in shape autumn 12
DESCRIPTION
the quarterly magazine of the Diocese of LeicesterTRANSCRIPT
shapein
Healthy Churches in Leicestershire
Autumn 2012 : Issue 6News and Stories For Your Church
ContactsIn Shape is edited by:Liz Hudson-Oliff Keith CousinsMike Harrison Barry Hill Andy Rhoadese-mail: [email protected]
The Diocese of Leicester administration and Leicester Cathedral Tel 0116 261 5200
The Office of the Bishop of Leicester Tel 0116 270 8985 [email protected]
Diary Dates should be sent [email protected] or entered at www.leicester.anglican.org/events by Monday 1st October. Inclusion is dependent on space available.
Signup to Diomail at www.leicester.anglican.org/misc/diomail-signup
Commercial advertisers are invited to call for current rates. The inclusion of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute any endorsement of a product or service by either the editors or the Diocese of Leicester
lives and communities transformedworship in a way that renews and inspires
self-giving service to the communitybeing rooted in prayer
confident and sensitive evangelismlifelong Christian nurture
the welcome of newcomersbecoming child friendly
celebration of people and places
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In This Issue3. Bishop’s Letter4. Ministry for the Deaf5. Christmas Tree Festivals6. Living Advent Calendar 7. Jambo7. Before You Go . . .8. Learning Through Worshipping Together10. Pop Connection11. Clues to Prayer12. Just Treats, No Tricks12. U2charist14. leicester.anglican.org/announcements15. leicester.anglican.org/events16. The Interview Louise Warner
This magazine is the quarterly publication of the Diocese of Leicester. The themes of In Shape are centred on the diocesan vision “Shaped by God” on which the nine Marks of Mission are based.
This vision is of flourishing mission in the 300 Anglican churches of the City and the County.
Cover image by Alison Booker. See the story behind the picture on Pg8
Recently, a new report on what God is doing through the Church of England in Leicestershire was published. Based on returns from each of the 318 churches, it shows a diocese growing, with over a thousand people joining churches during 2011, although also the average age of worshippers much higher than the population at large.
In his foreword, Bishop Tim reminds us of the words of addressed to each candidate in the Confirmation service “ ‘God has called you by name & made you His own’…All Christian ministry & mission flows from that call which comes from God to each individual personally. We cannot control it, manage it or even count it …These statistics remind us that there are
things we can learn from each other and changes we can make to assist the wind of the Spirit blowing where it wills.”As well as analysing the returns to understand more of those joining and leaving worshipping communities, weddings, baptisms, funerals, the difference between urban, suburban and rural contexts, by deanery and in Mission Partnerships, for the first time this year some analysis has also been done based on size of worshipping communities.
The perhaps surprising details might be of especial interest for smaller and larger churches and is included together with a few initial questions it raises (for example, on a normal Sunday three quarters of all churches in the diocese have an attendance of less than 50 people, whilst the numerically largest 24 churches account for 37% of all worshippers.) The summary report, including a foreword from Bishop Tim, can be downloaded from here: http://sbg.dioceseofleicester.com/?p=1036. Pages 2-5 of the report, which contain a reflection from Bishop Tim, a summary of the main findings and questions they raise for parishes, is designed to be printed out for discussion at a Church Council, leadership team or standing committee. A more detailed report follows for those interested to explore further.
For more information contact [email protected] or 0116 261 5335
Growing Together
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Bishop’s Letter“This summer sees a series of changes among those in positions of leadership in the diocese. In the Spring Richard Atkinson left us to become Bishop of Bedford. In his place we shall welcome Tim Stratford who comes to us with many years experience of urban ministry in the diocese of Liverpool. Tim will, of course have much to learn about rural ministry in East Leicestershire, but I have no doubt that the diocese will prove to be an excellent teacher just as it was for Richard 10 years ago. I do hope that many of us will want to be in the Cathedral to welcome Tim on 29 September at 4 pm.
We shall also be welcoming a new Warden of Launde Abbey later in the autumn. Alison Christian has spent her ministry in London where she has a considerable reputation as a spiritual guide and pastor. She will I am sure enrich and deepen our lives in this diocese as she works with us to bring the riches of Launde more and more into our common life.
Finally the announcement of Viv Faull’s appointment as Dean of York marks the end of a special chapter in the story of our Cathedral. As the first woman Dean to be appointed to a Cathedral in the Church of England, Viv’s role was always going to be a pioneering one. She has developed the profile and the engagement of the Cathedral at every level of its life and has equipped it to take its place at the heart of our city and county as we all saw during the recent visit of Her Majesty the Queen. We shall have an opportunity to take our leave of Viv later in the year and to express our thanks for her 12 years of transforming ministry in Leicester.
With every change comes sadness and loss, but also new possibilities and challenges. I hope you will pray for all those whose work and ministry is changing at this time and for our diocese
that we may travel hopefully into God’s future.”
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lives and communities transformed
Leicester Deaf children’s society and more• Advice • Support and interpretation services for Deaf and hard of hearing people in times of needOpportunities to get involvedWe are looking to extend and develop this ministry within the Diocese and there are many opportunities for you to get involved:• Clergy – Are you interested in residing services from time to time with the support of a BSL interpreter.• Lay People – is God calling you to come and support• Volunteers – Are you keen to work with Deaf people?• Signing Choir• Fundraising opportunities to support work with Deaf people
Article by Karen Sly
St Andrews church, have welcomed us into their church family with open arms and this has been a true blessing. In addition to this we have a new monthly church service for the over 50’s club which is based at the Firs on Aylestone Road. We are also involved with another group of Deaf people who have come together and formed a new Deaf user led organisation and this has grown from strength to strength. Springing from this group has been a number of different things: weekly coffee mornings, information sessions and forums, letter translation (English to BSL) with qualified BSL interpreters donating their services to the deaf community alongside advocacy and support services, all of which have been instigated by the Deaf people themselves. The most recent venture being the setting up a new job club “Deaf 2 work”, run by Tony Barlow who is Deaf himself. This was launched this July. The role of Deaf development worker has also identified some isolated people who have been missed. It has been a blessing to be a lifeline and a friendly face to people such as these.
The Church of England has been at the heart of the Deaf community for over 115 years with all the things we have described being a vital part of ensuring our ministry continues to grow and flourish.
Here is a list of services we can offer• Deaf led Worship• BSL interpretation for Weddings, marriages, baptisms and funerals• British Sign Language training, Basic BSL to NVQ level three.• Deaf Awareness training• Links to other Deaf groups such as the Leicester Deaf Action Group, over 50’s,
Today the Good Shepherd Church, St Andrews Jarrom Street, is the focus of our ministry to the Deaf and hard of hearing community in Leicester and Leicestershire; Supported by Karen Sly (Development Worker). Karen is a qualified British Sign Language interpreter and supports the Church of the Good Shepherd by offering pastoral care, liaising with the clergy, interpreting, and giving advocacy support. Our Diocese has been ministering to the Deaf community for more than 115 years.
History:• The first Missioner for the Deaf, Mr A M Cuttell, was appointed in 1897. • Regular weekly services and social gatherings began in St Martin’s rooms in Wycliffe Street Leicester. • The first Institute for the Deaf opened at Causeway Lane on 28th January 1915. • The Institute Chapel was then opened within the Causeway Lane premises in 1922.• The Institute moved to a newly purpose built site on Welford Road in 1961.• The Church of the Good Shepherd found a new home and moved to St Andrews Jarrom Street. This was after the dissolution of the relationship with the Diocese and Action Deafness after the sale of the Welford Road site in 2010.• The Diocese employment of a Deaf development Worker, Karen Sly. With a Part time post of 16 hours per week. Her role is to support our ministry to the Deaf, deafened and hard of hearing people. This began in November 2011.
What’s happening now? We now have a thriving community meeting at St Andrews with a sense of renewed vision for the future of the Deaf community here in Leicestershire. Deaf people are taking the lead in identifying their own path for the future.
Ministry for the deaf and hard of hearing continues
If interested in friendship, support, worship and a warm welcome for the Deaf and hard of hearing, the Deaf Development Worker, Karen Sly, can be contacted at 07534 264737,[email protected].
All are welcome at services at St Andrews Jarrom Street, Leicester LE3 on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month 3.00pm. A service of Holy Communion, both spoken and interpreted into British Sign Language. Refreshments are served afterwards. Keep up to date at [email protected]
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the welcome of newcomers
St Andrew’s Church, Burton Overy are staking their claim to have started the first Christmas Tree Festival in the Diocese of Leicester over 11 years ago, following the first UK festival held in Northamptonshire. Bert Patrick from St Andrew’s says that “each year many thousands of pounds are raised for church repairs and charities and it is also a wonderful opportunity for mission. There has been no evidence of attendances or income being affected by other churches holding festivals. In fact visiting figures are up each year”. So are these festivals both fundraising and mission opportunities for the Churches in our Diocese?
Last year St Mary’s Church in Melton Mowbray raised £13,000 from their Christmas Tree Festival by charging only £2 per adult entry fee. Kevin Ashby, Team Rector at St Mary’s says that the Christmas Tree Festival is much more than a gimmick or fundraiser. “For us, it’s a real opportunity to engage with our communities in the widest sense. Over the last nine years our five day Festival has grown to the point where between five and six thousand people come along to see the trees, and each of those people is welcomed and spoken to by members of the churches in the Melton Mowbray Team Parish, offering them drinks, refreshments or just an opportunity to chat. We also make sure that at least one of our Ministry Team is on the door right through the Festival, engaging with people as they leave.During the Festival there are two major services. The first is a ‘Songs (Carols!)
of Praise’ on the Saturday night, when people of faith with a connection to our town, are interviewed and asked to choose their favourite carol. The other is ‘Carolling Amongst the Christmas Trees’ on the Sunday evening. This has recently taking the format of the congregation coming dressed as carol singers, and wandering amongst the trees hearing the Christmas story, finding presents under the trees, or meeting people who reflect different aspects of Christmas.
Each service attracts around 200 people and, frankly, with nearly 452 trees in the Church last year, we wouldn’t have had much room for any more!However, we don’t leave it there. Invitations are given out to everyone who comes in and our Christmas and post Christmas services have grown in numbers! The profile of the Church and the Gospel has been raised in the town and villages because of the experiences that people have during the Festival, and new friendships have been made as people realise that their friends are members of their local church.”
All Saints, Husbands Bosworth, situated in a rural village of under a 1000 residents, started their Christmas Tree Festival in 2002 and have seen it change over the years into a Christmas Festival. “We always hold it over the first weekend of Advent and it has become the start of the Christmas season for our community.” Says Lorrie Forman, Churchwarden. “We keep most of the exhibits in until Candlemas and this has meant that the magic of the lights and exhibits has kept
the meaning of Christmas going right through the season”. Last year All Saints theme was ‘The Light of the World’ and they introduced a prayer station for reflective prayer and prayer requests and replaced the traditional Santa’s Grotto with a very well received display of the Nativity journey, bringing the Gospel message into the centre of the festival. The end of the festival is marked by an Advent service attended by many in the community.
These festivals involve the local community, business and schools as well as the Church in providing and decorating a tree for the festival as their interpretation of the festival theme or an individual theme for each tree. All festivals attract visitors from outside their communities and St Mary’s has coach companies as far away as Humberside organising trips, whilst St Andrew’s has inspired churches as far afield as Leek and Salisbury to start their own festival.
Churches and Christmas tree festivals? Yes they do raise money, but they also welcome visitors, proclaim the gospel, donate to charities, bring the Church and community together and become a lasting memory for those who visit. Why not try one yourself or take your friends to one this Advent and Christmas.
Article by Andrew Rhoades
#Mini-Reviews Tough Talk 2
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Christmas Tree Festivals:Fundraising and Mission
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celebration of people and places
“Called Together”Lay Licensing Service, Sat 13th October @ Leicester Cathedral11am – 12.30pm. This annual service celebrating lay ministry is open to all and will include the admission, licensing and rededication of Readers and the commissioning and reaffirmation of ministry of Evangelists, Pastoral Assistants, Pioneer Ministers and Children and Youth Workers. The preacher this year will be our own Bishop of Leicester, Rt Revd Tim Stevens. Followed by light refreshments.
It was a last minute Advent inspiration – we’d planned on doing something else to draw people in, but we hadn’t left enough time to plan it. So, remembering something my god-daughter’s London parish had done a couple of years previously, I thought, let’s take the good news out.
There was just time to get something in the November ‘Benefice Magazine’. ‘Let’s tell our friends and neighbours what Christmas is all about!’ We needed at least 25 ‘advent windows’ in homes with a window facing the street, to be decorated and lit up from a given day, remaining on show until January 6th. The overall theme: ‘Christmas – Light in our Darkness.’ People could interpret as they wished –a star or stars could be a unifying feature.
With three or four encouraging exceptions, volunteers were a bit slow at coming forward! Some arm-twisting, however,
and sharing the idea ecumenically, worked wonders. Twenty-eight people volunteered, including our local Swithland hostelry. ‘The Griffin’ kindly agreed to light the first window (pictured above) and to host a launch event. At 6pm on December 1st, about 20 people gathered inside a darkened room and we said some prayers before going outside. The first light was turned on – the window was a wonderful Advent ‘wow’ – and when we came back in, we found mince pies and mulled cider laid on for us by our friendly publican.
Each December day a new light dawned; the windows appeared on our website; the news spread, people pilgrimaged around, friends from far away smiled back - Bury St Edmunds, France, Germany, Japan! Now we look forward to Advent 2012. Window hosts are already volunteering!
Article by Anne Horton
Living Advent Calendar‘Christ alive among us; the hope of glory.’
#Mini-Reviews Seeking the Lighthouse by Wendy Grant
“Are you, or a friend in need of some encouragement? This beautifully illustrated book of reflections offers help for those travelling through fog.” Review by Jeanette, manager at Christian Resources.
Just £4.99 and free postage for In Shape’ readers when ordered from Christian Resources, Leicester 0116 261 [email protected]
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lifelong Christian nurture
(or hello in Swahili)…
The Bishops Youth council are currently planning their mission trip to our link Diocese in Tanzania next summer. 15 young people and 5 leaders will be partnering with Tearfund to work with their projects in the area, with manual labour and practical work, teaching and meeting the local people. Plans are underway for very exciting fundraising projects (as we need to raise £40,000 as a group) including an Autumn Ball at St Martins House and an Easter Vigil at the Cathedral which will take place in parishes and centrally through out the next 12 months. Look out on Diomail for information about upcoming events.
If you would like to support us one very easy thing you could do you to do is use ‘easysearch’ this is a search engine much like google but every time you make a search we get half a penny towards our cause. Just visit byctanzania.easysearch.org.uk and start searching! We would also welcome any ideas or help on raising awareness and money to enable this exciting mission.
Each year around 5,000 people leave a gift in their wills to a Church of England parish. In total, parishes receive over £50 million each year – money to finance mission projects, maintain beautiful church buildings, or enable some other aspect of church life.
These gifts make a real difference to the future work of the Church – as regular giving is often consumed maintaining the existing mission and ministry as well as the day to day costs.
Many church members would like to know how they can leave a gift to the Church, although they might be reticent about asking. This is an introduction to some of the practical steps parishes can take to enable this.
Legacy Giving is part of our Stewardship that we often overlook.
The Stewardship Network, in collaboration with the Church Legacy group, is producing some new resources which will help parishes to promote this important aspect of giving.
The key points of the resources and strategy are:
1) Church Council’s are encouraged to make a Legacy Policy and communicate it,2) Parishes should display a Legacy Giving Poster,3) Parishes should put a Legacy Giving bookmarks in their hymn books,4) Parishes should include an advert in each edition of their parish magazine highlighting Legacy Giving,5) Parishes should include a box on their giving review forms to cover Legacy Giving,6) Parishes should have literature available on Legacy Giving,7) Parishes should talk about legacies as part of their Annual Giving Review.
These resources are being provided by the diocese for free and will be distributed to parishes over the summer.
In the meantime, please contact the Parish Funding Team for further information. They are also available to give a short presentation, entitled ‘Before you go…’, that can be shown at meetings
as an item near the end of the agenda.
Article by Andrew J. Nutter (Director of Parish Funding & Fundraising), 0116 261 5322, [email protected]
Before you go . . .
Jambo!
Planning for Tanzania
#Mini-Reviews I’m a Christian, aren’t I? by Dan Clark
“What does it mean to be a Christian? Dan likens faith to a five piece jigsaw and, if we feel we only have part of the picture, invites us to think of which of the pieces is missing and how we might go about finding it. A relatively short book leaving plenty to ponder, especially the questions to consider at the end of each chapter.” Review by Barry Hill.
Available at a 10% discount (just £7.19) for readers of In Shape from Christian Resources Leicester 0116 261 [email protected]
worship in a way that renews and inspires
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Learning through worshipping togetherThis Autumn marks the 10th anniversary of the link between the Church in Trichy, South India and the Diocese of Leicester. In that time countless people have travelled back and forth, learning from each other what it means to be ‘in Christ’, know His blessings and share His love. In this special article, Leicestershire Vicar Alison Booker reflects on what she has learnt from her time worshipping in Trichy and Trichy clergyman, Suresh Kumar, now ministering in St Philip’s Leicester, reflects on what he has learnt from his time here:
Alison writes, “Worship in India challenged my own thinking about God, as I reflected there are two photographs which sum up what I brought back with me from that experience. First there is the Cannon ball tree, it is an immense tree, green spreading branches and then underneath there are these flowers, stunning in their colour and shape. These flowers though are fragile, they last just a day, and by evening this
beautiful bloom will be trodden underfoot and swept away.
What you might ask has this to do with worship? As I reflected on worship in India this flower reminded me of the extravagance of God, the gift of our created order that gives us such beauty for just a few hours.
As I worshipped with brothers and sisters in Trichy I found the same extravagance of praise and thanks amidst similar fragility of life. In places of extreme poverty where life is lived day by day, where the well being of cattle is anything but certain, in these places women brought jars of oil to anoint the cattle seen as a blessing from God and prayed for because they in turn ensured the survival of the family. Worship doesn’t just happen in a church building; worship is integral to life itself.
Having said that of course the places we created specifically for worship also speak of what we believe and so this second photograph demonstrates the vibrancy of colour and light,
the generosity of thankfulness represented by the metal bowl on the table for the thank offering (additional gifts given on top of regular giving to the church) nobody who I worshipped with in India (including priests and Bishop) would consider receiving Holy Communion without giving an additional thank offering.
I was challenged at the number of times I have been in church without any cash, or the times when I don’t even think about giving additionally to the direct debit, to be surrounded by such gratitude to God challenged me deeply for I knew that I could not argue, even in these economic difficulties, that I have less than these Christians.
The reason I took this picture though is the reflection on the floor, the light of the cross captured in the place where we walk. Yet the image is not perfect the cracks between the tiles distort it. I reflected that the perfection of God in Christ came and walked where we walk, was broken and distorted physically, yet remained as Light of the world. In my experience of worship in India I learned to see that light amidst the broken and distorted, it gave me hope for the broken and distorted places here in Britain and it challenged me to demonstrate gratitude, vibrancy, hospitality and light in my own faith wherever I find myself at worship.”
Suresh writes, “Beautiful church building, comfortable chairs, valuable stained glass imagery, carefully arranged flowers, Pascal candle, polished floors, brightly lit nave, carpet, Baptismal font and the alter. Where are the people?
In the last four years I learnt the answers and am convinced that some reasons are genuine. In my opinion, Christian worship is corporate by nature. Every Christian needs to feel the importance and relevance of worshipping together with fellow believers. Worship is an expression of our faith and a visible declaration of our solidarity with others. The worship we attend is driven by our spirituality and a way of expressing our indebtedness to our God and to witness to our fellow human beings.
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Present day worship in UK is challenging. Initially ‘small numbers’ in the church worship was discouraging. However the people’s commitment and their willingness to go an extra mile are amazing. Even though we follow a parish system, every worshipping place has a group of people who have lifelong connections to ‘places of worship’ which people value as important. The fellowship and the relationship between people in the churches are very good. People’s willingness to change and experiment with new forms of worship is commendable.
The importance of sacraments, deep sense of belonging, feeling empowered to do mission, willingness to reach out, being worried about the future of the local church, readiness to adapt and courage to face challenges are some characteristics I found.
People are aware of the changes that have happened in their families, community, cities and the nation. They are conscious of the challenges facing their faith and the church. This consciousness makes worship meaningful and leads people closer to God.”
#Mini-Reviews Epiphanies of the Ordinary by Charlie Cleverly
“Having heard the author I then read his book and wasn’t disappointed. Subtitled ‘Encounters that Change Lives’ ‘Go forth and set the world on fire’, said Ignatius. By encountering God in His glory, and learning to abide in Him, we can go out and do the same. An inspiring and encouraging read.” Review by Jeanette, manager at Christian Resources.
Available at a 10% discount (just £10.79) for readers of In Shape from Christian Resources Leicester 0116 261 5222 [email protected]
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becoming child friendly
A UK charity, Pop Connection, works in partnership with a
local church and school to help children, teachers and parents explore the themes of the Christian faith through learning, rehearsing, recording and performing specially written pop songs.
The concert at which the CD is launched is then held within the local church, allowing relationships to deepen and with opportunity for the church to explore some of the themes of what it means to worship God more. It recently ran in Shepshed. Here the children, headteacher and vicar reflect on the experience:
From the School and Children’s Perspective:Emma Pepper, Headteacher of St Botolph’s Church of England School writes, “Over the first 2 weeks of our final half-term, the children of St Botolph’s CE Primary School, had the unique opportunity to be involved in ‘Pop Connection’. This was all with thanks to Reverend Hebden and St Botolph’s Church who were one of the churches in Leicestershire to respond to a request from the Diocese to be part of a pilot project.
Pop Connection is part of Innervation Trust, a UK charity committed to using culturally relevant music enabling children to develop understanding and respect for people, communities and faith. Over 3 days, all the 226 children in the school learnt seven songs, on the fourth day Pop Connection brought in their professional mobile recording studio, the children were recorded and the following week they had the unique opportunity to perform the songs in a fantastic, vibrant pop concert held at St Botolph’s Church - immediately
following the concert, the CDs were launched into the community! The first 120 CDs were sold out on the night!
The CD is full of positive, uplifting songs - songs that reflect Christian values of Reverence, Wisdom, Thankfulness, Humility, Endurance, Compassion, Trust, Forgiveness.
This opportunity was amazing for all the children. The concert was a sell out -230 tickets sold!
Thank you St Botolph’s Church for enabling such a wonderful opportunity for the community of St Botolph’s school.
The feedback from the children and parents has been so positive:
From the Church’s Perspective:Cynthia Hebden, Vicar of St Botolph’s Church, writes, “Some time ago we were approached to see if we would be interested in hosting something called Pop Connection, working together with our local school. The total cost of the project was £1,200, split two ways between church and school. The Parish Mission Fund (diocesan growth fund) offered £300 towards the cost. I put the proposal to the Church Council and they felt that it was something they would like to support. Emma, the head teacher at St
Botolph’s school was also keen but the funding was an issue for them; they tried unsuccessfully to get grants towards it.
I then went back to the PCC, who agreed that the church would pay the £600 if school could find £300, and so we agreed to go forward. I don’t think any of us truly understood what we were signing up for but Emma thought that it was something the school would enjoy.
To say ‘enjoy’ was an understatement. Sarah, who came from Innervation Trust, was such a lovely lady and just so inspiring. I was on holiday whilst the work in school was happening, returning just two days before the concert in church. Emma phoned me very excitedly to say what a wonderful experience it was.
To see the whole school up on the dais in St Botolph’s school, smiling, singing, and moving their bodies in rhythm, was just wonderful. After the children had sung their seven songs Sarah pointed out that there were some other people in church who had learnt all the songs but hadn’t
I’ve never enjoyed myself so much…the whole church jigging and bopping about, ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT! St Botolph’s clearly rocks!
Pop Connection was a once in a lifetime opportunity to show off my talent.
Pop Connection!
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being rooted in prayer
The Christian writer on prayer and Benedictine monk Martin Laird (above), visited Leicester diocese in July and spoke out of his own profound experience on contemplative prayer.
In his addresses and writings Laird notes that there are two contemplative practices of fundamental importance in the Christian tradition: the practice of stillness (also called contemplation, meditation etc.) and the practice of watchfulness or awareness. He pointed out that these practices are not imports from other religions as is often imagined, but found at the core of the Christian way, practices which can greatly enrich our prayer life.
If one considers the practice of stillness, recall the Psalmist’s words “Be still and know that I am God”, (Ps 46.10), or “For God alone my soul in silence waits”, (Ps 62.1). Laird suggests that as we become progressively more still, so the things that obscure God’s presence fall away and we become more aware of the God who, in fact, is not absent from us. Of course the challenge here is to become still, and Laird suggests various ways in which we can be helped to become still, including body posture, the use of a prayer word such as “Jesus”, lovingly recited to calm our chattering minds, breathing combined with this prayer word and most importantly, a willingness to apply all of this regularly in a disciplined way in our daily life. Formal times of stillness are essential, but so are opportune moments, such as in the car, at the bus-stop, before a service, wherever we are waiting, and so on.
In terms of watchfulness, Laird counsels us to meet distractions with a steady
silent gaze which is aware of what arises but not taken in by it – “gradually … our thoughts and feelings appear in something deeper, in a great vastness”. Laird notes that when Jesus encountered Satan in the temptations in the desert he refused to be drawn into conversation, choosing to quote Scripture rather than be lured into dialogue and dispute (Mt
4.1-11). Laird points out that the early contemplatives drew from this the importance of not getting caught up in interior dialogues, patterns of obsessive thinking that spell the ruin of prayer and keep us distracted from God’s presence and peace. Again in concrete terms we can see how often we entertain such thinking for example in our patterns of complaining and excusing of ourselves; awareness of such patterns can already spell the beginning of liberation from that which oppresses and enable a deeper stillness and watchfulness, and in turn, a deeper conforming to Jesus’ way.
For more see Martin Laird’s books Into the Silent Land and A Sunlit Absence
Article by Mike Harrison
For more information please contact:[email protected] Tel 0116 [email protected] [email protected]
Clues to Prayer
#Mini-Reviews Everyday God by Paula Gooder
“The third in the author’s series on the church year, this time looking at ‘Ordinary Time’. Full of great biblical insights on 33 passages. Finding the extraordinary in the most everyday things.” Review by Jeanette, manager at Christian Resources.
Available at a 10% discount (just £8.09) for readers of In Shape from Christian Resources Leicester 0116 261 [email protected]
performed them tonight, at which point all the children chanted ‘Teachers, Teachers’ and the teachers went up and squeezed amongst the children. After a couple of songs together Sarah pointed out that there were other people in church who hadn’t taken part either, and all the children chanted ‘Up, Up’ and every single person in the church rose to their feet and joined in. The atmosphere was electric.
For me, it was a great opportunity to remind the parents and children that we are a church school; sometimes, especially with controlled schools, the importance of that gets missed. To also tell them that St Botolph’s was the only church in the whole diocese to take up the opportunity gave us added credibility.
Financially, by the time we’d sold tickets to the concert for £2 per head, and taken off the diocesan grant of £300, the whole thing only cost us just over £300. We could have also made a profit on the CDs but because of an error on the sleeve the decision was made to sell them at cost. The printing error was getting the songs on the sleeve in a different order to the ones on the CD.
A big thank to Barry Hill for introducing Pop Connection to us, and to Sarah and Steve (the sound engineer) for all their hard work.”
I’ve enjoyed Pop Connection because the lady who does the songs is wonderful.
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confident and sensitive evangelism
Just Treats, No Tricks
The idea to run this alternative Halloween event came from our Reader in Training at Countesthorpe, June Ainge, during the summer of 2011. Under June’s leadership a team of people was recruited to prayerfully plan, prepare and deliver the venture.
Our aim was to provide an opportunity to experience Halloween in a different way and to celebrate God’s light and goodness in fun ways. We also aimed to make it a free event mirroring God’s generosity to all of us. The event was given the name ‘Just Treats’ in contrast to the popular ‘Trick and Treat’ Culture of Halloween.
Various groups with the church became involved in the event using their different gifts and skills for God. A lot of work and prayer went into the planning and on the night a large number of volunteers arrived to help.
In the grounds of the church and situated close to the main road we had a free barbecue, which gave out at least 200 hot dogs and burgers! The free food was issued with a serviette printed with an evangelistic message and our Parish Evangelist, Paul Gask, and his team took every opportunity to explain why we were doing this and to invite people up to the church.
The pathway up to the church was lit with candles in jars and also decorated with balloons. People were met in the church by welcomers dressed in colourful costumes. The whole inside of the church was
decorated with light and colour – a complete contrast to the darker image that the festival has gained in the wider world. Inside the church, families could take part in various games and crafts, such as vegetable print pictures, an autumn collage, face painting, hopscotch and giant Jenga games, djembe drumming, and the seasonal favourite, apple bobbing (there was a chocolate version too!). Many children enjoyed getting wet in the apple bobbing bowl, some managing to catch as many as 10 apples (and eat most of them!).
During the evening we had a constant stream of visitors, many of them whole families. The majority of then stayed in the church for the evening which was very encouraging. The contacts that we made with people through the event have been consolidated through later Advent/Christmas events held at St Andrew’s and through other events held so far through this current year.
The event has encouraged us as a church not just to plan – by popular request! – another Just Treats Event this year but our confidence in running such events has grown enormously and we are seriously looking at other kinds of events as part of our outreach to the local community and especially to families and young people.
Article by David Hebblewhite
An alternative All Hallows Eve Celebration at St Andrew’s Church, CountesthorpeU2charist Andrew Quigley writes, “Nearly two years ago, in a discussion about alternative forms of worship that wandered to cover re-energising our commitment to social concern, I hit on the idea of a U2charist. Simply put, a U2charist is a service of holy communion (Eucharist) using the songs of U2 where hymns and mass setting might go. U2 have authorised the use of their music in this way, so long as any proceeds from the service (not a concert) go to a charity supporting the work of the UN’s Millennium Development Goals.
It seemed like a good idea, and the long process of selecting music, planning liturgy, and most trickily finding musicians capable of playing U2 songs live. Luckily the local Baptist church came through, with their own minister, Nick Cook, on lead vocals.
Why U2? It’s often the first question I was asked by media and church people alike – what’s pop music doing in a church service? But with song titles like Gloria, Peace on Earth, If God will send His Angels, Grace, Yahweh, Jerusalem, [psalm]40, Sunday Bloody Sunday and Cedars of Lebanon, it should be clear this is a band with more than a passing interest in and acquaintance with the Christian faith. U2 songs have been used in worship for over a decade now, and the first U2charist was back in 2007.
Yet when I first suggested doing one here in Harborough, and as the day drew near, I was not without misgivings. Would anyone come? Would anyone stay – or would they walk out in comprehension or disgust? Whilst spiritual in content, U2s songs are not hymns, nor are they worship songs as most churchgoers would recognise them. Would the technology and the band work – we must have had a mile of cables snaking about the sanctuary of St Hugh’s, and there were multi-plug adaptors in the multi-plug adaptors.
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self giving service to the community
In the event I had a new worry – would everyone fit in? The coverage from the Leicester Mercury, Harborough Mail and BBC Radio Leicester, etc. had been great, but on the day before at 7.30am I had a call from RTE – Ireland’s national TV and radio broadcaster – leading to live interviews on national radio for Nick Cook– and followed by a piece in the Irish Independent.. The next day ITV came out to film a piece for East Midlands news, and by the afternoon of the service, on the internet you could read about the service in Brazil and Italy, as international U2 websites picked up the story.
So St Hugh’s was full for the service – no one came from Brazil, but there were people from many of the churches in Harborough, and further afield across Leicestershire. The band from Harborough Baptist Church, played wonderfully, there seemed to be a positive atmosphere, before, during and after the service, and a good sum was raised for Christian Aid.
The most common question from people after the service was “When will the next one be?”, which I took as a good sign! At least in this instance, I hope we achieved the right balance of moving, challenging, and inspiring music, worship that enabled us to offer ourselves to God, and that as far as our commitment to help the world’s poor goes, those of us there were stirred to redouble our efforts:
The real battle just begunTo claim the victory Jesus wonOn...Sunday Bloody Sunday.”
In light of economic crisis, social upheaval and political challenges how should we respond as Christians individually and collectively? How as Christians are we to contribute to the ‘Common Good’ and make a difference? These questions will be the subject of the Lay Congress for 2012. Our key-note speaker will be Clifford Longley, author, broadcaster and journalist who has specialised since 1972 in the coverage and analysis of British and international religious affairs. Clifford is a regular panelist on Radio 4’s The Moral Maze and a regular contributor to Thought for the Day. In 2005 he was the principal author of Prosperity with a Purpose, published by Churches Together in Britain and Ireland. He serves on the steering committee of the True Wealth of Nations project of the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies at the University of Southern California.Other seminar speakers will include Matthew Bishop, (co-author of books such as The Road from Ruin and Philanthrocapitalism – how giving can save the world), James Bevan, Chief Investment Officer at CCLA (which provides investment services to the Church of England among others) David Pain of Christian Aid, and the Bishop of Leicester, Bishop Tim Stevens.
9.15am to 4pm Samworth Enterprise Academy, Trenant Road, LE2 6UA. To book a place please email [email protected] or telephone on 0116 261 5317.
Lay Congress: Sat 17th November 2012 God’s Economy – Christian approaches to the common good
leicester.anglican.org/events
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Prestwold Classical Music ConcertFriday 2nd March - to be held at Prestwold Hall, Nr Loughborough, LE12 5SQ at 7pm for 7.30pm featuring Junko Kobayashi (pianist) and Tamara Zivadinovic (soprano)
Coff ee Morning, St Margaret’s, LeicesterSaturday 3rd March - 10 am - 12 noon. The Lord Mayor of Leicester will be in a� endance and the monies raised will go to the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.
Who do you say that I am?Saturday 10th March - A queer conversation on identity and faith. Pádraig Ó Tuama leads a workshop exploring the interface of sexuality and spirituality. 3.00-5.00pm. St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, LE1 5PZ £3 (concs £2)
Emmanuel Lunchtime ConcertsThursday 15th March - 1pm. Loughborough Endowed Schools bring a feast of choral and instrumental music. Chamber groups and soloists will enrich and entertain.
350th anniversary of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer evensongSunday 18th March - Leicester Cathedral Full choral evensong, with music from the Choirbook for the Queen, at 4pm
Worship With a Classical FlavourSunday 18th March - St Mary in Charnwood, Nanpantan, Loughborough at 6pm. With Ma� Lax (trumpet) & Angela Foan (piano)
Evening Talk by John FloranceThursday 22nd March - “Why bother with Wagner?” in The Kempe Room, St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane , Leicester, LE1 5PZ at 7.30pm
Spring Concert by the Shepshed SingersSaturday 24th March - at Holy Trinity Church, Barrow upon Soar. 7.30pm. Conducted by Andrew Goff . Tickets £7 (£6 concessions) from www.shepshedsingers.org.uk - or at the door
Spring Cra� Fair, Scrapto� Saturday 31st March - All Saints Church Scrapto£ . 10am - 3.30pm. Genuine cra£ stalls . Run by The Friends of All Saints Church Scrapto£ and Netherhall.
Lunchtime Recital St. Margaret’s, LeicesterThursday 12th April - 1 pm - 1.30 pm. Paul Bricher - Organ, Admission free - tea and coff ee provided
A Quiet Day In Eastertide At Off a HouseMonday 16th April - The Fellowship of Contemplative Prayer off er a day of silent listening to the Word of God at Off a House (near Leamington Spa) on from 9.30am to 3.15pm
Coff ee Morning - St. Margaret’s, LeicesterSaturday 5th May - To raise money for CHRISTIAN AID. 10 am - 12 noon. Many stalls, including raffl e and refreshments.
Lunchtime Recital St. Margaret’s, LeicesterThursday 10th May - 1pm - 1.30 pm. Phillip Herbert - Organ, Admission free - tea and coff ee provided.
Emmanuel Lunchtime ConcertsThursday 17th May - 12.45pm Join us for a lunchtime of Jeanine Thorpe’s virtuosity and musical passion.
Worship With a Classical FlavourSunday 20th May - St Mary in Charnwood, Nanpantan, Loughborough at 6pm Jeanine Thorpe (violin) & Jeremy Kimber (piano).
‘At the heart of the hoped-for future, which comes from the God of love, is the flourishing of individuals, communities, and our world globe’
Prof Miroslav Wolf
Five conversations in Lent exploring faith and contemporary issues in our society.
Headlined Health, Education, Justice, Economics and Welfare.
Experts from the national stage, alongside regional spokespeople and Christian thinkers will meet together and invite us into a public conversation chaired by Bishop Tim.
Tues 28 FebruaryTues 6 MarchTues 13 MarchTues 20 MarchTues 27 March
All weeks 7.00-9.00pm
The Grand Hall, St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, LE1 5PZ
life in abundance?
more than a meeting
See www.leicester.anglican.org/lent-lectures-2012for more details
abundance trailer LIVE.indd 1 23/01/2012 11:08:47
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Our most recent U2charist
AWARD WINNING DESIGN Pilgrim Gardens is a HAPPI winner! The ‘Housing our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation Award’ sponsored by the Housing Design Awards.Opening Spring 2013, Pilgrim Gardens is a Warden managed, Assisted Living complex with 31 one and two-bedroom apartments for rental or leasehold purchase. Prices range from £115,000 to £148,900.
Take the virtual tour on our website www.pilgrimsfriend.org.uk Or email for a DVD and more information – [email protected]
Or write to: Michelle Hydon, Warden, Pilgrim Gardens, Evington, Leicester LE5 6AL Phone 0300 303 8455
Award Winning Pilgrim Gardens
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leicester.anglican.org/announcementsThe Revd Alison ThorpeHaving served her title as NSM Curate in the Benefice of the Bosworth and Sheepy Group (Team Ministry) the Revd Alison Thorp has been appointed as NSM Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) in the Benefice of the Bosworth and Sheepy Group (Team Ministry).
The Revd Anthony Lees-SmithNew Appointment: Vicar of St Denys, Evington within the City of Leicester DeaneryPrevious Appointment: Assistant Curate in the Parish of the Good Shepherd, Arbury in the Diocese of Ely.
The Revd John PlantNew Appointment: Church Relations Manager with Christian Aid with effect from 2 September 2012..Previous Appointment: Team Rector in the Benefice of the Bosworth and Sheepy Group (TM).
The Revd Naomi NixonNew Appointment: Diocesan Learning Advisor for Ministerial Development in the Diocese of CoventryPrevious Appointment: Chaplain at North Warwickshire and Hinckley College.
Revd Andy RhoadesNew Appointment: Priest in Charge of St David’s, Broom Leys within the North West Leicestershire DeaneryPrevious Appointment: Assistant Curate in the Hexagon Benefice
The Revd Maggie SharpeThe Bishop announces that the Revd Maggie Sharpe will be retiring as Chaplaincy Team Leader at Glenfield Hospital with effect from 31 October
The Revd Ian JohnsonNew Appointment: Co-ordinating Chaplain of Gartree Prison.Previous Appointment: Priest-in-Charge of the Benefice of Foxton, with Gumley, and Laughton.
The Revd Andy CainNew Appointment: Vicar of St Mary the Virgin, Cuddington, Worcester Park in the Diocese of Guildford.Previous Appointment: Curate in the Benefice of the Bosworth and Sheepy Group (TM).
Revd Dr Tim WardNew Appointment: Associate Director of The Cornhill Training Course in London, which is part of the ministry of The Proclamation TrustPrevious Appointment: Rector in the Benefice of Holy Trinity, Hinckley
Revd Trevor ParkersonNew Appointment: NSM Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the Benefice of Ashby de la Zouch and Breedon on the HillPrevious Appointment: NSM Curate of the Benefice of Ashby de la Zouch and Breedon on the Hill
Revd Stephen CroftsNew Appointment: Vicar in the Benefice of Gravenhurst, Shillington and Stondon in the Diocese of St AlbansPrevious Appointment: Assistant Curate in the Parish of St James, Birstall and our Lady and St Nicholas, Wanlip
Revd Martin CastleNew Appointment: Priest in Charge of the Benefice of Earl Shilton with Elmesthorpe within the Sparkenhoe West DeaneryPrevious Appointment: Assistant Curate at the Church of the Martyrs, Leicester
CHURCH CLOCKS
Automatic drives fitted to your clock will free up valuable space and eliminate the potential danger of
suspended weights. A Pendulum Regulator will maintain accurate time with
no need for constant adjustment of the clock.
Both these products are designed for fitting by your own suitably qualified volunteer. Alternatively ask us to
quote you for fitting.
Richard White CEng MIMechE BHI Tel: 0116 240 4005 Email: [email protected]
http://www.richardwhiteclocks.co.uk/
leicester.anglican.org/events
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Leicester Grammar Junior School and Leicester Grammar School located together on one 75 acre site in Great Glen, offering independent, co-education based upon Christian
principles for pupils aged 3 to 18.
For more details contact 0116 2591900 [senior school] or 0116 2591950 [junior school]
London Road, Great Glen, Leics. LE8 9FL
For straightforward advice on� Savings� Investments� Protection� Retirement
Contact Darrel Foulk, Independent Financial Adviserfor Leicester Diocese and area
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Project1:Layout 1 16/6/10 11:21 Page 1
Coffee Morning St. Margaret’s, LeicesterSaturday 1st September 10 am - 12 noon.
Open Church at All Saints , KimcoteSunday 2nd September - Tea/Coffee. Homemade cakes, books and stalls
Open Church at St. Leonard’s, SwithlandSaturday 8th and Sunday 9th September - St. Leonard’s Church, Main Street, Tea/Coffee and Cakes from 2 p.m. till 4.30 p.m.
Friends of St Wilfrids Summer Concert.Saturday 8th September - St Wilfrids Church at 7.30pm. Robert Smyth Big Band and Jazz Sextet
Ride and Stride and Heritage Open DaySaturday 8th September - Many churches around the Diocese will be open from 10 am until 4 pm
Harvest Festival WyfordbySunday 9th September - Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, Wyfordby at 6.30pm. Followed by refreshments and stalls
The Origins of Leicester CathedralWednesday 12th September - 7.30pm Dr Philip Dixon, Archaeologist talk on archaeology and development of the site of Leicester Cathedral. No charge but email [email protected] if attending
Recital St. Margaret’s, LeicesterThursday 13th September - 1 pm - 1.30 pm - Peter Harris - Organ. Free. Tea and coffee
Thrussington Autumn FayreSaturday 15th September - Village Green, 10.30am – 2.30pm Many stalls, Fruit, Veg, and flower show – all entries welcome.
Pastorals Assistants Quiet DaySaturday 22nd October, 9.30am - 3.30pm at St Mary’s Church, Wymeswold - Open to all existing PA’s and PA’s in training.
Antiques Evening with David BarbySaturday 29th September - 7.30pm at Gilmorton Pavilion Bar and Raffle. Tickets £10 (including light refreshments) from 01455 553429.
Coffee Morning St Margaret’s LeicesterSaturday 6th October - 10 am - 12 noon.
Service of Blessing of AnimalsSunday 7th October - St Andrews Jarrom St, Leicester. Service 3pm, with or without pets Mr Chris Stephens 0116 2716086
Recital St. Margaret’s LeicesterThursday 11th October - 1pm - 1.30 pm - Revd Peter Folks - Organ. Free.
Ex Cathedra with His Majestys Sagbutts & CornettsThursday 18th October - Splendours from the Dode’s Chapel - Music Giovanni Gabrielli. St James the Greater, London Road, Leicester. 7.30pm For tickets please see our website www.stjamesthegreater.org.uk or call 0116 254 2111 Mon-Fri am’s.
Coffee Morning St. Margaret’s, LeicesterSaturday 20th October - 10am - 12noon. For Animal Aid
Two day CPD for counsellors/therapistsSaturday 27th - Sunday 28th October Details at thehavenashby.org.uk or contact 01530 560921
All Saints Annual ServiceSaturday 27th October - All Saints Church, Highcross St 12noon. Dress warmly. Mr Chris Stephens 0116 2716086
Hope Against CancerSunday 4th November - 4.00pm Leicester Cathedral. A performance of Fauré’s ‘Requiem’ No tickets but collection in aid of Hope Against Cancer.
Recital St. Margaret’s LeicesterThursday 8th November - 1pm - 1.30 pm - Iain Harvey - Organ. Free. Tea and coffee
St James Cantata Choir Saturday 10th November - Mozart Requiem and Coronation Mass. St James the Greater, London Road, Leicester. 7.30pm For tickets www.stjamesthegreater.org.uk or call 0116 254 2111 Mon-Fri am’s.
Autumn Fair St. Margaret’s, LeicesterSaturday 17th November
Christmas Bazaar, KnightonSaturday 17th November - St. Mary Magdalen Parish Centre, Church Lane, LE2 3WG 11am to 3pm.
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The Interview
Louise Warner
On September 1st, Louise Warner starts as full-time Children and Young Families Officer for the diocese, to resource, encourage and support ministry amongst children and young families across the county and city. As she prepares to move she made time to chat with In Shape about life, faith and hot chocolate abysses…
“One of the most significant events in my Christian faith was when I felt called to give up teaching to go into full-time ministry, having known for a while that I had to take the next step in something but not knowing the details. The day after I mentioned it to friends in church, Padre Pat (a community chaplain on an army base in Germany) was preaching on vocation and said we all have vocation but if there was one person sitting there thinking they should be doing something else then they should. It was exciting, and a bit scary too, but led to me handing in my notice before knowing exactly what I was going to be doing and was the cause of much discussion about why anyone would give up a good job to go and work for the church.
Seeing God at work in people’s lives, including my own, and reading the Bible are things which energise me most.
The main foci of my last few jobs have been working with children and families: building relationships, developing existing work and starting new initiatives, including holiday clubs; raising the profile of children in the church; building links with schools and the community.
Preparing children for communion before confirmation and young people for confirmation. Supporting volunteers, providing training and reviewing safeguarding,
including health and safety.
When my brother-in-law had a stroke and brain abscess aged thirty-five I had to fly back from Germany and support my family, especially my niece and nephews, it was a time I felt especially close to God. Taking them to the hospital for the first time, when they had been traumatised by an earlier visit and particularly the day I had to take them to potentially see their dad for the last time were challenging; God got me through both, giving me the strength I needed to support the children and give them some normality too. The fact their dad survived and was essentially still himself, despite suffering some lasting effects, was a miracle; especially as the doctors believed that one half of his brain had been severely damaged and would be severely impaired.
My hopes for ministry amongst children and young families in Leicestershire are that children and families would feel valued members of the church; that they would feel welcomed, accepted and comfortable in all churches; that churches would be reaching out to children and families in ways appropriate to their context and meeting them at the stage their faith is at; that children would have access to exciting and age appropriate Bibles; that all involved in working with children and families, whether, clergy, paid or volunteer would feel valued and supported with access to training to meet their needs; and that we’d be able to celebrate all that God is doing amongst children and families.
I’m passionate about chocolate, ice cream, ice cream ministry, children being able to fully participate in church life and encouraged to develop their own relationship with God, children having access to age appropriate Bibles
There are a number of things families are struggling with at the moment: Finance is the cause of much worry, especially where jobs are at risk. School places, especially for children starting school, is another issue that causes angst. In terms of church life an issue some children and families face is when they don’t feel accepted and able to relax in church because they are worried about children making a noise or toilet facilities, especially when potty training or breastfeeding. The church can be a place where families can find support, acceptance and a listening ear, toddler groups are often places where as relationships grow together, conversations can happen. The church can also be a place where families can leave worries at the door. Churches can demonstrate God’s love in a practical way.
I’d value prayer that I’d be able to build relationships and get to know people across the diocese, for wisdom to see where God is at work and to identify what God is asking me to do, for work on reviewing the website pages and building resources and that churches / mission partnerships would invite me to visit and see what support and encouragement I can offer them.
To relax I bake, enjoy spending time in book shops (especially looking for cookery books), enjoying the wonders of creation, visiting friends and, of course, having a large ‘hot chocolate abyss’ which is topped with cream, maltesers, chocolate flakes, crushed aero and marshmallows!”
Louise was in conversation with Barry Hill