and in these who knew that Jesus was good, even if with the Lord in the glorious kingdom which is to come. parts, after. their rulers weren’t. And through all those It would be wrong for us to conclude that our future is glory is all that matters to us now You could almost hear the Russian dark days of the GDR and the Stasi and that we have faith in God, for the present is as much a part of his plan for creation as the tanks rolling over those fields. informers and repression this family past or the things which are to come. Life in this world is a most precious gift from God, And the village centre didn’t lighten our clung onto the name of Jesus. which we must value accordingly. Our time is given to us so that we may grow in spiritual mood any time fast. To say it was a little bit Then our waitress popped out. About as well as in practical knowledge, and play our part as the Body of Christ in bearing wit- quiet would be like saying that Count five minutes later she reappeared and ness to God’s revelation of himself for the salvation of mankind, so that the gospel of sal- Dracula is a little bit creepy. Not to put too held something out for us. vation may be proclaimed throughout the world in every generation. Equally we are called fine a point on it the place was dead. A few “For you…” she said. to serve the Lord in practical service to our neighbour, in our stewardship of the world desultory shops perched on the high And it was the most exquisite cross… which he has given into our keeping, and in the pursuit of justice and of peace. It is in street. made in Jeru salem. I was quite lost these ways that we make an acceptable offering of our lives, consecrating every day which Anyway you get the picture. We spotted for word s. What an act of kindness passes by preparing ourselves for the day of our redemption, clothed in the wedding gar- the only obviously open place in the vil- and generosity. What a connection ments of holiness, prayer and humble service of the Lord Jesus Christ. lage. It was a small restaurant/café. of our hearts and all our hope. The Reverend Stephen Trott With heavy hearts we And we just had the pushed open the door, went one name in common, HYMN SELECTION in and took a seat. the name of saviour of Now we had a problem. the world, to bring us The owner brought the together and send us Hymns for 3 before Advent menu. She spoke no English and we out. Thou whose almighty word no Germ an. Having scanned the menu I have to say that we did order a Wake, O wake, with tidings thrilling we realised that we couldn’t meal and it was a real On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry recognise a single word – shot in the dark, but God is working his purpose out not a sausage. the food was deli- Be still, my soul It was time to try out my cious. And that Blessed assurance Gerblese – an odd concoc- cross. It is sitting God is our strength from days of old tion that I have developed where it sits, right I bind unto myself today over the years. This is on my desk so I One more step along the world I go part mime, part sound can see it and Will you come and follow me effects and part raising remind myself of my voice in the hope the name of Jesus.

The Since 1828 Milestones

The UN General Assembly has declared November 6 of each year as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict. Blackburn Cathedral will host a record breaking attempt ‘ by a team of bell ringers this coming weekend. The team aim to per- form a peal of 10,000 'changes', lasting up to six and a half hours. Various religious and secular groups will be celebrating November Record 1 as International Vegan Day. “We are angry about being made to pay for a crisis we didn’t cause,” said Peter Vaughn, who is a volunteer for the occupation. “Libraries are closing, serv- ices are being cut, young Do we people are unemployed because there was no prop- er regulation of the finan- cial services” Peter Vaughan Protestor camped outside St really Paul’s People ‘The Royal School of Church Music’s annual Dr Harold Smart Composition Compe- need tition has been won by David Manners. His hymnody setting for a text by Bishop Timo- thy Dudley-Smith is called Llangarron, and was chosen from a record field of 236 entries. Frank Field MP will be interviewed by film director Norman Stone on October 29 for the Art Centre Group, discussing how to live as an artist in a broken world. The Superior of Halloween? a Mirfield monastic community is undertak- ing a bizarre bike ride this weekend in an effort to raise money towards their church’s By J John of the spiritual world. And they aren’t to celebrate the believers already in £2million renovating costs. The Superior of alone. As Halloween gets bigger and heaven, the ‘saints’. The result was All the Community of the Resurrection,Fr As October comes to its end, children darker in emphasis, people with little or Hallows Day, still celebrated in some George Guiver, will cycle 105 miles from all across the country focus their atten- no religious faith also feel uneasy about churches as All Saints Day. The evening Monkwearmouth to Mirfield, from October tion on dressing up as ghosts, witches, it. So I suggest that it is about time we before, 31 October, became All Hallows 29-31. skeletons and zombies. Yet Halloween took a hard look at Halloween. Eve – Halloween. So celebration of the For information on sponsorship, please visit only started being a major event in the First, some background – although dark side of things on 31 October was http://www.justgiving.com/FrGeorge 1960s. It has grown dramatically ever what a celebration was is not necessari- always followed by the declaration of since, largely because of commerciali- ly a guide to what it currently is. After triumph over evil through Jesus Christ. sation and the spread of American cul- all, most people are surprised to realise And so it was, until, in the 1960s, Hal- ture. This year, spending on Halloween that Bonfire Night started off as an anti- loween suddenly became a profitable merchandise in the UK is likely to top Catholic celebration! business opportunity. £200 million while in the US it is meas- In pre-Christian Europe there was What is Halloween actually about ured in billions of dollars. Many wel- probably a widely celebrated pagan fes- now? It is an evolving festival composed come this celebration, saying that tival around the end of October, mark- of various elements and even within the Halloween should be promoted; in our ing the shift from the light six months UK there is no standard Halloween. all-too-divided society we need festivals of the year to the dark six months. In However, there are three emphases: that cross cultural, racial and religious some circles this was the feast of the magical (or supernatural); the boundaries. Samhaim and some modern pagans macabre (or scary); and the malicious However, it is not universally wel- wish to reclaim this. Perhaps in an (the trick or treat side of things). comed. Many Christians, along with attempt to provide a more wholesome The strongest element is the magical many followers of Islam and other focus at this time of year the church – dressing up as witches, wizards, vam- faiths, dislike its focus on the dark side designated 1 November as a festival day pires, etc. Most Christians are very uneasy about this. For us, the spiritual Frank Field world exists, having both good and evil components and, whether we recognise it or not, we are involved in it. We believe that decisions we take in this Next Week’s News area determine our eternal future. The Bible does not talk a great deal about supernatural evil but wherever witch- The English Heritage Angel Awards will craft, sorcery or spiritualism is men- take place on October 31 at The Palace The- tioned it is condemned in the strongest atre, London. The Legal Aid, Sentencing and terms (Exodus 22:18; Leviticus 20:27; Punishment of Offenders Bill will be dis- Deuteronomy 18:10-11; 1 Samuel 28:6-7; cussed next week in Parliament. Transcen- Acts 19:19; Galatians 5:19-21; Revelation Dance will explore swimming as a parable for 21:8; 22:15). However, the Bible goes life, through music, words and dance in Brad- beyond warning and condemnation of ford Cathedral on October 28 at 7.00pm. evil powers, instead pointing out fre- Campaigners against the theft of lead from quently in the New Testament that church roofs are calling for supporters to sign Jesus Christ destroyed the powers of an E-Petition calling for a ban on cash sales of scrap. The petition can be found at: continues on page 14 http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/406

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