CROSSLINCS News from around the Diocese of Lincoln www.lincoln.anglican.org
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May/June 2019 – Free
Responding to climate change together The Diocese of Lincoln and the University of Lincoln are seeking to be leaders in Lincolnshire in responding to climate change through the staging of a conference focused on science and theology. The international conference, which is to be held on the 30th and 31st of August and 1st of September 2019 at the University of Lincoln and Lincoln Cathedral, will offer lectures, discussions and workshops with the aim of identifying responses to reduce human-induced climate change. The conference will feature speakers from Lincoln, Polynesia, New Zealand and the United States, and will see dialogue between the disciplines of theology and science in seeking to reduce the size of the carbon footprint inherited by future generations. A further intended outcome of the conference
will be the launch of an updated environmental policy for the diocese and details of processes designed to measure the effectiveness of actions taken. Bishop Christopher has invited participants from Polynesia, our link diocese, to tell their story of rising tides and severe storms. In looking ahead to the conference, the bishop has said: “Water can take life and give life. It is easy for us to lose touch with nature but the reality is that rising tides and tropical storms combined with drought and falling reservoirs leaves us with too much water and not enough water. In the UK we are somewhat shielded from the impact of such threats but places like Fiji and Tonga, which have endured immense changes in weather patterns, are a wake-up call for us all.” (Continued overleaf...)
INSIDE...
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Thy Kingdom Come 2019
Lighting up the town of Spilsby
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Crosslincs is produced by the Diocese of Lincoln
The submission deadline for the next issue is 3rd June 2019 Editor E: crosslincs@lincoln.anglican.org Communications Officer The Revd Adrian Smith T: 01522 50 40 37 M: 07885 99 99 07 E: adrian.smith@lincoln.anglican.org Diocesan Offices Edward King House, Minster Yard, Lincoln LN2 1PU T: 01522 50 40 50 E: enquiries@lincoln.anglican.org www.lincoln.anglican.org www.facebook.com/Dioceselincoln www.twitter.com/CofELincoln Instagram: diocese_of_lincoln The Bishop of Lincoln The Right Reverend Christopher Lowson T: 01522 50 40 90 E: bishop.lincoln@lincoln.anglican.org
Responding to climate change together (continued) Bishop Christopher is hoping that as many people as possible from our diocesan family will be able to attend the conference, and as well as the lectures there will be art displays, a market place showcasing the work of groups and businesses seeking to lower their carbon footprint, a dinner and a service in Lincoln Cathedral. Professor Edward Hanna, Professor of Climate Science and Meteorology at the University of Lincoln, says that the conference can prompt further action and discussions in science and faith communities: “This is a forum to promote firmer action on limiting the effects of human-induced global warming. Together we will explore ways of making appropriate behavioural changes in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, both as individuals and also at a wider institutional level.” Speaking with regard to the new diocesan environmental policy, the Revd Richard Steel (Mission Team Leader) has said: “Our environmental policy will include commitments about how we run the diocesan offices and the use of glebe land, and it will encourage churches to take their own actions, as part of our commitment to the national ‘Ecochurch’ scheme. We will also be including a section detailing possible personal actions, with many practical suggestions. “We believe that taking practical action in our care for creation is no longer a fringe interest for activities but rather a vital contribution that Christians can make to the future of this planet that God has given us, and a ‘core concern of the Church’s evangelising work’.”
The Bishop of Grimsby The Right Reverend Dr David Court T: 01522 50 40 90 E: bishop.grimsby@lincoln.anglican.org The Bishop of Grantham The Right Reverend Dr Nicholas Chamberlain T: 01522 50 40 90 E: bishop.grantham@lincoln.anglican.org Diocesan Secretary The Revd David Dadswell T: 01522 50 40 32 E: david.dadswell@lincoln.anglican.org PA to the Diocesan Secretary Kay Clayton T: 01522 50 40 32 E: kay.clayton@lincoln.anglican.org The Archdeacon of Stow and Lindsey The Venerable Mark Steadman T: 01522 50 40 39 E: archdeacon.stow@lincoln.anglican.org
Archbishop Winston Halapua offers a preview to the conference at the April meeting of Diocesan Synod.
A brief guide to the conference programme
Friday, 30th & Saturday, 31st August – keynote addresses and parallel sessions at the Minerva Building at the University of Lincoln’s Brayford Wharf Campus. Saturday, 31st August (7pm) – The ‘Footprint Dinner’ at Lincoln Cathedral. A three-course, sustainable meal with a CO2 footprint of 1.888kg.
The Archdeacon of Boston The Venerable Dr Justine Allain Chapman T: 01522 50 40 39 E: archdeacon.boston@lincoln.anglican.org
Sunday, 1st September (10.30am) – Conference Service in Lincoln Cathedral. To include the launch of the diocesan environmental policy and to be followed by a lunch in the garden of Edward King House.
The Archdeacon of Lincoln The Venerable Gavin Kirk T: 01522 50 40 39 E: archdeacon.lincoln@lincoln.anglican.org
For more details, including ticketing information and speaker biographies, please see www.wateroflife2019.eventbrite.co.uk Enquiries may also be made by calling 01522 50 40 50 or by emailing wateroflife.conference@lincoln.anglican.org
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Developing international links ‘Already we are enriched by their prophetic words’ The Dean of Lincoln, the Very Reverend Christine Wilson, reflects on a recent visit to our companion link diocese in Polynesia. Accompanied by the Revd Jayson Rhodes, the Bishop’s Chaplain, she acted as Bishop’s Commissary at the episcopal ordination and installation of Fereimi Cama as their new Bishop and Archbishop of Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia... The visit to Fiji provided the opportunity to worship and share hospitality with one another and nurture the developing partnership. I conveyed messages of greeting at the beginning of the service on behalf of Bishop Christopher and the Diocese of Lincoln and also from Archbishop Justin Welby, who wrote of a province that “sets an example of reconciliation and unity in diversity, in a region of martyrs and missionaries from the past, and amidst the greatest challenge to humanity, that of climate change.” The President of Fiji attended the service and afterwards spoke to me, thanking me for travelling such a distance to bring encouragement and support from the Anglican Communion and the Diocese of Lincoln. Polynesia is a key contributor to our climate change conference later in the year, and we look forward to welcoming student delegates and conference speakers from the province. Already we are enriched by their prophetic words and challenge to the world to love its creator by loving the creation. The very land on which we stood in Fiji is threatened by rising sea levels.
Dean Christine delivered greetings to Archbishop Fereimi Cama in Fiji.
While visiting we also took the opportunity to learn about an important mission priority in the Diocese of Polynesia which focus on some of the Five Marks of Mission: • to respond to human need by loving service • to transform unjust structures of society, to challenge violence of every kind and pursue peace and reconciliation • to strive to safeguard the integrity of creation, and sustain and renew the life of the earth. The House of Sarah is a thriving project that seeks to raise awareness about violence against women and girls. This includes education programmes, teaching church leaders, gender theology, workshops on human rights and liturgical resources. Recently they have commissioned advocates and counsellors in local parishes that are named Sarah Carers. Work is being progressed on building coalitions through interfaith networks, the Council of Churches and women’s groups. As part of a strong media campaign, promoting 16 days of activism, Fijian faith leaders made a public stand against rape and violence against women and children through television, cinema and poster campaigns. St Christopher’s Home is described as a safe haven for children who have been neglected, abused, orphaned or abandoned. It has just celebrated its 50th anniversary. We visited the home and met the children and the two nuns who oversee their care. They shared their plans to build an additional boys’ home adjacent to the current home to meet the needs of older boys who currently have to leave at the age of 12. This causes separation amongst siblings (girls are able to stay at the existing home until they are 19). We look forward to sharing further news from Polynesia. DIOCESELINCOLN
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‘Intentional evangelism’ ‘Evangelism is not a scary word!’ Our bishops and curates have been responding to an evangelism-related challenge issued by Archbishop Justin Welby. Bishop David tells Crosslincs of how they have tried to meet this challenge and the early results... In 2018 Archbishop Justin Welby laid down a challenge to the bishops of the southern province. They were encouraged to set aside time in their diaries for what he termed as ‘intentional evangelism’. By this he meant deliberately looking for ways to share the Christian story with those who might not have encountered it before. Responding to this challenge, and working with our second-year curates, a very impressive 42 separate events were organised around the diocese, each tailored to the communities that they were seeking to serve. The style of these was wide and varied. Some built on existing parish plans, others used national initiatives, such as the anniversary of 100 years of the RAF, as a reason to celebrate the life of Jesus, and some were linked to specific events, such as barbecues and teas. Bishop David even utilised a ‘Desert Island Discs’ evening in Tetney as an opportunity to share not only his favourite music but also something about faith and the story we know to be true.
“I have gained confidence and have learnt to ‘have a go’, for the best way to evangelise is to start doing it” Pictured is the open-air Good Friday service, which was led last year by Bishop David at Red Hill, Stenigot in the Asterby Group in the Lincolnshire Wolds. In reflecting on the various events, Bishop David has said: “We all really enjoyed the challenge of reaching out to people and embracing intentional evangelism. It forces you to go outside your comfort zone, which makes you grow both as a person and in your faith. “The outdoor service at Red Hill was particularly memorable. It was something different and it really reached out to people, with over 300 attending – their best attendance people could remember. A brass band accompanied us as we sang hymns. People symbolically carried a cross to a peak on the hills, and I was able to speak briefly about the meaning of Easter. W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
An open-air Good Friday service offered a great opportunity for evangelism.
In all, it is estimated that around 900 ‘guests’ (those beyond the usual reach of the Church) were reached over the course of the year – some of whom we know have been drawn further into the life of the Church through confirmation and youth groups, etc. Bishop David continued: “Because last year was such a success, we are already underway with our events this year with a new cohort of second-year curates, and so far 24 events have been organised and I ask you all to please pray for them. To date this includes work in schools, a number of events where food will be shared, and others where Bishop Christopher, Bishop Nicholas and myself will be opening ourselves to questioning, including ‘Banter with the Bish!’” Two curates who took part in 2018 gave some feedback that we hope will inspire the next group of intentional evangelists: “I have thoroughly enjoyed having the opportunity to lead this project. I have gained confidence and have learnt to ‘have a go’, for the best way to evangelise is to start doing it.” Another said: “When I heard about this initiative my heart sank! But I’ve really enjoyed taking part. It has made me realise that, actually, evangelism is not a scary word!” Please join us in prayer: Almighty God, source of our hope and all good things, you call us in love to share in your work of making your love known to all. Bless, we pray, all that we do in seeking to share the story of your love with those amongst whom we live, that through us they may catch a glimpse of the love you have for each one of us, and find their place within it themselves. Amen.
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The global wave of prayer Thy Kingdom Come 2019 John Leach looks ahead to Thy Kingdom Come 2019, which is set to include a prayer event in our cathedral and also the official launch of the Community of St Hugh... Our archbishops have again called us to a special season of prayer, from Ascension Day to Pentecost (30th May – 9th June 2019), with a specific request to pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit towards the evangelisation of our nation. This ‘novena’ (nine days) reflects the period of prayer and waiting which, for the apostles and their company, resulted in the gift of the Spirit and massive church growth. All sorts of free resources are available from the Thy Kingdom Come website (www.thykingdomcome.global), including the Family Prayer Adventure Map, which is ideal for use at home, or which can be adapted for use in children’s groups in church. In our diocese, the novena will climax with a special Prayer Morning in Lincoln Cathedral on Saturday, 8th June from 10am until 12.15pm (with an optional Eucharist at 12.30pm). All sorts of creative ways of praying for the renewal of our diocese will be on offer, with a chance to move around and sample different prayer stations, as well as joining in shared prayer and worship.
The morning will also see the official launch of the Community of St Hugh, our own diocesan prayer community that commits to praying regularly for the mission of the Church in greater Lincolnshire. Save the date now, bring as many people as you can from your church, bring the whole family, and experience a variety of fun and fast-moving ways of praying, or come and enjoy the peace of this building in which prayer has been offered for centuries.
Journeys of Faith: Epworth – Lincoln The second pilgrimage in Lincoln Cathedral’s Journeys of Faith series has been launched with a group of pilgrims following the route from Epworth to Lincoln Cathedral... The recent three-day journey began in Epworth, home to John and Charles Wesley, and the group visited the Wesley Memorial Church, St Andrew’s Church and the Old Rectory. The route took in Gainsborough, Stow, North Carlton and many other villages along the way, with a different Wesley hymn sung in each of the 17 churches. As well as walking, a variety of transport was used, including bikes, motorcycles, horseback riding and a minibus, highlighting the principle that the pilgrimage really is open for all to enjoy. When the walkers, cyclists and riders arrived at Lincoln Cathedral they were welcomed by the Dean of Lincoln, with a blessing offered by the Chancellor. Paul Cragg, who walked the whole Epworth pilgrimage with his two companions, said that he had loved the whole experience:
“What an event. The group of pilgrims were strangers to us all at the start, and became friends by the time we reached the Cathedral. We would most certainly wish to meet them all again, should the opportunity arise.” The Journeys of Faith Epworth to Lincoln guidebook is available from the Cathedral shop and also on the website at www.lincolncathedral.com DIOCESELINCOLN
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Celebrating community Marking 65 years at Waddington The Revd Annabel Barber looks forward to Risen from the Ashes, a special event to celebrate 65 years of the current St Michael’s Church building in Waddington... On 9th May 1941, a German land mine fell on the 15thcentury church of St Michael in Waddington, completely destroying it. All that remained were the church bells, which were virtually undamaged. Although the loss of the church had a profound effect on the village, there was an awareness that in some way the church had saved the village. If the mine had fallen elsewhere, the loss of life would have been much greater. For years, the congregation worshipped in the village schoolroom, while £28,000 was raised to build a new church. The War Damage Commission gave a grant of £16,000, as well as a length of blue carpet from the carpeting that had been installed at Westminster Abbey for the Coronation in 1953! After much hard work in fundraising, the remaining funds were raised and, 65 years ago, in 1952, the foundation stone of the new church was laid by the then Bishop of Lincoln, the Rt Revd Maurice Harland. The anniversary of this event will be celebrated this May at St Michael’s Church with an exhibition titled Risen from the Ashes. This will include a display of information about the history of the church, an embroidery exhibition featuring the work of Pamela Pavitt on a theme of
St Michael’s Church (above) and the surviving church bells (below left).
Creation and the Environment, and floral decorations by local groups and individuals on the festival theme. The exhibitions will begin on Sunday, 26th May, with a special celebration with Bishop Nicholas to follow on Ascension Day (30th May) at 7pm. The exhibitions will close on Sunday, 2nd June. More details are available by calling me on 01522 72 13 06 or via revannabelbarber@gmail.com See also www.stmichaelschurchwaddington.org.uk
Bike Ride and Stride 2019 The Lincolnshire Churches Trust Bike Ride and Stride will once again take place on the second Saturday in September (14th September 2019). Taking part will raise money for a chosen church and the trust, which will then provide grants to churches for repair or improvement work. Sponsor forms will be with Parish Organisers and churches in the summer, and this event is also helped by the contribution made by Deanery Organisers, who are the first point of call for Parish Organisers. There are currently vacancies for Deanery Organisers in the areas of Axholme; Grimsby and Cleethorpes; Holland; Graffoe; Calcewaithe and Candleshoe; Manlake and Yarborough. For more please contact Sarah Roberts via roberts.sarahm@gmail.com or Nicholas Ridley (County Organiser) on 01476 55 00 55. W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
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Making a difference Lighting up the town of Spilsby The Revd Cameron Watt reports on Light Nights, an arts-based event in Spilsby that used the medium of light to encourage local people to come together... Seeing the familiar in unfamiliar ways was a key part of the Light Nights, which were recently held in the market town of Spilsby. Using the medium of light, an arts-based project was held over two evenings to seek to bring light out of darkness and also to bring people into the town centre to talk to each other. A key part of the event was projecting some of the medieval artwork and patterning from the Willoughby Chapel in St James’ Church onto both the tower of the church and inside the church. The Willoughby Chapel is an old chantry chapel, and has some of the finest stonework in the country. Using wide-angle projectors, the whole of the inside of the church walls and ceilings were flooded with images from the Willoughby Chapel. These images had been created by children from the local schools assisted by myself, and which were then interpreted by Will Lindley, a specially commissioned London-based artist. The use of these images, which were also being screened at the Methodist Chapel in Spilsby, enabled whole new generations of local people to see some of the beauty of the inside of St James’ Church in a completely new way. Among many installations in the town, a major part of the programme was an invitation for everyone to decorate a small glass jar and to put an electric tealight in it to show part of themselves in a different light.
Light Nights offered opportunities to see the familiar in unfamiliar ways.
Hundreds of these jars of light were then put on the steps of the medieval Buttercross in the town’s market square as well as inside and outside St James’ Church. A programme of working with local schools in making these light jars helped to create a fantastic atmosphere throughout the centre of the town.
“Light Nights was a fantastic demonstration of the power of light to symbolise transformation in our lives” Light Nights was primarily funded through an Arts Council England grant, together with funding and support from local organisations, and was organised by Simon Hollingsworth from the Different Light Collective. A team of volunteers very generously supported the running of the events, providing stewarding and refreshments across the centre of the town. Almost 2000 people attended the event, and it is hoped that it will now become a regular part of the life of the town. This meant that more than half of the local population came along on cold evenings to take part in the event. Overall, Light Nights was a fantastic demonstration of the power of light to symbolise transformation in our lives, and also showed the beauty of parts of the church in different ways in our town. We are all called to transform lives, and the amazing teamwork that went into this event is testament to the difference we can make in all communities. DIOCESELINCOLN
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This Time on Monday “My faith has been a huge part of my life – it is part of my make-up and everyday thinking” Sarah Spencer, our new Discipleship in the World Officer, catches up with an RE teacher in Scunthorpe and asks how her faith shapes her daily life… Sarah: Hi Julie, please tell me a little about yourself… Julie: I’m Julie Miles. I’m Head of RE at The St Lawrence Academy in Scunthorpe and I’m training to be a Minister in Secular Employment. I want to be a Christian presence in the academy in a more official way, bringing the God I love alongside the job I love. Sarah: How did you come to faith? Julie: I grew up in faith by reading Bible stories and going to Sunday School; it was part of my family life. As a teenager I went to church and a youth group and started to own my faith for myself. I had a wonderful RE teacher, who inspired me to become an RE teacher. She introduced me to Luke’s Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles; meeting the person of Jesus through those lessons was an amazing experience.
“My faith plays a huge part of me being here as I feel called to be here, being a Christian presence in the academy, being there for the students and staff, helping to shape the Christian ethos” Sarah: How does what happens on a Sunday link with what you do during the week? Julie: My faith has been a huge part of my life – it is part of my make-up and everyday thinking. Sunday morning gives me a chance to worship and reflect, and recharge my batteries. It is a space to think about what it is God wants me to do, before taking that out into my week. Sarah: What will you be upto on Monday at 11am? Julie: Usually it’s tutor time with a group of students I’ve known for the past four years. It is time to share together, thinking about what God might be doing in our lives. It’s the more informal, pastoral role of being a teacher, supporting them in their everyday lives.
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Sarah: What difference does your faith make to your work life? Julie: My faith plays a huge part of me being here as I feel called to be here, being a Christian presence in the academy, being there for the students and staff, helping to shape the Christian ethos. My work ethic is part of my ministry, serving and supporting the students, and doing my best for them, helping them so that they can grow into being the best that God wants them to be. Obviously, there are challenges to being a teacher, and faith supports me through these challenges too. Sarah: What do you find yourself praying about? Julie: My prayers bring before God the academy, the students and staff. I pray for the world and its needs, people I meet and the situations we find ourselves in. It is also so important to just sit in the presence of God; being with God, listening. Sarah: Is there anything we can offer in prayer for you? Julie: Please pray for the students and staff here at the academy, and pray that I am responsive to God, and used in a way that best serves him in this place. Our monthly diocesan prayer diary is available from our website (www.lincoln.anglican.org) or by contacting John Leach on 01522 50 40 50 x4108.
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Announcements The Rt Revd Robert Gillion has been appointed as Interim Priest-in-Charge of the Parish of St John the Baptist Spalding (Half-time). Bishop Rob is also serving in the diocese as an Assistant Bishop, and he has most recently been serving as Diocesan Bishop of Riverina, New South Wales, Australia. The Revd Jonathan Thacker will retire from his post as Vicar of the benefice of Crosby with effect from 19th May 2019.
We were very sorry to learn of the death of Caroline Mockford. Caroline served as our diocesan Registrar for six years, and in 2014 she took up the role of Registrar of the Diocese of York, before later also being appointed to the role of Registrar of the Province of York. A funeral service was held in York Minster on Friday, 22nd March 2019. Please join us in continuing to hold Caroline’s husband Bob, her family, friends and colleagues in prayer.
PRIZE CROSSWORD
Set by Ariq
Solution to the crossword in the last issue. Winner: Mr & Mrs Clarke, Sudbrooke, Lincoln.
To enter the Prize Crossword: Please send completed entries to Prize Crossword, Crosslincs, Communications Office, Edward King House, Minster Yard, Lincoln LN2 1PU. Closing date: 3rd June 2019. A photocopy of the completed crossword is acceptable. The editor’s decision is final, and the prize will be a faith-related book.
Across 1 Famous author has imprint twice (4,5) 6 Looked at rundown fourth rate café (5) 9 Conductors stop me to return to time (5) 10 Classical two-step (3,2,4) 11 Rebuilt Acton old jail in multi-sided shape (9) 12 Very old illness is unclear (5) 13 This returns a gem of a timepiece at the end (5) 16 Hedda Gabler is a bit better than The Doll’s House (5) 18 Maybe lose approval for an award (3)
20 12-point measurements (3) 21 Peas and the like change direction to get requirements (5) 22 Hill’s milkman selects premium winner (5) 23 Charles briefly gets nothing, leading to utter confusion (5) 24 Not a barrel of laughs (6,3) 27 Vatican’s bovine? (5,4) 28 Agra in India produces crop (5) 29 Not 6D; a gray area, maybe a churchyard (5) 30 Complex zany bit heads northeast. (9)
Down 1 Hear French underground pixie keeps time (9) 2 There’s merit in running timer down in dispatch (5) 3 A string thing, zero not one (5) 4 Add on phone programme will conclude before time (9) 5 Alan’s having trouble with his nose (5) 6 A ‘poetry open mic’ will produce plenty (but you pay for the beer) (4,5) 7 Vicar finally works out in clean gym (9) 8 French ten that is in southern USA (5)
14 15 17 19
How simple is it… (4,2,3) …to hit this target! (4,5) Strauss’ final composition? (4,5) Coming out once finally completes endless crisis (9) 23 Blue light source in the countryside? (5) 24 Exactly spot-on gauge (5) 25 He hasn’t lost his marbles, though others did (5) 26 Uniform colour, not red (5)
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Serving others There when people need him Crosslincs hears from Paul Taylor, a Families Worker in Haxey, whose role involves elements of chaplaincy, teaching, youth and children’s work and much more... Paul Taylor is the first Families Worker to have been appointed by Haxey parochial church council. Paul says he is often asked: “What do you do?” And he answers: “That’s a very good question! Essentially, it’s about ministering to whole families rather than using the separate children, youth and adult model that we often use in churches today. It’s also more holistic – not just meeting spiritual needs or teaching faith but helping families in other ways too.” He likens his role to being a ‘jack of all trades’, as to be a good Families Worker you need to be a chaplain, teacher, youth and children’s worker, social worker and adviser all at the same time. “It’s a truly wide-ranging ministry,” says Paul, and “probably the most important thing that I do is support families when they find themselves in crisis.”
“People soon realise that you are someone that they can turn to, someone who is there for them and will help in any way that you can” Paul recalls a family he helped at a particularly challenging time in their lives. A local couple, Debbie and Adam, were mum and dad to Sam and Joshua, who at the time were aged five and two, respectively. Paul would see Sam at school and at the children’s club that he led, and Debbie and Joshua were regulars in the toddler group and at coffee mornings. “One day I was preparing for our summer holiday club when I received a phone call with the terrible news that Adam had been killed in a motorcycle accident. My wife Helen and I were asked if we could give support by looking after both boys for the day. Sam was already booked in to come to the club, and so both boys came. We continued to help out with care as and when Debbie needed it and as she began to come to terms with things herself.” Using his many skills, Paul helped Sam adjust and to deal with his father’s death and he supported Debbie as she battled with all the paperwork and formalities. When he W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
Paul Taylor is a Families Worker serving the local community in Haxey.
moved to a new post a few years later, the family were once again stable and looking forward to a great future. Paul says: “Whilst this is perhaps one of the most special times that I have been able to support a family through crisis, there are many more. I acted as a go-between and mediator between a warring mum and dad as they went through a difficult divorce and I sat in family court with them. I also helped steer a single mother through financial problems, finding her some debt counselling and co-ordinating lifts to the sessions because she didn’t have enough money for the bus.” There isn’t much that Paul hasn’t helped families manage over the years – unemployment, addiction, serious illness and poverty. The help given varies according to the family and the need. It might be a pastoral visit, help filling in forms, giving foodbank vouchers or simply providing practical support. “When you are fully immersed in the life of the church and the local community,” Paul says, “people soon realise that you are someone that they can turn to, someone who is there for them and will help in any way that you can. People sometimes ask for help themselves, some are referred through contacts in the community, councillors, church members or even occasionally through school teachers. Sometimes I’m not even sure how they find me! I do know that God has called me to love them and help them and that is something I will always do.” Note: some names and identifying details have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals.
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Making connections Making connections that go from strength to strength Paul Taylor (pictured left) shares some of his experience and ideas on how churches might make long-lasting connections with local groups... At a recent Network Forum we were asked to share something that was working well in our local church. We talked about our engagement with uniformed organisations (Girlguiding and Scouting), which is going from strength to strength in Haxey. Here, I’m going to share some of my experience and some ideas which may help you connect better with your local groups. Those of us that do have local uniformed groups typically see them once a year on Remembrance Sunday, the regular parade services being a distant memory. I would encourage everyone to look for opportunities to further engage with these groups and then make the most of them – the opportunities are there. A group of children and young people voluntarily attending your church, even if it’s only once a year, is a great place to start!
“There are loads of different ways that these groups can be included in the life and the ministry of the church. Be creative and expect some great results” Here are some suggestions that you might like to think about to get you started. • All-Age Worship Parade Services. We have just four each year that are all well-attended by the groups • Remembrance Sunday. Work with a group in advance of the service to create some sort of presentation or reflection that will form part of the service • Harvest. Groups are often looking for charitable projects, and so get them involved in the food collection. Our groups have their own spaces around the church where they create displays of their harvest offerings. • Palm Sunday. Groups love a good procession. We process into church from a little distance away, led by one of the children who dresses as Jesus (and a donkey, if we can get one).
A Palm Sunday procession is a great way to involve other local groups.
• Thinking Day/Founder’s Day (the Sunday closest to 22nd February). We have a service that is a celebration of the uniformed groups and their life as part of our community. Each group gives a short presentation about an aspect of their work. Children also take part with readings and prayers, etc. • Church visit. Show them the interesting places that they don’t usually get to see. Have a treasure hunt. Our groups love to climb the stairs up the tower and receive a short talk and demonstration from the bellringers. • Badges. All of the uniformed groups have faith or religion badges. Work with the groups to help the members achieve these. • Special events. If you have fetes, fairs, festivals or special events, etc remember to include them. Guides and Scouts are usually happy to help with set-up and organisation. Most groups need to raise funds for their activities, and so offer them a free opportunity to do this, if you can. These are just a few suggestions of things that have worked for us. There are loads of different ways that these groups can be included in the life and the ministry of the church. Be creative and expect some great results. Finally, a few suggestions. Don’t try to do too much too soon. Take some time to build relationships with the leaders and the children and see how things develop. Be open – opportunities might exist that you are unaware of. Our youth group has recently been invited to join the Scouts at a camp this year – something that we would never have considered. DIOCESELINCOLN
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Children & Youth New network looks to support ministry offered to young people Jonny Bell reports on a successful networking event for those engaged in youth and children’s work, and shares news of a new local community hub for young people... We had a really encouraging morning spent with nearly 40 youth and children’s leaders, volunteers and church leaders on Saturday, 9th March 2019. This event kickstarted the beginning of a new youth and children’s network that is aimed at helping to support and communicate with people who are working with under-18s in their local churches. We were able to share some of the vision and strategy behind the work that we hope to do across the Diocese of Lincoln as a youth and children’s team. In addition, we had a time of discussion in which the attendees were able to share positives from the work that they are doing and also their frustrations, which will help us to form future training events. We also launched our Youth and Children’s Network Newsletter – published once a month, this newsletter will contain up-to-date information about training events, resources and helpful guides and good practice related to youth and children’s work. If you would like to sign-up to receive this newsletter please let us know. Youth Community Hub – St Swithin’s Church Building community is one of the key factors in forming a successful youth ministry at St Swithin’s in Lincoln, and we’ve recently launched a brand-new group to do just that.
Big Night Out in Lincoln on 7th June 2019 As featured in recent issues, The Big Night Out is to be held at Lincoln Engine Shed on the evening of Friday, 7th June 2019. A night for youth groups to share in a time of worship with live bands, plus games, refreshments and lots more, do get in touch with Jonny and Charlotte for the latest information. W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
A successful networking event was held at Edward King House in Lincoln.
Our youth programme is split into two sections – younger youth (school years 6–9) and older youth (school years 9–13) – and we wanted to focus on building community with our older youth and help them to form positive relationships and share life together. To try to achieve this we created a community hub, and as part of this the young people meet every week in our home for an hour-and-a-half in which there is an opportunity to spend time together,
“One simple change that has made a huge impact on the lives of the young people we work with” learn from the Bible and pray. It’s simple and it’s been hugely effective as 12–13 young people have crammed into the living room each week. Those that attend appreciate the simple hospitality (lots of cake and hot chocolate!), it’s their own space and they can talk freely and ask the difficult questions they have related to faith. We have got through some basic Exploring Faith material, we have done a requested series on the Book of Revelation, and we are now working through what it means to be a disciple in today’s world. One simple change that has made a huge impact on the lives of the young people we work with that plays into the values they have – feeling valued, building community and having a space to ask the difficult questions. Jonny Bell and Charlotte Bloom are the diocesan Children & Youth Team. Jonny is available on 07816 41 61 49 or via jonny.bell@lincoln.anglican.org Charlotte is available on 07908 70 38 64 or via charlotte.bloom@lincoln.anglican.org
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Serving together Blessing our local community The Revd Ian Walters, Vicar of the Gosberton Group of Parishes, reports on how his parishes have found a new way of bringing the local community together... I have lived practically all my life in villages and so I remember that community life in a rural context was much more developed than it is now. Villages have lost so much – shops, post offices, pubs, youth clubs, even the village school. Chapels have closed and the number attending and supporting village churches has declined. A few years ago, someone suggested a community interest company as a concept. I found that they were ‘designed for social enterprises that want to use their profits and assets for the public good’. I discovered very few existed in this area and so I discussed the idea with local people and a business consultant friend (although this person does not live in the village, he has helped to encourage church and community events and became one of the first directors serving on the board). Thanks to the help of Duncan & Toplis, Gosberton & District Community Interest Company (known locally as GCAT) became a reality in 2015, with the help of a generous gift of seed capital from a local farmer. We have received a grant from Lincolnshire Coop and we will apply for more awards for projects we have in mind. We have open meetings every two months. Anyone may attend, and usually 10 to 15 people are present. It provides a table around which people can meet and bring ideas and concerns, and we work together on projects for the good of the community. So far, we have re-established a Summer Fair and a Christmas Craft Fair, we are working towards improving the local playing-field facilities, and we have helped with the launch of our Good Neighbour Scheme. A farmer offered a small field for residents to work
A different way to serve? The Diocesan Board of Education (DBE) is looking to extend its existing pool of foundation governors... Foundation governors have historically been found by local parochial church councils (PCCs) and appointed by the DBE, but in some places churches are finding it harder to find people to nominate. If you are interested in working to transform the lives of children and young people in one of our 141 Church of England schools, why not get in touch?
The Revd Ian Walters is learning more about his community through GCAT.
together to establish an orchard and allotments, and we have had residents come to discuss traffic issues. Even just being a sounding board and a place to share information is important, and relationships are being built as a result. We have a close link with parish councillors, who are represented at our meetings, and I see this venture as a valuable part of parish ministry: GCAT is bringing local people together to meet and share concerns and ideas, and relationships are being forged and strengthened between those who want to improve life in the community. On a personal level, I learn more about local needs and concerns, I can share my views, and others share their concerns and views with me. It is still early days, but it is our hope that in the years to come others might find the meetings, the team, the expertise and the desire to bless the community through a custom-made vehicle such as GCAT, a valuable tool to help to continue making the local villages a better place to live.
Following a selection process involving the local PCC, the DBE will be able to place you in a school that is in need of a foundation governor and where you will be able to help the school leaders to develop a distinctively Christian experience for pupils and staff, enabling them to: • build positive life-long relationships with the church • experience and explore what faith is all about • encounter the living God. Please contact Tracy Smith at the DBE on 01522 50 40 10 or at tracy.smith@lincoln.anglican.org for more details.
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14 CROSSLINCS
Together in ministry Marking significant anniversaries Crosslincs hears from the Revd Michelle Godbold and the Revd Canon Angela Pavey ahead of a Together in Ministry celebration to be held on Saturday, 18th May 2019... The Revd Michelle Godbold is the incumbent in the United Benefice of Graffoe and she is also the diocesan Adviser in Women’s Ministry with responsibility for women readers, and the Revd Canon Angela Pavey was one of the first 25 women to be ordained in the diocese in 1994. Michelle’s role looks at all aspects of women’s ministry and she makes recommendations, where necessary, for how these need to be developed. She also provides feedback to the national Church from a Lincolnshire perspective. Michelle said: “On the whole, most women in the diocese have a positive experience in their vocation here, which is good. Women coming into ministry now have a different perspective to those before them. Some of the previous generation are still hurt by the initial resistance to the ordination of women and some feel that things haven’t changed enough. On balance I think the Church adopted the best compromise available back then to hold everyone together.”
“It will be a wonderful time to unite; to celebrate, as well as to say thanks...” Angela gave her view of this and recalled the ‘sensitive listening and discussion’ with those who opposed what was happening and she said: “I never felt any sense of achievement or triumphalism about it, but I just remember that on the day itself there was such a buzz and people were just openly expressing their joy and excitement.” But there are still some issues regarding women’s ministry – such as the lack of women in senior positions – although this is something that is not isolated to the Church and is seen in many large organisations, and both offered a view on this. “There was a stereotype that existed 25 years ago that women were more ‘pastoral’ and men more ‘leadership’ focused but clearly there are women who can make brilliant inspirational leaders and men who can be sensitive pastors – this is down to someone’s gifts and skills – not their gender,” said Angela. Michelle has been doing some research, talking to women to find out if they were exercising the ministry that they felt W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
The Revd Michelle Godbold following her ordination as a deacon.
God called them to. Her research has found that although it wasn’t diocesan policy, there are a significant number who had felt pushed towards non-stipendary roles as being more stereotypically ‘suitable’ for women. This is a complex area but it may not be just the appointments that are an issue but also how women see themselves and other factors, such as unconscious bias towards those of a certain social class, or those of a particular age, although this is not isolated to the Church. She said: “As women we need to develop our self-perception and see our potential for leadership positions and push ourselves forward. “It would be fantastic if Advisers in Women’s Ministry weren’t needed, but we aren’t there yet,” said Michelle. The diocese will be a holding a ‘Together in Ministry’ celebration on 18th May 2019, which marks the 25th anniversary of the ordination of women and 50 years of women being licensed as readers. “It will be a wonderful time to unite; to celebrate, as well as to say thanks to all those who made it a reality. So for me, as an ordained woman, this will be a very special day.” Angela added: “If I had to say what the two biggest changes are since 1994 I would say for one, no-one so much as blinks an eye now at ordained women; and the second is women bishops – we can’t underestimate the visual symbolism of a woman bishop. There are now no unacceptable places for women to minister in, no apologies to be made and that is very empowering.”
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Serving through sport Sports chaplains ‘have the welfare of people in their hearts’ As we look ahead to this year’s National Sports Sunday on the 19th of May, the Revd Alan Wright reflects on his role as Chaplain at Scunthorpe United Football Club... Graham Taylor OBE, a much-loved sporting son of Lincolnshire, was instrumental in setting up the sports chaplaincy organisation that is now known as Sports’ Chaplaincy UK (SCUK). When Graham was manager of Watford Football Club some 30 years ago, he insisted that the club got involved in the community, and invited local people to contribute to the club. One person who stepped up was a Baptist minister, the Revd John Boyers, who would offer chaplaincy to Watford and later Manchester United FC. When I became Chaplain at Scunthorpe United FC in 2002, there were just over 100 chaplains, all male, in a limited number of sports – predominantly football, rugby league and rugby union, cricket and horse racing. Now there are over 550 in a greater number of sports, with more being added all the time. There are chaplains in professional and semi-professional football, and there are chaplains serving at international tournaments, such as the Invictus Games.
“At St Mary’s Church in Barton-uponHumber the 9.30am service on that day will be a celebration of sport” Twice each year, SCUK members meet in regional gatherings at various locations, and there is also a national conference in June. There is a rigorous programme of training and induction, and the University of Gloucestershire offers a Masters in Sport and Christian Outreach (Sports Chaplaincy). Chaplains are expected to maintain a professional position at all times. Some may well be fans of ‘their’ club, while others might have only a passing interest. What is important is a sympathetic manner and a listening ear. Chaplains are a ‘presence’; someone who is not involved with training, or team selection, or disciplining people; chaplains are people who anyone in the organisation – in my case, players, management, office staff, ground staff, etc – can turn to for help or advice, or just to celebrate good news. I give out cards with my details on so that I can be contacted, if needed (clubchaplain@scunthorpe-united.co.uk).
The Revd Alan Wright is one of two chaplains serving Scunthorpe United FC.
SCUK has a diverse range of chaplains. Some are very hands-on in their approach, while some prefer a quieter style. All have the welfare of people in their hearts. Many clubs now have two chaplains; at Scunthorpe United we have appointed the Revd David Eames as Academy Chaplain (academychaplain@scunthorpe-united.co.uk); his brief is the oversight of all the teams and groups up to the age of 18. Both of us, and especially David, are always mindful of safeguarding procedures, especially when a youngster may be promoted to the first team and still be a minor in legal terms. Chaplains are also available to the club at times of tragedy; over the years there have been some high-profile accidents involving sports people. It is on such occasions that a chaplain can bring a calming presence, and the possible experience of having dealt with a tragic death on a previous occasion. Chaplaincy is worthwhile, although it might at times seem as though nothing is happening. As with all people who hold a licence to preach, however, we may never know how our words and actions might affect those we meet – a quiet “how are you today?” can open up all sorts of conversations. A National Sports Sunday is set to be held on 19th May 2019. Hopefully there will be some publicity in the media ahead of this date, and at St Mary’s Church in Bartonupon-Humber the 9.30am service on that day will be a celebration of sport. All are welcome to join us for this, and the preacher will be the Revd Mary Vickers. As a former sports’ chaplain, Mary will bring a wealth of experience and insight as she shares with us. DIOCESELINCOLN
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CALENDAR MAY
Monday, 13th May (10.30am). The Church Repair Society will hold its annual general meeting at Dunholme Village Hall (LN2 3SU). All are welcome. Saturday, 18th May and Sunday, 19th May (11am–4pm). Annual art exhibition and sale of paintings at St Peter’s, Navenby. Proceeds to church funds. Saturday, 18th May (7pm). Grantham Choral Society will be performing Handel’s final oratorio, Jephtha, at St Wulfram’s in Grantham. Tickets are £15 (no charge for school-age children) and are available from choir members and Grantham Guildhall Box Office.
An online memorial A group that is committed to helping people cope with the tragedy of road deaths in Lincolnshire has launched a helpful new website at www.lincsmemorialgarden.org The website has been designed to help people who have been devastated by road deaths by offering support, practical help and further information. Chairman of the Lincolnshire Road Victims Memorial Group, Anne Bourne, who lost a daughter in a road accident, said: “Our memorial located in Westgate Wood in Boston is nearing completion. Its existence is quite well-known in the Boston and South Holland areas but elsewhere in the county visibility is not very high, and we hope the new website will change that.” Visitors to the site itself will find a weather-proof memorial which enables the family and friends of roaddeath victims to have a place of quiet reflection and remembrance. There is also a display of plaques recording the names of Lincolnshire road-death victims and a seating area. W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
Friday, 24th May (7–9pm). Preview evening for the 31st Tathwell Art Exhibition at St Vedast’s Church, Tathwell, Louth. Entry is £6 and will include wine and light refreshments. From Saturday, 25th – Monday, 27th May: the exhibition will be open from 11am until 5pm and entry will be £2. There will be a sale of paintings, plus prints, greetings cards, second-hand books, preserves and homemade cakes. Demonstrations will include upholstery and painting.
JUNE
Saturday, 25th May (10am–3pm). ‘Flea Market Plus’ at St Denis’, Silk Willoughby. To include a variety of craft stalls, plus cakes and tea/coffee.
Friday, 14th – Friday, 28th June. North Lincs Art Society’s annual exhibition at Grimsby Minster. As well as original paintings there will be prints, greetings cards and hand-painted ceramics to browse and buy. Admission is free. Preview evening on Friday, 14th June (7–9pm), and then open each day (except Sundays) from 10am–4pm.
Sunday, 26th May – Saturday, 1st June. Risen from the Ashes at St Michael’s, Waddington. A 65th anniversary festival featuring embroideries by Pamela Pavitt, plus local history and flowers. Open Sunday, 2–8pm; Monday 10am–8pm; and Tuesday – Saturday, 10am–4pm. Sunday, 26th May (3pm). Peter – The Rock, a musical journey into the life of St Peter by Richard Rice-Oxley and performed by the St Hugh’s Singers, to be held at St Hugh’s, Scunthorpe. Entry is by a minimum donation of £3. (Also appearing on Wednesday, 29th May at 7.30pm at St Paul’s, Ashby.)
Friday, 7th – Sunday, 9th June. A Flower Festival at St Helen’s, Mareham le Fen. The theme is ‘Music Makers’ and opening times are 1–4.30pm on the Friday, 10am–4.30pm on the Saturday and 12noon–4pm on the Sunday, followed by a Songs of Praise service. There will also be a Cheese & Wine held on the Friday evening at 7pm (tickets are available from Mareham Post Office). There will also be various stalls and refreshments.
Saturday, 22nd and Sunday, 23rd June. Baston Church will be remembering St John the Baptist with a weekend of events. Singer Jeff Woods (‘PavaNotti’) will offer opera favourites and songs from the shows in church on the Saturday (7pm for 7.30pm; tickets will be £10 and £5 for under-14s and are available by calling 07471 19 84 97). For more forthcoming events in the diocese see www.lincoln.anglican.org
The Revd Dr Sally Myers, Principal of Lincoln School of Theology, writes...
As part of the wider social justice initiative within our diocese, the Lincoln School of Theology (LST) has formed a Social Justice Research Group. We want to shape a research programme to shine light on social justice issues within greater Lincolnshire and share good practice in responding to them. Please get involved and/or help us to construct this programme of research by contacting us or joining us at the Lincoln School of Theology Social Justice Forum on Saturday, 13th July 2019 at Edward King House in Lincoln (10am–4pm). To register interest please email me (sally.myers@lincoln.anglican.org) or ask for the LST by calling 01522 50 40 50. In addition, people who have been helped by the Revd Richard King are welcome to join us in marking his retirement at the LST End of Year Celebration at Edward King House on Saturday, 8th June 2019 (picnic from 1pm and a Jazz Eucharist from 2pm). DIOCESELINCOLN
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