The Wey August 2017 - 100th and final issue

The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford 17 - Issue

August 20

100

Welcome your new priests

The diocese’s new priests were ordained by Bishop Jo at a joyful Guildford Cathedral on Saturday 1 July.

Our newest priests have progressed on their vocational journeys, studying and learning more about their ministries along the way, and re-join their parishes now able to preside at Communion – an important milestone in their call to ministry.

Pictured (alphabetically) are: Jeremy Brown, Christchurch, Virginia Water; Jane Cronin, St Saviour’s, Guildford; Fiona Ellingham, Burgh Heath; Paul Fenner, St Saviour’s, Guildford; Pippa Ford, All Saints, Guildford; Christopher Hancock, St Martin’s, Epsom; Ian Maslin, Cranleigh; Gerard Mee, Thorpe; Hannah Moore, Badshot Lea & Hale; Peter Nevins, St Paul’s, Dorking; Diane Peters, Guildford

Westborough; David Senior, Howell Hill with Burgh Heath; Ian Stonehouse, Leatherhead; Wes Sutton, Grayshott and Vivien Turner, Banstead.

Find out more about vocations – and the many and varied ways that everyone is called to serve – on the diocesan website here www.cofeguildford.org.uk/vocations

£1m award to help fund more local Church transformation Vital grant will boost ministr y in new housing developments and seed fund parish driven projects The Diocese of Guildford’s goal to create at least 100 new worshipping communities by 2027 has been boosted with the award of £1.08m in the latest round of funding grants for dioceses from the Church Commissioners. This will be matched by £2m raised within the diocese which will fund new parish opportunities in line with Transforming Church, Transforming Lives launched in September 2016.

With several large housing developments planned across the diocese, a major part of the project will support church plants and partnerships with developers and local authorities by providing financial support and expertise. Such developments are already in motion in Bordon, Wellesley (Aldershot), Deepcut and Sheerwater, with more expected down the line.

The funding will also allow the continued employment of a church planting and fresh expressions adviser – a role which Jens Mankel

is already undertaking – as well as training and equipping people to pioneer new communities. Half a million pounds has been set aside to support fresh expressions of church and planting of new worshipping communities through parish-led initiatives.

This funding will be accessed by parishes applying to the Diocese of Guildford’s enhanced growth fund.

Vision to reality Bishop Andrew welcomed the news saying, “I’m delighted that the Church Commissioners have backed our vision of Transforming Church, Transforming Lives, and especially of a whole swathe of new congregations reaching out to those who have yet to encounter the life-changing message of Jesus.

It’s a privilege to be able to support the initiatives of many creative clergy and lay people across the diocese with the funding needed to help turn such dreams into reality.”

Alan Hulme, director of parish development and evangelism for the diocese said: “We want to

ensure that we have a church near to everyone, geographically and culturally. The three elements of this project will go a long way to making that a reality.

“Research shows 91% of the population do not consider themselves to be practising Christians, but many are genuinely seeking spiritual truth, and we need to make sure that our provision reaches them.

To do this, we must find new ways of engaging this huge number of people with the life and truth that come with knowing Jesus Christ.

“Sometimes this requires substantial investment, and sometimes a small grant can make all the difference. For example a micro grant of £800 has recently been made to St George’s in Badshot Lea to employ a musician, enabling a Family Praise service to begin which has grown to more than 40 people, over half of whom are new to the church.”

The Strategic Investment Board, on behalf of the Archbishops’ Council, has awarded £10.5 million to eight dioceses to support major growth and change projects. This is the fifth tranche of strategic

development funding, which has so far provided £34.6 million to dioceses as part of Renewal and Reform.

In addition to Guildford, the seven other dioceses receiving grants are Coventry, Hereford, London, St Albans, Salisbury, Southwell and Nottingham, and Truro.

Inside: Latest news – P3 • Farewell to The Wey – P8-9 • What’s on? – P14

News

Sharp increase in numbers training to be priests As Bishop Andrew ordained 16 new deacons, and 16 of last year’s deacons were priested at Petertide in early July, news came of a marked increase in the numbers coming forward for ordination. Nationally it is anticipated that 543 men and women will begin studies at theological colleges across the country this year, an increase of 14%.

In the Diocese of Guildford, in 2016, the number of candidates sent to a Bishop’s Advisory Panel (where those interested in the priesthood explore their proposed vocation before formal training begins) was 25, up a quarter on the previous year.

So far this year we have sent 17 people forward and several more are already booked for the autumn. The mix is good too, both young and old and stipendiary and non-stipendiary. This compares to an annual average of 16–19 from the diocese

over recent years.

The Revd Canon Hazel Whitehead, director of discipleship, vocation and ministry said: “We in the DVM Team are delighted in the increasing number of women and men coming forward for ordination. We have put a lot of time, energy and resource into promoting ministry in the Church of England, focusing on younger candidates but also working across the board.

“It is a great joy to us to see the fruits

of our labours making a difference,” continues Hazel. “Only last week, our new vocations adviser, Glynis Beazley, began working with us and she will build on the work done by so many others in this area. We believe God calls people of all ages, educational backgrounds, abilities, race and gender and are always willing to have a conversation with anybody who thinks that God may be calling them to this particular kind of service.”

Welcoming the increase, Bishop

Andrew, who chairs the Vocations Working Group for the CofE nationally, said: “I am delighted at both the number and the range of those whom God is calling into ordained ministry. Here are men and women who are choosing to put their faith on the line, so as to bring hope and spiritual nourishment to individuals and communities alike. In an increasingly uncertain world, nothing could be a greater privilege than walking alongside people in their joys and sorrows, from birth to grave.”

New deacons on the way A whole host of LLMs welcomed at St Mary’s The diocese’s newest deacons were celebrated at the cathedral on Sunday 2 July as Bishop Andrew performed two Petertide ordination ceremonies, in the presence of hundreds of friends and family of the new clergy members.

For several days before the ceremonies, all the new deacons – clergy in training entering their final year of ministry and study in parishes before many become parish priests – were on retreat, reflecting on their call to serve.

“It was a real privilege spending time with each of our deacons in the weeks leading up to the ordination service, and hearing the stories of how they had discerned God’s call and followed it through,” explained Bishop Andrew.

“They’re a great bunch, and we will be very much richer for their gifts, passion and experience.”

The 16 taking the next step on their journey are: Dorking Archdeaconry (left photo L-R) Sarb Klair, Thames Ditton; Simon Fraser, Egham; Ian Whitley, Banstead; Jo Trickey, Guildford, Christ Church; Caroline Merrick, Walton-on-Thames; Stuart Sadler, Claygate; Alex Munro, East and West Molesey.

Surrey Archdeaconry (right photo L-R) Ellen Turtle, Bagshot; Mike Currier, Shere with Peaslake; Debs Wignall, Aldershot; Nick Hill, Stoke-next-Guildford; David Preece, Busbridge and Hambledon; Derek Holbird, Hindhead; Ray Driscoll, Guildford Stoke Hill; Phil Roche, Milford; Sarah Norbron, Farnborough.

More online at www.cofeguildford.org.uk/news

After their licensing with Bishop Jo, (L to R) LLMs John and Tessa Badcock, Dawn Winslow, Penny Holt, Susie Millard, Helen Roche and Clare Haddad

St Mary’s Church, Walton-on-Thames, hosted the annual licensing service of seven new Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) in June, with Bishop Jo presiding for the first time.

A congregation of over 250, including around 20 serving LLMs, was present to welcome and support the seven new arrivals and another 12 LLMs whose 5-year licences were being renewed.

The new LLMs included local husband and wife team John and Tessa Badcock from St John’s, Walton-on-Thames; Clare Haddad, St John the Baptist, Busbridge; Penny Holt, St Peter’s, Newdigate; Susie Millard, St Luke’s Grayshott; Helen Roche, St John the Evangelist, Milford and Dawn Winslow, St Mary’s, Long Ditton.

“It was a pleasure to see our new LLMs being licensed to their parishes by the Bishop,” said the Revd Dr Steve Summers, principal of the local ministry programme, which includes LLM training. “It is such

an important message that is proclaimed at this service. We celebrate lay people who are theologically educated and trained, to preach and lead worship for the church community; but also to share their faith outside the church walls, in the workplace and beyond.”

“There was a great sense of joy and celebration at the service,” added Warden of LLMs Gertrud Sollars, who plays a key role in the development of new LLMS. “It was a first, not just for the new LLMs but also for Bishop Jo who led the licensing. My prayer is that our new LLMs will keep that sense of joy and being called over many years of ministry.”

There are around 150 LLMs in 80 of the 163 parishes in the diocese. To become an LLM takes three years training, but there is lots of help on offer.

Find out more on www.cofeguildford.org.uk/llm or contact Gertrud by email on wardenofllms@ cofeguildford.org.uk or telephone 01483 415182.

Preach for the stars!

Are you – or someone you know – a budding young preacher? When was the last time you were inspired by a really great sermon or perhaps thought, ‘I could do better than that’?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions and you are 14 to 18-years-old, you now have a chance to become the Diocese of Guildford’s very first Young Preacher of the Year.

“We are looking for young

preachers with passion, insight, understanding and the ability

to wrestle with a biblical text,” says diocesan youth adviser David Welch. “Young preachers can be very engaging and help encourage a younger audience to hear the message – so we’d like to hear what young preachers in our diocese can do.”

Competition entry is simple and open until 5 November – with just a short video or audio recording all that you need to get started.

Find out more online at www. youngpreacheroftheyear.co.uk

35 new pastoral assistants authorised As The Wey went to press, 35 newly trained pastoral assistants were authorised at a special service held at Guildford Cathedral on the morning of Saturday 15 July. Family and friends from their churches came to support them as they made a public commitment to step into this significant lay ministry.

Coming from a range of parishes across the diocese, alongside three students from

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Baptist churches within the diocese and one from the Diocese of Oxford, these 35 men and women have completed a course comprising 18 weeks of two-hour training sessions, several all-day workshops and a residential weekend.

Sue Lawrence, who runs the foundation training course, said: “Each year I am humbled by the calibre and commitment of those who respond to a call to serve in this ministry and are willing to undergo training in readiness to do so. It takes a special kind of person to come alongside others

The Wey August 2017

with a listening presence in their time of need. I wish them well in their ministry.”

Those authorised were (alphabetically by parish): Lucy Wang, Addlestone Baptist Church; Linda Griffin, Addlestone St Paul; Sheila Murray, Addlestone St Paul; Di Arnfield, Albury St Peter and St Paul; Rosemary Moss, Bisley and West End St John the Baptist and Holy Trinity; Elaine Crutchley, Bookham Baptist Church; Rosie Featherstone, Bookham Baptist Church; Gracie Luke, Burpham Church of the Holy Spirit; Gill Steeden, Burpham

Church of the Holy Spirit; Alison Parker, Camberley St Michael; Sharon Leadbetter, Camberley St Paul; Gaynor Newbery, Ottershaw Christchurch; Carrie Taylor, Cobham St Andrews; Mick Bowles, Cove parish; Patrick MacVean, Effingham with Little Bookham; Louis Jannotti, Egham St John; Sarah Kahn, Egham St John; Linda Blackwell, Epsom (St Martins) St Stephen on the Downs; Helen Mitchell-Murray, Epsom St Martin; Mary Riggs, Farnham St Andrew; Geoff Beale, Goldsworth Park St Andrew; John Cross, Guildford St Saviour;

David Snell, Guildford St Saviour; Yvonne Twum-Barima, Guildford St Saviour; Roy Joseph, Hawley parish; Lorelie Staines, Hersham St Peter; Pam Bridger, New Haw All Saints; Linda Glynn, Newdigate St Peter; Linda Hewlett, Owlsmoor and Collegetown St George (Diocese of Oxford); Jean Burchell, Shottermill St Stephen; Jill Soar, Shottermill St Stephen; Naomi Hopper, Stoke-next-Guildford St John; Alison Cruthers, Weston Green All Saints’; Debbie Partridge, Witley All Saints’ and Pauline Wilde, Woking St Peter.

News

Thousands pray with Archbishop Justin Thousands of Christians from many different traditions came together at Guildford Cathedral in June to pray ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ as hundreds of thousands of Christians prayed worldwide on Pentecost Sunday.

Archbishop of Canterbury, the Most Revd Justin Welby, with our Bishops Andrew and Jo, opened the afternoon prayer event held in the grounds surrounding the cathedral on Stag Hill.

is the second year of a call to Christians of all denominations to come together during the 10 days between Ascension and Pentecost to pray for more people to be filled with the Holy Spirit and have the joy and confidence to share the love of Jesus. Last year’s event saw many thousands of Christians pray, but this year has exceeded all expectations with literally hundreds of thousands praying around the world.

The grounds of Guildford Cathedral hosted a diverse range of prayer stations for visitors to sample, ranging from art, music and dance to meditation, healing and reflection – along with fun and games for families and a range of tempting food “You come up this hill with and drink. such a wonderful cathedral at its Bishop Andrew said: “It’s top and I’ve been blown away wonderful to see so many people by the diversity, energy, pace coming together to pray. We’ve and power of what’s going on seen many flames of prayer here, it’s just fabulous,” said the being lit across our diocese Archbishop. “My visit today has in response to Thy Kingdom helped me discover that far more Come, adding to the blaze of fire people love praying, that there is here at the Cathedral of the Holy just this commitment to prayer.

Spirit on Pentecost Sunday.”

“If you say ‘just pray in the Inside out service way that is right for you, but The highlight of the evening pray’ – you suddenly find that the was a special Pentecost whole thing gets out of control.

All sorts of people start praying, worship service with a ‘mini festival’ feel hosted by Bishop it’s wonderful.”

Jo Wells, Bishop Andrew, Pete Spirited event Grieg, leader of Prayer 24/7, Thy Kingdom Come 2017 and diocesan youth adviser

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David Welch. Sarah Rowden, a youth worker from St John the Baptist, Wonersh, was the preacher.

Due to ongoing refurbishment of the building’s interior, numbers were limited to 500 inside the cathedral with hundreds more standing and sitting outside,

enjoying the evening sunshine and a spirit-filled worship service led by, for and with young people.

Find out more about Thy Kingdom Come, with video and images from the day and next steps at www.cofeguildford. org.uk/ThyKingdomCome

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Cathedral refurb nears completion It is an exciting time for Guildford Cathedral as the People’s Cathedral Project nears completion and the newly refurbished and restored building is revealed.

During the initiative acoustic plaster containing asbestos has been removed, stonework cleaned and plaster repairs undertaken. A state-of-the-art lighting and sound system has been installed and a new lift and ramp have improved visitor access.

In addition to this much-needed restoration work, much has been done to enhance the visitor experience, helping people understand more about the cathedral and learn through a range of different tools. A new guidebook has been produced and a range of colourful leaflets created, helping visitors to explore the heritage of Guildford Cathedral through its textiles, glass and sculptures. The leaflets

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will be complemented by a programme of weekly scheduled tours and tower tours led by the cathedral’s dedicated guides.

Explorer Bags are now available for families to enjoy, with a Cathedral Challenge to complete using the binoculars, tape measures, mirrors and colouring pencils provided.

In the treasury, a new slim-line display case has been installed to help conserve the collection and while items are being rested they can be viewed on a new touchscreen. Two further touchscreens have been installed, one containing excerpts from the oral history interviews conducted with people who helped to build the cathedral and the early days of worship.

A new tactile model has been commissioned as a way of helping people to understand the geography of the cathedral and complements the existing scale model. Visitors can also enjoy a

new film tracking the history and life of the People’s Cathedral, which will play in the dedicated exhibition room.

Guildford Cathedral has an exciting new offering and is well worth a visit this summer.

To find out about events at the cathedral visit www.guildford-cathedral.org/

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The Wey August 2017

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Around the Parishes

St John’s ‘access for all’ annexe now open St John’s church in Cove welcomed local councillors and members of the Cove community, past and present, in late May for the official opening by Bishop Andrew of its new ‘access for all’ annexe.

The self-contained extension provides the church with muchneeded extra space for community

and church events, as well as the facilities to service these activities, such as a kitchenette, a disabled toilet and a level floor to aid accessibility.

The improvements were a longstanding ambition for St John’s.

Plans for the extension were drawn up around 10 years ago under the leadership of the previous vicar, the Revd Jonathan Hillman (current rector of St John’s, Windlesham),

Bishop Andrew opens the door to the new annexe

but refurbishment of the church interior was prioritised at the time, leaving insufficient funds for the annexe project. Fundraising restarted and, in March 2016, the target was reached thanks to generous pledges, donations and fundraising activities from the local community, allowing work to begin in October 2016.

The Revd Esther Prior, team vicar at St John’s, said: “This is a project that has been talked about for over 65 years! It feels like a miracle and I think it has energised our hope for all that God can do in the future.”

Les Ruskell, who managed the project on behalf of the church, added: “The new building will help us to meet the demand for extra space for community activities. Possible users include Parity, the disability charity, who have already expressed an interest, and we hope to begin providing English lessons for the local Nepalese community.”

Paula Vennells, CEO of the Post Office, addresses the meeting

Business leaders talk faith in the workplace Around 30 people gathered at St Saviour’s Church, Guildford in June for a stimulating evening on making better connections between faith and the workplace. The evening formed part of the 2017 Transforming Work programme of events set up by the diocesan discipleship, vocation and ministry team.

Paula Vennells, chief executive of the Post Office and an ordained minister, gave the keynote address and spoke of what it means to lead a historic British business with both a commercial and a social dimension. She touched on three key words for her – care, challenge and commit – which lay at the heart of her Christian approach to leading.

Speaking powerfully of seeking the still centre of life with God through retreat and ‘giving God the courtesy of our time’, she gave many helpful examples of how being attentive to the work of the Spirit makes a difference: inspiring others to be the best they can and see their work as a gift, managing

well at times of crisis and bereavement, being honest about our failings and putting things right with colleagues.

She spoke movingly of the Post Office’s social role as a provider of welfare services and local community cohesion across the UK. Joined by a panel which included Canon Julie Gittoes from Guildford Cathedral, Kristina Ingate, who works at Lloyd’s of London and Richard Farquhar of McLaren Automotive (both involved at St Saviour’s Church), Paula then took questions from the audience. The Revd Matt Prior, adult discipleship development adviser and the event’s organiser, commented: “It was wonderful to get people together to tackle such an important topic. The speakers gave some brilliant tips for faith at the ‘frontline’.”

The Transforming Work conversations continue with a day conference on 14 October, in partnership with the Bible Society. For more information on the events, and other resources, go to the diocesan website www.cofeguildford.org.uk/ transforming-work

Flower festival marks All Saints’ anniversary Tilford Parish Church was festooned with a kaleidoscope of glorious colours and filled with summer fragrance for a Flower Festival to mark its 150th anniversary over the weekend in June.

Visitors came from near and far to join in the sesquicentennial celebrations. Entry was free as was tea with home-made cakes, but visitors were generous with their voluntary donations towards the upkeep of the noted Victorian church of All Saints.

Jars of brightly coloured flowers arranged by the children decorated the path from the lych gate to the porch, the pew ends and around the font.

A magnificent variety of large floral exhibits were displayed throughout the church, with no pillar, plinth or corner neglected. The window-sill decorations were chosen to tone with the rich colours of the Victorian stained glass. An outstanding decoration of white lilies around the pulpit was the work of Fred Wilkinson, floral decorator for royalty and former director of the Constance Spry School of Floral Decoration at Moor Park, his gift to the church.

Helen Jonathan, who heads the church flower group and organised the festival said: “The response from the village was extraordinary! People came together from very different organisations and really enjoyed working together.” She was assisted as organiser by Jane Mathias, who led the Church Flower Group for many years.

Organisations and groups taking part included the Church Flower Group, All Saints’ Juniors, Tilford WI, Tilford & Rushmoor Neighbours Scheme, Tilford Brownies, Tilford Bach Society, the choir, the PCC, the sacristans, Tilford Gardening Club, Tilford Art

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The Wey August 2017

Group and St Thomas-on-the-Bourne.

Parish priest, the Revd Canon Heather Humphrey said: “The festival provided a wonderful opportunity for neighbours who in some cases did not know each other before to become friends in the shared activity of making the church so beautiful.”

All Saints’ birthday celebrations continued with a village lunch in July and the next event will be an art and photographic exhibition from 23–30 September.

This will be an opportunity for adults and children associated with the two parishes of Tilford and The Bourne to display their talents. Bishop Andrew will be visiting All Saints’ to take part in the patronal festival on Sunday 29 October. The Tilford Bach Society, orchestra, chorus and singers, will present a Christmas Oratorio on 18 November.

Just some of the flowers at Tilford’s festival

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BGF helps Cove mental health initiative and Englefield Green community hub

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Learning how to cook – the cooking club under way at the community hub in Englefield Green

and a sports and crafts club for children aged 7–12.

Denise Brannan, manager of the hub commented: “This is proving such a worthwhile project. The police tell us that crime and anti-social behaviour on the estate is down and I like to think that we have played a part in that.”

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A pioneering initiative by two church members in Cove, Farnborough is being supported with a grant of £2,000 from the Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation.

‘Open Door’ started as the vision of Sally Brett, a community worker and Sue Davis, a pastoral assistant at St John’s Church, Cove, to help those isolated by mental health difficulties, loneliness or struggling to cope with life for whatever reason.

It provides a drop-in facility on the first three Wednesday evenings of each month and offers a listening ear, a place to make friends, signposting to other services and a home-cooked meal.

“It has been a very challenging and rewarding experience,” says Sue. “Our first year has proved that the need is there and we feel that we are making a real difference to people’s lives. We are immensely grateful to BGF for the grant which will help with the costs of running the group – including food, equipment and transport for trips out.”

BGF has also provided £2,000 to help The Journey, River Church in Englefield Green to continue to run a community hub for people living on the nearby Forest Estate. Activities include an all-age café garden project, where people grow plants and vegetables to take home or use in the hub’s cooking club, a monthly, free, community lunch which attracts around 60 people

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Interfaith prayer vigils across the diocese In early June, local faith representatives, including Bishops Andrew and Jo united at several events across the diocese in response to the terror attacks in Manchester and London.

Following the attacks, in which 30 people lost their lives and 168 were wounded, prayer vigils were held in Guildford town centre, outside Frimley Park hospital, and at evening prayers at Woking and Camberley mosques as Muslims marked the daily end to fasting during Ramadan.

The vigils offered an opportunity to remember those who died, to give thanks for medical staff and others who responded so quickly to the needs of the victims, and to highlight the importance of community cohesion and unity in the wake of the attacks.

Representatives from the Muslim,

Bishop Andrew attended the prayers at Woking’s Shah Jahan Mosque on 7 June. He said: “The indiscriminate killing of adults and children alike in London and Manchester has been truly chilling, and the local Muslim community is rightly appalled at what has been perpetrated in the name of Islam. My hope and prayer is that by standing together we can confront the sinister radicalisation of young people, which is causing such mayhem around the world. In the words of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, our shared conviction is that ‘Goodness is stronger than evil, love is stronger than hate’.”

Signed message scrolls were sent to the Mayors’ offices of London Following the Finsbury Park terrorist and Manchester. incident against Muslims on 19 June, Bishop Andrew condemned the attack on Twitter, calling it “Another senseless Christian​, Baha’i, Sikh, Jewish and of peace were read, silences were Hindu faith communities were present observed and messages of condolences attack on innocent people on the across the events. and support to the cities of Manchester streets of London.” and London were written.

Prayers were spoken, statements

Bishops welcome Coptic Pope Bishop Andrew and Bishop Jo welcomed the head of the Coptic Orthodox Church, His Holiness Pope Tawadros II, to Guildford recently as part of his first pastoral visit to the UK. In her speech welcoming Pope Tawadros, Bishop Jo spoke of her joy and the privilege of working with the Coptic Church locally, saying: “Here in Guildford we serve alongside Fr Dawoud Anthony, Dr Albert Attalla and the good people of St Augustine’s

Church in Gomshall. In a couple of weeks’ time we shall celebrate Pentecost together, with a shared pilgrimage and a Festival of Prayer and Food, where along with millions of Christians across this country and around the world we shall pray ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ (see story on page 3).

Thank you for the signs of the Kingdom which are evident among your people, not least those who have made their home here. They are so welcome; indeed they are a gift.”

According to its tradition,

the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria was established by the apostle St Mark in the middle of the first century. It has around 22 million members worldwide, with 20 million in Egypt.

Earlier in his UK visit, the Coptic Pope met with the Archbishop of Canterbury at Lambeth Palace, where they spent time discussing the situation of the Coptic Church in Egypt, and the challenges and opportunities facing both Coptic and Anglican Christians in the country.

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PLEASE CONSIDER SUPPORTING GILEAD WITH A DONATION OR REGULAR MONTHLY GIVING.

I enclose a one-off gift of £

If you have any questions about our work, please contact Lois Samuel on 01837 851240. If you have questions about making a larger donation or interest free loan to the ministry, please contact Chris Cole (Trustee) on 07957 433973.

You can also visit www.gilead.org.uk to find out more about us and donate online.

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I am a UK taxpayer and I agree to Gilead Foundations Charity (GFC) claiming tax on all past, present and future donations I make to the charity. Please treat my donations as Gift Aid donations. I confirm that I am paying or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax to cover the amount GFC and any other charities or Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) will reclaim for the tax year (6 April one year to 5 April the next year). Council Tax and VAT do not qualify towards Gift Aid. GFC will reclaim 25 pence of tax for every £1 that has been given.

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“Coming to Gilead feels as though I’ve woken up from a living nightmare.

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Steve

Carolyne, free from addiction now a qualified psychotherapist and working with ex-offenders PLEASE CONSIDER SUPPORTING GILEAD WITH A at LangleyDONATION HouseORTrust REGULAR MONTHLY GIVING.

“The work therapy and helped to I enclose a one-off gift training of £ Please make cheques payble to Gilead Foundations stabilise and train me I would like to become a Partner If you have any questions about our work, please contact Please fill in this form Lois Samuel on 01837 851240. If you have questions for life outside. I never “Gilead made me feel about making a larger donation or interest free loan to the ministry, please contact Chris Cole (Trustee) on 07957 thought I would be safe.

Th ey believed in me, “Forgiveness broke Name 433973.

You can also visit www.gilead.org.uk to find out more happy living a ‘normal’ and gave me the hope down my walls and about us and donate online.

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Charity (GFC) claiming tax on all past, present and future donations I make to the charity. Please treat my donations as Gift Aid donations. I confirm that I am paying or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax to cover the amount GFC and any other charities or Community Clubs (CASCs) will reclaim for the tax year YouAmateur maySports have read recently that (6 April one year to 5 April the next year). Council Tax and we VAT aredochanging our not qualify towards Giftfunding Aid. GFC will model reclaim 25 pence of tax for every £1 that has been given.

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to rely less on dwindling ‘official’ funding, and more on grants from Signed sympathetic Trusts andDate gifts from Please add my details to the Gilead mailing list personal supporters.

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accommodation and with a viable support network, after two years and more – this is a wonderful statistic and the human stories that are behind it make it all worthwhile. These are just a few of the things that people who make up that 70% have told us:

“I am not the same person I was. Gilead has enabled me to live with other people without needing to use drugs. I now see my Mum nearly every day, and I’m back in regular contact with my sister – my family is being restored. I got married in 2012, and we’ve recently been approved as foster parents. Gilead is why I am here today.”

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Surname If you would like to talk to us, or visit us, call Lois Samuel on 01837 851240. You can also contact Carole Harris on the same number if you, or someone you know, is in need Postcode of the help Gilead Foundations can offer.

Instruction to your bank: Please deduct £5 / £10 / £25 / or £ from my account on (dd/mm/yy) / / Then monthly until further notice. Pay this sum to Gilead Foundations Account No: 05651441 Sort Code: 54-21-14 Nat West Bank, 40 Fore Street, Okehampton, EX20 1EY

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The Wey August 2017

Tel: 01837 851240 Fax: 01837 851520 Email: admin@gilead.org.uk www.gilead.org.uk Registered in England No: 2608644 Limited by Guarantee Registered Charity No: 1002909 DIO0817

Growing in the Wey

St Retreat Columba’s House and Conference Centre Maybury Hill, Woking, Surrey, GU22 8AB

The varied life of a hospital chaplain The Wey met with the Revd Joanna Percival, lead chaplain at Guildford’s Royal Surrey County Hospital, to learn more about the valuable role that she and her team perform for patients and their families.

denominations, chaplaincy transcends religion in caring for the whole person. We are here for people of all faiths, those without faith and those with their own brand of faith. If families need a faith representative from Mormon, Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish, Jehovah’s Witness, universalist, pagan, humanist and spiritualist faiths, we are able to contact someone to visit.

What does a normal day look like So our Spiritual Care Centre (the Chapel) is a space for Muslims and Christians to pray as well as for for you?

The role of chaplain is so varied that there’s very other forms of worship that service the needs of the rarely a ‘normal’ day, but the core activity is visiting hospital. Staff and visitors come to enjoy the peace patients and their families, supporting them as they and quiet. deal with illness and pain and the emotions that The important thing is not to push our faith on come with that, whether it is anger, grief, depression, people. We minister through attention, listening and uncertainty or any of the myriad of feelings that can kindness – we are being Jesus, not talking about him arise. It can be joy too – not long ago a new father and we have no agenda to convert. If we are asked to came to share his happy news! pray, of course we do, and we may tentatively suggest Much of what we do is about listening, and about it. Being in relationship builds trust and allows us to being alongside people as they process what is come alongside people in a way that is most helpful to happening to them or to a loved one. Being in hospital, them. God does the rest. and therefore away from one’s everyday life, often brings up things that have been waiting for our attention. We believe that it is We minister through attention, not what we are doing that counts, but what we are being – the quality of our listening and kindness – we are being presence and support.

Jesus, not talking about him and we In many ways, chaplains are part of the hospital’s multi-disciplinary team, have no agenda to convert. who look after our patients holistically, just like physios and nutritionists look after other aspects of healthcare. We are able to give patients more time than perhaps What path led you to this role? doctors and nurses can in their busy schedules, and I grew up in Stoke D’Abernon and attended church our referrals to visit people come from staff as well as there as a child. Like many, I lost some enthusiasm family, friends and churches. It’s great that the whole during my teenage years after I was confirmed. staff team see the value in what we do.

However, I became a regular church-goer again in The chaplaincy team takes on other roles within the my late 20s when I began to seek meaning in my life hospital too – such as assisting doctors to teach the again. Soon after moving to California I found a church medical students about making ethical decisions and that emphasised the inner spiritual journey that unfolds our assistant chaplain, Heather, attends the hospital in the Bible and I was hooked! I decided to switch from Dementia Carers Café each month to listen and my HR career towards ministry after a year of working support. It’s all very integrated. with homeless and runaway youth in New York City.

After two theology degrees, I was ordained in 1994, What part does faith play in your carrying out my curacy back in the UK at St Andrew’s, Cobham and then moving to All Saints’ in Weston role?

Although as a team we represent Anglican (myself), Green in 2002 as the incumbent.

Baptist (Heather Wilson) and Methodist (Allan Taylor) In 2000 my brother Tim died at the Princess Alice

10 Meeting Rooms 31 Beds Chapel and Oratory 01483 766498 www.stcolumbashouse.org.uk admin@stcolumbashouse.org.uk Registered charity in England and Wales No. 240675

The Hospital of St Cross & Almshouse of Noble Poverty

‘England’s Oldest Almshouse’

Heather and Joanna in the Spiritual Care Centre

Hospice in Esher. After we got home I was amazed to find out that all of my family members had visited the hospice’s chaplain, even those who are nonChristians, and had felt it to be of great benefit. I have also seen the work of a chaplain from a patient’s perspective, so I know how valuable it is. I think all these experiences lodged a seed in my mind and in 2008 I became chaplain at Southampton General Hospital. I took up my post at the Royal Surrey in February 2016.

How can people get involved?

First and foremost, people can volunteer as lay members of the chaplaincy team – we always need more! It’s a really rewarding role that basically entails spending time with people, listening to them, without trying to convert anyone. The commitment is a regular three hours per week. Full training is given, so no experience is necessary. We are starting a new course in the autumn – please contact me at joanna. percival@nhs.net if you would like to find out more.

We warmly welcome your prayers for our team.

Vacancies for Brothers The Hospital, founded in 1132, is home to 25 retired laymen (‘Brothers’) and applications are welcomed.

A registered Charity with a Christian foundation, the Hospital is situated a mile south of Winchester. Each Brother lives independently and occupies a flat which he furnishes himself.

Further information and an application form are obtainable from: Clerk to the Trustees Hospital of St Cross Winchester, SO23 9SD Tel: 01962 878218 E-mail: clerk@hospitalofstcross.co.uk www.hospitalofstcross.co.uk Registered Charity No.202751

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YR6 PUPILS REFLECT, PRAY AND CELEBRATE: Nearly 2,500 pupils from our Church of England schools gathered together at Leavers’ Services at the end of June to reflect on their primary school achievements and celebrate their transition to their next stage of education.

The six services, which were spread over four days at the ‘Canvas Cathedral’, involved a combination of practical activities – celebrating ‘wow’ moments, creating prayer hands, crafting ‘thank you’ people from pipe cleaners, and laying ‘sorry stones’ – and a structured service involving sung worship, prayers and reflections written by the attending schools.

Read the full story on the diocesan website: www.cofeguildford.org.uk/news and see our Flickr album for more photos: www.flickr.com/photos/ guildfordcofe

Jesus said: I came to cast fire on the earth, and would that it were already kindled!

Lk 12:49 (ESV)

The Wey August 2017

Page 7

Farewell to The Wey

Issue 1

Spring into action with Christian Aid

After 11 years and 100 issues, the door closes after this final edition and it’s time for current editor David Green to reflect as he rides off into the Surrey sunset…

influenced the G8 and our own the dumpsite his whole life, and, on government. We made a difference. that day it had all just got to me – “We must not forget that we have how disgusting the work is, picking Her Majesty The Queen leaves Guildford Cathedral after distributing Alms at the Royal Maundy the power to change things. We can through rotting rubbish to scavenge Service. She is accompanied by the Dean the Very Revd Victor Stock (left) and the Lord High work together to get debt cancelled, scraps of paper and plastic, and Almoner the Right Revd Nigel McCulloch, Bishop of Manchester. See a full report on the service - which took place just as the ‘THE W Y’ was going to press - in next month’s edition.

The familiar red envelopes will to make more aid available and then having to deal with the traders Picture by Alan Brown have a fresh look this year as make fair trade mainstream. The who treat these people as if they the charity launches its new challenge is to make the whole of also are rubbish.

WELCOME to the first edition of ‘THE W Y’ – your “I asked him “How can you do logo designed to reflect the the international system more just new diocesan newspaper reflecting the life of your this? Why do you still do this work?” organisation’s drive and determination and equitable.” local Christian family. to push for change.

Christian Aid supporters from And he looked at me and said “It is We are tremendously excited to be able to look better than stealing”.

Christian Aid hopes the new across the diocese heard first hand afresh at the work of churches, Christians and She continued: “With Christian design, which is based on its iconic accounts of the impact of poverty Christian organisations in our region and the red envelope, will make the interna- on lives when Ajantha Perera from Aid’s help, we can give these challenges facing them – and hope that you will be tional development charity instantly Sri Lanka spoke in Egham in people a proper, dignified way to strengthened, inspired and maybe sometimes even your parish has a story to tell whether it is celebrating, recognisable and help attract new March. Ajantha works for one of earn their living. entertained as you share their stories. in need of support, trying something unusual or Christian Aid’s new partners supporters.

“They will be part of a domestic At the heart of our vision for ‘THE W Y’ is a simply wanting to share with other parishes, then let Last year 388 volunteers from 17 helping improve conditions for ‘rag collection service, and they will no desire to underline the sense of family in the wider us know! We would be delighted to hear from you. churches in the Guildford Diocese pickers’ who live on the capital longer be hidden away from society, Christian community and to encourage readers in As well as having a new look the paper has also helped raise £30,209 from city’s tip, the Municipal Garbage working on the dumpsite. Their their shared purpose: but we need your help to do it. been completely re-thought to include news, community door-to-door collections. Money Dump of Columbo, scavenging children will be able to go to school, Amazing work is being carried out in countless parish and overseas issues, personal Christian journeys, was also raised form church paper, glass and metal to sell to and the next generation of rag churches and Christian groups across our diocese topical debate and a youth page, plus up-to-date traders. pickers will not be forced to make and yet all too often few people are aware of what is collections, coffee mornings, car listings on the noticeboard. If there is anything you being achieved. Christians are not always particularShe told supporters that as well their home in the garbage.” washing, children’s cake sales and would like to see more – or less – of, then do contact a concert. Nationwide the week as being exposed to physical • Twenty-one-year-old Sally ly adept at blowing their own trumpet – but tell us and us. raised £14.8 million – almost one danger on a daily basis many Maddison from Egham has just allow us to do it for you and provide other Christians Comments from readers are always welcome at fifth of the charity’s total income – rag-pickers are marginalised from returned from a trip with Christian and non-Christians with food for thought! Equally, if editorial@cofeguildford.org.uk or on 01483 790347. and involved 20,000 churches and society and have no identification Aid to Jamaica looking at the work your parish or organisation has hit trying times then a We hope you enjoy reading ‘THE W Y’ as much cards or birth certificates to entitle partner organisations carry out to prayerful, wider community may have some solutions 300,000 volunteers. as we enjoy writing it, or assistance for you.

Speaking in Guildford Cathedral them to health, education and other assist people infected with HIV and Be in touch!

This paper is your paper and this time next year services. suffering from Aids. in March the charity’s director Dr Yours in Him, we would love to be able to say that we have featured Ajantha explained how Christian Daleep Mukarji said the Make More details in the June edition stories from all of the diocese’s 164 parishes. So if Joint editors Emma Nutbrown and Lynne Cowley Poverty History campaign in 2005 Aid funds would help improve living of THE W Y’ .

Christian Aid Week (14-20 May) is the UK’s biggest door-to-door fundraising event and will be based along its successful theme; “You add. We multiply”.

Welcome to

Two teenagers orphaned by the civil Must civil partnerships mean uncivil war in Sierra Leone and left living on divisions? Two members of clergy give their views the street as young children

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Making a NOISE... Christian youth work connects with the local community in Egham

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It’s over to you for news and features for younger readers on THE W Y’’s new kidz page

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21 June 2008 Issue 21

Seeds of Hope Garden opens at Guildford Cathedral Over a hundred friends and supporters gathered on Stag Hill to watch a dream become reality as the Seeds of Hope Garden was officially opened on Ascension Day. The garden, the culmination of almost 14 years’ hard work to create a place where children can explore the concepts of loss and death, is the first in the country.

On a beautiful spring morning, children’s author Dame Jacqueline Wilson declared the garden open before the cathedral’s Dean, the Very Revd Victor Stock, led prayers and blessed the ground.

with pointers to assist school groups of different ages.

It will now be sent to schools across the whole diocese.

Caroline said: “Each year, 20,000 children are bereaved of a parent and 15,000 children die, but support for them is scarce.

“This garden is not only designed to help them, but all children - death and loss are inevitable in life and for so long adults have shied away from tackling it with children for fear of handling it wrongly.

“My hope now is that teachers and families will use it - it is a garden of life to be enjoyed. I hope that people will feel it has a spiritual quality.

An appeal launched by The Wey last year helped raise £2,000 towards the £100,000 target.

Victor praised the beauty of the garden, which is divided into four sections to represent each season and features an evocative bronze sculpture of a boy and a girl playing with dandelion seed heads.

Canon Angela Weaver, a trustee of the Seeds of Hope charity, said that death and rebirth were at the heart of both the Christian faith and the garden’s message.

As well-wishers gathered around the sculpture, Victor said that Ascension Day was not about ‘going up’, but about getting closer to God and that he hoped the garden would help visitors experience this.

She said: “Jesus said ‘suffer little children come unto me’ and of course we have a responsibility to help children as much as we can, however hard that may be.

An extensive activity and information pack accompanies the garden so that carers, parents and teachers can help young people explore the cycle of life in a variety of ways— through art, making a memory tree or walking though the specially- designed labyrinth.

“This wonderful garden, which I am sure will become a special place for countless visitors, tells us that even where there is death there is hope.

The pack is designed to fit into the national curriculum

The garden is open every day and the pack is available free of charge from the Cathedral. For more information, visit www.seedsofhopechildrensgarden.co.uk

Photo by Alan Brown

Pupils from Guildford’s Holy Trinity School released balloons and joined in cheers for founding trustee Caroline Jay, who first conceived the idea.

Flanked by playful bronze children and celebrating the opening of the country’s first ever garden of its kind, were the Very Revd Victor Stock, Dame Jacqueline Wilson, nine-year-old Rosie Miller from Holy Trinity School, Guildford, who chose the garden’s name, and trustee Caroline Jay.

Donors give generously to Bishop’s Lent Call Bishop Christopher’s Lent Call has attracted a generous response from individual donors and parish collection plates this year, said diocesan officials. The amount given so far has already doubled the total collected in last year’s appeal, which was just over £5,000.

Tony Oakden, church and community adviser in the diocesan department of social responsibility,

said the appeal was publicised more widely this year then previously.

He explained: “We hoped we’d do better than last year because of our improved publicity campaign.

We’ve been greatly encouraged by the size of the response, particularly in view of the current economic climate.”

The Call supports both overseas and local projects,

...

Celebrate with our new Deacons - see pages 8 and 9

From near death to life

see page

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Accompanying children to school in Hebron

see page

including The Amos Trust, which promotes justice and supports the oppressed in many parts of the world.

Closer to home, local projects are supported through the Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation.

Donations are still welcome and should be sent to jane.schofield@cofeguildford.org.uk You can also call 01483 790324 for information.

Inter-faith encounter through art

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see page

A church rejoices in community

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The truth is, when I joined the small communications team at Diocesan House at the end of the summer in 2009 I really didn’t know what to expect. Yes, I’d done my background research before applying for the part-time role of writer on the diocesan newspaper and I had 20 years’ experience of corporate communications and an established freelance career – but this felt more like a calling than a career choice and one I found hard to resist.

Would it be all fundraising and flower shows or was this going to be more about a church going places and moving with the times, widening its appeal?

Ironically, the first centrespread I put together for The Wey (issue 36) was a huge fundraising flower show at the cathedral, although there have been very few since (I admit that there is one in this final issue too – a higher power poking fun at me perhaps) and the diocesan leadership has slowly become more strategic in approach - planning more carefully and firmly encouraging teams to work together towards the same goals and share the same vision.

To add a bit of context, I’d followed my own faith a little selectively in the preceding three decades. I’d grown up in in a liberal Christian family in suburban south London – where Sunday worship was regular but hardly compulsory and dominated, for me and many other boys like me, by a youth church football match which ran straight after the service (if you didn’t pray, you didn’t play).

After confirmation as a teenager, I soon easily found far too many distractions in the world to remain closely connected to traditional worship, but the values and LETTER TO THE EDITOR Dear Editor, Having worked on The Wey as a volunteer proof reader since the first issue (and also on its predecessor – The Herald), I am sorry to see it go.

I have enjoyed reading it, and for many people in the parishes it has been an insight into the wider life of the diocese and the Church of England.

I have felt privileged to work with the editors past and present, as well as others in the communications department, and to be included in the community at Diocesan House, where I have been very impressed with the dedication and commitment of all the people I have met.

With best wishes for the future, Vicky Barlow – member of Holy Trinity, Guildford and Guildford Cathedral

see page

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43

September 2009 Issue 34

July/August 2010 Issue 43

Christ’s College Royal opening When His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh agreed to open the brand new £22.5m Christ’s College building in Larch Avenue, Guildford, it was an amazing scoop.

“It was also a fitting tribute to all the work that had gone on in previous years that enabled the college to be built,” said Chair of Governors, Colin Henry. “The Duke’s presence sent a warm message to staff and pupils and all involved that their school is an important landmark for the community.”

The Duke visited Guildford to open two schools, the other being the £11m home of Pond Meadow Special School next door.

Christ’s College is a Voluntary Aided Church of England School, Pond Meadow is not, but the vision to bring both together, alongside an offshoot of the highly successful Guildford Children’s Centre, was part of the late Lord Ronald Dearing’s vision for an allembracing, high quality educational campus in Larch Avenue.

“And while you’re doing that could you slip me a note of Prince Harry’s telephone number please?”

Finished within time and budget, the Christ’s College build was project-managed

by Chair of Governors, Colin Henry to produce a state-of-the art building on a site which is still undergoing development.

“I find it absolutely amazing that God brought together the right people at the right time to make all this happen,” said Colin.

“It has been a privilege to be involved. I’ve managed many major projects in the past but this has had very special significance for me as we have focused on two things: the need to restore an educational establishment as well as to rebuild the plant that houses it.

The Duke of Edinburgh joined other guests, including the Bishop of Guildford, the High Sheriff and Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, the Mayor of Guildford and councillors in tours of both schools.

At Christ’s College he saw learners at work (they’re not called ‘pupils’ or ‘students’ any more) and talked easily with many of them both before and after the simple opening ceremony. The 86-year-old Duke was in fine form as he addressed guests and members of the school, highlighting differences in education styles between what he had just seen in the classrooms and his own experience as a scholar in another era.

His speech was almost upstaged by Head Girl Fiona Turner who invited him to sign the school’s visitors’ book ‘as a souvenir of his visit’ before dropping in her own wry aside:

centenary of the church

Wave initiative has a big impact on Haslemere

see page

5

Page 8

Centre spread tour around this summer’s diocesan events and celebrations see pages

10 -11

FREE

Royals honour jubilee service

but we could all see her obvious delight at being presented with the roses and she also met a couple of long-standing church members.

“As she continued her journey home everyone went into the church for tea and cakes and to see the photo exhibition showing the changes from the first building of the church in 1909 to the very distinctive modern glass extension in 2004.

“It was a happy highlight of our centenary celebrations.”

He went on to reflect that despite the decline of and divisions within the Church of England the occasion showed that the local church could still provide a space to affirm everyone’s lives.

Church school makes massive strides in reducing its carbon footprint see page

12

Gaza – a day trip with a difference

13

see page

Among the special guests was 85-year-old Frank Jupp, who had not only been present on the day of the Consecration 50 years ago, but also for the laying of its foundation stone in 1936.

Fair weather greeted the royal couple along with crowds of enthusiastic locals lining The Queen’s approach to the cathedral on Stag Hill. The visit marked 50 years since the royal guests had attended the new building’s consecration in 1961 and signalled the celebration of half-a-century of service to Guildford and the wider diocesan community.

There are more political, legal and social demands to be addressed than ever before.

❜

and non-Christian topics, where a faith view could be helpful in making progress. There are more political, legal and social demands to be addressed than ever before and I see my role as providing reasoned perspectives, not only on behalf of Christians and other people of faith but also the wider community.

“I believe that the bishops’ non-party and spiritual input and voting plays an important role in ensuring that the people affected by House decisions are not forgotten. I would greatly value the prayerful support of the diocese as I take up this new role.”

Bishop Christopher’s customary maiden speech – traditionally on matters of regional importance for the diocese – was planned for early June as The Wey went to press. However, this and future speeches will be on the diocesan website “What I hope to do is bring some experience, presented I’ve been asked if the location and tradition of the position is daunting, but I’m certainly not overawed by alongside my fellow bishops, on both Christian issues www.cofeguildford.org.uk

The Wey August 2017

www.cofeguildford.org.uk

The hour-long visit came to a close with a service of thanksgiving led by the Dean, a short sermon by Bishop Christopher and prayers led by Bishop Ian.

Guildford Cathedral welcomed two very special visitors on Friday November 18, when Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, joined over 800 guests for the cathedral’s jubilee anniversary community thanksgiving service.

This extra new commitment is set to take up Bishop Christopher was formally introduced between two or three days each month of the bishop’s and sworn in before the House of Lords on time. A BBC radio journalist is shadowing Bishop May 27 Christopher over the next six months, compiling a series on the busy life of a diocesan bishop and Lord the history and tradition of the Palace of Westminster – it’s a fascinating place but, don’t forget, the Church has Spiritual, due for broadcast early next year.

“I’m looking forward to playing my own modest part a long and fascinating history itself. I can say that it’s in this new role,” confirms Bishop Christopher. “In fact, certainly an interesting new challenge though.

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Gratitude by Royal mail

Frank, who has continued to attend the Cathedral in the intervening years, remembered that on the day of the Consecration in 1961, crowds lining Stag Hill forced the taxi that he was in to stop and drop them off to walk the remaining distance.

For Bishop Christopher that is likely to encompass a wide range of topics – from the ecumenical to European - all of which could impact on his already busy schedule. “I will certainly have to choose carefully what I decide to take on,” he says. “But I plan to manage my time in the Lords with my regular meetings in London and ensuring my focus remains firmly on local issues within the Diocese of Guildford, where there is still much work to be done.

Bishop Ian opens new school building at St Mary’s School, Frensham see page

The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford

“Apparently she was asking about me,” he said. “I’ve been interviewed by the BBC and ITV, so it’s been an unbelievable day.”

Local government

Pictures by Russell West, SABP NHS Foundation Trust

Diocese of Guildford September/October 2012 - Issue 61

A beaming Frank admitted to feeling a little overwhelmed by being mentioned by name in front of the Queen, as the Bishop of Guildford paid tribute to him in the sermon.

“Indeed, the current issue of local government power is one which is of particular interest and more radical constitutional Lords’ reform itself will doubtless be a hot topic in the House in the months ahead.”

The Revd Michael Preston is pictured with Anabel Hindmarsh (8) and Grace Jansen (5) who presented the posy to her majesty, along with parishioners Marie Lambert and Kuhan Satkunanayagam who were presented to the Queen.

the

vital community initiatives – many on display today.

Here’s to the next fifty years.”

Along with reading daily prayers on a rota basis, the Spiritual Peers often attend and involve themselves in debates and vote in the House of Lords on matters of interest or concern to them – or in areas of individual expertise – where they can add a cross-bench and spiritual perspective to parliamentary business.

Queen stops by for Centenary celebrations at St Barnabas, Epsom

than look at a screen, or perhaps who don’t ‘do computers’ at all.

To be able to respond positively to this, we are actively exploring options for a future printed news bulletin of some kind, and hope to be able to share news on this in the coming months once discussions have concluded. We will also continue to use print for certain campaign communications, for example, the launch of the diocesan strategy last year.

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The traditional role is given to the 26 longest-serving Church of England Bishops – including the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, and Bishops of London, Durham and Winchester. Bishop Christopher took up his seat following the recent retirement of the Bishop of Ely.

It was always intended that the Christ’s College site be used to best possible advantage for the Bellfields Estate Community, and the expected addition of a swimming pool complex in the near future will go yet further towards fulfilling this part of Lord Dearing’s far-reaching vision.

Photo: Steve Porter Surrey Advertiser

A large crowd of local people waited in their front gardens and on the pavement to greet her and the Duke with cheers as she was presented with a bouquet of red and white roses – Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth traditional for St Barnabas the Apostle. calls in at St Barnabas Michael said: “Unfortunately the Queen Church, Epsom to mark the couldn’t step out of the car for security reasons

When we announced in May that The Wey would be coming to an end as part of a number of changes to our diocesan communications focus, we invited responses and I have been grateful to the readers (a dozen or so) who have been in touch to voice concern that this will be to the detriment of those among us who prefer to read a physical publication rather

2010 is proving to be a significant year for the Rt Revd Christopher Hill, the Bishop of Guildford.

After celebrating 40 years as a priest with a special service at Guildford Cathedral, Bishop Christopher was also introduced as a ‘Lord Spiritual’ at the House of Lords on May 27.

“Another highly significant aspect is the support we have received from Christians of many denominations. I recently counted representatives from seven Christian traditions on the governing body!”

Vicar the Revd Michael Preston had extended the invitation and the Queen called in on Derby Day on the way home from the racing.

The last word – prin

Dec 2011/Jan 2012 Issue 55

Bishop’s introduction to the House of Lords

“A great many people have been involved to get us to this point and all have played significant roles at different times. That list includes staff, governors, parents, many supporters and of course the learners themselves.

St Barnabas, Epsom may be a small church, but it’s not afraid to think big and its members were delighted when the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh joined them for its 100th birthday celebrations.

ethos that my formative years spent in church and the The Wey has tried to adapt over the years but, in education of a good church school instilled, always the end, an increasingly diverse audience now gathers underpinned my decision-making and confidence – news in many different ways and the format needed even if I didn’t realise it at the time. to be reviewed. That’s not to say that it is the end So, returning to 2009, I found myself working with a of the story for printed media and there are ongoing small but perfectly formed band on the diocesan-wide discussions (see ‘The last word’ below). flagship newspaper. They were going through a period Time will tell where all this takes the diocese, but of change, losing a valued member to retirement and with the increasing and evolving mix of communications dipping their collective toes into the water of digital channels, from the diocesan website, e-bulletin and communication, with a gradually increasing website targeted email to video, Facebook and Twitter – there presence and electronic media offering. is a healthy mix of timely news available to all and more Fast forward to the present, and after eight years to come – and perhaps print fans can experiment with of increasing change in the media landscape and the some new ways to stay informed in the interim, if they communications team, the importance and relevance aren’t already doing just that. of a newspaper offering has shifted significantly.

My sincere thanks to all who have helped take The Research over those years identified a decreasing and Wey to 100 editions – that’s quite a landmark for any ageing newspaper audience, coupled with increasing publication nowadays. challenges in delivering the newspaper to parish teams, It’s been a privilege, but it’s time to move on. who unfortunately often saw it as an inconvenience to distribute and promote. The result was the classic pile of newspapers gathering dust in a hidden corner of the church that often remained unread.

There were notable exceptions, of course, with some parishes using hundreds of copies of the newspaper to post through local letterboxes with parish magazines, or enthusiastic distributors visiting local schools, doctor’s surgeries, libraries and community centres with bundles of newspapers and a warm David and Emma working smile. You know who you on The Wey back in 2009 are and you are all stars.

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5

A calling not a career choice

Celebrating 20 years of family worship at St Giles’ Church, Ashtead see page

3

Christ’s College, Guildford, wins top design award

see page

4

www.cartoonchurch.com

There’s more to life than football, isn’t there?

World Cup Focus page 10

Burgh Heath couple’s unique global fund raising effort

see page

5

The invited guests, representing mainly local community projects and schools, included 150 young singers from diocesan primary schools and the cathedral’s own choristers – who all had the opportunity to see the special visitors at close quarters as they met representatives from local community projects, guided

by Bishop Christopher and the Dean of Guildford, the Very Revd Victor Stock.

Churches play their part in remembrance and fund raising

see page

2

The royal guests took time to chat informally with as many people manning the displays in the cathedral as they could, while they were given a snapshot of the important work of local projects and initiatives including the Street Angels, Cathedral Choir Outreach, Guildford YMCA, The Mothers’ Union, Oakleaf Enterprise, Watts Gallery and the Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation.

“So I was just glad to get a bit closer today!” he said.

Visit the Diocesan website www.cofeguildford.org.uk for more on the event.

Enjoy the fun, but remember the truth… of my sons is likely to be moving from ❝ One his current job in Grenoble to Sydney.

Apart from meaning that I shall have to learn to Skype, this has set me thinking.

Down Under it is the custom – it being mid-summer in the southern hemisphere – to have Christmas lunch on the beach, including, I am told, the turkey!

So the winter setting of Christmas – so important for Christmas card and carol – has to be abandoned with only the Christmas menu remaining (do they also have Christmas pudding in the heat?).

More seriously, what does Christmas mean, shorn of its northern hemisphere cultural setting?

Ultimately it is either true or false that the ‘Word became flesh’, that God took our humanity that we might share his divinity.

The trappings are fun. The truth is life giving.

Enjoy the fun, but remember the truth behind the fun which gives you life. ‘And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.’ + Christopher Guildford

“The Queen has vivid memories of signing a brick for Guildford Cathedral and then the great consecration of the cathedral fifty years ago,” said Bishop Christopher afterwards. “But the accent for this visit was all about the cathedral and diocese serving the wider community now and for the future.

“Guildford cathedral has grown in the last half-century and it now feels like a home for so many

The Fuse sparks an extraordinary evening at the cathedral

see page

3

After surprising the country with a brilliant James Bond pastiche during the Olympic Games’ opening ceremony, Her Majesty The Queen resumed her regal air to personally thank Guildford Diocese for its kind message of congratulations during her Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Ellie carries the torch as churches make an Olympic effort during the games - See our feature pages 7 to 10

❝

SEVEN remarkable days of fundraising, prayer and action get underway this month as Christian Aid Week galvanises hundreds of volunteers and supporters had achieved a great deal and conditions in the short term and brought developing world issues create an alternative livelihood for across the Guildford Diocese back into the headlines. the rag-pickers in the longer term. in the fight against global He said: “In 2005 we changed She said: “I was talking with a poverty. perceptions and behaviour, we man who has lived and worked on

Our 2011 Church Family Album

see pages

4-11

A creative cartoon approach to each Sunday’s Gospel reading

see page

14

The Roving Revd returns after 30 days in the wilderness see page

5

The torch passes Shere C of E School and continues into the heart of the diocese see page

7

Mercy Mission to Africa for Epsom’s Michelle see page

11

Her Majesty’s letter (inset) was in response to the Big Thank You Card (also inset) – signed by Bishop Christopher and containing the names of all those from our parishes who had sent their best wishes - designed by Church school competition winner Berry Hall, aged 11, from Potters Gate CofE School in Farnham.

Holiday ministry – Someone has to do it! see pages

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Improved online media the focus as plans announced for communications changes The Diocese of Guildford has announced it will cease production of The Wey from August 2017 following a strategic communications review to align communications to the diocesan strategy Transforming Church; Transforming Lives. The review engaged more than a thousand people in the Diocese of Guildford and beyond.

The Wey, which will reach its 100th and final edition in August, replaced The Herald in 2006, with the earlier publication commencing in 1988.

Nick Edmonds, Head of communications for the Diocese of Guildford, said: “We have a very strong history of communications in this diocese with 29 years of newspapers, and – as some will remember - even our own film studio at one stage, but to stay in touch we need to move with the times.”

“Newspapers have played their part in sharing good news and information across our diocese, but the media-scape today is unrecognisable from that of the 1980s.

“In those days, there was no email, no websites and social media was a distant prospect; the newspaper was the only way to share news and information, and was an economical way of doing so.

“Nowadays stories in The Wey have usually already been posted on the website, been shared on social media, and included in the e-bulletin by the time they reach print.”

New media growth Social media has experienced significant growth in recent times, with CofEGuildford Facebook posts reaching nearly 100,000 people in the past month.

With short videos now accounting for around 70% of all internet traffic, the Diocese of Guildford has increased its output of these with the role of video journalist

advertised for 2017.

A survey of over 850 churchgoers across the diocese of Guildford revealed that although many people still read a daily or weekly newspaper, engagement with The Wey had decreased over the years, with more than two thirds of respondents indicating that they don’t think a diocesan newspaper is a vital tool for mission. Meanwhile, regular email is the favoured method for the latest news and information updates.

Latest content

developments which are just around the corner,” said Nick.

“But we know that some people will miss newspaper, and I would like to invite people to get in touch to say what they will miss about The Wey Wey, to make sure we are providing this in other ways.

“We will also explore options for getting news to those who do not have access to a computer or smartphone.”

To reflect the changes of focus, two new roles will now be advertised, for a full time communications officer, and a full time video journalist (details on cofeguildford.org.uk/jobs).

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To fill the gaps left by The Wey, a new e-bulletin is being developed to ensure the latest and most relevant content is available to all, along with a full content audit of the website to make the user journey as easy as possible.

“We’re very excited about a whole range of new

With more than 50% of web traffic now on smartphones and tablets, it’s vital for all our churches to prioritise their online and social media presence

Twelve goals, one vision, shaping our next steps together

Tel: 02380 265 683 bbripat@brialdon.freeserve.co.uk i @b i ld f k

www.cofeguildford.org.uk

’Instagrans’ – one in four over 65s in the UK now use social media (2016)

Revd, Mark Wallace, Vicar of All Saints’ Church Lightwater and Area Dean of Surrey Heath took part in a consultation on the future of the diocesan communications: “I’ve enjoyed reading The Wey over the years, but it’s clear that a diocesan newspaper is no longer the best way to engage with many people,” said Mark.

“With more than 50% of web traffic now on smartphones and tablets, it’s vital for all our churches to prioritise their online and social media presence.

“I’m really encouraged to see our communications team taking a lead in helping churches to do this.”

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In addition to our programme, which can be viewed on our website, we offer times for quiet prayer, opportunities for daily worship and an atmosphere of silence to support those who seek to spend time deepening their relationship with God.

Exciting. Inspiring. Ambitious. Encouraging. All words used by clergy to describe their first impressions of the diocese’s new vision Transforming Church, Transforming Lives.

Bishop Andrew first launched the new vision “I’m very excited by the idea of transformation,” to over 250 clergy and parish representatives in said Bishop Andrew. “Because wherever I go I September, with many parishes introducing the meet people whose lives have been transformed vision to their congregations in recent weeks. through their contact with the church and the God The vision now sits below the Diocese of whom we worship.

Guildford logo – signifying that it now underpins all “Hundreds of church-led community initiatives that we set out to do together. across the region, from food banks to street pastors, Twelve goals, ranging from ‘making disciples’ to from youth clubs to elderly drop-ins, are also ‘improving church buildings’, will all help the growth transforming whole communities, bringing hope and of vibrant, healthy and outward-looking churches, help to those who need it most.” with an ambition to transform lives and enrich Taking shape communities, and to bring more people to faith and Christian commitment.

The launch of the goals follows a year of consultation, when the views of more than 1,500 Bringing new people churchgoers across the Surrey and Hampshire region were gathered. The consultation revealed into Church means that growth in churches was frequently associated thinking creatively, thinking with making provision for children and young families, starting new worship services and differently … what we’ve engaging in social action projects. Churches also heard is that when we tended to be growing where they were responsive to changes in culture, in the light of so many get the ingredients right, activities now competing for the traditional Sunday attracting new people is very morning ‘church slot’.

One distinct target announced already – and possible.

- Bishop Andrew directly helping to increase believers – is to found 100 new worshipping communities over the next

House, Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3XG. For details of the new roles in the team see www.cofeguildford. org.uk/jobs

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Inside: Latest news – P2 • Community – P5 • Vocations – P8-9 • What’s on? – P14

ten years, to mark the centenary of the Diocese of Guildford in 2027.

“I’m particularly excited by the vision to found 100 new worshipping communities over the next ten years,” adds Bishop Andrew. “While many people still appreciate a more traditional approach to church-going, our aim with this initiative is to allow people who may have never been to church to find their place in the Christian family.

Creative thinking “Bringing new people into Church means thinking creatively, thinking differently. In today’s society, people are often so busy that the traditional Sunday morning slot doesn’t work for them, but our experience is that the God-shaped gap in people’s lives is as real as ever.

“While we can’t ignore the fact that nationally, church attendance has been gradually declining, what we’ve heard is that when we get the ingredients right, attracting new people is very possible.

“Growth isn’t associated with one particular style of worship, and we see it in many areas, from contemporary worship to cathedral services, with national statistics released recently showing cathedral attendances to be consistently on the rise.

“So we expect these 100 new congregations will come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it be an established congregation sending some of its members to a new area of need, a week-night service in an existing church, a group meeting in a pub or a skate park, this is about the Church meeting people where they are.”

and to streamline communications in parishes and chaplaincies.

To help enact the plan, parishes will be asked to pray together, then to identify priorities which suit their local context, by focusing on a few of the goals at a time.

This will be supported by central training, mentoring, resources and grant funding through a newly established growth fund, with plans to top this up with grant applications to the Church Commissioners of the Church of England, particularly to ensure a faith presence is provided in the many new housing developments across the area.

God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – is in the business of transforming individuals and communities, and we have the joyful privilege of joining in.

Find out more and how your parish can join in online www.cofeguildford.org.uk/transforming

Vicars up 50%

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Get in touch A survey of other CofE dioceses revealed that less than a quarter still produce a newspaper, but some produced a less frequent printed magazine or other printed publication.

Nick Edmonds said that the Diocese of Guildford will explore the case for a magazine running on a less frequent basis but wants to know from readers whether there is a demand.

“It’s very hard to measure how widely free publications are being read, so if you have a view on this, please get in touch,” he said.

In response to Goal 11 of Transforming Church; Transforming Lives, the Diocese of Guildford’s communications team is gearing up to offer more direct training to parishes. The first training event will take place on 25 May in Woking. See details in the panel on the right.

Nick Edmonds can be contacted on nick. edmonds@cofeguildford.org.uk or at Diocesan

Transforming Church Transforming Lives

Over 250 clergy and parish representatives attended the new vision launch in September at the cathedral marquee

WE CAN

Parishes engaged – here’s how!

Following widespread consultation, Transforming Church, Transforming Lives has emerged to encapsulate our mission as a diocese.

Transforming Church, Transforming Lives is a framework not a blueprint, encouraging a thousand local initiatives to work towards broader diocesan goals.

It is primarily a strategic toolbox for the local church, though many of its principles can be extended to groups of churches, network congregations, chaplaincies and church schools.

Its ethos is to create a culture of prayer, permission-giving, partnership, honesty and mutual accountability; and at its heart lie three main commitments:  A set of 12 transformation goals, which we all seek to fulfil together

our mission planning over the last two years and how these fitted with the 12 goals…there was so much energy and enthusiasm in the room, even at 9.30pm!

We especially resonate with your vision for transformation – much preferring it to the relentless ‘growth’ narrative…”

– Sarah Brough, Rector, St Mary’s, Chiddingfold.

“We showed the video after the service in the hall and I am emailing out each day a photo of the relevant day of the 10-day prayer programme to the general parish email list… people are giving positive feedback.”

– Andreas Sistig, Vicar, St Anne’s, Bagshot.

“Our 5-year vision plan comes to an end in 2017, so we are planning to use Transforming Church,  An expectation that every parish will Transforming Lives as a spring pray over its mission priorities in the board for our next vision plan.” – light of those goals, and produce an Nick Aiken, Rector, Wisley action plan which will be well-owned and regularly reviewed

DESIGN

with Pyrford.

“We used the short video and also used some of the prayer resources for our intercessions. A lot of people picked up a bookmark to take with them, often flicking through them to find their favorite colour! We are linking to the full video on our website and notices and thinking about how best to take the next step, but will probably have a corporate prayer evening with the prayer stations at some point in the coming months as well as further notices on the 12 goals…” – Barney Pimentel, Curate, St Mary of Bethany, Woking.

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St Francis’ Church, Westborough, successfully launched Transforming Church, Transforming Lives at the end of September.

“The new vision fits perfectly with our own plan, which is to start leading our church into growth and involves fitting a course within the worship service,” the Revd Stefanie Hodges told The Wey. “This is a new adventure, but with careful planning and the backing of our

church community we are giving it a go.

“Transforming Church, Transforming Lives was very well received by the church family and created an air of excitement. We watched the video over coffee following the service and people were very interested to see what other worshipping communities are doing.

It also fits well with our own concern for ‘making disciples’. We may not be able to afford the Prosecco, but we are introducing coffee and croissants!”

• Distribution We are able to insert your leaflets into this and similar publications enabling you to reach a church audience in this and other CofE dioceses.

Parish support – help and advice on hand

Along with the 100 new congregations, another target is to see 50% more vicars in training by the year 2020 to help meet a national shortage, as well as the training of lay leaders in all disciplines.

Education is at the heart of the vision, with the number of church school academies set to rise rapidly, and with outreach into schools and further education establishments a priority. Other goals will aim to foster skill sharing, to improve church buildings

A quality video leads the line-up of supporting resources available to parishes for Transforming Church, Transforming Lives – a 15-minute film tells seven short stories of transformative work already in action across the diocese – from pioneer ministry and Prosecco to language classes and foodbanks, demonstrating just some of the different ways of building community across the diversity of our parishes.

At the heart of Transforming Church, Transforming Lives is prayer and action planning and a wealth of practical resources to help are available via the website – including a pop-up prayer room and 12 prayer stations – one for each transformation goal, plus contacts for teams ready and willing to help parishes

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Page 8

The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford

AND MORE

 The provision of resources from the centre, including support, training, mentoring, prayer resources and grant funding through a newly established growth fund. Find out more www. cofeguildford.org.uk/transforming Here’s what just a few parishes have done with it so far: “Our Transforming Worship has a deliberately double meaning…that it will transform what we might think worship is and also we will be transformed as we choose to worship God for an extended period of time as churches together.

There will be a sunrise celebration, a slot especially for children and parents, some contemplative and spoken worship as well as a creative area for painting…”

– Pippa Ford, Curate, Burpham Church.

“A big thank you. The new banner has arrived and looks brilliant…” – Andrew Knowles, Minister, St Mary’s, Camberley.

“We watched the video again and discussed ideas and opportunities…and how much we have achieved through

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May 2016 - Issue 90

Page 9

Emma’s reflection – a diocesan Church family It’s hard to believe it now, but in 2006 the diocesan newspaper was the one platform where we all had an opportunity to come together and experience a sense of our diocesan Church family, our common identity and purpose.

The Wey might have launched with a picture of congregations, schools and charities living out their journey, notably that of the Revd Caroline Corry, HM The Queen on the front page, but the focus for our faith at the grass roots level up and down the diocese. who wrote regular pieces for The Wey during her treatment for breast cancer before her death aged 52 small but committed team was to share the stories of So in the days when a diocesan website was in in September 2010. the planning stages and social media the domain of a few American students, we encouraged parishes to Caroline, a sharp and humorous writer, urged us in the final instalment of her ‘Diary of a Chemo contact us so we could reflect the diversity, service and witness of fellow Christians in ten editions a year. Patient’ to reflect on the road to Emmaus story: ‘When someone needs accompanying, walk with them all the In early editions we stimulated debate with opinion pieces on topics including same sex relationships and way until they reach their destination…’ climate change in a regular feature called the ‘Broad Thank you for your support of The Wey and for Church’ and launched ‘Growing in the Wey’, a page sharing with us over the years while a communications designed to showcase initiatives so that parishes from revolution took place and gave us so many more different corners of the diocese were able to learn from opportunities to experience what it is to be part of a wider diocesan family. one another.

Emma Nutbrown edited The Wey from Of course we had harder news too, notably the 2006 to 2015 Queen’s visit and welcoming the two Archbishops to the re-opening of Woking’s retreat centre, St the 81 Columba’s House in 2009, but we unashamedly pursued a principle of the parishes being at the heart of our newspaper.

As an editor it was a privilege to see the breadth of activity inspired by a love of God and humbling to share in the highlights but also the realities of the

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The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford February 2016 - Issue 88

cofeguildford

cofeguildford

@CofEGuildford

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£4.6 million!

nt will have its place However, an important point is that moving to digital media will not only allow us to share the latest news as soon as possible, but also gives us new ways to tell stories of faith in our communities, an area which we will be resourcing going forward. And please do regularly visit our YouTube channel to sample these by typing goo.gl/ MpuJG5 into any internet browser. If you rely on print for your news and information, you could also encourage the editor of your parish magazine to include articles from our 65

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Diocese of Guildford

The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford

March/April 2013 - Issue 65

CofEGuildford

@CofEGuildford

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regular e-bulletins, which is an excellent way to bridge the gap. Did you know that more people read parish magazines than national newspapers?

As we develop our communications strategy in the coming months, I hope you will stay in touch, but will give the final word to The Wey, and to express my own enormous thanks to all who have contributed to it over the years. Onwards and upwards!

Nick Edmonds, Head of Communications 73

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Diocese of Guildford

The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford

March/April 2014 - Issue 73

Guildford Cathedral’s numbers come up - some of the staff and team of volunteers celebrate news of the £4.6m award

After months of fundraising and lobbying, Guildford Cathedral received the milestone news in February that its £4.6million application to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) had been successful.

The funds will play a key role in allowing repairs and improvements to the iconic listed building to go ahead – with preliminary work starting as early as this March.

‘The People’s Cathedral Project’ - a term coined in response to the 200,000 ordinary people who ‘bought a brick’ to pay for the completion of the cathedral in 1961 – will also include a community engagement programme to capture and reveal the rich heritage and history behind the imposing 20th century cathedral.

A member of Epsom’s Christ Church youth club over 50 years ago, Jackie Carter, said: “I was one of those who paid for a brick. Our youth club all bought bricks. I can’t believe it was so long ago!

“I hope that all the refurbishment can now take place. It is a building that has grown on us over the years. At first, it seemed less than beautiful, but I’m glad to say that we were wrong. It is a magnificent structure and one which can be seen for miles.”

The cathedral’s application to HLF was only made along and experience its unique atmosphere.” possible by the generosity of people from across our Head of HLF South East Stuart McLeod said: diocese and beyond. Their contribution through the “Guildford Cathedral is a remarkable building MAKE YOUR MARK appeal enabled the cathedral with its history deeply rooted in the surrounding to secure the initial £1.3m partnership funding community. The Heritage Lottery Fund’s investment necessary to submit the £4.6m bid. is a direct response to the urgent need to save this The Dean, the rare example of a Very Reverend modern cathedral.

Dianna Gwilliams, “The project The award is another crucial step will also help to told The Wey: “We are delighted capture and reveal towards saving the cathedral and by the HLF’s the wonderful story transforming the Stag Hill site... decision to support behind the People’s the project. The Cathedral.” award is another Following crucial step towards saving the cathedral and preparatory work this March, building work will begin transforming the Stag Hill site. We are so grateful to in earnest in October to remove acoustic plaster, the many people and organisations who have given which contains asbestos, from the cathedral vaults so generously and made their mark to keep the and ceiling. A new lighting and sound system will People’s Cathedral open. also be installed, and disabled and family access “This award is a recognition of the value of will be improved to help welcome an anticipated modern, 20th century heritage and that Guildford additional 9,000 visitors annually.

Cathedral is an important part of that. If you’ve never An oral history project will be launched to been inside the cathedral, I would urge you to come capture over 200 memories of the brick-givers

and those involved in the construction of Guildford Cathedral. This unique story will be complemented by a programme to digitalise the cathedral’s extensive and comprehensive archive containing approximately 140 boxes and 53 folders of fascinating items.

Throughout the project a series of apprentice and volunteering opportunities will be available, to enable 350 local people of all ages to develop the necessary skills to conserve and protect the heritage of Guildford Cathedral for future generations.

Guildford Cathedral will remain open throughout the project and visitors are encouraged to come and explore the transformation in action and take part in any of the 40 specially organised heritage activities.

The project forms part of a wider ongoing £7m appeal to raise funds for repairs and improvements to the site. A further £800,000 is still needed to complete the appeal.

To make a donation to the appeal which is now aiming to raise sufficient funds to restore the organ, visit www.guildford-cathedral.org.

STOP PRESS: Bishop of Dorking announces retirement - see back page

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My Lent Call this year reflects on Jesus’ commission to his disciples to go and bear ‘fruit that will last’.

Bishop Andrew

will be shared equally between the overseas work of the Church Mission Society (CMS) – a community of people in mission who want the world to know Jesus – and Us (formerly USPG) – a church-based charity working in direct partnership with Anglican Churches around the world.

More information and downloadable versions of the leaflet and poster are also available online at www.cofeguildford.org.uk/lentcall

New leaflets and posters supporting the Bishop of Guildford’s Lent Call 2016 – Fruit That Will Last – are being distributed to parishes during January.

“My Lent Call this year reflects on Jesus’ commission to his disciples to go and bear ‘fruit that will last’ (John 15:16),” says Bishop Andrew. “Our special focus will be on the socalled ‘Five Marks of Mission’, which spell out Jesus’ call to his Church to reach out in love to a world God loves so much; and we will seek to do that together through our praying,

serving and giving during this special time in the Church’s year.”

The leaflets and posters encourage churchgoers to focus on weekly topics and actions during Lent – which begins on Ash Wednesday February 10 – that highlight elements of the Five Marks of Mission: Care for the Environment, Seeking Justice, Loving Service, Discipleship and Evangelism.

Fundraising “Your generosity during last year’s Lent Call raised over £20,000 for those less

fortunate both locally and abroad,” added Bishop Andrew. “Please join me in praying, serving and giving during Lent this year.”

Funds raised from money saved from many of this year’s actions and then donated to the Lent Call will be shared between three charities this year.

The Bishops of Guildford’s Foundation (BGF) will again benefit from half of the money raised and continue their support for a number of local faithbased projects during the year ahead.

The other half of the funds raised

BEM in New Year’s Honours for St Peter’s busy Lulu The founder of a popular playgroup at St Peter’s Church, Hersham, has been recognised with the British Empire Medal (BEM) in the New Year’s Honours.

Lulu Button, leader of St Peter’s mother and toddler group, was recognised in the New Year’s Honours list for her services to children and families.

Involved in childcare for several decades, Lulu helped form the Hersham Road Spongefingers playgroup in the ‘70s. Twenty years later, she set up the Gemmery mother and toddler group at St Peter’s Church Hall and now leads its Little Gems group for children age 2-5. Lulu also works at the Burhill Sure Start Children’s Centre in Hersham and helps at Guildford Cathedral.

Stressing the important role of the Church, Lulu said: “It’s about the Church doing stuff for the community. Gems is very much part of the St Peter’s outreach programme. There’s something about coming to Gems, mums can have a natter and kids can make friends. If you have a happy mother then you have a happy child.

“Helping with the children who visit the cathedral through school workshops has also been a great joy

to me and I love it. There are so many inspiring people who work and support the diocese and cathedral that I feel hugely privileged to have met, and to have been a tiny part of what they do.”

Personal circumstances have also influenced Lulu’s hard work and dedication to the Gemmery. Her two sons live with their children in America, and her daughter sadly died when she was 18.

“It was one of the reasons I got so involved – she would have wanted me to carry on working with Gems. She used to paint the children’s faces for the

Gems is very much part of the St Peter’s outreach programme. Mums can have a natter and kids can make friends. If you have a happy mother then you have a happy child.

parties here, she was so full of fun.

“It’s filled a big hole in my life because I don’t have a family here.

Watching these children grow up, through the playgroup to school and church, it’s been an absolute joy. And they seem to like coming to the groups.”

Vicar of St Peter’s Church, the Revd Martin Fletcher added: “I would like to offer my congratulations to Lulu on her fantastic achievement. She is a Lulu playing hide and seek with granddaughter Mila very worthy recipient of the British Empire Medal, having devoted so personal, generous, practical and discreet. Lulu is a much of her time and energy to the wellbeing of family fine example of someone who brings individuals into life in the local community. the mutuality of community life, enabling them to be “Her care for others is simply non-stop – and always the best they can be.”

Inside: Prisons feature – P7 • Hopes and prayers for 2016 – P8-9 • Climate response – P10

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March/April 2015 - Issue 81

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The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford August 2015 - Issue 84

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Parish looks to the future after church gutted by fire

Parishioners who experienced the pain and shock of losing All Saints Church, Fleet, to fire in June, rallied by launching a church fundraising appeal just days later.

The striking red brick Victorian church built in 1862 by William Burges was left a shell after the blaze which took Hampshire Fire Service over three hours to bring under control.

Vicar, the Revd Mark Hayton, spoke of his deep appreciation of the messages of support that had flooded into the parish – and of his hope for the future.

He said: “The destruction of a church is a cause of deep sorrow, not just for churchgoers but for the whole community.

“The shock was profound but we are thankful that no-one was hurt.”

He continued: “We have all been overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support for the church in the aftermath of the fire.

“People from as far away as Brazil, Canada and South Africa as well as across the UK have shared our story and pledged prayers.

“Here on the ground it has been deeply moving to see the groundswell of support for our church.

“We have had people stopping us in the streets, phone calls and emails as well as comments on the website from countless people wanting to share their shock but also articulate their support for All Saints’ as we look to the future.

“This has been incredibly uplifting and is sustaining us as we launch our ‘All Saints Fund’ and look into the options available to us to create a new church building and community asset in the heart of Fleet.

“Even we as a Church can sometimes fall into the trap of believing that most people feel the Church is irrelevant. This terrible event has underlined for us how the Church still remains an essential part of our community’s life and fabric. I have a tremendous sense of hope for the future.”

Messages of support have also flooded into Fleet’s All Saints ‘ CofE Junior School, where Year 6 pupils decided themselves to dedicate all funds from their stalls at the school’s summer fair to All Saints’ Church.

Headteacher Alison Wyld said: “I have been overwhelmed by the response of the school community. So many people who say they don’t ordinarily go to church have approached me or sent messages to express their shock and sorrow.

The extensive damage was evident the morning after the fire as a police officer guarded the scene

“Our pupils have been hit badly by the damage to their church, and wrote prayers which were on display when the All Saints’ congregation joined with the congregation of SS Philip and St James for the first Sunday worship after the fire.

“The sadness is real but it is accompanied by a strong sense of how much people care and how the fire has actually brought people together.”

Firefighters were able to save priceless church records and valuables from the building – and social media also played a key role in ensuring the safety of memorial benches close to the church.

Firefighter Duncan Forster who manages Rushmoor Station’s Twitter account (@Rushmoor02) stepped back from the blaze for a moment and glanced at the Twitter account on his phone where he saw a member of the public had asked

if his mother’s memorial bench was intact.

Duncan said: “It prompted me to check and there was the bench.

We quickly got it and others to a place of safety. At that point the tiles were sliding off the roof into the guttering and it wasn’t many minutes later before the guttering gave way and the tiles all fell to where the benches had been.

“The Twitter account was only set up two months earlier. The community has experienced a real sense of loss. We are really pleased

that our account helped save a family from an even greater sense of loss.”

Insurers Ecclesiastical will pay for the roof and other rebuilding costs but the parish will now begin fundraising for the inevitable extra costs to make the church fully functional and fit for the 21st century.

To find out more about the

All Saints Fund or to donate, visit http://ariseallsaints.uk/  A 16-year-old boy has been charged with arson in connection with two fires at All Saints’ Church. Mark has urged the community to join him in praying for all those affected, including for the suspect.

He said: “I would humbly ask that those who feel able might continue to pray for all of those affected by the fire in the weeks and months ahead. Central to that is the 16-year-old who now faces criminal proceedings. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family.”

Year 6 pupils at All Saints’ CofE School, Fleet, including Ellie (pictured), decided to donate all the £270 raised from their stalls at the school summer fair to the church

Inside: Cathedral down to earth - P2 • Street Angels’ Award - P3 • Petertide - P8-9

November 2014 - Issue 78 SPECIAL NEW BISHOP EDITION

www.cofeguildford.org.uk

‘Christ Rests’ at Guildford Cathedral A striking bronze sculpture, Christ Rests, will be a powerful focus for contemplation for those visiting Guildford Cathedral during Lent and Holy Week.

The sculpture is the work of one of Britain’s most accomplished and innovative equine sculptors, Nic Fiddian-Green, whose 33-foot high horse head stands at Marble Arch.

Nic has worked on the subject of the Passion of Christ since the early 1980s, when he undertook the creation of the Crucifixion and Veil of Veronica as part of the Stations of the Cross at the Wintershall estate. Christ Rests - a monumental work of art at 5ft x 4ft x 4ft - is the result of Nic’s continued search for the face of Christ in his work.

The Revd Canon Andrew Bishop said:

“Anyone who sees Nic’s sculpture cannot help but be moved and challenged: moved by the impact of his extraordinary artistic expression and challenged by the face of Jesus, who for Christians is the Son of God, but also as a human being shares the pains of the world. It is a striking and meditative piece for the holy season of Lent.”

Speaking of this work Nic said: “I have been working on the subject of the face of Christ for over 20 years with no place in mind, so when I was invited to install a work at Guildford Cathedral, I realised it was out of my hands. It is a great privilege and opportunity to reveal this work in a sacred and spiritual place.”

Diocesan newspaper celebrates 25th anniversary How time flies – 25 years ago this month, the Herald – forerunner of The Wey – printed 55,000 copies of issue number 1 (pictured) of the diocesan newspaper – giving it a circulation bigger than The Church Times in March 1988.

The Herald replaced the Diocesan Leaflet – designed to be circulated with parish magazines – when the then Bishop of Guildford, the Rt Revd Michael Adie ‘felt a need to have something which is current and gives more space to the life of the Church.’

A team of three produced that landmark first issue a quarter of a century ago with Tony Brown as production editor, responsible for supplying stacks of the 12-page newspaper to parishes – with Ashtead topping the circulation charts and collecting a staggering 2,000 copies in those early days.

Recalling his involvement, Tony writes: “I responded to the call for help launching a diocesan newspaper after retiring in 1987. The next thing was a phone call from the Ven Paul Barber, Archdeacon of Surrey – could he come to see me to discuss Bishop Michael’s

ideas about a diocesan newspaper, and would I be interested? Yes, was my reply!

some said it would only last five issues, so it’s safe to say we have exceeded their expectations.

“As we know, the rest is history. With book editing but no newspaper experience, I found myself putting together issue number 1 (pictured), and looking back at that black-and-white wallpaper style paper, I appreciate how far it has progressed in style and quality – amateurs replaced by professionals.

“Communication has changed dramatically over the past 25 years and will continue to do so - but the principle remains that we will strive to tell people in our communities what Christians are doing in Jesus’ name and to support parishes by highlighting successful initiatives. Keep your stories and views coming!

“I wish The Wey all the best for the future, holding its own against other media rivals of 2013…”

The Wey - so named to highlight the paper’s role in informing the journey of Anglicans within Guildford Diocese, through which runs the River Wey – replaced the Herald in May 2006.

Its brief was to provide a sharper parish focus and underline a sense of diocesan family with inspiring, informative stories and local church news. Around 23,000 copies are currently printed eight times a year and distributed across the diocese by a network of volunteers.

Joint editor since The Wey’s launch Emma Nutbrown said: “When introduced in March 1988,

Church communities across the north of the diocese encountered suffering on their doorsteps sometimes literally - and were galvanised into action in February as prolonged rain fell with devastating consequences.

sandbags and offer practical help. In the south of the diocese one parish offered a temporary home to an evacuated family and gave up the church hall as home to a rescue team brought in from Norfolk.

to evacuate stranded residents and belongings. The church also set up a helpline during the floods and opened an emergency kitchen and meeting point in the High Street.

The Wey takes a look at how some parish churches have responded to one of the wettest winters on record.

As the River Thames burst its banks and groundwater rose, clergy took to dinghies and churches rallied to fill

St John’s Church, Egham, had its own secret weapon in the shape of vicar Jeff Wattley’s dinghy which was launched

St John’s sent letters across the town offering help from church members and also enlisted the help of Royal Holloway students – including the American Football team who helped build defences for residents.

Church member Angela Dijksman who was stranded at her home in Vicarage Crescent and helped rescue two elderly neighbours with the use of Jeff’s boat, paid tribute to the young people who came to their aid.

She said: “Our church student officer Aiden Watson worked for three hours digging a ditch in an effort to keep the water away. He was soaking and frozen to the bone but just kept going.

“Then the American footballers arrived and they worked solidly going backwards and forwards with sandbags and helping our elderly neighbours evacuate. They were truly wonderful.”

Two-thirds of the parish of Egham Hythe was under water at one point raising real fears about personal safety.

l continued on page 10

“We couldn’t do it without our team of volunteers who proof-read, pick up bundles from deanery drop– off points, hand copies out at the end of services or push them through letterboxes – not to mention those who send in their parish stories. A huge thank you goes out to you all.

“Here’s to another 25 years of diocesan communication – whether it is by newspaper, email, website, Facebook, Twitter or whatever the future brings!”

Stay in touch with The Wey’s team via editorial@cofeguildford.org.uk

Relief efforts at Magna Carta Hythe School, Egham

Herald issue number 1 -

Sandbag making at St Peter’s Church, Chertsey

Food help at St Paul’s,

Egham Hythe

Flooding in Wavendene Avenue,

Thorpe

March 1988

Inside - News from the parishes, a look at volunteering, women’s ministry and more...

Page 1

Parishes rally as floods cause chaos

Christ Rests will be on display at the cathedral until March 30. For more information visit www.nicfiddiangreen.co.uk

Inside: Moving towards women bishops - p2 • Schools update - p5 • Cathedral Appeal - p8/9

Meet your new bishop Months of anticipation were brought to a close on September 26 with the announcement of the next Bishop of Guildford, the Rt Revd Andrew Watson.

Bishop Andrew, 53, has spent the last six years as Suffragen Bishop of Aston and will be inaugurated in February at Guildford Cathedral.

The Downing Street announcement at 10am on Friday September 26 was closely followed by a busy day of visits by Bishop Andrew, including a morning at a community-centred church in the west of the diocese, lunch at Guildford’s Diocesan House, an afternoon at an innovative Church school RE department in the east of the diocese and ending with Evensong at the cathedral.

Bishop Andrew spoke a number of times on the day to clergy, church members and the local media, among others, saying: “It is both exciting and deeply humbling to be invited to serve the people of Surrey and North East Hampshire, and to lead the Church of England in mission across the diocese.

“Although I don’t know the area covered by the diocese that well, having spent much of my childhood in Winchester and served most of my ministry in West

London, I’ve come to appreciate some of the county’s beauty spots over the years – Hindhead Commons and Box Hill in particular.

“But the churches’ commitment to food banks, street pastoring, credit unions and relationship counselling reminds us that there’s another side to life in the region. In fact it’s often hardest to be struggling when others around us seem to have it easy.

‘Amateur’ bishop “My greatest joy as a bishop is seeing the Living God at work, transforming the lives of individuals and communities, and harnessing the extraordinary potential of adults, young people and children alike.

Prayerfully developing a climate in which that potential is both recognised and released seems to me at the heart of the task of leadership for parents, teachers, vicars and bishops; in fact for all leaders everywhere. And the Diocese of Guildford is clearly stuffed full of potential.

“I guess my prayer as we prepare to move from the West Midlands is not so much that I would shine as a bishop, but

more that I would enable others to shine.

I’d like to be known as an ‘amateur’ in ministry as much as a ‘professional’, because an amateur is literally someone who loves, and love - that powerful combination of grace and truth - is at the heart of it all.”

Within the Diocese of Birmingham Bishop Andrew has taken a lead on helping churches transform lives and communities and on encouraging younger people to explore faith in Christ. He also has a strong global interest, chairing the national Panel for World Mission and the Anglican Communion drawing together views from Anglican churches and mission agencies worldwide.

The Bishop of Birmingham the Rt Revd David Urquhart said: “As Bishop of Aston, Andrew has made an outstanding contribution to the life of the Church of England across the Diocese of Birmingham. He has developed and overseen our Transforming Church strategy, ‘growing churches at the heart of each community’. Andrew’s preaching and teaching have been particularly wellreceived across our diverse parishes and churches. He moves to Guildford with my profound gratitude, continuing friendship

and my prayers for this new and exciting stage of his service to Jesus Christ.”

Before moving to Birmingham, Bishop Andrew was a vicar in London, serving parishes in Notting Hill and Twickenham.

Andrew is married to Beverly, who is also ordained, and together they have four children, aged from 16 to 24. In his spare time Andrew is a keen musician (a former member of the National Youth Orchestra) and enjoys walking, photography and reading novels. He is also the author of three books including ‘The Fourfold Leadership of Jesus’ and ‘The Way of the Desert’ (a Lent book), published by the Bible Reading Fellowship.

The Bishop of Dorking the Rt Revd Ian Brackley who is serving as acting diocesan bishop during the vacancy, said: “I am delighted to know that Bishop Andrew is to come to our diocese as the next Bishop of Guildford.

“He will bring with him a passion for outreach and evangelism as well as a keen interest in education and social concern. I look forward to working with him and he can be assured of my support and the prayers of the diocese as he and his family prepare for the move from Birmingham to Guildford.”

The Diocese of Guildford is clearly stuffed full of potential Bishop Andrew Watson

The Wey March/April 2013

The Wey August 2017

Page 9

Focus on Music ‘Songs for Life’ hit the right note Gilead Foundations is a Therapeutic Community, offering a residential rehabilitation programme, called KEY, for people with life-controlling addictions, such as drug or alcohol abuse, homelessness, gambling, eating disorders, self harm, and other addictive behaviours.

Based on a 300 acre dairy farm in rural Devon, Gilead uses the Genesis Process Relapse Prevention programme with our clients.

If you, or someone you know would like more information about Gilead or would like to make an application, please contact:

Laura Alm

Tel: 01837 851240 Fax: 01837 851520

laura.alm@gilead.org.uk

www.gilead.org.uk Page 10

Church workers and school staff from across the diocese have boosted their musical repertoire at a recent training day, adding a host of interactive ‘Songs for Life’ that support children’s spiritual development and wellbeing.

At the free training event, held at Guildford Baptist Church, around 20 primary school teachers and children’s workers were taught new songs suitable for all types of collective worship settings, such as church groups, assemblies and RE lessons.

The songs, which have actions and signs to aid learning and engagement, address themes such as bullying, loss

and friendship and are designed to help children connect everyday experiences with a loving God. Suzanne Butler from charity Fischy Music, who led the training, also taught participants innovative and effective approaches to using music and song with children in a school or church environment, regardless of their level of musical expertise.

Holly Barton, from Leatherhead parish church, who attended the event said: “It’s great that you can have songs that are accessible for children which are hard-hitting and talk about real subjects. I really appreciate the use of real situations and feelings. I’m definitely going to use this in the future.”

Rachel Boxer added: “I’m interested in assembly music for the infant school I support on a regular basis so I can see this is brilliant stuff to use with them.

It’s been a really helpful day – it’s been brilliant to have very good, accessible

music, not happy-clappy, suitable for any school to use.”

More information about Fischy Music and the resources they offer, with samples, is available at www.fischy.com​.

ST BART’S THRILL AT BARBICAN: Singers from the Haslemerebased school recently took to the stage of to perform their pop album, which went straight to the top of the children’s iTunes chart in November last year.

‘Pop or Not’ is a re-imagination of the debut album by Manchester band Whyte Horses, who accompanied 40 St Bart’s choristers as they delivered their live performance of the album’s tracks at the historic London theatre.

The young pop stars were also joined by Badly Drawn Boy for an exclusive performance of ‘Elusive Mr Jimmy’, and by Maki for the song ‘Nature’s Mistakes’. The encore provoked a standing ovation from the ecstatic 2000-strong audience.

Head teacher, Charles Beckerson, said: “We could not be prouder of the children’s conduct, enthusiasm and professionalism – they were born for the stage and might well have exciting careers ahead of them!”

GOLD, SILVER AND BRONZE: Bishop Andrew and the Dean of Guildford, the Very Revd Dianna Gwilliams (both pictured at the rear of the group) presented gold, silver and bronze Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) Awards to 14 young choristers from the cathedral and two parishes in the diocese at Guildford Cathedral in June.

Bronze and Silver Awards are examined at diocesan level and provide independent confirmation of the achievement of choristers and the training they have received. Gold awards, assessed at national level in a challenging examination, represent the pinnacle of attainment and these were presented to two choristers from the cathedral, Hannah Dienes-Williams and Esther Musgrove. These awards cover not only singing, but the life, worship and liturgy of the church, including encouraging choristers to inspire others in their singing. A further twenty choristers from six churches in the diocese also won awards, but were not able to be present.

Soul sisters (and brothers) flock to Hersham A fresh expression of church in Hersham is hitting the right note with members of the community, Christians and non-Christians alike, with its monthly relaxation sessions set to music.

Billed as “an oasis of calm in a busy world”, ‘Music to Calm the Soul’ at St Peter’s church was established in October 2016 and regularly sees an average attendance of 75 – many of whom don’t attend church at any other time. Over the course of an hour in the beautiful candlelit church, attendees unwind to soothing sounds and relaxing classical music, designed to ease away the stresses and strains of the week.

The music evenings are led by Sarah Tourell, St Peter’s parish administrator and the visionary behind the idea. She said: “Music to Calm the Soul is an escape for anyone who wants to take time out in a place of peace, quiet and

The Wey August 2017

tranquillity, where our own clamour is silenced and the presence of God can be savoured, if only for a moment.

Everyone is welcome, regardless of faith.”

Sarah explained how the idea came to her when she was trying to decide how best to deal with some upsetting behaviour: “One evening, while I was sitting listening to Classic FM and thinking about what I was going to do, a piece of music came on the radio that made me stop and think. It was so beautiful that it made the hairs on my arms stand up and brought tears to my eyes.

“I felt that with such beauty in the music I didn’t have room in my heart or my head for the things I had been thinking. I thought that if it had done so much to calm my thoughts it could do the same for others.”

As one of the 100 new worshipping communities our diocese aims to found

over the next 10 years, Music to Calm the Soul fulfils part of the Transforming Church, Transforming Lives vision. Jens Mankel, diocesan church planting and fresh expressions adviser, commented: “I am excited by this fresh expression of worship as it connects the gift of the beautiful sacred space that St Peter’s offers with the need for rest, as well as a deeper encounter of the soul with

God. “I would encourage other churches to consider what they might be able to achieve through similar ventures.”

Visit St Peter’s on the last Sunday of the month at 7pm (6.40pm for refreshments) to enjoy Music to Calm the Soul, or contact theoffice@ stpetershersham.com for more information.

Focus on Community Connections

Connections Conference readies over 200 to reach out to the elderly In June, more than 200 church officers from across the country came to Claygate to learn the recipe for successful ministry to seniors.

Established six years ago, ‘Connections’, Holy Trinity’s weekly group for seniors, now sees over 150 regular participants, making it one of the largest gatherings of its kind in the UK.

The Connections Conference, which was opened by Bishop Jo, aimed to resource churches to implement the project in their own setting. The morning sessions covered Connections’ vision, background and foundational principles, such as providing a friendly welcome to all who attend and building a loving and effective team. Following lunch, delegates took part in workshops on the practicalities of running groups for seniors, which included input from Connections regulars.

Evangelism

Guests taking part at the Connections Conference

Holy Trinity’s highly relational model of evangelism has drawn praise from the Archbishop of Canterbury, who said: “This is a local church doing what only a local church can do – incarnating the life of Christ in the neighbourhood and seeing his love, life and hope transform lives.

“I commend this work to you; it is a model which I hope and pray will be replicated in many parishes across the country.”

Connections leader, Pippa Cramer, said: “I am thrilled with the number of people who attended the conference and

AN IN-TENTS WEEK!: more than 800 diocesan staff and volunteers from across the diocese and beyond took part in Tent Week events at Willow Grange during June. Tent Week, which takes place every two years in a marquee in the garden, is an opportunity to bring people together to share expertise, ideas and to thank volunteers. Groups taking part included hard-working parish administrators (pictured with Bishop Andrew and the Revd Canon William Challis, director of ordinands) who were given a briefing by staff from Diocesan House, followed by a buffet lunch. Other events included a barbecue for volunteer youth and children’s workers, an afternoon for Surrey Appropriate Adult Volunteers and receptions for the chairs of governors and headteachers of church schools, funeral directors, trustees of charities Bishop Andrew is involved with and a lunch for local mayors and council leaders.

the feedback we’ve had from people being motivated to start a similar venture in their own church. People came from as far as Plymouth and Nottingham which was really affirming!

“It was wonderful to see how many people with a heart for seniors were interested in learning about Connections and seeing it in action. Not that we have

all the answers of course! It was so good to discover what other churches are doing with their seniors – sharing ideas was amazing and inspiring for us all.”

You can find out more about Connections and resources from the conference on the Holy Trinity website: www.holytrinityclaygate.org.uk

The Wey August 2017

Page 11

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The Wey August 2017

The Wey August 2017

Page 13

Noticeboard 10th Epsom Mental Health Week: 7–15 October Epsom Mental Health Week has always been something special – and this year will be extra special as it celebrates its 10th anniversary.

This year’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Festival runs from 7–15 October and offers a programme of over 70 events, activities and workshops at a variety of venues around Epsom. This year’s theme is ‘Community’ and a safe, supportive and inclusive community is what you’ll find.

The programme for the week will incorporate a day for and with young people, opportunities to be creative and to participate in open discussions, including a session with a local MP. For those who enjoy physical

activity there’s football.

The Epsom Male Voice Choir makes a welcome return – back by popular demand as they were so well-received last year.

Some members of the community may find it a challenge to get out and about so visits to nursing homes across Epsom and Ewell have been arranged.

People are also invited to take part in ‘A Day to Do’ – to undertake to be a good neighbour in your local community.

All of these events and activities are free to attend and open to everyone – you don’t need to have specific issues or concerns with your mental health to attend. With such a wide and varied programme

you’re likely to find something of interest; you can dip in and out and attend any events and activities you’d like to be a part of. Even if all you want is a place to sit and be still, you will be most welcome.

Epsom Mental Health and Wellbeing Festival is organised by a small, local registered charity, Love Me Love My Mind.

For further information on the festival or Love Me Love My Mind you can email info@lovemelovemymind.org.uk, telephone 01372 721518 or visit www.epsommentalhealthweek.org.uk

Youth mentoring scheme needs more volunteers The ‘Bridges’ scheme, founded to help disadvantaged young people in Waverley Borough address behavioural problems and realise their potential, recently received a grant of just under £90k from the BBC Children in Need appeal, funding its paid coordinator and the expenses of volunteers for a further three years.

More volunteers are now required to meet the demand for its services within the borough.

Established in 2014 in partnership with Surrey Police, ‘Bridges’ supports young people who would benefit from one-on-one mentoring. Through sessions which can involve anything from chatting over a coffee to going bowling, the project is able to help participants improve life skills, build selfawareness and self-discipline, form healthy relationships and break destructive patterns of thought and behaviour.

Pupils with poor school attendance, and those subject to either a Child in Need or Child

Protection Plan, are typically referred via the police, their school or the Family Support Work team and social services.

Jennie, a headteacher from a school which refers young people to the project, said: “Having someone outside school that they can discuss issues with is a highlight of their week for many. The project has made a massive difference to those involved and is a service that we feel very fortunate to have access to.”

David Paterson, ‘Bridges’ project coordinator added: “We have no shortage of referrals to the project, which has a fantastic reputation, but we do need more mentors. The role entails working with participants individually for 1-2 hours each week or fortnight, and the normal commitment is for around a year. We provide full training and support and no experience is necessary except good life experience!

“I’d encourage anyone who thinks they could commit to being a volunteer mentor to contact me to find out more. It’s hugely rewarding.”

Contact David Paterson on 07805 401762 or david.paterson@cofeguildford.org.uk

Building interfaith understanding in the Middle East The Revd Carole Bourne, formerly of St Mary’s, East Molesey and rural dean of Emly, is preparing to travel to the West Bank this summer to work as an human rights observer to those living under occupation.

Carole will be based in Tulkarm as an Ecumenical Accompanier (EA), working with local Palestinian and Israeli groups to monitor any human rights abuses and support the vulnerable. This could involve accompanying children to school, helping to ensure that access to land and water is protected and maintaining a presence at checkpoints in the security barrier.

The Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) was established by the World Council of Churches in 2002 at the request of leaders of different faiths in Jerusalem, to provide a presence of ‘principled impartiality’ in the area. EAs come from all over the world to work in different areas of Palestine and Israel. Volunteers from the United Kingdom are supervised by the Quakers, who handle organisation and training.

Carole is no stranger to working in the Middle East, having spent two months working at St George’s

This is the final issue of The Wey but future events and news can be found on the diocesan website: www.cofeguildford.org.uk. can also Parish CollectionYoudate follow us on Facebook and Twitter. for August issue: The Wey is published

by Cornerstone Vision on behalf of the from Diocesan Board of Finance 18 July

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Two EAs escort children to school

Anglican Cathedral in Jerusalem in 2015. As a result she is conscious of the need to build trust and co-operation between Israelis and Palestinians. She said: “If peace could be achieved here, the area would be able to use the skills and talents of both communities to become a beacon of achievement and

Training for hearing champions Training sessions for Hearing Champions are planned for 12 September and 14 November.

Both sessions will run from 10am to 4pm at Diocesan House, Quarry Street, Guildford. The training day gives volunteers the opportunity to learn how to do basic maintenance on NHS hearing aids. Places are limited to

The Wey August 2017

Don’t forget to look at the

an inspiration to the rest of the region.” l On her return to the UK in September, Carole will report back on her trip. She will be happy to visit local groups and talk about her experiences in the occupied territories. Carole can be contacted at cbeezles@me.com

10 people. To book call Tracey on 01483 790327 or email

tracey.wade@cofeguildford.org.uk.

Part of the Hear Here project, this outreach activity enables churches to support their local hard-of-hearing community by providing local access to hearing aid aftercare. This project has been hugely successful in helping churches reach new people, often isolated by their hearing loss.

Would you Adam and Eve it?

The first 90 chapters of the Bible in 90 minutes!

Join Bible Society and Searchlight Theatre Company as they bring the first 90 chapters of the Bible to life. This twoman show has amazed audiences around the world for the last nine years and now it can come to your church.

What would I need to do? – Sell as many tickets as you can for £10 each in your locality.

A venue with a minimum capacity of 100 seats is required, together with a sound system and a space big enough to fit a stage size 14ft by 14ft.

How much does it cost? – Your church would only be required to pay a non-refundable deposit of £100 and agree to underwrite any loss made on the original £700 of ticket sales. All ticket income after the first £700 is split 50/50 between Searchlight Theatre company and your church. If you sell 90 tickets you recoup the deposit. On every ticket sale after the 90th your church will make £5 – so with an audience of 150 your church would make £300.

How do I find out more? – Go to www.biblesociety.org.uk, click on the ‘Get involved’ tab and then ‘Would you Adam and Eve it’ and fill out the enquiry form.

Parish Administrators’ training day Wednesday 11 October, 9.30am–3pm at the Education Centre, Guildford Cathedral An informative workshop for parish administrators, PCC secretaries and others involved in parish administration. Topics covered include pastoral contact and care, time management, hall management and a ‘show and tell’ sharing session. Guest speaker: the Revd Sarah Swift, chaplain for the Christian Healing Mission.

Refreshments and light lunch provided. To book your free place contact Jenny Parsons on 01483 484902 or pdet.admin@cofeguildford.org.uk by 22 September.

Noticeboard GUILDFORD CATHEDRAL For services, concerts and events at the Cathedral please see the cathedral website www.guildford-cathedral.org or contact the events assistant at 01483 547860 or email events@guildfordcathedral.org.

AUGUST ORGAN RECITAL 9 August, 1.10pm, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3TY David Saint (St Chad’s Cathedral, Birmingham) Admission free, donations welcome HEALING WORKSHOP 12 August, 10am–1pm, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon GU35 0AP Delegates will learn and experience how to become involved in the healing ministry and how to stay involved. We will focus on developing our sensitivity to the voice of the Holy Spirit and our awareness of how God is at work. There will be worship, before two sessions, giving time for learning, discussion and putting into practice what we have learned, and oh - more coffee!

These workshops are monthly but there is no required commitment to attend all sessions.

Cost £5 donation requested. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@acornchristian.org QUIET DAY 14 August, 9am–4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Quiet Monday, with a Holy Communion at mid-day. A led day with time for reflection. Teas and coffees provided. Please bring your own lunch.

Suggested donation: £15. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk

SEPTEMBER RECITAL 4 September, 12.40pm, Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Heather Churchill (contralto) and Stephen Rose (piano) Suggested donation £3 MUSIC & MINDFULNESS 7 September, 7–9pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB A thought-provoking workshop with a light touch exploring how music of different kinds can reflect and enhance our emotions, our moods and spiritual awareness.

Suzette Jones and the Revd Mark Rudall will facilitate how we can tune in mindfully to the ‘musical moment’, enlivening our listening experience, our feelings and our bodily awareness of the messages that music, some of it worshipful, can convey. Cost: £10. Tel 01483

766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk DIOCESAN DAY OF HEALING AND WHOLENESS 9 September, 10am–4pm, Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP Teaching, workshops, worship and healing prayer. Keynote speaker: the Revd Wes Sutton, director of Acorn Christian Healing Foundation. All welcome.

Cost: £20. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org ORGAN RECITAL 13 September, 1.10pm, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3TY Stephen Farr (St Paul’s Church, Knightsbridge, London) Admission free, donations welcome CONCERT 15 September, 7.30pm, St Luke’s Church, Headley Road, Grayshott GU26 6LF Schumann cello concerto (soloist: Raphael Wallfisch), Piatti’s Serenade for two cellos and Dvorak’s Serenade for Strings with the London Mozart Players.

Tickets can be booked via http:// grayshottconcerts.co.uk FLOWER FESTIVAL 15-17 September, Holy Trinity Church, Hawley Road, Hawley GU17 9BJ A flower festival on the theme ‘hymns’; open Friday and Saturday 10.30am-6pm; Sunday 1pm-5pm.

Entrance free, refreshments available throughout the festival.

On Saturday autumn hanging baskets, plants and allotment produce will be for sale in the church hall.

LECTURE 16 September, 7.30pm, Holy Trinity Church, Windsor Way, Aldershot GU11 1SJ Learn about many amazing discoveries in Evidence for the Bible, a lecture by Brian Edwards, Christian lecturer and author of 20 books. Entry free. More info: Surrey Friends of CMI. Tel 01483 232925 cmisurrey@gmail.com RECITAL 18 September, 12.40pm, Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Fumi Otsuki (violin) and Alessandro Viale (piano) Suggested donation £3 FESTIVAL 23 September; 12 noon-6.30pm, St Mary the Virgin, London Road,

Ewell. KT17 2AQ ‘Autumn Glories’ - A day for children and adults to enjoy a variety of activities. Have a go at Tai Chi, try your hand at making a floral table decoration, create your own collage or contribute to a larger picture, photography competition – check out www. stmarysewell.com for details follow the Mouse Trail. swop shop and much, much more. Free soup lunch, tea and cake served from 4pm, fish and chips at 5.30pm (if pre-ordered and paid for through the Parish Office:020 8393 2643.)

Free entry.

OCTOBER RECITAL 2 October, 12.40pm, Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Oliver Nelson (violin) Suggested donation £3 RETREAT 6-8 October, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Take time out to spend in silence; time with God and time to talk to your prayer guide. Enjoy a pattern of prayer, contemplation, home cooked food and time in our comfortable rooms and beautiful wooded grounds.

Full Board, Residential only.

Cost: £180 full board; £340 twin room. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@stcolumbashouse.org.uk

to attend all sessions.

Cost £5 donation requested. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@acornchristian.org RECITAL 16 October, 12.40pm, Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Sarah McKenna (violin) Suggested donation £3 QUIET DAY 18 October, 10am–4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Changing seasons quiet day.

Take time out to reflect, pray and draw near to God, allowing Him to speak to us about our changing circumstances and give us His perspective on our past, present and future! Tricia Phillips is wellknown to St Columba’s House, and part of the local branch of Wholeness Through Christ.

Tea, coffee and light lunch provided.

Cost : £25. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@stcolumbashouse. org.uk RECITAL 30 October, 12.40pm, Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Wellington College students Suggested donation £3

NOVEMBER QUIET DAY I November, 9.45am–4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Hopeweavers creative quiet day.

The Hopeweavers are a dispersed fellowship of friends who seek God through stillness and silence, prayer, creativity, conversation and food, sharing the ups and downs of life wherever we are called to live and work.

Tea, coffee and light lunch provided.

Cost: £25. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@stcolumbashouse. org.uk ORGAN RECITAL 8 November, 1.10pm, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3TY Tom Bell (St Michael’s Church, Chester Square, London) Admission free, donations welcome HEALING WORKSHOP 11 November, 10am–1pm, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon GU35 0AP Delegates will learn and experience how to become involved in the healing ministry and how to stay involved. We will focus on developing our sensitivity to the voice of the Holy Spirit

and our awareness of how God is at work. There will be worship, before two sessions, giving time for learning, discussion and putting into practice what we have learned, and oh - more coffee!

These workshops are monthly but there is no required commitment to attend all sessions.

Cost £5 donation requested. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@acornchristian.org RECITAL 13 November, 12.40pm, Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Woking College students Suggested donation £3 CONCERT 24 November, 7.30pm, St Luke’s Church, Headley Road, Grayshott GU26 6LF The Sixteen – one of the world’s best-known a cappella groups will perform music across the ages including a new arrangement of Allegri’s Miserere, conducted by Harry Christophers Tickets can be booked via http:// grayshottconcerts.co.uk RECITAL 27 November, 12.40pm, Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Plaegon Piano Trio Suggested donation £3

QUIET DAY 9 October, 9am–4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Quiet Monday, with a Holy Communion at mid-day. A led day with time for reflection. Teas and coffees provided. Please bring your own lunch.

Suggested donation: £15. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk ORGAN RECITAL 11 October, 1.10pm, St Mary’s Church, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3TY George Carter (assistant director of music, Winchester Cathedral) Admission free, donations welcome HEALING WORKSHOP 14 October, 10am–1pm, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon GU35 0AP Delegates will learn and experience how to become involved in the healing ministry and how to stay involved. We will focus on developing our sensitivity to the voice of the Holy Spirit and our awareness of how God is at work. There will be worship, before two sessions, giving time for learning, discussion and putting into practice what we have learned, and oh - more coffee!

These workshops are monthly but there is no required commitment

The Wey August 2017

Page 15

Fellow Travellers Alex is our new head of education Alex Tear has been appointed the new Director of Education for the diocese.

He is currently Director of Education for the Diocese of Rochester, and was head teacher at Esher CofE Primary School and a schools adviser for Surrey County Council’s School Improvement Service before taking up the post in Rochester.

Announcing his appointment, Bishop Jo said: “Alex is already an experienced Diocesan Director of Education and I’m thrilled to think God has called him to serve in the Diocese of Guildford. I believe his gifts in strategic leadership as well as in enabling the leadership of others will be put to good use and bear much fruit, helping our 85 church schools to flourish for the sake of the 22,000 children they serve.

“Together we seek to improve standards and develop the Christian distinctiveness of our church schools, wholeheartedly embracing our contribution to education across the diocese.”

Alex commented: “I am delighted to have been appointed as Director of Education for the Diocese of Guildford and I look forward to working closely with Bishop Jo and the Diocesan Board of Education to build on the strong relationships which already exist between the diocese, its church schools

and academies.

“As a former church school head teacher in Esher, it is a great privilege to be able to return to the diocese and work together with school leaders, governors and clergy to offer the very best education and life-enhancing experiences for the children and young people in our care.”

Alex is a resident of Guildford and a keen skier and parkrunner. He worships locally at All Saints’, Onslow Village, where he is a member of the PCC. Alex is expected to start in his new role at the end of August.

Peter Bruinvels awarded Canterbury Cross Peter Bruinvels, an elected member of the Bishop of Guildford’s Council and a lay canon of Guildford Cathedral, was one of 35 people worldwide to be honoured with an award by the Archbishop of Canterbury at Lambeth Palace recently.

Presenting him with the Canterbury Cross for services to the Church of England, Archbishop Justin praised his outstanding work for the Church in numerous ways at parish, deanery, diocesan and national level.

Apart from his service within the diocese, Peter has served on General Synod since 1985 and as a Church Commissioner since 1992, sitting on a number of committees for both during his many years of active service. He is a former director of the Church Army and has also worked for the British Legion. His church interests span the upkeep of cathedrals, legislative

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Canon Peter Bruinvels with Archbishop Justin

New chaplain to Bishop Andrew The Revd Roland Olliff has been appointed chaplain to Bishop Andrew in succession to the Revd Mark Heather, who returned to parish ministry in April.

Roland will assist the bishop with personnel matters and legal processes in support of his episcopal ministry.

He said: “I am honoured and excited to be asked to serve the diocese as chaplain

Christine: A gentle and profound depth of faith The Revd Christine White died on 31 May in the Princess Alice Hospice, following treatment for cancer. She was surrounded by her husband, Martin, and her daughters, Kathryn and Elizabeth, and her mother, Gwen.

Christine was an OLM who branched out to become a deanery resource in the area of spiritual development and was also a spiritual director to many. She joined the diocesan discipleship, vocation and ministry team as an honorary tutor of continuing ministerial development for pastoral assistants about 18 months ago, working with Canon Maggie Marsh.

Canon Maggie said: “I knew Christine for around 40 years, since we first met as members of St Mary’s, Cuddington. From earliest days it was Christine’s spirituality that made a most memorable impression. She had a very gentle, yet profound, depth of faith. It was immensely attractive and appealing – it drew you to her. It was sharing our faith journey together that gave such a wonderful dimension to our friendship. Latterly we worked together in the diocesan role.

matters, governance, investments and the work of the pastoral committee of the Church Commissioners, where he serves as deputy chair.

The armed forces and education are close to his heart and he has sought actively to support both at local, regional and national level.

Canon Peter, who lives in Dorking with his wife Alison, and attends both Guildford Cathedral and St Martin’s, Dorking, said: “I am humbled to receive this great honour from Archbishop Justin, which came as a complete surprise. To receive such recognition for my work makes it even more special.”

“When Christine’s cancer returned it was indeed a terrible blow. However, there would be many months ahead when Christine was able to continue to give of herself in that loving, selfless way that was the essence of who she was. Her determination to carry on working for the pastoral assistants, in spite of the progression of her illness, revealed a courage and an affirmation of life which was inspiring.

“Christine was indeed a remarkable, lovely woman, who I was very blessed to have known. I will miss her more than words can say – but most of all her friendship and her love.”

A private cremation service and a public service of thanksgiving for Christine’s life were held on 26 June at St Mary’s, Cuddington. Those present wore colourful clothes, especially green – Christine’s favourite colour – in accordance with her family’s wishes.

The Revd Canon Hazel Whitehead, director of discipleship, vocation and ministry added: “I am personally grateful for the work which Christine did, for her dedication to her life as a priest and to her unfailing openness, honesty, sense of humour and big smile. We continue to pray for Martin and the whole family at this difficult time, but in the sure and certain hope of life at peace and in Christ.”

The Wey August 2017

to the Bishop of Guildford, to support clergy and churches, and to help develop the diocesan growth and vision strategy Transforming Church; Transforming Lives.”

Roland was ordained in 1995 and served in military chaplaincy from 1998 before becoming vicar of Christ Church, Crookham in March 2015.

Carol’s on tour close to home The Revd Carol Dunk, associate or special connections that a church may have. For minister at St Philip and St James’ example, a church that had been close to my former Church, Fleet, is also the new (parthome had a connection to Nicholas Hawksmoor, time) diocesan tourism officer. But, one of the key people after Christopher Wren, who what’s that? was involved in the rebuilding of St Paul’s Cathedral.

“Well, I’m a priest with a passion for mission and Likewise another four or five churches had strong outreach and, with over links with the Pilgrim 25 years’ experience and Fathers. This attracts suitable qualifications in interested historians – of the travel and tourism which there are more industry, I can also see than you might think. how tourism can be “I have previously an important part for been on the Southwell planting Christ’s seeds and Nottingham in people’s hearts and Diocesan steering minds, especially in a group for their Heritage non- threatening and Lottery-funded Open relaxed way.

Churches Project, which “For instance, how expanded the original we welcome and what Church History Project kind of welcome we give into the areas of tourism are extremely important and education, and have and both enabling and run training courses on On tour – Carol regularly spends one night a equipping the right promoting an interest in month chatting to locals in a Fleet pub, being people to do this is churches and welcoming a tourist and meeting people where they are, invaluable. So I can people to them. offering a friendly chat or a prayer. offer welcome training “There is also an courses, for example. increasing interest in genealogy and family tree “It also helps to ensure that the outside of our research, as well as the more obvious ones of buildings and their grounds are cared for and well history and architecture, which we automatically kept and that noticeboards are kept up-to-date and think of. This doesn’t just apply to older churches but looking pristine. If something looks uncared for and actually to all churches, as we can always point out unloved then this has a knock-on effect on people’s something of interest. first impressions. Again I can advise on these types “I can try and help you to turn tourists into of things, which may seem obvious when you think pilgrims, and maps and guide books into the Bible. about it, but can be easily overlooked in a busy I am currently a full time priest in Fleet but, if you parish life. would like to have a chat about your church’s “Another thing we can do to enhance our outreach potential or are just curious, then please do contact is to advertise and emphasise any unique features me on 01252 444872.”