The Month Notice Board April-May 2016 by Diocese of Chelmsford

April-May 2016

NOTICE board

Mystics under the spotlight

ROBERT BEAKEN is parish priest of St Mary the Virgin, Great Bardfield, and St Katharine, Little Bardfield, in Essex. He holds a PhD from King’s College, London, and is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society. He is the author of seven works, including Cosmo Lang: Archbishop in War and Crisis (2012).

Front cover: The Burial of the unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey, (detail), oil painting by Frank O Salisbury © Estate of Frank O Salisbury. All rights reserved, DACS 2015. Image courtesy of Palace of Westminster Collection WOA 2957 www.parliament.uk/art Back cover: Unloading wounded soldiers at St Botolph’s Station

CofE Home Front jkt 20150727A.indd 1

The Church of England and the Home Front, 1914-1918: Civilians, Soldiers and Religion in Wartime Colchester By Robert Beaken Foreword by Terry Waite CBE

BOOKSHELF

THERE is nothing new about the tendency of some to portray our history in purely secular terms. Alistair Bruce, the historical adviser to Downton Abbey, is on record as saying that the producers deliberately kept religion out of the show to avoid alienating viewers. That is why the Crawleys are rarely shown sitting down to dinner: they would have had to be seen saying grace. It is therefore very refreshing and enlightening to read an account of Colchester ‘Robert Beaken provides an elegantly written account of an important aspect of how English society coped with the 1914–1918 war on the home front. In his study of parochial life in Colchester during the period, Dr Beaken tests and demolishes a number of myths, tracing their origins to the late 1920s, a period of disillusionment and literary reconstruction of the war years. His final chapter on the dubious contrast between a “bad” First World War and a “good” Second World War for the Church of England makes an important contribution to remembering those who endured and fought in 1914–1918, without condescension but with honesty and compassion.’ The Right Rev. and Right Hon. Richard Chartres KCVO DD FSA, Bishop of London ‘In telling the story of the Church and its people in Colchester, a garrison town, Robert Beaken enlivens our understanding of the First World War – not only as a clash of mighty forces, but also at a personal and communal level.’ The Very Rev. Dr John Hall, Dean of Westminster

‘An admirable book. In a year when we are encouraged to assess or reassess our attitudes to the Great War, it is useful to have this timely account of how the Church of England faced its wartime duties.’ The Right Hon. Lord Hurd of Westwell CH CBE

An imprint of Boydell & Brewer Ltd PO Box 9, Woodbridge IP12 3DF (GB) and 668 Mt Hope Ave, Rochester NY 14620–2731 (US)

Robert Beaken

amongst other themes, with creative and unusual suggestions for putting ideas into practice for individuals and groups. This is a beautifully written book, making a potentially weighty subject accessible and captivating. 'Fragile Mystics' is available at the Chelmsford Christian Bookshop at a special price of £9 (RRP £10.99), plus postage and packing of £1.50, from 01245 294405 or bookshop@ chelmsford.anglican. org. l The reading group meets on the first Wednesday of each month at 1pm in the Library at the Diocesan Office. Please call the bookshop on the above number for details and encouragement. RACHEL ORFORD Manager, Chelmsford Christian Bookshop

THE CHURCH OF ENGL AND AND THE HOME FRONT, 1914–1918

THE Chelmsford Christian Bookshop’s Reading Group will turn its attention to 'Fragile Mystics', a new book by Magdalen Smith, at its April 6 meeting. The book's subtitle 'Reclaiming a Prayerful Life' hints at the writer's intention to connect our prayer life with the Mystics and holy people of the past. Her introduction explains that she chose the book’s evocative title because “it is my guess that many Christians have a thirst for experiencing the presence of God essentially in mystery, as opposed to certainty, as did may Holy people of the past”. Each chapter tackles a topic in an absorbing and readable way and the author, who as well as being a priest has a background in the visual arts, draws on examples from art and film as well as the work of the Mystics. Chapters address stillness, adoration, darkness and gratitude

Wartime leaders were a rich variety of eccentrics THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND AND THE HOME FRONT 1914–1918 CIVILIANS, SOLDIERS AND RELIGION IN WARTIME COLCHESTER

Robert Beaken Foreword by Terry Waite CBE

www.boydellandbrewer.com

local clergy as ‘a rather mixed group of men, of varied temperaments and abilities, who nevertheless responded to the challenges of the First World War with courage, imagination and self-sacrifice, and who enjoyed a fair degree of success’. Robert therefore challenges the old assumption that the Church of England had a bad First World War and, in the garrison town of Colchester at least, reveals just how significant the Christian faith was culturally and personally. Robert also challenges other often repeated myths about the church in the First World War. Whilst admitting that the Church of England The Church of England is popularly believed to have had a bad First World War. This book challenges that tired orthodoxy. It examines the relationship between parish churches and the army during the war, using the important garrison town of Colchester as a case study. Colchester in 1914–18 was a microcosm both of English society and of the Church of England, in all their diversity. The presence of the army also meant that wartime experiences and trends which were noticeable elsewhere in England were sharply felt in Colchester. For the generation of Britons who lived through the Great War, Christianity was an important part of their culture, world view and, in many instances, personal lives. To understand life on the home front during the war, it is vital to understand the part played by Christianity, and particularly by the parishes of the Church of England. With the help of newly discovered archival material, this book reassesses the relations between clergy, soldiers and civilians, to show that, contrary to widely-held belief, the clergy and their parishioners responded to the crisis of 1914–18 with courage, common sense, and self-sacrifice: their ministry kept much of the population going during the Great War.

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during the First World War that unashamedly speaks of the way that the life of the churches was woven into the fabric of the society. Despite the lack of much primary material, Robert Beaken is able to paint a picture of the

has long provided a refuge for ‘a rich variety of clerical eccentrics, as well as for priests who are plainly a bit odd’, he discovered no evidence that Anglicans of any churchmanship in the town regarded the war as akin to a holy crusade and found, through his extensive research, that anti-German preaching was – in fact – very rare. The book also includes a fascinating account of the ‘National Mission of Repentance and Hope’ including the role of district visitors in the parishes and the response of the town’s population. Robert also reveals that the situation facing the church in Colchester in 1918 was a lot less bleak than is suggested by national reports of that time. Church attendance in

Colchester kept up during the war and the vast majority of people in the pews were working class. Robert has produced a captivating account of an extraordinary time in our history. The thoroughness of his research is balanced by warm and endearing personal stories as well as by some wise and helpful reflections on the issues raised. He even includes some helpful pointers for bishops seeking how best to serve their clergy and people. Rt Revd Roger Morris Bishop of Colchester l Revd Dr Robert Beaken is Priest in Charge of Great Bardfield and Little Bardfield. l The book is available from the Chelmsford Christian Bookshop (details left) at a special price of £22.50.

DIOCESAN CYCLE OF PRAYER — APRIL-MAY 2016 Cycle of Prayer for daily use in Diocese of Chelmsford We can still say “Lord teach us to pray”. (Luke 11:1).

MOUNTNESSING ST MARY'S — Please pray for the clergy and congregation on May 25

APRIL

1 Friday of Easter Week ● NORTH WOOLWICH (St John w Silvertown)—Clergy: Princely Croos (PIC). ● Diocese of Bukavu (Congo). 2 Easter Saturday ● Today is the 'real' Easter Saturday – the Saturday of Easter Week (rather than the media’s version, where Easter Eve has somehow become Easter Saturday!). As we come to the end of this first week of Easter, we are invited to celebrate Easter not as a day but as a season, and to reflect on the Easter mystery through the weeks of this season in a way that helps us better bear witness to the person of the risen Christ. ● Diocese of Bukedi (Uganda). 3 THE SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER ● Please pray for the Friends of Chelmsford Cathedral, and give thanks to God for their work in the past and years to come. ● Church of the Province of the Indian Ocean. 4 Monday THE ANNUNCIATION OF OUR LORD TO THE BVM ● WEST HAM (St Matthew)—Clergy: Christiana Asinugo (PIC), David Richards (AP). ● Diocese of Bukuru (Jos, Nigeria). 5 Tuesday ● STRATFORD (St John w Christ Church)—Clergy: David Richards (V),

Christiana Asinugo (AP), Annie McTighe (AP), Ivo Anderson (A), Readers: Rosemond Isiodu, Robert Otule, Carole Richards, Sheva Williams. ● Diocese of Bunbury (Western Australia). 6 Wednesday ● STRATFORD (St Paul) and (St James)—Clergy: Jeremy Fraser (V), Annie McTighe (AP), Jeanette Meadway (AP), Milen Bennett (A). ● St James Junior School: Shirley-Ann Jones (HT). ● Diocese of Bungoma (Kenya). 7 Thursday ● VICTORIA DOCKS (The Ascension)— Clergy: Dave Chesney (V). ● VICTORIA DOCKS (St Luke)—Clergy: Dave Wade (V), Emeka Ejinkonye (AP),

Ifeani Chukuka (AP), Reader: Carole Davison. ● Mayflower Centre, Canning Town. ● St Luke’s School: Theresa Aanonson (HT). ● Diocese of Bunyoro-Kitara (Uganda). 8 Friday ● WEST HAM (All Saints)—Clergy: Stennett Kirby (V), Stephen Chandler (AC), Reader: Ben Williams. ● West Ham Church School: Paulette Bailey (HT). ● BECKTON (St Mark)—Clergy: Peter Ngugi (PIC). ● Diocese of Busan (South Korea). 9 Saturday Dietrich Bonhoffer, Lutheran Pastor, Martyr,1945 ● Dietrich Bonhoeffer remains a deeply compelling voice for us, and still prophetic:

“Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession... Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.” ● Diocese of Bugosa (Uganda). 10 THE THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER ● Please pray for the people who use their talents and skill to write hymns and music that enrich our worship. ● The Church of Ireland. 11 Monday George Selwyn, first Bishop of New Zealand, 1878 ● Retired clergy, Readers and lay ministers who live and work in the Deanery of Newham. ● Diocese of Butare (Rwanda). 12 Tuesday ● DEANERY OF REDBRIDGE—Area Dean: Marie Segal. Lay Chair: Jill Leonard. Asst Area Dean: Ian Tarrant. Chaplains: Barts Healthcare NHS Trust - Whipps Cross Univ. Hospital: Tristan Alexander-Watts. Barking, Havering & Redbridge Hospital NHS Trust: Tim Coleman, Philip Wright. East London NHS Foundation Trust: Stephen Chandler. North East London NHS Foundation Trust: Tony Rablen. ● Diocese of Butere (Kenya). 13 Wednesday ● ALDBOROUGH HATCH (St Peter)— Clergy: Kate Lovesey (V) (see page 4). ● Diocese of Buye (Burundi). CONTINUED ON PAGE II

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CYCLE OF PRAYER

CONTINUED FROM PAGE I 14 Thursday ● ALDERSBROOK (St Gabriel)—Clergy: Martyn Hawkes (V), Mark Kenny (AP), Christopher Smaling (A). ● Diocese of Byumba (Rwanda). 15 Friday ● BARKINGSIDE (Holy Trinity)—Clergy: Stuart Batten (PIC), Margaret Flintoft-Chapman (AP), Rosemary Potten (A), Reader: Tony Robbins. ● BARKINGSIDE (St Cedd)—Clergy: Paul Harcourt (PIC). ● Diocese of Calabar (Niger Delta, Nigeria). 16 Saturday Isabella Gilmore. Deaconess, 1923 ● Isabella Gilmore was a remarkable pioneer. In the 1880s, the Bishop of our sister diocese of Rochester persuaded her to re-establish the order of deaconess in the Church of England. She was reluctant, and in the end it was a deep sense of call while praying that led her to say “yes”. She later wrote: "It was just as if God’s voice had called me, and the intense rest and joy were beyond words." Her legacy and example have been profoundly influential. ● Diocese of Calcutta (North India). 17 THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ● Your prayers are asked for the sportsmen and women, members of sports clubs in Redbridge, Waltham Forest and Brentwood, who witness to God through their words and actions. ● The Nippon Sei Ko Kai (Anglican Communion in Japan). 18 Monday ● BARKINGSIDE (St Francis)—Clergy: Stuart Batten (PIC), Michael Bradley (AP). ● Dioceses of Caledonia (British Columbia & The Yukon, Canada) and Calgary (Rupert’s Land, Canada). 19 Tuesday Alphege, Archbishop of Canterbury, Martyr, 1012 ● BARKINGSIDE (St George)—Clergy: Benjamin Wallis (V). ● BARKINGSIDE (St Laurence)—Clergy: Chris Burrows (PIC), Hilary Musker (A), Licensed Lay Minister: Catherine Elliott. ● Diocese of California (Province IX, The Episcopal Church). 20 Wednesday ● GOODMAYES (All Saints)—Clergy: Petros Nyatsanza (V). ● Robbie Langford (Central Asia). ● GOODMAYES (St Paul)—Clergy: Janet Buchan (PIC). ● Diocese of Cameroon (West Africa). 21 Thursday Anselm, Abbot of Le Bec, Archbishop of Canterbury, 1109 ● GREAT ILFORD (St Margaret of Antioch, St Clement)— Clergy: Stephen Pugh (V). ● Diocese of Canberra & Goulburn (New South Wales, Australia). 22 Friday ● GREAT ILFORD (St Alban)—Clergy: Stuart Halstead (V). ● GREAT ILFORD (St Andrew)—Clergy: Marie Segal (AD, V), Helen Sterry (A), Reader: Hayley Morris. ● Diocese of Carlisle (York). 23 Saturday GEORGE, MARTYR, PATRON OF ENGLAND, c.304 ● Although many later traditions mean we often don’t see George for who he is, but he is a patron saint worth celebrating. He was an army officer in the Roman army who gave his gifts to the poor and openly confessed his faith. That is why he died as a martyr, during one of the particularly vicious persecution. The slaying of the dragon – however colourful – forms no part of his historical life. That was added in the 12th century. But it is fascinating – challenging even – that England’s patron saint was almost certainly a Palestinan. ● Diocese of Canterbury (Canterbury). 24 THE FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ● Please pray for followers of other faiths, that there may be discussion and understanding between all of God’s people. ● Today is World Press Freedom Day. Pray for those involved in the Media. ● The Episcopal Church in Jerusalem and the Middle East. 25 Monday MARK THE EVANGELIST ● GREAT ILFORD (St John the Evangelist, Seven Kings)— Clergy: Calvert Prentis (PIC), Sharon Prentis (A), Reader: Jean Richards.

BUTTSBURY ST GILES: Please pray for the clergy and congregation on May 25. All pictures: JON LONGMAN ● Diocese of Cape Coast (Ghana, West Africa). 26 Tuesday ● GREAT ILFORD (St Luke)—Clergy: John Brown (PIC). ● GREAT ILFORD (St Mary)—Clergy: Gareth Jones (V). ● Diocese of Cape Town-Table Bay (Southern Africa). 27 Wednesday Christina Rossetti, Poet, 1894 ● HAINAULT (St Paul)—Clergy: Ken Ashton (PIC), Susan Hartley (AP), Licensed Lay Minister: Ellen Hunt, Reader: Sarah Clarke-Moisley. ● Diocese of Cashel & Ossory (Dublin, Ireland). 28 Thursday Peter Chanel, Missionary in the South Pacific, Martyr, 1841 ● SOUTH WOODFORD (Holy Trinity, Hermon Hill)—Clergy: Robert Hampson (V). ● Diocese of Central Buganda (Uganda). 29 Friday Catherine of Sienna, Teacher of the Faith, 1380. ● WANSTEAD (St Mary w Christ Church)—Clergy: Vacancy (R), Richard Wyber (AP), Christoph Wutscher (A), Licensed Lay Minister: Olive Thursby. ● Wanstead Church School: Mark Hemsley (HT). ● Diocese of Central Equador (Province V, The Episcopal Church). 30 Saturday Pandita Mary Ramabai, Translator of the Scriptures, 1922 ● Pandita Mary Ramabai was a highly-educated Hindu – indeed the title “pandita” means “mistress of learning”. When she first encountered Christians, she was deeply impressed with its sense of misson and purpose. This led her eventually to baptism when living with the Wantage Sisters in England and a return to India where she was deeply committed to challenging the treatment of women. Following a deepening of her faith, she increasingly saw her work as deeply evangelistic. ● Dioceses of Central Florida and Central Gulf Coast (Province IV, The Episcopal Church).

MAY

1 THE SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ● Please pray for the work of the Church Army: “We're about sharing faith through words and action to transform lives by making Jesus famous. Our focus is on the seven out of ten people who have little or no meaningful contact with church.” ● Anglican Church of Kenya. 2 Monday PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES ROGATION DAY ● WOODFORD GREEN (St Barnabas)—Clergy: William Obedoza (V).

● Diocese of Central New York (Province II, The Episcopal Church). 3 Tuesday ROGATION DAY ● WOODFORD (St Mary w St Philip and St James)—Clergy: Ian Tarrant (R), Santou Beurklian-Carter (A), Readers: Sally Barton, Mark Lewis. ● Diocese of Central Newfoundland (Canada). 4 Wednesday ROGATION DAY English Saints and Martyrs of the Reformation Era ● WOODFORD BRIDGE (St Paul)—Clergy: Ola Franklin (V), Reader: Mac Leonard. ● Your prayers are asked for West Ham Archdeaconry on this the day of their major visitation service. ● Diocese of Central Pennsylvania (III, The Episcopal Church). 5 Thursday ASCENSION DAY ● WOODFORD WELLS (All Saints & St Andrew)—Clergy: Paul Harcourt (V), David Blackledge, Simon Marshall, Malcolm Porter (AP); Dennis Martin, James Talbot (A). ● Christopher & Ros Smith - The Philippines. ● Steven and Jo Wright - Kuwait. ● Amanda Pearson - Cambodia. ● Helen Fraser - Egypt. ● Bishop Alf and Hilary Cooper - Chile (CMS). ● Andrew and Yvonne Moules - Austria (Agape). ● Chase and Ysanne Olsen - Australia (YWAM). ● Retired clergy, Readers and ministers who live and work in the Deanery of Redbridge. 6 Friday ● DEANERY OF WALTHAM FOREST—Area Dean: Alex Summers. Lay Chair: Vevet Deer. Assistant Area Dean: Christine Rablen. ● Diocese of Central Philippines (Philippines). 7 Saturday between Ascension and Pentecost (waiting for the Spirit) ● Father, pour out your Spirit upon your people, and grant us: a new vision of your glory, a new experience of your power, a new faithfulness to your Word, and a new consecration to your service; that your love may grow among us, and your kingdom come: through Christ our Lord. Amen. ● Diocese of Central Solomons (Melanesia). 8 THE SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER ● Please pray for the ministry of Sparrows Childcare whose mission is “to provide high-quality childcare for children in a happy and safe environment. To operate an open-door policy and welcome children of all or no faith in our nurseries.” ● The Anglican Church of Korea.

9 Monday ● CHINGFORD (St Peter and St Paul, All Saints)—Clergy: Andrew Trenier (R), Hall Speaers (AP), Tina Rollings (A). ● Chingford CE Primary School: Lindsey Lampard (HT). ● Diocese of Central Tanganyika (Tanzania). 10 Tuesday ● CHINGFORD (St Anne)—Clergy: Jude Bullock (V), Mick Scotchmer (A), Reader: Jenny Howland. ● CHINGFORD (St Edmund)—Clergy: Lesley Goldsmith (V). ● Diocese of Central Zambia (Central Africa). 11 Wednesday ● HARROW GREEN (Holy Trinity, St Augustine of Hippo)— Clergy: Neil-Allen Walsh (PIC), Bridget de Mello (AP). ● HIGHAMS PARK (All Saints)—Clergy: Steve Clarke (V). ● Diocese of Central Zimbabwe (Central Africa). 12 Thursday ● LEYTON (St Mary w St Edward & St Luke)—Clergy: Christine Rablen (V), Hilda Gilbert (A). ● LEYTON (All Saints)—Clergy: Maria Holmden (V). ● Diocese of Chandigarh (North India). 13 Friday ● LEYTON (Christ Church)—Clergy: Mark Burkill (V), Nicholas Algeo (A). ● LEYTON (Emmanuel)—Clergy: Ade Ademola (V). ● LEYTON (St Catherine and St Paul)—Clergy: James Waddell (V). ● Diocese of Chelmsford (Canterbury). 14 Saturday MATTHIAS THE APOSTLE ● Matthias can seem like the “also ran” Apostle, chosen after the death and resurrection to take over the role of Judas. And we hear very little further about him. But the Gospels again and again suggest to us that this is the best kind of follower of Jesus to be – one not known for their ego, but for simply pointing to Jesus. Pray that we can be disciples like him. ● Diocese of Madras (South India). 15 PENTECOST (WHIT SUNDAY) ● Christian Aid Week begins: God of the impossible, we pray for justice, peace and reconciliation. And when the challenges seem too many, remind us of your resurrection power, and the miracles of your love that happen whenever injustice is dismantled and rebuilt with peace. Help us to hope that the impossible can happen and live as if it might do so today. Amen (Prayer for Christian Aid) ● Anglican Church of Melanesia. 16 Monday Caroline Chisholm, Social Reformer, 1877 ● LEYTONSTONE (St Andrew)—Clergy: Jack Dunn (PIC), Licensed Lay Minister: Diana Kennedy. ● LEYTONSTONE (St John the Baptist)—Clergy: David Britton (V). ● LEYTONSTONE (St Margaret w St Columba)—Clergy: Revd Neil-Allen Walsh (PIC). ● Diocese of Chester (Canterbury). 17 Tuesday

NAVESTOCK ST THOMAS: Please pray for the clergy and congregation on May 23.

● WALTHAMSTOW TEAM MINISTRY (St Mary, St Gabriel, St Luke, St Stephen)—Clergy: Vanessa Conant (TR), Nigel Anstey, Frances Shoesmith (TV); Jill Mowbray (AP), Winifred Eleyae (A), Readers: Robert Duddridge, Helen Miller. ● St Mary’s School: Beverley Hall (HT). ● WALTHAMSTOW (St Andrew) [Higham Hill Ecumenical Partnership]—Clergy: Stella Olukanmi (PIC). ● WALTHAMSTOW (St Barnabas w St James the Greater)—Clergy: Steven Saxby (V); Lionel CromptonThomas (AP). ● Diocese of Chhattisgarh (North India). 18 Wednesday ● WALTHAMSTOW (St John)—Clergy: Kieran Bush (V). Reader: Keith Cox. ● WALTHAMSTOW (St Michael & All Angels)—Clergy: Alex Summers (V). ● WALTHAMSTOW (St Peter-in-the-Forest)—Clergy: Paul Trathen (V), Licensed Lay Minister: Sue Diplock. ● WALTHAMSTOW (St Saviour)—Clergy: Salvador Telen (V). ● St Saviour’s School: Beverley Hall (HT). ● Retired clergy, Readers and lay ministers who live and work in the Deanery of Waltham Forest. ● Diocese of Chicago (Province VI, The Episcopal Church). 19 Thursday Dunstan, Archbishop of Canterbury, Monastic Reformer, 988 ● BRADWELL EPISCOPAL AREA—Area Bishop: John Wraw. Archdeacon of Chelmsford: Elizabeth Snowden; Archdeacon of Southend: Mina Smallman. Advisers: Graham Hamborg (CMD), Martin Wood (Mission & Ministry), Richard Jordan (Faith In Action), Carla Hampton (Healing & Deliverance Ministry), Brenda Wallace (Liturgical), Marion Walford, Rose Braisby (Women’s Ministry), Ron McLernon (Stewardship). ● Julia Sheffield (Mid Essex NHS Trust CHP). ● Diocese of Chichester (Canterbury). 20 Friday Alcuin of York, Deacon, Abbot of Tours, 804 ● DEANERY OF BRENTWOOD—Area Dean: Paul Hamilton. Lay Chair: Paul Betts. Chaplains: Tony Rablen (NE London NHS Foundation Trust); Adrian McConnaughie (Brentwood School). ● Anglican Church of South America. 21 Saturday Helena, Protector of the Holy Places, 330 ● In the 12th century a Welsh historian made the unusual claim that Helena was born in Colchester. It is a pious myth, based on misunderstanding. But it was in England – York rather than Colchester – that her husband was proclaimed Emperor. Helena was a Christian and is often depicted as simply looking for relics in the Holy Land. In fact she worked alongside orphans and the poor. Historically as mother of the first-ever Christian emperor, her impact was enormous. ● Diocese of Chotanagpur (North India). 22 TRINITY SUNDAY ● Please pray for the work of the International Issues Groups and the Chair, Revd Canon Dr Roger Matthews. ● La Inglesia Anglicana de Mexico. 23 Monday ● BENTLEY COMMON (St Paul) w KELVEDON HATCH (St Nicholas) and NAVESTOCK (St Thomas)—Clergy: Mark James (R), Ann Coleman (AP) St Paul’s School: Louise Putt (HT). ● BRENTWOOD (St George)—Clergy: Garry Jenkins (V). ● BRENTWOOD (St Thomas)—Clergy: Colin Hewitt (V). ● St Thomas’ Infant School: Caroline L’Estrange (HT). ● St Thomas’ Junior School: Dean Moran (HT). ● Becket Keys School: Andy Scott-Evans (HT). ● Brentwood School: Adrian McConnaughie (CHP). ● Diocese of Christ the King (Southern Africa). 24 Tuesday John and Charles Wesley, Evangelists, Hymn Writers, 1791 and 1788 ● DODDINGHURST (All Saints)—Clergy: Mark James (PIC), Ann Coleman (AP). ● Doddinghurst Junior School: Margaret Cooper (HT). ● Please pray for Archdeacon Elwin on his special day. ● Diocese of Christchurch (Aotearoa NZ and Polynesia). 25 Wednesday The Venerable Bede, Monk at Jarrow, Scholar, Historian, 735; Aldhelm, Bishop of Sherborne, 709

● EAST and WEST HORNDON (St Francis) w LITTLE WARLEY (St Peter) and CHILDERDITCH (All Saints & St Faith)—Clergy: Helen Bryan (PIC). ● MARGARETTING (St Margaret) w MOUNTNESSING (St Giles) and BUTTSBURY (St Mary)—Clergy: Patrick Sherring(PIC), Celia Parkes (AP), Andy Finn (A) Margaretting School: Andy Gillett (HT). ● Mountnessing School: Holly Obank (HT). ● Diocese of Chubu (Japan). 26 Thursday DAY OF THANKSGIVING FOR THE INSTITUTION OF HOLY COMMUNION (CORPUS CHRISTI) ● INGRAVE (St Nicholas)—Clergy: Paul Hamilton (AD, R). ● INGRAVE (St Stephen)—Clergy: Paul Hamilton (AD, R), Juan Sedano (AP). ● Ingrave Johnstone School: Karen Phillips (HT). ● Diocese of Clogher (Armagh, Ireland). 27 Friday ● HUTTON (All Saints and St Peter)—Clergy: Vacancy (R), Tony Baxter (AP), Licensed Lay Minister: John Patterson. ● All Saints School: Jeanette Miller (HT). ● Diocese of Coimbatore (South India). 28 Saturday Lanfranc, Prior of Le Bec, Archbishop of Canterbury, Scholar, 1089 ● Lanfranc was an Italian who went on to become a monk in Normandy. William the Conqueror invited him to become Archbishop of Canterbury – a role he fulfilled with great energy and skill. He was intellectually and administratively able, and had a capacity both as a Church leader and a politician. It is very easy to see such figures as quite different, but in fact he sought to be a faithful Bishop, with a heart for the Gospel. Pray for our bishops today and the many complex demands on them. ● Diocese of Columbia (Province V, The Episcopal Church). 29 THE FIRST SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY ● Please pray for the work of the Friends of Essex Churches Trust, and give thanks for those who work so hard to preserve our ancient buildings. ● Pray for the work of the Anglican Centre in Rome. 30 Monday Josephine Butler, Social Reformer, 1906 Joan of Arc, Visionary, 1431 Apolo Kivebulaya, Priest, Evangelist in Central Africa, 1933 ● INGATESTONE (St Edmund and St Mary) w FRYERNING (St Mary Virgin)—Clergy: Patrick Sherring (R), Celia Parkes (AP), Andy Finn (A). ● Ingatestone & Fryerning Junior School: Neil Taggart (HT). ● SHENFIELD (St Mary the Virgin)—Clergy: David Thomas (R), Eileen Lockhart (AP). ● St Mary’s School: Sally Taggart (HT). ● Diocese of Colorado (Province VII, The Episcopal Church). 31 Tuesday VISIT OF THE BVM TO ELIZABETH ● SOUTH WEALD (St Peter)—Clergy: Jane Bradbury (PIC). St Peter’s School: Iain Gunn (HT). ● WARLEY (Christ Church) and GREAT WARLEY (St Mary)—Clergy: Robert Binks (PIC), Adrian McConnaughie (AP), Licensed Lay Minister: Tim Lee. ● Immanuel Church, Brentwood (Bishop’s Mission Order) Clergy: Andrew Grey (MiC). ● Pray for the retired clergy, Readers and lay ministers who live and work in the Deanery of Brentwood. NOTES:

The Cycle of Prayer is also available on the Diocesan website: www. chelmsford.anglican.org/faith/prayer. Where parochial links are known to exist the names of overseas workers are placed immediately after the appropriate parish. Further information concerning overseas dioceses, including the names of bishops, is contained in the Anglican Cycle of Prayer, available on their website www.anglicancommunion. org/acp/main.cfm. To contact the Diocese of Chelmsford about the Cycle of Prayer, email internalcomms@chelmsford.anglican.org.

ABBREVIATIONS:

A Assistant Clergy; AAD Assistant Area Dean; AC Associate Clergy; ACD Associate Clergy Diaconate; AD Area Dean; ASM Associate Minister, AT Assistant Clergy Title Post; AYO Area Youth Officer, BP Bishop; C Community Worker; CA Church Army; CIC Curate in Charge; CHP Chaplain; EVN Evangelist; HT Head Teacher; LD Locally Deployed; LLM Licensed Lay Minister; MCD Minister of Conventional District; MIN Minister, P Priest; PIC Priest in Charge; R Rector; Rdes Rector designate; RDR Reader; PTO Permission to Officiate; RES Residentiary Canon; SNP Special Needs Post, T Teacher; TM Team Ministry; TR Team Rector; TV Team Vicar; V Vicar; Vdes Vicar designate; WDN Warden. Hon.editor: Revd Bill Howes, 26 Westfield Drive, Coggeshall, Colchester, CO6 1PU. 01376 561826 (email frbill@mail.com), who would be glad to receive comments and corrections and also any items for prayer and praise to be considered for inclusion from the parishes.

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CYCLE OF PRAYER

MAY

NAVESTOCK ST THOMAS: Please pray for the clergy and congregation on May 23.

ABBREVIATIONS:

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THE MONTH — NB SUPPLEMENT April-May 2016

THE

month — What’s on near you during Lent and Easter in Essex & East London

Wednesday, March 16 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.30am. Lent Group Evangelism and the Third Age. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● Chelmsford Cathedral, north transept. 7.30pm. Wednesday Evenings in Lent at the Cathedral – Faith and Film. A reflective series of talks with five different speakers showing an excerpt from a favourite film of theirs, and then talk about how it connects to their faith. Speaker tonight is Bishop Stephen Cottrell, who will talk about the film Cinema Paradiso. The evening ends with Compline (Night Prayer), finishing at 9pm. Entry is free. ● St John’s Colchester. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series: John Wraw, Bishop of Bradwell – “Re-imagining Ministry – What is ministry and what part can I play?” Refreshments available from 7pm. No need to book. Thursday, March 17 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being. ● St John’s, Stratford. 7.30pm. Lent lecture series: John Wraw, Bishop of Bradwell: “Re-imagining Ministry – What is ministry and what part can I play?” Refreshments from 7pm. No need to book. Friday, March 18 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by St Cedd's School. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish. ● Ss Peter & Paul, Ilford. Stations of the Cross. Saturday, March 19 ● Mothers' Union Coffee Morning. St John the Baptist Church, Danbury CM3 4NG. 10am. Celebrating140 years of the Mothers’ Union Christian care for families. ● St Mary’s church, Church End, Broxted CM6 2BZ. Second in series of walks organised by the churches in the Deanery of Dunmow and Stansted following the theme of Singing with the Angels. This reflects various services and events held in the latter part of 2015 and the involvement of angels in spreading the word of God. Walkers meet at 9am at the church car park and walk for about 1¼ hours, returning to the church for refreshments. The walks generally follow footpaths and stout walking shoes/boots are definitely advisable. The walk is followed by a short time for prayers and singing, hopefully with musical accompaniment. People not wanting to walk will be most welcome to join in with refreshments at 10.15am. Everyone welcome as are dogs – on leads please. Contact Terry Reed, telephone 07973 846195, e-mail broxtedchurch@ gmail.com. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 6.45pm. Theological Society Lecture and Chelmsford Singers Music for Passiontide. ● Harlow St Paul. 9am-1pm. Harlow Archdeaconry Vocations Day. Vocations Days are an opportunity to consider God’s call and find out more about the different types of ordained and licensed lay ministry direct from Church leaders. For more information and details of how to book, please visit www.chelmsford. anglican.org/vocationsdays2016. ● Althorne Church Hall CM3 6BY. 11-3pm. Bit of a Do! In aid of St. Andrew’s church repair fund & St. Clare’s Hospice. Easter Gifts, Soup & Rolls, Tombola, Crafts, Cards, Teas & Cakes, Raffle. ● Ingatestone Hall, Ingatestone Hall Lane, Ingatestone CM4 9NS. The Stondon Singers concert of East Anglian choral music. Tickets £12 and £6 (under 16) from James Dace & Son, Broomfield Road, Chelmsford, Allegro Music, High Street, Chelmsford, Post Office, Blackmore, Members of the Choir or on the door. Tel. 01992 522300 or e-mail stondon_singers@ fsmail.net www.stondonsingers.org.uk Sunday, March 20 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Music & Readings. ● Baddow Essex Forest Church, the woods at the Rectory in Little Baddow CM3 4SY. 3-4.30pm. More information can be found on www.mysticchrist.co.uk/ blog/post/essex_forest_church or email forestchurchinessex@gmail.com. ● St James' church, Beatrice Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 1LE. 4pm. St James @ 4. A short, informal Service of Holy Communion, using modern music, and followed by refreshments. Suitable for all ages. Tuesday, March 22 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Holy Week Concert: Scarlatti Stabat Mater. ● A Deeper Walk - Lent Course. Emmanuel Church, Billericay CM12 9LD. 7.30pm. Find out more at www. billericaychurches.org/html/news.php. Wednesday, March 23 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● Tenebrae at Wickham St Paul's CO9 2PH. 8pm. A beautiful reflective service or words and music in Holy Week during which all the candles on the altar are extinguished one by one after various readings related to our Lord's Passion. ● Talk and music by accordion player Tony Compton at St James the Less, Hadleigh. 2.30pm Maundy Thursday, March 24 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.45pm. Holy Week: The Eucharist of the Last Supper followed by the Watch. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. The Welsh Society meets in the Chapter House.

Pilgrim presentation

MANY parishes in Chelmsford Diocese are using Pilgrim, the major teaching and discipleship resource from the Church of England. Pilgrim aims to help every church create a place where people can explore the Christian faith together and see how it can be lived out each day. Bishop Stephen, the Pilgrim course author, will be running a presentation day at St John’s church, Colchester on April 27 (10am-4pm). This event is aimed at people who are involved in mission, lay ministry, education, as well as training at all levels including CME, IME and Reader training. Clergy, discipleship group leaders, churchwardens and Readers/LLMs are invited to attend, whether interested in finding out more or willing to share feedback. ● Find out more about Pilgrim at www. pilgrimcourse.org and book a place at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/pilgrimpresentation-day-tickets-21108911322. Good Friday, March 25 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12noon. Preaching of the Cross followed at 2pm by The Good Friday Liturgy ● St Mary's Maldon. 7.30pm. The Annual Liturgical Performance of Bach's St John Passion, including Bishop Stephen's Good Friday Homily. The congregation is invited not just to listen to the music but to participate by singing some of the chorales (hymns). Between parts one and two, Bishop Stephen gives a homily on the meaning of this most momentous day. ● St John’s church, St John’s Road, Epping. 7.30pm. Epping Church Choirs Association presents Fauré’s Requiem conducted by Simon Winters. Entry free. Retiring collection for charity. Easter Saturday, March 26 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7pm. Easter Vigil and Confirmations. Easter Day, March 27 ● Dawn Eucharist at Gravel Hill on the approach to the hamlet of Hickbush in Great Henny. 7.30am. A wonderful start to Easter Day: an outdoor Eucharist on top of a hill overlooking the beautiful Stour Valley while the larks sing above us - a short service with unaccompanied singing. ● Easter Morning Sunrise Service St Margaret's Downham. 6.15am. Gather in the churchyard for a short service just as the sun is rising. Join us for the lighting the Paschal Candle, sing some hymns, say some prayers, then congregate in the church for coffee and hot cross buns. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8.30am: Breakfast with the Bible led Revd Kate Moore; 3.30pm: Evensong. Tuesday, March 29 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Wednesday, March 30 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. Saturday, April 2 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am-12 noon. Cathedral Coffee Morning in the Chapter House. Come and enjoy fresh coffee, home-made scones and bring & buy. Sunday, April 3 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● Holy Trinity Church, Southchurch Boulevard, Southend on Sea SS2 4UA. 5pm. Choral Concert by Choral Scholars from St Martin in the Fields, London, including music by Vaughan Williams, Rutter, Byrd, Mozart, Bach and more. Refreshments are served after the concert. Tickets from 01702 303628, priced £8. Monday, April 4 ● St. Albright's Church, Stanway, Colchester CO3 8LT. 7.30pm. Concert by the Hermitage Orthodox Choir of St. Petersburg. Choral music from the Russian Orthodox Church and some Russian folk songs sung a capella by the Hermitage Choir from St. Petersburg. Tickets £10 at the door or £8 in advance from Revd Tony Bushell 01787 222487 or 07909 936 081 or vicartone@aol.com. Tuesday, April 5 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Wednesday, April 6 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock. 1-3pm. Café Theology. Meet at the Food Court. ● Library at the Diocesan Office, 53 New Street, Chelmsford. 1pm. The Chelmsford Christian Bookshop Reading Group. Everyone is welcome and it is free to join in. For details and encouragement, please contact the bookshop on 01245 294405 or email bookshop@chelmsford.anglican.org ● St. John’s, Stratford, E15. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Concert by Christine Radjabou, Soprano (accomp. Daniel Young) Free Entry. Retiring Collection. (www. stjohnse15.co.uk for updates) Thursday, April 7 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.

● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am. Mothers' Union Corporate Communion in St Cedd’s Chapel. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Mothers’ Union Evening Section meets in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St Laurence church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster RM14 2BB. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Recital by Ellis Ensemble. Car parking available- no charge to church users. Concerts are free, with a retiring collection. Kenneth Tickell built the church’s fine organ in 2003. It is a fine instrument, with a variety of colours, which allows the organist to play repertoire from all periods. Saturday, April 9 ● St Luke's church, Southend on Sea. 7.30pm. Concert by Will Todd Ensemble in aid of 'Rainbow Trust Children's Charity' that particularly supports those that suffer with Neurofibromatosis ● Lambing day at White Tyrells Farm, Stock Lane, Ingatestone. 2-4.30pm Come and see and bottle feed the lambs. Refreshments, raffle and games. Sunday, April 10 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● All Saints' Church, Doddinghurst CM15 ONJ. 2.30pm. The Diary of Richard Stonley: Dining in Tudor Doddinghurst. In this second talk social historian Zoe Hudson, who is studying the unpublished diaries of Richard Stonley, Lord of the Manor in Doddinghurst in the late 16th century, will tell us about how food was produced, purchased and enjoyed in Stonley's household. £4 including tea and homemade cake. All profits will go towards the conservation of All Saints' medieval processional cross. Cake served at 3.15pm Tuesday, April 12 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Wednesday, April 13 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St. John’s, Stratford, E15. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Concert by Danielle Mac, Violin. Free Entry. Retiring Collection. (www.stjohnse15.co.uk for updates) ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Theological Society. Thursday, April 14 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 2pm. Mothers' Union Afternoon Section meet in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St Laurence Church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster RM14 2BB. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Recital by Richard Brasier, organ - St Laurence. Car parking available no charge to church users. Concerts are free, with a retiring collection. Kenneth Tickell built the church’s fine organ in 2003. It is a fine instrument, with a variety of colours, which allows the organist to play repertoire from all periods. Friday, April 15 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert: Cathedral School. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments from noon, or bring your own if you wish. Saturday, April 16 ● St James' Church, Beatrice Road, Clacton-on-Sea (entrance through church hall in Tower Road) CO15 1LE. 3-5pm. Messy Church at St James, Clacton ● Aldham Village Hall. 10.30am. Rummage Sale. Entry 20p. ● St Winifred's Church, Manor Road, Chigwell IG7 5PS. 7pm. Dave Bilbrough In Concert. Free entry, freewill offering, light refreshments. Tel: 0208 5507649. ● St Paul’s Church, Church Road, Clacton-on-Sea CO15 6AU. 7.30pm. Totally Mozart with Clacton Choral Society with soloists Claire Coleman, Janet Bullard, Stephen Cviic and Tom Cogan and clarinetist Charlie Price. A programme which combines the well-loved with some new delights. Tickets are £8 including programme from 01255 221511 or debbietccs@gmail. com. Limited tickets will be available on the door. Sunday, April 17 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● Holy Innocents Church, Lamarsh CO8 5EU. 3pm. Gainsborough Concert Group Sunday afternoon concert. Tuesday, April 19 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Wednesday, April 20 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St. John’s, Stratford, E15. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Concert by Geoff Hobbs, Organ. Free Entry. Retiring Collection. (www.stjohnse15.co.uk for updates) Thursday, April 21 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being. ● St Laurence Church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster RM14 2BB. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Recital by Rebecca Silverman, soprano. Car parking available- no charge to church users. Retiring collection. Friday-Sunday, April 22-24 ● St James the Less Church, High Street, Hadleigh (opposite Macdonalds) SS7 2PA. Flower FestivalCelebration HM Queen's 90th Birthday. Fri & Sat: 10am4pm. Sun: noon-4pm. Depicting events during the Queen's long life - Guiding - wartime Service - Silver Wedding - Malta - Crowns - HMY Britannia - Garden Parties and Sandringham.

Friday, April 22 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert: Max Welford & Katherine Tinker. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish. ● St George's Church, Ongar Rd (near Robin Hood Roundabout) Brentwood. 8pm. Eve of St George's Patronal Festival Eucharist. Come and pray for our country as we celebrate the Queen's 90th birthday - and prepare for the EEC referendum. Preacher- Revd Andrew Grey, Minister of Immanuel Church, Brentwood. Wear your Red Rose - don't bring dragons - and stay behind for the buffet do afterwards. Tel 01277 213618 Sunday, April 24 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. Tuesday, April 26 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Wednesday, April 27 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● St. John’s, Stratford, E15. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Concert by Carina Drury Quartet. Free Entry. Retiring Collection. (www.stjohnse15.co.uk for updates) ● St John’s Church, St John's Close, Colchester CO4 0HP GB. 10.30am-4pm. Pilgrim presentation day run by Stephen Cottrell, Pilgrim author (see panel left). Thursday, April 28 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. The Welsh Society meets in the Chapter House. ● St Laurence Church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster RM14 2BB. 1.05pm. Lunchtime Recital by Simon Botschen, organ - St Laurentius, Germany. Car parking available- no charge to church users. Concerts are free, with a retiring collection. Kenneth Tickell built the church’s fine organ in 2003. It is a fine instrument, with a variety of colours, which allows the organist to play repertoire from all periods. Friday, April 29 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert: St Bernard's School Choir (Westcliff). Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish. ● St Thomas of Canterbury, Brentwood. 1pm. Lunchtime Live! With David Silkoff (piano). Retiring collection. For further details: 01277 218121. Saturday, April 30-Monday May 2 ● St Peter's Church, Church Road, Great Totham CM9 8NP. 11am-5pm daily. Flower Festival - 90 Glorious Years depicted in flowers, with music recitals, song, dance, children's activities, photographic display and refreshments. Sat: 7.30pm. An evening of music. Saturday, April 30 ● The Room in the Rodings, Dunmow Road, Beauchamp Roding CM5 0PF. 10am-4pm. Beauchamp Roding Country Market. Refreshments, cakes, tombola, plants, second-hand books, bric-a-brac, raffle, local produce in aid of St Botolph's church. Free entry. Sunday, May 1 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● Loshes Farm Woodland, Great Henny Sudbury CO10 7LX.3-5pm. Forest Church North Hinckford. Worshipping God in the beauty of a woodland including a Rogation Sunday walk. Using our senses to stop and wonder at God's glorious creation. Bring a notebook and pencil and wear stout footwear. ● Sunday Afternoon Teas at All Saints, Epping Upland. 3-5pm. Come and enjoy our lovely rural setting and fantastic views, whilst tasting delicious home-made cakes, tea and coffee. We are dog friendly and have water bowls and biscuits for our four -legged friends. Monday, May 2 ● St. Mary's Church, Burnham on Crouch, CM0 8DA. 10.30am-3.30pm. Big Burnham Book Sale. There will be hundreds of books for sale, all at reasonable prices. St. Mary's handmade cards will be on sale and refreshments will be available. Entry is free & there is plenty of car park space available. Tuesday, May 3 ● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group. Wednesday, May 4 ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall. ● The Friends of Essex Churches Trust Spring Study Day, will visit four medieval churches in north-west Essex - St Mary the Virgin, Arkesden, St Mary & St Clement, Clavering, All Saints, Rickling and St Mary the Virgin, Wendens Ambo. Members £7; guests £10. Enquiries and bookings to Susan Clark-Starr, please tel: 01787 24212, mob: 07956 463628, email: susanclarkstarr@hotmail.co.uk May 2016 diary deadline ● Submit event details at www.chelmsford. anglican.org/eventsform or call Sarah Newman on 01245 294443 by April 1 for inclusion in The Month and on the diocesan website. Latest events ● You can find the latest events online at www. chelmsford.anglican.org/faith/whats-on