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July/August 2016 see page 6 New Welcomed he erratic June weather abated The Rev Paul Francis welcomed of Stepney, the Very Rev gave the sermon, and Sunday 19 June dawned the congregation to the service and said, also attended. which caused some polite laughter T “Today’s liturgy is, above all else, a time at appropriate moments! He said, dry and sunny for the installation of prayer for the new Dean. Very near The service opened with the Introit “ is a most beautiful of the Rev Canon Dr the beginning of the new service, when sung beautifully in German by the place and it is to be shared in the glory as the new . he first enters the Cathedral, there is a Cathedral choir, in maroon robes and of God.” Resplendent in the sunshine, the time of silent prayer for him by the whole white surplices. Throughout, an air of congregation, and, near the end, when anticipation prevailed, accompanied by Rich, melodic music populated the packed Cathedral, decorated with all else has been done, there is a second the gentle rustle of pages turning as the service, and the congregation swelled floral displays of orange gerbera time of prayer before the gives congregation respectfully followed the the sound to include the opening hymns, and red carnations, came alive his final blessing. In celebrating Philip’s proceedings including a welcome from the “All people that in on Earth do dwell” and new ministry, the service also reminds , the Ven Simon the closing hymn “How shall I sing that to the sound of the chattering, all those who share in the Cathedral’s life Burton-Jones, who said, “We are gathered majesty which angels do admire?” expectant congregation and the and ministry what their shared vocation together with joy and anticipation to final practise session for the choir. is, and, in pledging himself to his new welcome Philip as our Dean. We greet During the service, gifts were bestowed work, the Dean recommits the Cathedral Sugina, Emma, Luke, Jenny and Laura on the new Dean, including a cross, a The said, “I am Foundation and congregation, as far as he who already share in the life of this stole, a cope, an academic hood, a paten delighted that Phil Hesketh has now been is able, to work with him in the service Cathedral and who for many years have and chalice, a copy of the Rule of St installed as the new Dean of Rochester. of the wider Church and community… been part of our Christian family here in Benedict and a copy of the Statutes of the There is a strong sense that Phil is the right Today our prayer is for Philip, Sugina and Rochester. We welcome their family and Cathedral and the keys to the Cathedral. person for this moment, as the Cathedral their family - that God’s Holy Spirit may friends. Most of all, we are here to ask Chapter and community respond to a strengthen them and that we may all find God’s blessing on Philip‘s new ministry Philip was welcomed into his new role by number of opportunities. Congregational peace and joy and blessing in this new among us. Let us therefore be silent and thunderous applause. He said, life at the Cathedral is flourishing, as are chapter of Christ’s Cathedral Church in remember God’s presence with us now.” many other aspects of the Cathedral’s Rochester.” “I must confess to being life. I look forward to continuing to work The first reading was from the book of completely overwhelmed by with Phil and his colleagues as they seek Dignitaries attending the service included: Genesis, chapter 24, verses 1 to 27 and faithfully to respond to God’s calling for The Lord Lieutenant of Kent and Lady De was read by Professor Vaughn Grylls. the reception and kindness the life of our Cathedral.” L’Isle, the Deputy Mayor of Maidstone and Dr Sugina Hesketh looked relaxed and of people; it was quite Mrs Greer, the Mayor of Tunbridge Wells happy in her cream and peach outfit with extraordinary. I wasn’t sure if Mrs Bridget Langstaff attended, elegant and Mrs Stanyer, the Mayor of Medway matching hat. Appropriately, she read the applause was ever going and understated in muted shades of and Mrs Tranter and the Lord High Sheriff from the book of Mark, Verses 5:21 about grey set off by black and lime green and Mr Smallwood. The penultimate Dean a woman who was healed. The choir sang to stop. I hope I can meet the accessories. of Rochester Cathedral and now Bishop gently about salvation, and the Dean of expectation!”

Copy deadline for the September issue of Rochester Link is 4pm on 19 August 2016. Copy to: [email protected] 2 ochester Link

JULY LONDON 6 Hannah Miller – Soprano, Deborah Gjeloshaj – Piano 25-29 July Springs Dance Company Summer Course 13 Madelaine Jones – Piano, Sophie Belinfante – Violin, at St Michaels and All Angels, and adjoining building What’s on Benedict Preece - Horn of ARK All Saints Academy, Wyndham Road, London What’s On July 2016 20 David Oldfield – Organ SE5 0UB. The one-week course is an exploration and LUDDESDOWNE 27 Jackie Sanjana’s “Oddsox” Wind Quartet expression of faith through movement and perform- Luddesdowne Church DA13 0XE will be open on Saturdays from For future organ recitals, see: www.organrecitals.com ance. The course is suitable for adults (minimum age 2:00pm to 4:30pm in July, August & September. A wonderful oppor- BURRSWOOD 14). The week costs £165 or £135 for concessions tunity to come and see the unique wall paintings in this rural church! 10-17 July Burrswood Boot Camp. The programme will (Full-time Students, OAPs, Jobseekers and Friends of www.cobham-luddesdowne.org include 6 full days of exercise for the body and mind. Springs Dance Company). For more information or to GRAVESEND Clients will stay on a full board basis where a nutritious book, please visit www.springsdancecompany.org.uk or 2 July Gravesham Choral Society Faute, Franck & Dvorak at 7:30pm and balanced diet will be provided. Alternative therapies email [email protected] or call 07775 at St George’s Church Gravesend, Church Street, DA11 ODJ. Tickets such as massage will be included and there is use of the 628 442. at £12 (£5 full-time students) are available in advance from 01474 hydrotherapy pool. Accommodation is in Burrswood’s 816684, from members of Gravesham Choral Society or on the door. comfortable guest rooms which are single or twin with What’s On August 2016 LAMBERHURST en-suite bathrooms. Call 01892 865988 to find out more. NETTLESTEAD 2 July ‘Wrap-Around St Mary’s Church’ 11:00am - 4:00pm. This year WEST MALLING 27-29 August St Marytide Flower and Kneeler festival the church began an ambitious fund-raising project in order to provide 10 July Make your mark, Children’s and Young People’s at Nettlestead Church – on the B2015 - Saturday the money to do the much needed, and in some places, urgent work Festival at King’s Hill Primary School, Crispin Way, Kings 10:00am-6:00pm, August 1:00pm-6:00pm & Bank to the stone fabric of our Grade I listed church. Our Patronal Festival Hill, West Malling, ME19 4LS from 12:00pm to 5:00pm. A Holiday Monday 10:00am-6:00pm. Parking signposted. in July church will be ‘Wrap-Around St Mary’s Church’ with a swathe of fun filled afternoon for children and young people (accom- Refreshments available each day. Contact Yvonne – material that will completely surround the whole of the church building. panied by adults - FREE). Activities for ages 0-17. £2.00 01622 812016 or Marguerite 01622 871272 for more Financial donations to the project can be made to ‘LAMBERHURST PCC’ per child. Discounts are available for groups of 10 or more details. and sent to The Parish Office, High Street, Lamberhurst TN3 8EB children. Site open from 12:00pm (bring your own picnic), SOUTHBOROUGH 1:00pm Opening worship, 1:30pm-4:15pm Activities. What’s On September 2016 2 July “Pot-Pourri for a Patronal Festival”, an evening of music 4:30pm Closing worship. For more information or to book NETTLESTEAD and readings with the Broadwater Singers, at St Thomas’ Church, contact Sarah Cabella on 01634 560024 or 1-2 September Celebration of 60 years of weddings Pennington Road, Southborough at 7:00pm. Conductor - David Gurney [email protected] at St. Mary the Virgin. 30 plus wedding & bridesmaids and Organist - Paul Jeffery. Tickets £10 (to include light refreshments) BEXLEY dresses, 60 years of photographs. Refreshments both available on the door on the night. All proceeds will go towards the St 16 July St Mary’s Church in Manor Road, Bexley is hold- days. Open Saturday 10:00am – 6:00pm, Sunday Thomas’ organ restoration project. ing its Festival and Summer Fair between 11:30am and 12:30pm -6:00pm. Thanksgiving service with wedding SEVENOAKS 3:00pm. There will be a variety of stalls and children’s couples 6pm. Contact 01622 871272 for more details. Eardley Road, Sevenoaks, Lunchtime Recitals, Lasting 30 minutes. activities including a bouncy castle and a stay and play GILLINGHAM Every Wednesday at 12:30pm. Please join us – admission free. zone. There will also be a refreshment tent, barbecue and 4 September Pam Rhodes is to perform a concert Refreshments available from 12 noon homemade cakes and preservatives, as well as a raffle, in aid of the St Mary Magdalene Church Appeal at bell ringing demonstration and archive exhibition, and 2.30pm. The concert is entitled “Then Sings my much more. Admission is 50p for adults and children are Soul”, the title of her latest book and will follow CONTACT US free. The Mayor of Bexley will be opening the proceedings the format of “Songs of Praise” which she has been News and letters to the Editor: at 11:30am. a familiar face on since 1987. Tickets to include [email protected] BURRSWOOD Telephone: 01634 560000 refreshments are priced at £8.00 (at the door £10) 18-21 July Healed, Restored, Forgiven Retreat. This pro- and can be obtained from The Parish Office 01634

gramme will explore the many different ways in which we 853459; [email protected] or Hilda ADVERTISEMENTS can experience God’s healing grace in our lives. Biblical on 01634 932135 Email: [email protected] and present day examples will show how God’s love can SHORNE Copy for The Link needs to be typed and submitted by email please. bring healing of body, mind and spirit; open the door 10 September Open Day & Afternoon Teas at St Images must be submitted as either a TIFF or a JPEG file of 300dpi. to forgiveness; and bring light into even the darkest of Peter & St Paul, Butchers Hill, Shorne, DA12 3EB. (Set your digital camera to the highest quality setting and we will try to do situations. Miracles still happen today! Both residential the rest for you.) Church open from 10am for self-guided visits, guided or non-residential options available. Call 01892 865988 to tours 2, 3 and 4 pm, afternoon teas 2:30 to 5:00pm. find out more. Information at www.shorneparishchurch.co.uk. ROCHESTER BECKENHAM 23 July Music for a Summer’s Evening: A concert of Light 18 September Churches Together In Beckenham’s and Classical Music at Rochester Cathedral. Doors open annual picnic at St George’s Green, Beckenham at 6.30pm for concert at 7:00pm. A light refreshment and 2:30pm. Activities for all ages, including information drink during the interval is included in the Ticket Price of on local churches and arts/crafts and face painting. EXCELLENT £10 (£8 for Friends). Please contact The Friends Office on Food and soft drinks available. CUSTOMER SERVICE 01634 832142 for further details. John Kenway Public Notice

16 REG Changes to Constitution and Statutes NISSAN QASHQAI 1.5 DCi 110PS The Cathedral Council, in consultation with the ure, consist of: ACENTA ONLY 1,000 MILES Bishop, proposes a change to the Constitution 9.1.1 The Dean, who shall be the chairman NEW PRICE £22,460 and Statutes of the Cathedral. and shall have a second or casting vote; OUR PRICE 9.1.2 All the Residentiary Canons; and NEARLY It is a requirement of the Cathedrals Measure 9.1.3 Three persons appointed by the Bishop NEW 1999 that the proposed change should be made after consultation with the Dean, of whom not £17365 publically available for comment. less than two shall be lay persons. The lay mem- bers of Chapter will be admitted as Lay Canons If you wish to comment please do so in writing for the duration of their membership of Chapter to: Mrs Gilly Wilford, Garth House, The Precinct, but will not be subject to the age restriction in 7.7 Rochester, ME1 1SX. Copies of the Constitution The members in category 9.1.3 shall hold office 12 REG ELECTRIC CAR 62 REG 61 REG and Statutes can be obtained from the Cathe- for three years but may be re-appointed for fur- NISSAN LEAF 5DR AUTO SILVER A/C, FORD FIESTA 1.4 TDCi CITROEN GRAND C4 PICASSO SAT NAV 8K - NO FUEL, NO TAX! (70) EDGE 3DR RED 59K 1.6 HDi ED 5DR BLACK 30K dral Office in Garth House or by telephoning the ther terms of office. ONLY £8132 ONLY £5099 ONLY £9199 Dean’s PA, Kay Williams, on 01634 810071 or by email: [email protected]. The 9.2 The Chapter Clerk – Executive Director PART FULL FLEXIBLE NATIONWIDE BRAND NEW EXCHANGE HISTORY FINANCE DELIVERY TO CARS AVAILABLE WELCOME CHECK AVAILABLE YOUR DOOR ALL MAKES deadline for any such comments is 31 July 2016. shall have the right to be present at all Chapter meetings. UP TO 4,000 USED CARS PRICE CHECKED DAILY, COMPREHENSIVELY CHECKED & FULLY GUARANTEED The proposed change is as follows: Constitution: 9. The Chapter 9. Proposed version: AUTOSAVE... SERVING THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY FOR OVER 35 YEARS Updated to include the Chapter Clerk – Executive Clause 9.1 and sub clauses to remain unchanged CALL 0845 122 6910 Director as a member of Chapter as above, with the following change: 9. Current version: Remove clause 9.2 and replace with: AUTOSAVE.CO.UK 9.1 There shall be a Chapter which shall, 9.1.4 The Chapter Clerk – Executive Director Finance subject to status. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 or over. Guarantee/indemnity may be required. We can introduce you to a limited number of carefully selected finance providers. We may receive a commission from them for the introduction. subject to the provisions of section 4 of the Meas- during tenure of office. ochester Link 3

Drowning Girl

hy do some people scare us in what they Ware prepared to do for others?

If we saw a child sinking in a shallow pond, we would rescue her without hesitation. Why then does it make any difference if that child is drowning half-way across the world? This argument is the essence of Australian Peter Singer’s philosophy. Any need, anywhere, is sufficient to compel a response from us.

This belief, which takes no prisoners, has been adopted by a number of people who might be described as extreme do-gooders and in Strangers Drowning (Penguin 2015), Larissa Macfarquhar has written about some. It is easy to be daunted by a book which tries to answer the question of where our moral duties find their limits, but the author wisely focuses on individual case studies of people rather than abstract philosophy. In the process she has unpicked the lives of a number of people in this world who sacrifice themselves in order to save others.

Stories are told of people who place themselves at the mercy of Latin American rebels that torture and rape, in order to teach skills to disempowered women; of those who carve leper colonies out of the jungle in India, risking the lives of their children to wild animals, so leprosy can be treated; who adopt twenty-two children in addition to their own biological kids (that’s right, twenty-two) because each child in care has a need to be met; who eat from the neighbourhood trash so the money they earn can be given to charity.

In each case, these people are restless to find a better way of living, being driven by a strange kind of madness which does not allow them to put their feet up and let someone else do the lifting. In Macfarquhar’s words, they ‘open themselves to a sense of unlimited, crushing responsibility’. Significantly, they often attract vitriolic Many of us may baulk at the unlimited moral about how far we should push the boundaries of opposition from those who hear of their exploits. Why commitments of extreme do-gooders and there our discipleship; instead we are complicit in pulling is this? And why is the term ‘do-gooder’ a pejorative may be a hint of obsessive compulsive behaviour these boundaries closer to us. In a comfortable, one when people are just trying to help others? in their desire. Life may indeed comprise of more self-absorbed culture, there is little to challenge than saving other lives, but are we sacrificing the narrowing of our moral horizons. Among those who do so much good in this world, ourselves sufficiently on behalf of others? This those of us who don’t tend to feel a little threatened question should lie at the heart of what it means to Larissa Mafarquhar is not sure what to make of by their example. We feel the need to cast aspersions be a disciple of Christ. For one thing, Jesus himself her strange and wonderful subjects, though she on their motives, as if these are less noble than the offered an unsparing challenge to those who follow is convinced such people personify the moral motives which keep us glued to trashy TV instead of him to deny themselves and take up their cross. absolutes we need to share. We speak a lot of the volunteering we could do at the local food bank. boundaries now, as if we need to keep other There is an odd standard in play. We laud athletes Today’s world is so complex in its demands that it people at bay. Those who seek to follow Christ who devote all their time and energy – often at the is hard to know where to begin and end in what we might think more readily of rhythms – ebbs and expense of family - on winning prizes which only they offer it in service and we struggle even more when flows of energy - which enable and constrain the can own, but, when someone offers similar dedication we are scared to bring Jesus’ words to the table. sacrifices we make. In the end, only one person in the service of others, we question their motivation. There really ought to be a more open discussion can save this world. Bishop James’ Diary

July 2016 Thursday 14 All Day Bishop’s Staff Meeting – Thursday 21 10:00pm Turning Up the Volume Friday 1 All Day Annual Leave Bishopscourt, Rochester Meeting – London to Monday 4 Friday 15 10:00am Estonia Exchange Visitors – 6:30pm Kent Workplace Mission Bishopscourt, Rochester Chaplain Event – Tuesday 5 - 9:15am School Visit – St John’s Friday 15 All Day Cell Group Bishopscourt, Rochester CofE Infant School, Chatham to Sunday 17 Sunday 24 6:30pm Confirmation – St Peter & 5:00pm Bishop’s Council – Rochester St Paul, Milton Wednesday 6 8:00am Ecclesiastical Insurance Golf Monday 18 10:30am Licensing of Rev the Miriam Monday 25 All Day Annual Leave Day – Warwickshire Barker as Community Chaplain to Sunday 31 Thursday 7 8:30am Kent Police Chaplaincy Annual Scotts Projects, Tunbridge Wells Meeting – Maidstone Tuesday 19 7:30pm Licensing of the Rev Stephen August 2016 2:30pm Staff meeting – Rochester Broadie – Farnborough Monday 1 All Day Annual Leave Friday 8 All Day General Synod – York Wednesday 20 10:30am Poverty Hope Appeal Meeting Tuesday 2 7:30pm Licensing of the Rev Pam to Tuesday 12 – Bishopscourt, Rochester Alexander as Team Vicar – 1:00pm Kent Workplace Mission South Gillingham Wednesday 13 All Day Retirement Preparation Review Day – Larkfield Saturday 6 All Day Tanzania and Harare Link Residential – Oast House 7:30pm Confirmation – Collier Street to Wednesday 31 Diocese Visit 4 ochester Link Advertising Feature

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Substantial scholarships are awarded and choristers benefit from an all-round excellent education at St Edmund’s School Canterbury. The Master of Choristers, David Flood, is always pleased to meet and advise parents and their sons.

For further details please telephone 01227 865242 [email protected]

@No1Cathedral ochester Link 5

Wrap-Around St Mary’s Church Metalsmith www.steelyourself.co.uk Conscientious and reliable, Ian Marshall This year we began our ambitious fund- provides new work and maintenance for a raising project in order to provide the money number of churches. to do the much needed, and in some places, To join his list of satisfi ed customers urgent work to the stone fabric of our Grade call: 020 8850 7851 or 077 6666 2747 I listed church.

At our Patronal Festival in July, we will ‘Wrap- CHURCH PEWS Around St Mary’s Church’ with a swathe of UNCOMFORTABLE? material that will completely surround the WHY NOT TRY SAFEFOAM’S TOP QUALITY whole of the church building. This has UPHOLSTERED FOAM PEW CUSHIONS? become a brilliant community project with Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN many people donating fabric that has been www.safefoam.co.uk Freephone 0800 015 44 33 turned into beautiful decorative panels Free Sample Pack of foam & fabrics sent by first class mail by village organisations, schools, and When phoning please quote RL0716 individuals. Not only has this focused on the fabric of our church and its stonework, but it has also focused on the fabric of our community, all our organisations that work together and hold everything together, and all the individuals who make up our parish of Lamberhurst and who are represented in the fabric offerings of the actual material that will surround the whole of the church.

Why not come along to watch/help the Wrap- Around on Saturday 2 July? Refreshments will be served from 11am to 4pm and everyone is welcome. St Mary, Beaminster, Dorset

Financial donations can be made to enhancing church interiors Lamberhurst PCC and sent to The Parish Photo by Bill Hunter Ronald Emett fine furniture Office, High Street, Lamberhurst TN3 8EB www.ronaldemettfurniture.com 01308 868025 Who is most important in the story? That is what Bishop James asked the almost 800 year 6 pupils who took part in our Church Schools’ Celebration which we ‘re-launched’ on 14, 15, 16 and 17 June 2016.

The story in question was about the four friends who lowered their paralysed companion through the roof to Jesus. Some pupils said ‘Jesus’ but others thought the most important person was the paralysed man or his friends. The Bishop’s questions really made them think! For many years until 2013, there had been an annual Church Schools’ Festival.

The building works in Rochester Cathedral meant that there was a break of two years. In this period, the Cathedral and Diocesan Education teams took the opportunity to re-think what we wanted to do with the festival when it returned – we decided we wanted to celebrate. We wanted to create their primary school has a range of activities which fed into the a memorable time of worship which helped equipped them for their life’s journey. afternoon worship and which showed children who will soon move on to a new them that their Cathedral has been a place secondary school to appreciate how well In the morning, the pupils took part in of prayer and praise for over a thousand years. In the afternoon, Bishop James celebrated our Eucharist on three of the days and the Rev Canon Jean Kerr on the Birchwood House fourth day. These were times to sing, pray, learn more about Jesus and reflect Rest Home on what had passed and on what was to Residential Home for come. The wristband which the children the Elderly took away says, ‘I will be with you’, which Respite care & short is what we want them to remember as a stay available result of seven years in a Church school. A beautifully refurbished Georgian manor house, set in 6 acres of glorious Kent countryside, within easy What did the pupils think of the day? ‘We reach of Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells. thought the Cathedral was amazing’ and • All rooms have en-suite facilities & nurse call ‘We loved meeting friends from another system. Lift to all floors. school’ were amongst their comments. • Excellent home cooking, with special diets catered They certainly raised the roof with their for. •Hairdressing, chiropody, library and mobile shop. singing, praising God in the footsteps of so • Monthly in-house Holy Communion and links to many pilgrims who have gone before. the local church. Stockland Green Road, Virginia Corbyn, Speldhurst, Kent TN3 0TU Assistant Director of Education for Telephone: Langton (01892 86) 3559 Rochester Diocese 6 ochester Link St Benedict’s Centre

By Rev Canon Christopher Dench [email protected] or call (Senior Lead Officer) 0739 341 8727 A programme of courses and retreats fter 3 years of much prayer, discussion will be run by the St Benedict’s Centre. and discerning the way forward A Programme details for 2016/17 will be an exciting collaboration between the released shortly. Benedictine Community at Malling Abbey and the sees the Mother Mary David, the Abbess writes, new St Benedict’s Centre situated within “This year marks the Centenary of our the grounds of Malling Abbey offering a Community’s move from our home in place for individuals and groups to retreat, Somerset to St Mary’s Abbey in West to study, to meet and to pray. Opening Malling, thus continuing the tradition of in September 2016 the newly developed Benedictine praise and prayer which centre, using the Guest House, part of began in 1090. We have taken this event the cloister and the Pilgrim Chapel, has as an opportunity to reflect upon our well equipped spaces for those wanting Benedictine life, our ministry of hospitality personal space and for groups up to 45 and our stewardship of the Abbey people. The St Benedict’s Centre will buildings and grounds. also be the home for the St Augustine’s College of Theology. “In a venture of faith we have welcomed the Diocese of Rochester and St For those wanting an individual quiet day Augustine’s College of Theology to join us the St Benedict’s Centre offers freshly in this sacred place in order to serve and refurbished study rooms with WiFi, desk equip Christians in the South East in their and comfortable chairs for you to write, ministry and vocation. read, rest, retreat or recharge. There is also space to sit outside and enjoy some “Our Community will continue to offer of the beautiful grounds and gardens. Benedictine residential hospitality in our You are welcome to attend services in new Abbey Garth guest wing. This has 4 the Community Chapel. Tea and coffee en-suite bedrooms, 2 sitting rooms and a is available as required, however you will fully equipped kitchen / dining room. The need to bring your own lunch. Rooms are sisters provide a stocked larder and the available from 9am to 6pm Monday to guests are self-catering. Guests, including Saturday for a daily charge of £12. those using the Centre and the College, are welcome to attend the daily Eucharist For groups there are a variety of rooms and the daily Offices, adding their prayers for groups from 2 to 45 people. Suitable to ours for the praise of God and for the for training, retreats, presentations and needs of the world which lie closest to our conferences. Rooms can be booked per hearts. session (morning, afternoon or evening). Rooms are equipped with Plasma TVs, WiFi “We hope that all who use this historic and flipcharts. Tea and coffee is available site will share in its monastic heritage of at no extra cost and we can advise you peace and God-centred quiet.” on food options if your programme is for more than one session. For bookings for For information for residential bookings the St Benedict’s centre for quiet days, or please see our website: group bookings email www.mallingabbey.org ochester Link 7 Leap of Faith

By Georgia Richards You can feel a collective sigh of relief be- to engage in lively Bible study togeth- conversations tend to go on long into the ing taken as we meet on Friday night for er, and importantly to share snacks and night… the first worship session of the weekend. wine when necessary! have loved each Leap of Faith It’s such a joy to be there again; to hand The Leap of Faith weekend stretches I weekend which I have been on yourself over to Jean Kerr’s inspirational There is such freedom here. You can far beyond the two nights over which it in the past three years but, for preaching and Ruth Shopland’s wonder- go hard on the physical activities, or do runs. It rejuvenates and invigorates our ful music. craft, sleep, pray, read. The chance to whole spiritual life. The experience will me, this year’s was the best. please yourself is a real luxury. never grow stale, and of course I have What made this year even more memo- signed up for next year. There is always great anticipation and rable for me was welcoming new friends, Next year the venue is changing to Ot- excitement at the thought of a weekend and seeing the event anew through their ford Manor, which will offer more in the Dates for 2017 are Friday 30th June away, the promise of trying new things, eyes. It is wonderful how everyone is way of comfortable accommodation (no for two nights. The cost is £110 which and taking time out of “everyday” life. so open to support and encourage each more banging your head on the bunk includes all food, accommodation and The “Leap of Faith” Facebook group other; particularly when the nerves kick above!), but will also be able to provide in-house activities (forays for adven- helps to build that, as does escaping in in before scaling the climbing wall, start- the outside space which is so central to turous exploits at Carroty Wood will the car and nearly always getting slight- ing the high ropes, or making the leap! the success of the weekend. The can- have an additional charge). Places can ly lost down country lanes trying to find How willing we all are to discuss our dle-lit Saturday night worship around be reserved by contacting Emma Bu- Carroty Wood. faith, to testify to the power of prayer, the blazing campfire is a highlight - and chan on 07887 576144. 8 ochester Link

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SPRING HARVEST 2017 “May they experience such perfect unity that the world will know that you sent me and that you love them as You’ve got much as you love me.” John 17:22-23 to EXIT We are those who believe in Jesus, and his prayer was that we would be one. to ENTER We want to be one for a purpose.

We want to be

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ALGARVE SHERBORNE Cursillo Luxury 3 bed villa (all ensuite) Short breaks in Dorset Sleeps 6/8, near Carvoeiro. Own pool, all mod cons Elegant, spacious, 2 bed, Situated on Pestana Golf Resort. apartment in listed building three days, talks are given by lay people Golf, Tennis, Free Wifi. o you feel your Christian life Also on Trip Advisor close to Abbey Church. and clergy who have spent time working Full details and brochure: Open all year. Dis in a rut? together carefully planning and preparing Brian Chambers Tel: 02380 265 683 Please ring for brochure: Have you lost the excitement of for the Weekend. [email protected] www.casa-oleander.co.uk 01404 841367 being a disciple? The Cursillo weekend is not a retreat. There Would you like to consider is no fasting or extended period of silence. Holiday Cottages Cursillo? The weekend is an opportunity to share Summer Availability What? and worship with clergy and laity who are seeking to strengthen their faith. It provides Family run Holiday Cottages in Cursillo pronounced Cur-SEE’-yo, an opportunity through communal prayer, Cursillo which is a Spanish word worship, study, fellowship, laughter, tears, beautiful south Shropshire, an meaning “short course”. and love to experience the reality of the area of outstanding natural beauty. gift of God’s love freely and unconditionally Wonderful location with spectacular Cursillo is ‘A movement of the Church given. views. We off er 1, 2 or 3 bedroom providing a method by which Christians are cottages to suit all the family. empowered to grow through prayer, study How did Costillo begin? Please visit www.botvylefarm.co.uk and action and enabled to share God’s love The first Cursillo Weekends were developed or call 01694 722869 for brochure with everyone.’ in the Roman Catholic Church in Majorca, Spain. Cursillo was brought to the United Canterbury, Southwark and Chichester have States by Spanish airmen who were TravelArranged for RochesterInsurance Link readers all had Cursillo in their dioceses for many stationed at air bases in Texas in the early Real and friendly people... not machines! years. We are now trying to introduce it to 1940’s. Cursillo has been running in the Our insurance has a customer 24-hour helpline, full medical Rochester with the blessing of Bishop James cover with most pre-existing medical conditions accepted and, Canterbury Diocese for over 25 years. most importantly, an air ambulance get you home service. LONG STAY, SINGLE TRIP, AND CRUISE COVER When she was available for holidays departing up to 31/12/2017 What happens after the Annual multi-trip cover (max. age 85) said: Who may take part? Single trip cover (NO max. age) weekend? for UK, Europe and worldwide holidays Cursillo is open to all baptised Christians Single trip cover for all departures up to 31/12/17 “At the heart of our diocesan mission is growing Each individual who returns from the over the age 0f 21, men and women, weekend with a renewed commitment to Conditions apply FT TRAVEL spiritually as well as numerically: something UK Please call for details ~ married or single. Laity and clergy alike are BASED INSURANCE you know all about in Cursillo. …. Alongside work for Christ is encouraged to join in the invited to join the fellowship. Husbands and 0116 272 0500 that growth we see our need to reimagine activities of an existing community of persons wives may attend the same Cursillo week- Authorised & regulated by the FCA ministry - to bring about that vision of lay who have also experienced the weekend. The end, or they may go on different weekends. and ordained working together, valuing each purpose of this community is to give strength other, rediscovering God’s call. Again you can and support to each other in order that each show us the way in Cursillo. You don’t just talk person might grow in faith and develop their What is expected of pilgrims? about it, you live out lay and ordained leading particular gifts of ministry. The support is (the name given to participants together in your weekends and meetings. provided through two methods: on Cursillo) AND you turn your back on any gap between To be open and willing to respond to what everyday life and Christian commitment - so Group meetings you experience, to share your feelings with our desire in the diocese to build partnerships (Reunions) that are held frequently when others, and to allow them to share theirs and communities is well understood. several people gather together for mutual with you. encouragement and support through “But most of all I only have to look at you to PRAYER, STUDY, and ACTION. To make a genuine effort to discover where be reminded you make it fun with that riot you are and where or how you can grow in of colour - so let’s enjoy walking in the light Area meetings your Christian life. of the Lord!” (Ultreyas) that are meetings of larger groups of people who have either participated in To feel secure in the knowledge that you Cursillo Week-end a weekend or who might be interested in are accepted where you are and as you are, Cursillo includes a three-day weekend doing so. Here they share and witness to and to know that a specific response is not which often begins on Thursday evening others so that the Church and their own expected of you. and concludes on Sunday. During these faith may be built up. To be curious enough and thirsty enough for spiritual exploration and nourishment to Blessed is the man who walks acknowledge a need to commit a weekend of your life totally to Christ. not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, As you can see, Cursillo is a special organisation, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Cursillo is: Lord, and on his law he meditates 1 An opportunity to grow in faith and in spirituality. day and night. He is like a tree 2 A deeper understanding of the teachings planted by streams of water that of Jesus and how we can serve Him. 3 An experience of living and sharing with yields its fruit in its season, and others in a loving and caring Christian its leaf does not wither. In all that community and realizing that this can be extended into our own environment he does, he prospers. The wicked 4 A continuing community that gives are not so, but are like chaff that support and encouragement empowering the wind drives away. Therefore the renewed Christians to persevere in carrying out their Baptismal vows the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the If you are interested to learn more please contact: congregation of the righteous; Chris Bostock - [email protected] for the Lord knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. The Rev Canon Jean and the Rev Canon Paul Kerr would like to thank Rochester Cathedral for their Psalm 1 (ESV) kind farewell service to the couple, and for the generosity of the Cathedral in giving Jean a laptop com- puter. Jean continues as Director of Mission and Community Engagement until the end of the summer. Photo: www.sxc.hu 10 ochester Link Advertising Feature

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If you, or someone you know, Based on a 300 acre would like more information about Gilead or would like to make an dairy farm in rural application, please contact: Devon, Gilead uses the Carole Harris Genesis Process Relapse Tel: 01837 851240 Fax: 01837 851520 Prevention programme [email protected] with our clients. www.gilead.org.uk ochester Link 11 Intercessions FRIENDS OF KENT CHURCHES Rochester Diocese - July/August 2016 Friday 1 July Henry, John and Henry Venn, , evangelical divines, 1797, 1813, 1873 Monday 1 August Rochester Diocese: For all in the medical professions. Rochester Diocese: Kippington, St Mary. Vicar: The Rev Canon David Kitley THE SPONSORED RIDE AND STRIDE 2015 Saturday2 July Tuesday 2 August RAISED THE MAGNIFICENT SUM OF Rochester Diocese: Coxheath, Holy Trinity, East Farleigh, Hunton, St Mary Rochester Diocese: Knockholt, St Katherine with Halstead, St Margaret. Linton, St Nicholas, and West Farleigh, All Saints. : The Rev Peter Callway Rector: The Rev John Benson £128,007 MANY CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL WHO TOOK PART Sunday 3 July Thomas the Apostle Wednesday 3 August Rochester Diocese: Cobham Deanery. Area Dean: The Rev Jim Fletcher; Lay Rochester Diocese: Riverhead, St Mary, with Dunton Green, St John the Chair: Mrs Norma Crowe Divine (redundant). Vicar: The Rev Martin Booth Monday 4 July Thursday 4 August Jean-Baptiste Vianney, cure d’Ars, spiritual guide, 1859 PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE 2016 RIDE AND STRIDE Rochester Diocese: Ditton, St Peter ad Vincula. Rector: The Rev Ross Terranova Rochester Diocese: Seal, St Lawrence. Vicar: The Rev Carol Kitchener TO BE HELD ON Tuesday 5 July Friday 5 August Oswald, king, martyr, 642 SATURDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER 2016 Rochester Diocese: East Malling, St James the Great, Wateringbury, St John Rochester Diocese: For all who serve in the context of sports and athletics - the Baptist, and Teston, St Peter and St Paul. Vicar:Vacant chaplains, health practitioners, mentors. By cycling, walking or running around Kent churches you can raise Money to be divided equally between the Wednesday 6 July Thomas More, scholar, and John Fisher, bishop, martyrs, 1535 Saturday 6 August Transfiguration of Our Lord Friends of Kent Churches and the church or chapel of Rochester Diocese: Larkfield, Holy Trinity. Vicar: Vacant Rochester Diocese: Seal, St Peter and St Paul.Vicar: The Rev Anne Le Bas your choice. Thursday 7 July Sunday 7 August Sponshorship forms available from your local organiser Rochester Diocese: For our emergency services, and those who support Rochester Diocese: Gillingham Deanery. Area Dean the Rev Ann Richardson; or see www.friendsofkentchurches.co.uk them. Lay Chair Mrs Linda Bailey. Friday 8 July Monday 8 August Dominic, , founder of the Order of Preachers, 1221 Event Co-ordinator: Carolyn Millen 01622 843383 Rochester Diocese: For General Synod, meeting this weekend, especially Rochester Diocese: Sevenoaks, St John the Baptist. Vicar: The Rev Robin [email protected] those representing Rochester Diocese. Jones In aid of friends of Kent Churches, and your local Church or Chapel Saturday 9 July Tuesday 9 August Mary Sumner, founder of the Mother’s Union, 1921 FKC Registered Charity No 207021 Rochester Diocese: Leybourne, St Peter and St Paul. Rector: The Rev Matthew Rochester Diocese: For all who long for children, but may not, or cannot, Buchan have them. Sunday 10 July Wednesday 10 August Laurence, , martyr, 258 Rochester Diocese: Malling Abbey: Mother Abbess, Mother Mary David. Rochester Diocese: Sevenoaks, St Luke. Vicar: The Rev Canon Mark Griffin Monday 11 July Benedict, abbot, c.550 Thursday 11 August Clare of Assisi, founder of the Poor Clares, 1253 Rochester Diocese: Mereworth, St Lawrence, with West Peckham, St Dunstan, John Henry Newman, priest, 1890 Priest-in-Charge: The Rev Pat Dickin Rochester Diocese: For all committed to the celibate life, and for the Christ Church Bexleyheath Tuesday 12 July networks that depend on them. Rochester Diocese: For all approaching retirement, whether with relief or Friday 12 August Single post of Director of Music with misgiving. Rochester Diocese: Sevenoaks, St Nicholas. Rector: The Rev Canon Angus Wednesday 13 July MacLeay or separate posts of Choir Director Rochester Diocese: Snodland, All Saints’ and Lower Birling Christ Church. Saturday 13 August Jeremy Taylor, bishop, teacher of the faith, 1667 and Organist Rector: The Rev Hugh Broadbent Florence Nightingale, nurse, social reformer, 1910, Octavia Hill, social reformer, 1912 Salaries in the region of £8K for a suitably quali ed Thursday 14 July John Keble, priest, poet, 1866 Rochester Diocese: Underriver, St Margaret. Vicar: The Rev Carol Kitchener DoM, £5K plus fees for an organist and £4K for a Rochester Diocese: West Malling, St Mary with Offham, St Michael. Priest-in- Sunday 14 August Choir Director. All subject to negotiation. Charge: The Rev David Green Rochester Diocese: Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church: Archbishop Friday 15 July Swithun, bishop, c.862, Bonaventure, friar, bishop, teacher of the Urmas Viilma We are looking for a Director of Music (both choir faith, 1274 Monday 15 August The Blessed Virgin Mary and organ skills) or alternatively a Choir Director Rochester Diocese: Brenchley, All Saints, Vicar: The Rev Campbell Paget Rochester Diocese: Borough Green, Church of the Good Shepherd. and an Organist. Saturday 16 July Osmund, bishop, 1099 Vicar: Vacant We have a well-established, growing and Rochester Diocese: East Peckham, Holy Trinity, with Nettlestead, St Mary the Tuesday 16 August enthusiastic mixed robed choir of adults and Virgin. Rector: The Rev Anthony Carr Rochester Diocese: Eynsford, St Martin, with Farningham, St Peter and children. RSCM a liated.  ere is expertise Sunday 17 July St Paul, and Lullingstone, St Botolph. Rector: The Rev Gary Owen within the church that is able to deputise – to Rochester Diocese: Dartford Deanery, Area Dean The Rev Kenneth Clark; Lay Wednesday 17 August support  exibility in taking time o . We have a Chair Mr Jim Tuhey. Rochester Diocese: Ightham, St Peter. Rector: The Rev Tim Hatwell ne Hunter two-manual organ. Monday 18 July Elizabeth Ferard, deaconess, founder of the community of St. Thursday 18 August Detailed Job Description and Application Form Andrew, 1883 Rochester Diocese: Kemsing, St Mary the Virgin, with Woodlands St Mary at: www.christchurchbexleyheath.org.uk Rochester Diocese: Hadlow, St Mary, and Golden Green Mission Church.Vicar: the Virgin. Priest-in-Charge: The Rev James Oakley The Rev Paul White Friday 19 August For further information please contact Tuesday 19 July Gregory, bishop, and his sister Macrina, deaconess, teachers of Rochester Diocese: Kingsdown, St Edmund, King and Martyr. Rector: The Rev Trevor Wyatt – 07860 3067436 the faith, c.394 and c.379 Rev Sarah Corry or [email protected] Rochester Diocese: Farnborough and the Rev Stephen Brodie, licensed today. Saturday 20 August Bernard, abbot, teacher of the faith, 1153 Applications are invited by 22nd July 2016 Wednesday 20 July Margaret of Antioch, martyr, 4th cent, Bartolomé de las Casas, William and Catherine Booth, founders of the Salvation Army, 1912, 1890 Apostle to the Indies Rochester Diocese: For our brothers and sisters in the Salvation Army. Rochester Diocese: For all who struggle with their own inner demons. Sunday 21 August Thursday 21 July Rochester Diocese: Gravesend Deanery. Area Dean The Rev Sue Brewer; Lay Rochester Diocese: Horsmonden, St Margaret. Rector: Vacant Chair Mr Bob Moreton. Friday 22 July Mary Magdalene Monday 22 August Rochester Diocese: Lamberhurst, St Mary and Matfield, St Luke. Vicar: vacant Rochester Diocese: Otford, St Bartholomew. Vicar: The Rev Richard Saturday 23 July Bridget, abbess, 1373 Worssam Christ Church Bexleyheath Rochester Diocese: Paddock Wood, St Andrew. Vicar: The Rev Canon Bryan Tuesday 23 August Knapp Rochester Diocese: Platt, St Mary the Virgin. Vicar: Vacant Sunday 24 July Wednesday 24 August Bartholomew the Apostle Youth Leader Rochester Diocese: Bromley Deanery. Area Dean the Rev Alan Keeler; Lay Rochester Diocese: For all giving time and attention to the various boards Salary £4,800pa (10 hours per week) Chair Mrs Angela Scott. and committees of the Diocese. Monday 25 July James the Apostle Thursday 25 August This is an exciting opportunity to shape and Rochester Diocese: Pembury, St Peter and St Peter Vicar: The Rev Douglas Rochester Diocese: Shipbourne with Plaxtol. Rector: The Rev Andrew Procter implement our future strategy for working with Robertson Friday 26 August young people in the church. Tuesday 26 July Anne and Joachim, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary Rochester Diocese: Stansted, St Mary, with Fairseat, Holy Innocents, and We are looking for a Christian who has Rochester Diocese: Tudeley, All Saints, cum Capel, St Thomas à Becket, with Vigo. Rector: The Rev Chris Noble experience of working with young people (11- Five Oak Green United Reform Church. Vicar: The Revd Dr Jeremy Ive Saturday 27 August Monica, mother of Augustine of Hippo, 387 18) in a church setting and has the skills and Wednesday 27 July Brooke Foss Westcott, bishop, teacher of the faith, 1901 Rochester Diocese: Chiddingstone, St Mary the Virgin, with Chiddingstone experience to lead the development of our work in Rochester Diocese: Yalding, St Mary, and St Peter and St Paul with Collier Causeway, St Luke. Rector: The Rev Martin Beaumont collaboration with other volunteers and the wider Street, St Margaret. Vicar Vacant Sunday 28 August Augustin Hippo, Bishop, teacher of the faith,430 church leadership team. Thursday 28 July Rochester Diocese: Rochester Archdeaconry. The Ven Dr Paul Wright, Rochester Diocese: For our brothers and sisters in the Baptist family of Archdeacon Application form available from Christ Church churches. Monday 29 August Beheading of John the Baptist Bexleyheath Website at Friday 29 July Mary, Martha and Lazarus, companions of Our Lord Rochester Diocese: Crockham Hill, Holy Trinity. Vicar: The Rev Sue Diggory www.ChristChurchBexleyheath.org.uk Rochester Diocese: Brasted, St Martin. Rector: The Rev Linda Green Tuesday 30 August John Bunyan, spiritual writer, 1688 Saturday 30 July William Wilberforce, social reformer, Olaudah Equiano and Rochester Diocese: Edenbridge, St Peter and St Paul. Vicar: The Rev Dr Contact Rev Trevor Wyatt for further details at Thomas Clarkson, anti-slavery campaigners, 1833, 1797 and 1846 Stephen Mitchell [email protected] Rochester Diocese: Chevening, St Botolph.Rector: The Rev Chris Smith Wednesday 31 August Aidan, bishop, missionary, 651 or on 07860 306 746 Sunday 31 July Rochester Diocese: Hever, St Peter, Four Elms, St Paul, and Mark Beech, Holy Rochester Diocese: For Chislehurst Debt Advice Service and those Trinity. Rector: Vacant Closing date for Applications is 22nd July 2016 experiencing financial difficulties. Interviews will be held in mid August. 12 ochester Link Happy Birthday Ma’am

West Malling with Offham (including Kings Hill) King Charles the Martyr, Tunbridge Wells e had a good time in West Malling and t King Charles the Martyr, Tunbridge Wells At the 10 a.m. Communion on Sunday we had WOffham. At both churches, the Sunday Awe had a lovely weekend celebrating the a large choir with adults and children and in services included prayers and special read- Queen’s Birthday. Seven flower arrangements the afternoon more music with a piano recit- ings and Margaret Moore, a Reader, reflected in the church beautifully reflected colours that al by Paul Clark and singing from Ellen Smith in the sermon on the Queen’s faith and long the Queen has worn and each represented a accompanied by Paul. A busy but enjoyable service to our nation. Before the 11am ser- decade of her reign with a little history displayed weekend. vice in West Malling and after the 8am BCP, too. The congregation designed postcards to Marilyn Dove - Churchwarden we had a special breakfast between 9 and hang up. There were corgis, crowns, bags and 10.30 to link the two congregations together hats and many pictures of Her Majesty, some and share in the occasion. Some of the eight hand painted or drawn. We had many visitors. o’clockers were still there at half ten, so that was good for fellowship building. A tea party was held on Saturday inside the hall but along the lines of a street party with In Offham after the service, St Michael’s was community singing from a song sheet and with fully involved in a community picnic that took piano. Two of the Queen’s favourite songs, The place on the green, despite the rain, and at White Cliffs of Dover and Cheek to Cheek were 4pm in the afternoon, I led a session of ‘Beer included. and Hymns’ in The Kings Arms. We sang rousing British hymns like Jerusalem, I Vow Halstead celebrates the Queen’s 90th Birthday! to Thee My Country, Land of Hope and Glo- unday 12 June saw celebrations in Halstead. the meal with us. One of them, Alice Tester, ry, Amazing Grace, Abide with Me, Bread of SSt. Margaret’s Church was full to overflowing cut the birthday cake and then we were all Heaven and, of course, the National Anthem. and everyone enjoyed the combined choirs entertained by Halstead Players whilst more Between each hymn, I was able to explain to of Halstead and Knockholt Schools and the than 40, children went out in the garden to the pub some of the background and Chris- colourful Commonwealth flags that they had enjoy races, face painting, crown making and tian stories contained in well-know and much researched and painted. The adult choir sang more! A wonderful day – many thanks to both loved hymns and what they’re about and a beautiful song written by Adrian Munsey and pubs who supported our fundraising efforts to then, with glasses raised, we did our best to The Rev David Green as he requested, we decided to support the make it possible, and to everyone who helped take the roof off each time. A great time was Priest-in-Charge, West Malling with Offham Haig Housing Trust special appeal “Coming in one way or another! had by all. (including Kings Hill) Home” of which the Queen is Patron. We have Jean Peel been able to send £470 to help provide adapted St George’s Weald housing for disabled servicemen and women. t George’s Weald had a flower festival the charities we support: Tearfund’s ‘Change The Church had been decorated by the Flower Swhere many of the village organisations a Nation’ to alleviate poverty in Uganda. The team who created arrangements that were took on the responsibility to create café was heaving all weekend (which makes representative of different Commonwealth arrangements about the Queen’s life. We me wonder whether we should explore countries. We were fortunate also to have also had a pop-up café for bacon butties, setting up a community café and the people Commonwealth bunting painted by the Pratts lunches and afternoon tea. On Sunday of Weald are fantastic at making cake.) We Bottom Brownies decorating the Church Porch. morning we had a community Songs of raised about £1000 over the weekend. Following the Service coffee was served and Praise, featuring the chosen hymns of the then over 100 people gathered in the Village organisations, and we gave away over 100 What we did was not particularly original, Hall for lunch. We were delighted to have 6 copies of the Bible Society book ‘The Servant but we had a successful community weekend special guests, all in their nineties, to share Queen’ throughout the weekend. with a positive outcome and a great feel to The BART parishes celebrate it. Everyone loved the book ‘The Servant he BART parishes celebrated HM Queen’s munion table frontal, beautifully embroidered The retiring collection from the service and Queen’; it was wonderful to be able to give 90th Birthday with events throughout the over many months by people from the village. the money from the café all went to one of it out as a gift. We used it for the links T weekend. We started with a reception on The service was followed by ‘Royal Refresh- between some rousing hymns in our Songs Friday evening, at All Saints, Birling, at the ments’ in the marquee. The weekend came to of Praise service. It honoured God and this opening of a ‘Heritage Weekend’. The church a rousing finale on Sunday afternoon, when remarkable woman who is our Queen, and hosted an exhibition of Rowland Hilder’s work, St Martin, Ryarsh, hosted ‘Let’s Celebrate’ — a it lifted people’s spirits on a very rainy day. together with a small collection of historic pipe ‘street party’ attended by 200 guests, in the The feedback was amazingly positive and I organs, including the Trottiscliffe barrel organ, village hall, with musical contributions cover- hope more connections have been made in our usual flower festival displays and a floor to ing each decade of the Queen’s life, chosen by the community and our welcome extended ceiling portrait of the Queen, which had been village clubs and societies. The party marked so they know that St George’s is their church painted by villagers as a community art project the 500th anniversary of the Duke of Welling- too. for the Jubilee, in 2012. Rowland Hilder, the ton Pub, as well as HM the Queen’s birthday. Kent artist, had strong family connections with A celebration cake was cut by the youngest The Rev Mandy Carr, Vicar of St George Weald Birling. On Saturday, a pop up cafe opened in and oldest participant, together. The celebra- All Saints to welcome people from the village tion was completed by a visit from Kent Dep- The BART parishes celebrate and friends. Sunday saw celebration services uty Lieutenant Jacques Arnold. All the BART in our churches. At St Peter and St Paul, Trot- churches were able to offer gifts of the an- hrist Church, Tunbridge Wells hosted the tiscliffe the village community was invited to a niversary book, ‘The Servant Queen’ to share Royal Picnic. C service that not only marked HM the Queen’s with families, friends and guests at services birthday but also the dedication of a new com- and events over the weekend. We partnered with a local residents group (‘Friends of The Grove’, who oversee the upkeep of the local park) to plan the event and when rain stopped us having it in the park, we were pleased to be able to offer the church space and welcome lots of families from the local community. I’ve included the photo of me cutting the cake, along with our contact from Friends of The Grove - a lovely moment capturing a good partnership between church and local community.

Naomi Hutchison Associate Minister for the community Christ Church, Tunbridge Wells