The Wey March-April 2016

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The newspaper from the Church of England for everyone in the Diocese of Guildford March/April 2016 - Issue 89

Who, me? … A vicar?

Are there calls waiting in your parish? Absolutely! God calls everyone who loves Him into some kind of service. But service can take many forms, so where could God be calling you?

2016 is a crucial year in the work of respond to the national call on that day the diocese’s discipleship, vocation and by making good use of the wide range ministry (DVM) team on encouraging of resources available, including a short vocations in the Church of England – video made by us, worship material, prayers, sermons and small study and particularly young vocations – to help prepare the diocese for the years group material,” says the Revd Hazel Whitehead, director of DVM. ahead, as we lose a large number of clergy to retirement and also look to The new video ‘Who, me? … A grow the number of motivated and vicar?’ – is just a few minutes long and inspiring younger church leaders in our can be played or downloaded from the diocese’s YouTube channel. It features parish communities. a number of our young clergy and Many parishes took part in a Day Bishop Andrew adds his voice as Chair of Prayer in January at our cathedral to launch the campaign to increase of the CofE’s Vocations Working Group. awareness of a calling to ministry and what that might mean.

Coming soon is a new FREE 2-day If you think you intensive course for 16-25-year-olds have a calling, I’d just called simply ‘PREACH!’ on Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 April at the Trinity encourage you not Centre at the top of Guildford High to let go, don’t just Street (see PREACH for the stars!)

Vocations Sunday Sunday 17 April is Vocations Sunday right across the Church of England.

It is the annual day for churches to encourage everyone to reflect, discover and recognise God’s call to them – with plenty of resource material available online to help churches take part.

“I would encourage every church team to think about how they might

@CofEGuildford

cofeguildford

“You don’t have to be married to be ordained…” – Zoe

“You don’t have to be an academic to start ordination training…” – Nate

“You can have children and train for ordination…” – Jenn

“You don’t have to have decades of experience to be ordained…” – Barney

“If it helps to have a change of resources available, including the video voice, DVM will always try to make online at www.cofeguildford.org.uk/ someone available to preach for you, or about/dvm/vocations walk away but really enter into a dialogue or conversation,” pursue it. adds Hazel. “We need to work on this Want to find out more about a calling?

– Bishop Andrew, Bishop of together – and it would be great if Guildford and Chair of the national many of our congregations could be Talk to your vicar at your local Vocations Working Group. challenged to think about whether God Anglican church and contact is calling them to a new form of ministry. vocations adviser Laurence.

So your help and support, as ever, will Gamlen@cofeguildford.org.uk Could you play that video and pray/ be vital.” or telephone 07939 094851. preach for vocations during services You will find more information on the on that day, or by holding a Vocations seminar/forum/chat perhaps?

PREACH for the stars!

“It’s the most exciting thing in the world to respond to the call of God.” – Bishop Andrew

www.cofeguildford.org.uk

PREACH! A new event for anyone aged 16 to 25 interested in the art of preaching comes to the Trinity Centre, Holy Trinity Church, at the top of Guildford High Street on Monday 4 and Tuesday 5 April from 10am until 4:30pm.

“There is a real skill to great preaching and PREACH! is a great taste of what you can do with a bit of practice,” says Hazel Whitehead, director of the discipleship, vocation and ministry team for the diocese and one of the expert team running PREACH! “Free drinks and doughnuts will be on offer each day, along with sessions from some of our young clergy who will help to inspire and enthuse you with practical guidance, thoughts, prayers, discussion, idea sharing and fun.”

Fifty places are available and filling up quickly. Find out more about PREACH! online at www.cofeguildford.org.uk/PREACH - or contact louise.redfern@cofeguildford.org.uk or telephone 01483 790320.

Calling case study Eileen (Eils) Shipton became curate at St Peter’s Church, Chertsey in the summer. Not knowing what to do when she left university led Eils to develop a passion for ministry …

I fell into ministry, rather by accident. After completing a music degree at Cardiff University I had no idea what to do next, so I took a gap year to head up the student work at my local church – which ended up lasting nearly four years!

Through that time I had a growing sense of calling to ministry and went on to work for churches in Birmingham, Reading and south London – mainly in the areas of worship or youth and young adults. I also enjoyed a couple of years working for Tearfund.

I am passionate about seeing the Church living out our greatest calling – to love God and to love our neighbour – and our great commission of inviting others to join us in following Jesus. It is this passion that led me to ordination, with the hope that I can play a small part in what God is doing in His world.

I spent three years until summer 2015 training for ministry at St. Mellitus College in London and completing an MA in Christian Leadership.

Inside: Guildford Civic Church appeal – P2 • Walton & Hersham food bank - P4 • Common Purpose - P8/9

News Major repair work on track for Guildford’s civic church A major refurbishment project is under way at Holy Trinity Church, the Grade 1-listed Georgian church at the top of Guildford High Street. More than £400,000 has already been spent, but further funds are needed and an appeal for £500,000 has been launched.

The main problem has been that the building was not watertight. A combination of inadequate drainage from the roof and damaged drainpipes meant that damp had got in and caused damage to stonework, brickwork and plaster. This was shown dramatically when a section of ceiling over the organ collapsed just after Christmas in 2014.

“Holy Trinity is the town’s civic church,”

says the Revd Canon Robert Cotton, rector of Holy Trinity. “We host official functions, are a venue for concerts, plays and school carol and leavers’ services as well as being a parish church. Apart from making the church watertight, we want to

A steeple jack about to repair and repaint the wind-vane at the top of the tower

improve our facilities. The heating system needs overhauling and if we insulate the roof, the church will be warmer and there will be environmental and cost benefits.

“The steps at the west end, a much-used thoroughfare between the High Street and Sydenham Road, are severely worn and need to be reconstructed – this alone could cost £100,000.”

Grants were obtained from Surrey Churches Preservation Trust, Allchurches Trust, Church Care, and the Wolfson Foundation, and a major donation was received from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

When work began the damage turned out to be worse than expected, but good progress has been made. The church is now watertight, the nave has been repainted and the internal scaffolding has

Woking terrorism debate attracts a lively and positive discussion A multifaith event exploring the possible reasons behind terrorism has taken place within the diocese. Around 100 people of different faiths and none attended the debate at Christ Church, Woking, which was focussed on the question: Why do people become terrorists?

Following a recent spate of terrorist attacks globally, many present at the event were keen to gain insight into what may be fuelling extremism and how it might be prevented.

Peter Dommett from Sussex Prevent led the debate, explaining that extremism and violence are not products of a person’s views, but rather how vulnerable they are or how they have been alienated from society.

President of the Peace Education Programme, Dr Zahid Iqbal spoke on the work of the Programme, stating passionately that Muslims have a duty to face extremism in their community.

The event was also attended by Colin Bidwell, a survivor of the terrorist attack in Tunisia last summer.

Since the shootings, Colin has been involved with

the Diocese of Guildford and Surrey Faith Links, exploring ways of building positive relationships and understanding between Christians and Muslims.

Colin said: “The debate allowed some really useful interaction between faiths and is a good example of how greater understanding can dispel unhelpful assumptions. The speakers were very knowledgeable and I look forward to working closely with them and interfaith groups to continue their very important work.”

Discussion from the floor was lively, so passionate in fact that it continued informally for more than an hour after the event officially ended.

Kauser Akhtar, faith links adviser at the Diocese of Guildford, said: “We need more of these events where people of all faiths and none can get together and have an open dialogue in a safe and friendly environment. There are undoubtedly tensions around terrorism and radicalisation but I think it is mostly based on fear. This fear can only be allayed by the community talking openly.”

For more information on interfaith events and initiatives, go to cofeguildford.org.uk or contact Kauser: 01483 790334/kauser.akhtar@cofeguildford.org.uk.

come down. The organ, which was damaged by the fall from the ceiling, and the bells are now back in use.

However, much remains to be done. Better facilities are required for children, visiting speakers and performers. The clock-face needs refurbishing and the Scaffolding veils Holy Trinity Church paintings over the altar need cleaning. So the ‘Big Appeal’ wider public as we make the final effort to achieve our target.” for a further £500,000 was launched.

“Since we launched the ‘Big Appeal’ in To donate to Holy Trinity’s Big Appeal October the congregation has responded go to their ‘MyDonate’ page www.bitly. wonderfully,” adds Robert. “We have com/htbigappeal. You can keep up to raised £240,000 mainly from parishioners date with progress on the Big Appeal and some from organisations that use Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ HolyTrinityBigAppeal the church. We are now approaching the

A blessing from on high The Dean of Guildford, the Very Revd Dianna Gwilliams, has braved the heights of our cathedral to give a special blessing to a brand new sculpture.

Depicting the Madonna and Child, the figure represents themes of sacrifice, hope, salvation and determination evoked by mothers who lost their sons in WW1. Fittingly, it has been funded from a grant given by the First World War Centenary Cathedral Repairs Fund.

Sculptor Nicholas Thompson said: “It has been a great privilege to work overlooking Guildford and to contribute to a building that has such an important role in the community and such a strong physical presence.”

The Dean added: “It is an honour to be able to build upon the artistic traditions established at Guildford Cathedral by sculptors such as Vernon Hill, Dennis Huntley and Eric Gill. This poignant image is a welcome addition and is a reflection of the importance placed on art at the Cathedral.”

Wintershall brings The Passion to Guildford once again The renowned Wintershall Players will be returning to Guildford on Easter Saturday 26 March to bring their inspiring re-enactment of The Passion to the high street. On Good Friday they will once again be performing before thousands in London’s Trafalgar Square.

The story commemorating the

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day Jesus was arrested, tried and then crucified by the Romans, then miraculously rising from the dead on Easter Sunday is brought to life every year by the Wintershall Players.

In Guildford the action starts with the trial of Jesus at the corner of Quarry Street ending with the crucifixion and resurrection outside Holy Trinity Church at the top of the High Street. Bishop Andrew

will be giving the closing prayer at the end of the first performance, which starts at 12 noon. The second performance will start at 2.30pm. The Good Friday performances in London’s Trafalgar Square will be at 12 noon and 3pm.

Directed by theatre producer and chairman of the Guildford School of Acting, Ashley Herman, and starring the actor and artist James Burke-Dunsmore

The Wey March/April 2016

as Jesus, the rest of the company is made up of eager and committed volunteers from across the South East.

The Passion’s Christian message embraces all denominations and this is highlighted by the active and continued involvement of the Bible Society, as well as two of the country’s principal Church leaders, The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Westminster and the Bishop of London.

The Wintershall Players will be performing the Life of Christ at the Wintershall Estate near Bramley 21-26 June and the Wintershall Nativity 14-18 December. More information can be found at www.wintershall-estate.com.

(Above): The Last Supper re-enacted in Guildford High Street

News

150 years of less walking and more worshipping!

“I had to work up to 14 hours a day in a basement. I wasn’t allowed to leave. I was given only a cup of rice and a fried egg to eat each day.”

Garry Martinez Migrante International in the Philippines

Our Lent appeal for 2016 focuses on the church’s response to human trafficking around the world.

Prayer and study resources at: www.weareUs.org.uk/lent 020 7921 2200 Us. The new name for USPG Bishop Andrew joins the Revd Claire Holt and the congregation of St Paul’s to celebrate 150 years of worship

St Paul’s Church in Tongham has marked the 150th anniversary of its consecration with a special service led by Bishop Andrew.

Around 200 people came to hear the thought-provoking and entertaining sermon, from parish councillors to former vicars of the parish, the Revd Nick Williams and the Revd Erik Gibbons. They

were able to enjoy decorated window displays from the church groups, including jamboree club, toddler group, and coffee club.

The celebrations marked 150 years since the gifting of the church to the community by local landowner John Back, who had it built to enable villagers in Tongham to attend their own church, rather than trek 1½ miles over the Hog’s Back to Seale’s St Laurence Church each Sunday. The journey was replicated in September last year by the current congregation, who donned period Victorian costume to make the journey (The Wey, November 2015).

Bishop’s ‘joyful’ visit

Celebrations

Bishop Andrew has described his recent visit to a Surreybased Iranian ministry as ‘a joy’.

Keen to hear how God is on the move in Iran, Bishop Andrew visited Elam ministries near Guildford on 1 February, which exists to strengthen the church in the country and beyond.

According to Operation World, Iran’s is the fastest growing church in the world, with numbers of Christians in Iran estimated at less than 500 in 1979 to over 360,000 today. Church leaders believe that millions can be added to the church in the next few years, such is the spiritual hunger that exists.

To this end, Elam trains Iranians in the Middle East for Christian ministry, provides Persian-language scriptures and Christian resources for the church, reaches and disciples Iranians through TV and internet ministries, and supports church planters inside Iran.

During his visit, the Bishop met with staff, who shared personal stories of profound suffering for the name of Christ and reflected on the passion of Iranian Christians to share the gospel despite such risks.

Bishop Andrew later tweeted: “A joy to visit Elam ministries yesterday, and to hear about the amazing work of God in Iran and around the world.”

Executive Director of Elam, David Yeghnazar (pictured with Bishop Andrew) said: “We were deeply honoured to welcome the Bishop to our offices and to share with him the exciting news that God is building his Church in Iran. As a team, we are privileged to serve this rapidly growing church day by day, and it was wonderful to see the bishop engage with the unexpected story that God is writing. We are grateful for his support and his desire to mobilise prayer for the church in Iran, and for the wider Muslim world.”

While at Elam, the Bishop also learned of Elam’s importance within the Persian community. Anglican Chaplain to the Persian Community in the UK, the Revd Bassi Mirzania has been involved with Elam ministries since the 1980s. She said: “Elam is a vital ministry and a very helpful partnership to my work. Their publications have been crucial to Persian converts here in the UK and beyond.”

Visit www.elam.com to find out more about Elam and the Iranian church.

Vicar of St Paul’s, the Revd Claire Holt said: “It was wonderful to celebrate 150 years of worship at St Paul’s with members of all our Sunday and mid-week services, church groups, members of the community including the parish council, local school children, our former vicars, as well as Bishop Andrew himself, who gave a wonderful sermon.

“We have lots to thank God for! The weekend was very successful and inspiring and we are all looking forward to the next 150 years!”

Following the service, a celebratory lunch was enjoyed by around 70 people. The Old School Hall was then prepared for an open display the next day, where villagers came to look at photographs and items lent by local historians, giving a taste of church life at St Paul’s in its early years.

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In January this photo depicting Guildford Cathedral at the end of the rainbow was tweeted by Guildford-based solicitors TWM and retweeted by @CofEGuildford.

Very fitting, as in Greek mythology the rainbow was considered to be a path made by a messenger between Earth and Heaven, and in religious artwork it is often featured as a symbol of peace.

The Wey March/April 2016

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Community Matters Walton & Hersham Foodbank – serving the community Like many new ventures, Walton & Hersham Foodbank began in a small way.

Church Army officers, Sheila and Patrick Samuels, were on secondment to St Mary’s & St John’s Churches in Walton when they noticed that a number of families in the area were not feeding themselves properly. Wanting to help, Sheila and Patrick started handing out food parcels, and were later joined by Walton Charity and St Peter’s Church Hersham to become the Walton & Hersham Foodbank (WHFB) in 2011.

Since then the number of people being referred for food assistance has grown. In 2015 five hundred parcels were distributed, an increase of 13.6% over 2014. A total of 1,181 people were fed, 680 adults and 501 children.

“Initially, some people were a little sceptical of the need for a foodbank in this area, but the facts speak for themselves,” says Des Humphrey, chair of the WHFB Steering Group. “We find that many of our clients’ difficulties are being caused by the move to the new universal benefit system, which usually involves a change from weekly to monthly benefit payment.”

“Whatever the reason for their need, our ‘clients’ are made welcome and no judgement is made.

Prayer is always offered and seldom refused.

People who have been helped appreciate the support they are given and many return with donations of food for the store when they are back

on their feet.”

WHFB is open four days a week – Monday and Tuesday at St Peter’s and Thursday and Friday at St John’s. People who are in food crisis can ask an agency, such as CAB, Job Centre Plus, Children’s Centre or doctor’s surgery, for assistance. If approved the agency issues a voucher that can be exchanged at one of the two distribution centres for a food parcel containing a balanced diet to feed the single person or family for three days. A client can be referred up to three times for assistance.

Like all foodbanks, WHFB relies on volunteers and the generosity of people in the community.

More than 50 volunteers share the duties of running the foodbank and shoppers at Waitrose in Hersham or Sainsbury’s in Walton can donate goods or cash when they do their own shopping.

For more information about the Walton & Hersham Foodbank visit http://waltonhersham. foodbank.org.uk/

WHFB is part of the Trussell Trust

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with young children living in tents in the snow, with only their summer clothes to wear. How could we let this happen?

“I had never organised such a venture before and donations were very slow to come in at first. We prayed for a multiplication miracle; that God would multiply the clothes and shoes that we were sending and that thousands and thousands of people would receive warm winter clothes.”

Now, the 40th lorry has been despatched to take aid to Syrian refugees in Iraq. Samara also spoke about how churches had been the backbone to this appeal and how she had been humbled by the whole experience.

The talk resulted in two astounding individual donations: £6,500 to pay for a truck to transport items to the Middle East and £7,000 to pay for an ambulance.

Newly appointed vicar at St Paul’s, the Revd Tom Darwent with Samara Levy of Samara’s Aid Appeal

Senior administrator at St Paul’s, Helen Vince said: “We have been overwhelmed by the response.

The word spread much further than we expected and people from all over the county have come with donations. It’s very rewarding to see this level of generosity from so many people. We would like to do this again in the autumn, if there is still a need for this aid.”

As well as individuals, a number of local organisations, such as the Rotary Club, Frimley Park Hospital, Besom charity and local schools have also supported the appeal.

A visiting bishop has held an audience of art enthusiasts “spellbound” as he offered his reflections on a range of religious artwork currently on display in a local gallery.

The Right Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford, spoke to the packed

Stanley Spencer Gallery in Spencer’s beloved home village of Cookham amid Spencer’s spiritual works on the evening of 5 February.

As a long-time admirer of Sir Stanley Spencer and author of a book of intense spiritual reflection on the ‘Christ in the Wilderness’ paintings, Bishop Stephen was

well placed to share his insights with the audience on the topic of ‘The Creative Genius of Stanley Spencer’.

The Gallery’s Chairman, Stuart Conlin, who opened the event, commented: “Terrific outreach! All the guests who I spoke to were very impressed. Bishop Stephen’s talk was one of the best I have heard on Spencer.”

‘The Creative Genius of Stanley Spencer’ runs until 20 March. For further information and opening times, see the gallery’s website www. stanleyspencer.org.uk

BGF grant benefits families in need

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St Paul’s Church in Camberley has seen an overwhelming response from the local community to its call for donations to help refugees. Almost £20,000 has been raised since the appeal was launched at the beginning of January, as well as from the annual carol service.

There were also generous contributions of winter clothes, bedding, medical aid, wheelchairs and walking aids – so many in fact that alternative transport had to be sourced!

Donations are being made to Samara’s Aid Appeal, which sends essential items to refugee families in the Middle East.

The charity’s founder Samara Levy visited the church to talk about her work. She said: “I saw news reports of Syrian families

Art lovers enthralled by Bishop’s insights

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Cleaning

St Paul’s church raises nearly £20k to help refugees

The Wey March/April 2016

A £3,000 grant has been made from money donated to the Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation to help finance a family support worker for one of the poorest and most deprived areas of the diocese.

St Mark’s shared church in Bordon is a partnership between the CofE, Methodist and United Reformed churches. The area includes a large number of families suffering from poverty, depression and difficult relationships. Among the children a significant number are under-achieving at school or suffer from Asperger’s or autism spectrum disorders.

The grant will go towards continuing to pay for the training and salary of the

family support worker Jenny Futcher, who is now in her second three-year contract. She currently supports around 14 families comprising around 56 adults and children. Her caseload includes bereaved families, those with chaotic lifestyles and a number with children who have special needs. In addition Jenny assists with a weekly Messy Church service which benefits a large number of families.

Vicar of St Mark’s, the Revd Deborah ScottBromley, commented: “We are all very grateful to the Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation for their grant.

Bordon is not

a wealthy area and it will be a huge help, benefiting many people in need.”

Grant-making by the BGF is managed through the Community Foundation for Surrey (CFS), an independent trust which is part of the national network of community foundations. To donate to the BGF, go to www.bgf. org.uk, click on ‘Donate to the Foundation’ and use the link DONATE.

Jenny Futcher, family support worker at Bordon

Focus on Schools Bishop inspires with his story

The Bishop of Guildford has spoken about his journey to becoming a vicar and then a bishop with pupils at The Royal Kent CofE Primary School, Oxshott. Bishop Andrew led the presentation as part of the school’s ‘Raising Aspirations’ assembly series, which asks members of the community to talk about their education, and the milestones and challenges faced on the way to their chosen career.

150 pupils from Years 2-6 were present to hear Bishop Andrew discuss the qualities needed as a bishop and the key role of his faith in his journey. He also gave performances on bassoon and piano, much to the delight of the pupils and staff.

Following the talk, Bishop Andrew toured the school and took part in a session with the school’s spiritual committee, Ignite, which is made up of 12 pupils from across the year groups.

Headteacher Katie Hancock said: “We had a fantastic visit from Bishop Andrew. He talked to our children about his journey to becoming a bishop and inspired them with the idea that the importance of education is that it gives you choices, and for him, he has been able to choose to do what he thinks is the best job in the world.

“Besides this inspiring message, the highlight of the morning for the pupils was the showcasing of Bishop Andrew’s musical talents, including playing the piano backwards!”

Bishop Andrew added: “It was a joy to meet pupils and teachers at The Royal Kent School and to share a bit of my journey to becoming a vicar, then a bishop.

The children were brilliant, asking me all kinds of searching questions; and it was especially good to meet the Ignite group, who keep an eye on the assemblies and the Christian ethos of the school.”

The ‘Raising Aspirations’ assembly series has been launched by The Royal Kent School in the belief that children are never too young to see the relevance of their education to what they will go on to do in life – which is reflected in their school motto: ‘Learning for life’.

Margarine mountain reaps rewards for school Pupils at The Weald CofE Primary School, Beare Green, are reaping the benefits after parents and staff ate their way through a remarkable 600 tubs of Flora margarine to win the school 12 Samsung Galaxy tablets.

After appeals in newsletters to collect foil lids from promotional tubs, parents gathered 100 lids to earn them two tablets.

But the academy school’s parent teacher association, Friends of The Weald, set its aim higher and bought 500 tubs of the sunflower spread which were sold to staff and parents at every opportunity.

After a nervous wait – as the promotion was subject to availability – the school was delighted to receive 12 of the seven-inch wifi 8GB tablets at the

end of January.

Chair of Friends of The Weald Nicki Taylor said: “They say you don’t get something for nothing so it is just fantastic to have this amazing package of brand new technology arrive for our children and the staff to benefit from.

“The whole school community was incredibly supportive and embraced the opportunity – freezers filled up and a lot of baking went on in homes around Beare Green in the run up to the deadline!”

The school’s 277 pupils already have access to an ICT suite with computers and laptops, but the mobile devices will help with learning in classrooms around the school.

Interim headteacher Karen Simpson said: “The children and staff are delighted. These are the first tablets we have had in the school so we are now eagerly looking into all the opportunities they will bring – staff and pupils will be able to use the technology to research, create and present in innovative new ways.

“A close partnership between parents and the school is at the heart of all that we do at the Weald and this promotion highlights the parents’ dedication to the cause.

I would like to thank everyone for their support, particularly our Friends of The Weald who are never afraid to think big!” ll The Weald School is part of the Good Shepherd Trust, a multi-academy trust set up by the Diocese of Guildford to lead and Academy school pupils enjoy the technological benefits support church school academies.

St Mary, Beaminster, Dorset

WORKING IN HARMONY: HRH the Prince of Wales spoke of his delight and fascination in meeting pupils at Ashley CofE Primary School, Walton-on Thames, when he opened its new Harmony Centre for Learning in February.

The school, a member of the diocese’s Good Shepherd Trust, is recognised as one of the world’s leading eco-schools and the Harmony Centre will be used to promote sustainability and the interconnectedness of life for visiting teachers, pupils and the local community.

For more details visit www.cofeguildford. org.uk.

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What a difference a year makes!

The Christingle workshop proved popular

Pupils and staff have been reflecting on how life has changed for the better since a big transformation at their school in Mickleham took place.

This time last year, St Michael’s CofE Infant School’s playground was occupied by a construction company and pupils were eating lunch in their classrooms. Fastforward to the present day, and the school has a brand new woodland-themed library and a school hall where pupils can take part in worship, sports, after-school clubs, and eat together as a school family.

Opened last summer by achieve this amazing space.”

Over the Christmas period the former Bishop of Dorking, the Rt Revd Ian Brackley, the works new hall proved its worth, hosting were made possible thanks to a a Christingle workshop for local number of donations from the local children and with more family and community. friends able to enjoy the school nativity because of greater seating Headteacher Jeremy Smith said: “A number of organisations capacity. and individuals gave generously Mr Smith added: “It’s fast towards the building costs, approaching a year since the including the Diocese of project was completed and as a retreats@stcolumbashouse.org.uk school we have made good use Guildford, The Ranmore Trust, www.stcolumbashouse.org.uk The Beaverbrook Foundation, of the new building in all aspects the Wates family and the of our day to day learning and Registered Charity in England and Wales No.240675 Garfield Weston Foundation. The worship. We feel truly blessed to governors, teaching staff and I be one of the smallest schools in would like to thank everyone who Surrey but with one of the largest school halls!” was involved in helping us to

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The Wey March/April 2016

Focus on Caring

Angels in our midst CHURCH PEWS UNCOMFORTABLE?

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Around 20 people in Guildford Borough have been visited by an angel, it has been revealed… Although not actually of the celestial type, these angels do in fact have a godly mission – to befriend and support people living with isolation and loneliness.

Neighbourhood Angels is a befriending scheme run by the Diocese of Guildford’s Communities Engagement Team (CET) and funded through Guildford Borough Council. Since the scheme began in early 2015 it has already provided support for around 20 older people and vulnerable adults in the Guildford area.

Here, Rachel Guilford, Neighbourhood Angels project co-ordinator for CET, explains who the initiative benefits and how: “Isolation and loneliness can affect anyone and Befriending support can have a dramatic impact on have a wide variety of causes. For example, following those involved. One individual caring for his visually a recent bereavement, one lady described her daily impaired wife explained that before receiving the experience as ‘desolate’. Neighbourhood Angels support of a befriender they felt “deserted – by people aims to support such people by using volunteers and in the road, people in authority, our own relations” and community resources to build meaningful activities that the befriender was “the first person who really and relationships into their lives. cared”. After six months of weekly visits by an Angel, “Their needs and circumstances include: the couple’s attitude to life and to each other had bereavement, sensory impairment, carers, aphasia significantly improved. The husband shared: “We have (word-finding difficulties), lack of family support, learned to trust each other and be more independent... mental illness, low self-esteem and poor mobility.

We are now living an almost normal lifestyle.” The “Although the majority of referrals made are for box to the right gives an example of an Angel success older people, Neighbourhood Angels is open to story. anyone over the age of 18. Referrals come from a variety of individuals and professionals within Could you become an Angel? the community, including friends, relatives, GPs, community nurses, social workers and churches.

Could you support someone in Guildford Borough?

“As a result of the support they receive, some As Rachel explains, no specialist skills or experience people have become more involved in their local are required to become a Neighbourhood Angel: communities such as going to day centres, University “You just need compassion and the availability to of the Third Age (U3A) groups or simply having more give a few hours a week or a fortnight, on a flexible frequent local outings. basis. An initial commitment of around six months allows consistency. Induction training is provided as “For individuals with more specific health needs, well as ongoing training and support, and there are additional support has been arranged with charities and statutory services such as Meals on Wheels, adult opportunities to meet other volunteers and share experiences. social care, the MS Society and Sight for Surrey.”

“Volunteers are matched up with individuals according to relevant interests, experience, locality and availability, so having a diversity of volunteers is I have been visiting a gentleman who is very valuable.” house bound and has no family around. He has various services coming in throughout the week The role of a Neighbourhood Angel is different for but all these services come in do what they are each person. Some volunteers take people on outings, while others may simply chat and build companionship there for and leave again. Their schedule of work over a cup of tea. There may also be practical aspects means they can’t stop to chat. Now each week I such as supporting someone with reading paperwork go in for a couple of hours. or going shopping.

“He likes the fact that I am not rushing around doing my job and then going. I just sit and Being a Neighbourhood Angel can be hugely rewarding, as one Angel commented: “My experience chat, laugh and compare notes on television has been amazing. I have seen with my own eyes the programmes!! Knowing that I have helped him difference how a little bit of love can change a life. My to feel more positive in himself due to having client has been so grateful for any help I could offer. something to look forward to each week is a What a joy it has been to support him.” Another said: great feeling. To be able to make a positive “I look forward to the meetings; it’s like meeting with a change in a person’s life for the better has got to good friend.” See the box to the left for a testimony. be good too.

A Neighbourhood Angel Churches can also get involved in Neighbourhood Angels as an extension of their current pastoral

One of the great benefits for Dad is that when he has company he does not suffer from any delusions or confusion about where he is. It is great to hear Dad engaging with someone in a way that brings back some of the person he was. I think this is important for his sense of selfworth, as he is inclined to describe himself as useless or stupid these days.

“Last week I joined them for a little while and it was nice for me to be part of a conversation with Dad that didn’t involve doctors’ appointments, finding lost belongings, pills and meals! When you care for someone everyday most conversations are about caring and real conversations get lost.

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A grateful daughter of a befriendee or outreach ministry to the community, extending hospitality beyond the church congregation to those who may be in desperate need of companionship, community and compassion.

Neighbourhood Angels provides an opportunity for both individuals and churches to demonstrate God’s love to those who may be feeling neglected, by meeting them where they are and journeying with them. As Hebrews 13v2 commands “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers for in doing so some have entertained angels unawares.”

If you are interested in finding out more, getting involved, or if you know someone who could benefit from the support of a Neighbourhood Angel, please contact Rachel Guilford, project co-ordinator on 07796 098077 or rachel.guilford@cofeguildford. org.uk. See www.cofeguildford.org.uk/ neighbourhood-angels

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Focus on Common Purpose

New toddler group strengthens church and community links

Bishop Andrew le

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Revd Barnaby leads the toddlers in a rendi

The Clandon Churches have been furthering their reach into the local community with the launch of a new parent and toddler group.

Little Dragons takes place weekly and is coordinated by the Revd Barnaby Perkins, rector of St Peter & St Paul, West Clandon and St Thomas of Canterbury, East Clandon. It provides a relaxed environment for parents and toddlers to have fun and get to know new people, including members and leaders of their local churches.

Since joining the group some of the parents have said that they would like to join in with other church-run community projects, despite not having had much

previous involvement in church.

Barnaby says: “Most parents haven’t been to church since school and it can be somewhat daunting to step over the threshold after all of that time.

So rather than introducing people to church, Little Dragons helps us to introduce church to people.

“By welcoming them into this friendly and caring environment, people can come to know that the church is friendly, caring and is a place to make friends.”

Little Dragons has been launched alongside other family-friendly initiatives, such as Messy Church, and children’s activities at the Sunday morning service, which introduce Christianity to children

in an age-appropriate way.

Barnaby added: “Every Sunday should be familyorientated. We have witnessed significant growth in children’s attendance on a Sunday and this year’s October count saw the highest number of child attendance for several years.”

Sunday Club runs from 10.30am on the first, third, fourth and fifth Sundays of the month in West Clandon, and on the second Sunday of the month in East Clandon.

Little Dragons takes place every Wednesday from 9.30 – 11.30am at West Clandon Royal British Legion. Find more info on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ westclandonlittledragons

The third part of the review of our Common Purpose – our diocesan mission strategy – is now underway with Bishop Andrew leading a series of deanery meetings around the diocese.

Our ‘Common Purpose’ can be summed up as ‘to grow in spiritual maturity, numerical growth and community engagement’.

The first stage was an online survey of church members, which was completed by nearly 1,500 people - the biggest such survey carried out by a diocese in the UK! Clergy then met in Guildford Cathedral’s Marquee to discuss the survey results and their vision for Common Purpose.

Bishop Andrew is now leading a series of six deanery meetings around

the diocese. “All are w hear feedback from th says. “We’d love to h representation of lay from all our churches The first session to Emmanuel Church, S January, for Guildford deaneries, and was f meeting for Farnham deaneries at St Andr Farnham on 8 Febru So far, one of the discussion has been already at work in the Andrew has spoken more informal styles have helped many c flourish. They show published national s small overall decline attendance numbers situation universally.

Speaking in Stoug

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TAILOR-MADE MESSY CHURCH: This ‘once-a-m onth not-on-a-Sunday’ helping busy families Messy Church is explore Christianity.

The family-friendly ses sion for worship, creativ ity and eating together Saviour’s Church, Bro began after St okwood surveyed local parents about their pre of services. It now takes ferences on the timing place from 3.30-5.30 pm on the second Saturday is attended by around of each month and 60 people, including chi ldren, parents and gra Children and families wo ndparents. rker for the parish of Kn aphill with Brookwood “So much of what we do , Jo Birkby said: in church divides familie s into groups, but Messy generational. It brings Church is intereveryone together!”

She also mentioned how Messy Church has ins pired further exploration of faith: “We could sen se that some families wa nted more, so recently embarked upon anothe r fresh expression, Caf é Church. This is attracting families who want to explore and dev elop their faith together more deeply.”

The Wey March/April 2016

60 MINUTES MAKOVER: An hour makes all the difference at St Peter’s Farnborough, which has seen numbers at their later afternoon service climb sharply since moving it just an hour earlier.

St Peter’s moved its 6.30pm service to 5.30pm this January. A seemingly small change, but one that enables youngsters to attend church, take part in other Sunday activities, and to get an early night ahead of the school week!

Congregation member, Sheila Tapster said: “It was an answer to prayer when it was announced that there would be a new 5.30 service. My two sportsmad daughters could attend church regularly again

eads discussions

welcome to he survey,” he have a good and clergy people s.” ook place at Stoughton on 18 d and Cranleigh followed by a m and Godalming rew’s Church, uary. main points for n where God is e diocese. Bishop about new and s of worship that congregations that, despite recently statistics showing a e in weekly church s, this is not the . ghton, Bishop

Andrew talked about how churches can respond to the increasingly busy pace of life: “Families can struggle to attend church on Sunday mornings because children’s football or rugby clubs meet at the same time. Many churches now offer services outside of the Sunday morning timeslot, meaning families can spend the morning going to sports clubs or visiting granny and granddad, and be back in time for a church service at 4 o’clock!”

Talks have also explored how the aims of Common Purpose can be reached. Bishop Andrew said: “It is important that churches work with their local communities and with other churches nearby. Church leaders should come together, to pray and to share ideas.”

A period of prayer and reflection is also offered during each evening, and there is a chance to take a closer look at the visual minutes produced at the clergy day on Common Purpose.

Focus on Common Purpose

LYP inspires young people

A Christian youth project has gone from strength to strength in its endeavour to provide safety, fulfilment and inspiration to young people in the Leatherhead area.

Leatherhead Youth Project (LYP) is a joint venture between St Mary and St Nicholas Church, the Methodist Church and Christ Church (URC) in Leatherhead and Mole Valley District Council.

It began in 2005 with just one youth worker running an afternoon youth club and now has six staff leading faith and community projects for over 350 young people across Mole Valley.

One of our aims is to help young people who haven’t grown up with Church to explore Christianity in a welcoming and accessible way.

Its latest big initiative is Allsaints Coffee Shop, based at All Saints, Leatherhead, a social enterprise which

Members of the group for boys age 11-14 enjoy a trip to Gravity Force with youth worker, Martin Fuller.

provides jobs for unemployed young people. This not only helps them to gain vital skills, but can also encourage them on their faith journey. Coffee shop apprentice Liam has been involved in several LYP faith groups, including a mission trip to Romania, and hopes to be baptised this year.

Talking of LYP’s faith outreach, general manager Joe Crome said: “One of our aims is to help young people who haven’t grown up with Church to explore Christianity in a welcoming and accessible way. We have had the privilege of leading a number of young people to faith, who have continued investing in local

church and several of whom have led others to faith themselves.”

2016 is also proving to be an exciting time for the group, as Joe explains: “We have recently been approached about planting our work in another town nearby to provide a similar faith and community service for young people in need. This will be an exciting step forward for our team and we look forward to reaching out to even more young people.

There is a particular need at this time as statutory services are being cut.”

For more information on the Leatherhead Youth Project go to: www.leatherheadyouthproject. com

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Associate minister the Revd Matthew SwiresHennessey added: “We have been really encouraged by the response to our 5.30pm service, which features contemporary music, teaching and prayer in a relaxed atmosphere. The change of time and the provision of children’s and youth groups has made it possible for a number of families to attend worship together, which is great!”

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Singing service strikes the right 15 years on, this musical church service in Lightwater still attracts around 100 people each week. h All Saints’ launched Songs of Praise to reac or ch chur with senior adults who had lost contact bers mem nt curre its of had never been. Over 80% tion and are from outside of the ‘regular’ congrega er. soev what nd grou back ch chur no have y man with ct conta in keep It also helps the church to services those struggling to attend Sunday morning

chord

and to give pastoral care after bereavement. said: Vicar of All Saints’, Revd Mark Wallace to share is e Prais of s Song of part rtant impo “An ce over a fellowship with each other after the servi rates a gene This . cake de ema cup of tea and hom y.” famil s God’ to ging belon of sense Service leader, the Revd Derek Browning added: “We aim to provide a safe, friendly of environment for people to know something God’s love and purpose for them.”

The Wey March/April 2016

Page 9

Focus on Chaplaincy

Sophie aims to make faith cool Imagine a parish of about 12,000 people, around a third of whom change every year and most of them in their late teens – that is the challenge facing Sophie Woollen since she became chaplain to the Guildford College Group 2½ years ago.

The group comprises Guildford, Farnham Sixth Form and Merrist Wood Colleges. Each is slightly different but all focus on providing high quality candidates with the right skills to meet the needs of employers both nationally and locally.

In total there are 11,000 students and around 1,000 staff. Many are local, some come from other parts of the UK and live with local families, and others are overseas students on a course to improve their English. Courses last from one to three years.

Guildford College is the largest with 6,000–6,500 students aged between 14 and 95(!) doing a mix of A-levels, vocational and degree level training.

Subjects covered range from art and design to travel and tourism and including subjects such as catering and mechanics to business and IT. Most are aged 1619, some are on day-release from their jobs.

Merrist Wood has 3,500 students, some of whom are residential, undertaking ‘land-based’ courses including arboriculture, forestry, horticulture, landscaping and garden design to animal and equine management. Farnham has 600 students and focuses on A-levels.

Exploring Faith “The age from 16-19 covers very formative years,” says Sophie. “Those in their late teens suddenly find they have a lot more freedom, they start asking questions and want to work out where they are going in their lives.

“Generally in education for this age, there’s not much focus on exploring faith. My aim in the 2½ days a week I spend as chaplain is to try to bring faith into everyday life, to encourage people to talk about it and encourage faith to flourish. I try to make faith cool – but given the pre-conceptions that many have, it’s a challenge!”

Sophie runs a range of events – from a stand at the annual freshers’ fair to regular ‘free hot drink and a chat’ sessions as freebies are always a winner!

Other activities include self-esteem groups for girls – she often has a waiting list – relationship and anger management courses, and special events for occasions such as Christmas and Remembrance Sunday. She also facilitates debates and dialogue on a variety of subjects (some of them controversial) and makes herself available for students to talk to.

“Most students assume that a chaplain will have

Sophie Woollen (far right) with Sgt Dave Thomas of the Royal Marine Cadets after the Armistice Day commemoration. He started the event with a talk on his experiences of Army life, followed by a short Royal British Legion video showing their work among present and former service people. Victoria Huggins, (far left) read Ann Starr’s poem ‘Why I wear a poppy’ and Sue Clyne (centre) put on an exhibition of World War 1 memorabilia. Nikki Pease (second right), a member of staff at the college helped to organise the commemoration at Guildford College

nothing to offer them. They usually expect to meet an old man – or if they are lucky an old woman – in a dog collar who only leads church services, so they are surprised to meet a woman who is only 10 years older than them! I find I have to change perceptions of what a chaplain is and also what Christianity is – more than a church service! I see my job as being available to listen to and support anyone and everyone, at the same time making clear that I’m a Christian.”

Now that Colleges have been tasked by the Department for Education to teach ‘British values’ she is doing that too – although what these are is far from clear! Students’ discussions have generally come to the conclusion that our values don’t come as much from our Britishness as from our shared humanity.

So many young people today don’t grow up with any awareness of church, but chaplaincy introduces a bit of God into their lives.

There are a good number of Christians at Guildford College and an active Christian Union. While most students are Christian, agnostic or atheist there are some Muslims and a few Sikhs and Buddhists. Sophie aims to offer a multi-faith chaplaincy and has links to representatives of other faiths through the University

of Surrey’s chaplaincy and can refer students.

Overall, Sophie has found during her 2½ years that she has a growing ministry. “It’s a great advantage to be part of the community, but a little bit detached: I am available for anyone – including staff – to come and speak to about any problem they are wrestling with. I believe the work I do in further education is really valuable – so many young people today don’t grow up with any awareness of church, but chaplaincy introduces a bit of God into their lives and makes it more likely that they’d step inside a church one day.”

And this is not just Sophie’s view, the management of the Guildford College Group are very aware of the benefits that chaplaincy has brought – “It has definitely made a positive difference to the lives of our students and staff” was one comment.

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The Wey March/April 2016

Thought provoking activities at the Fresher’s Fair

Focus on the Environment Eco experts give hope and inspiration to many More than 100 people attended a public forum to hear a range of speakers from Christian charities share ideas on how the Church can act on climate change.

The forum, entitled Stories of Hope, took place in The Marquee at Guildford Cathedral on an evening in February.

Its aim was to give churches and congregations a chance to meaningfully contribute to discussions on tackling climate change, following the global agreement made at the UN Climate Change

Ruth Valerio (A Rocha UK) explains Eco Church

Conference in Paris. This aims to limit global warming to less than 2° C, compared to pre-industrial levels and to phase out the use of fossil fuels.

Bishop of Guildford, the Rt Revd Andrew Watson, opened the event by expressing his desire to see churches demonstrate their care for God’s creation, as decreed in the fifth Mark of Mission of the Anglican Communion, “To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation, and sustain and renew the life of the earth”, and rooted in scripture such as Leviticus.

Bishop Andrew said: “The principles behind this chapter – care for the environment, a second chance for the destitute, simplicity, compassion, trust – are every bit as relevant today as they have ever been.” Bishop Andrew’s full sermon can be found on the diocesan wesbite.

Ben Niblett of Tearfund gave examples of the effect climate change has on the poorest people in the world and how churches have helped communities hit by environmental damage. He spoke of his surprise and joy at the unprecedented agreement made at the Paris conference but made it clear that more still needs to be done.

Ben said: “Paris is a milestone on a long, long road, but it is a significant one. So we should give thanks for the Paris Agreement.

Then it’s over to us to hold our government to account to keep the promises they made, and to change our own lifestyles. The Big

Church Switch at www.tearfund.org/ switch, the Bishop’s Lent Call and Eco Church are good ways.”

Jo Musker-Sherwood of Hope for the Future spoke next, sharing her knowledge on engaging local MPs. Suggestions included writing to your MP, organising a meeting with them, or holding a ‘write in’ for groups to pen letters requesting climate action.

their answers count towards a prestigious and beautiful Bronze, Silver or Gold Eco Church Award.

Since its launch across England and Wales at the end of January, Persistence more than 100 churches Jo spoke of the importance of being Ben Niblett (Tearfund) fields a question from the audience have signed persistent yet patient when trying to get during an evening of climate change discussion up to the national policy changed: “It is important to programme, and one church in Lyme Regis Stories of Hope event. The speakers were remember that 20 years ago drinking and has already been granted a Bronze Award. amazing and also those who came were so driving was seen as commonplace. It is enthusiastic and inspiring. I would love to Ruth praised the diocese for its efforts now unthinkable, which goes to show the difference that public pressure and policy so far and encouraged it in its future action, know more about the ideas and expertise we have in the Diocese of Guildford. Please changes can make to bringing about cultural saying: “Well done Diocese of Guildford for taking this huge issue by the scruff of contact me to let me know what your church change – and the same can be true of the neck and determining to help parishes is doing and if you would like me to be climate change.” involved.” engage with it. The Paris talks generated A Rocha UK’s churches and theology really good momentum from churches and Diocesan initiatives and resources for director, Ruth Valerio then officially environmental action can be found at: launched ‘Eco Church’ in the diocese. now we need to keep that going, transform www.cofeguildford.org.uk/eco-action our churches, and push our government to Eco Church is a new programme of honour its pledges.”

To learn more about Eco Church and to environmental action and awarenessGuildford Cathedral’s residentiary canon, sign up to its award scheme, visit: raising, which aims to equip congregations the Revd Julie Gittoes chaired the evening, www.ecochurch.arocha.org.uk to care for creation and integrate environmental care throughout their church leading a Q&A with the speakers and the diocese’s environmental adviser, the Revd life. Churches complete an online ‘Eco Survey’ about how they are caring for God’s Lesley Crawley.

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Noticeboard Women’s World Day of Prayer – 4 March On Friday 4 March, an estimated 3 million people in over 170 countries will gather to observe Women’s World Day of Prayer. In the British Isles alone over 6,000 services will be held.

Although organised and led by women, this is a day of prayer for everybody. All are invited to attend the following local services. There will be the opportunity to join in warm fellowship with people from other churches, and

Parish Collection date for May issue: from April 19 Don’t forget to look at the Diocesan website: www.cofeguildford.org.uk

EDITORIAL The Wey is compiled at Diocesan House by editors David Green and Kate Jamieson. If you have items for inclusion, or ideas for stories, please send them to: Diocesan House, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3XG. Tel: 01483 790347 E-mail: editorial@cofeguildford.org.uk Editorial deadline for the May issue: April 4 (but ideally as soon as possible!)

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Page 14

refreshments will be served afterwards. ll10am – St John’s Stoke, Stoke Road, GU1 1HB

Other local services can be found at: www.wwdp.org.uk/find-register-service/ Women’s World Day of Prayer is an international, ll11am – Crossways Community Baptist Church, inter-church organisation that gives a platform for the Junction Road, Dorking RH4 3HB voices of women to express their hopes and concerns ll7.30pm – Burpham Church of the Holy Spirit, New and bring them before the rest of the world in prayer.

Inn Lane, Burpham GU4 7HW For more information, see www.wwdp.org.uk/.

Strictly stand-up (no kneelers required) Do you fancy a completely new style of Church? Clare Truman – who completed Fresh Expressions training in 2011, and has a theology degree – is now trying something completely different, in the shape of ‘Stand-up Christology’.

The most recent meeting took place at the Star Inn, near the bottom of Guildford High Street, in February.

Clare Truman with a poster advertising her events “This is an opportunity to have ll7 April: Stand-up Christology – Back from the a no-holds barred conversation about religion Dead? with people who know their stuff,” she says.

It is for anyone who has ever sat laughing at ll5 May: Bible Study for Atheists – Rules and Ricky Gervais, Eddie Izzard or Tim Minchin and Regulations wondered what a priest might make of it all. ll2 June: Stand-up Christology – The Good “We watch clips from comedians and Book? theologians talking about the same things l l 7 July: Bible Study for Atheists – In the from very different perspectives. We put our Beginning Was? questions about God, faith, the universe and everything to a panel of opinionated volunteers and eat, drink and be chatty.”

The first meeting attracted 15 people and The group has borrowed St Mary’s Church Christine comments: “We meet on the first in Quarry Street, Guildford for their meetings Thursday of each month and everyone is (although it is not part of the parish ministry). welcome. There are very few rules, except: No The next meetings (all at 8pm) are: conversion, just good conversation!” ll3 March: Bible Study for Atheists – Jesus: Interested in finding out more? Visit Man or Myth? www.facebook.com/standupchristology

Will you support Phil’s marathon for BGF? The Revd Phil Parker, from St Andrew’s, Frimley Green and Mytchett, will be running the London Marathon on 24 April to raise money for the Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation. The Foundation helps those within the diocese who are disadvantaged or in need. This includes people struggling with mental health problems, caring for older people with dementia and young people involved with drugs or crime.

Phil says: “The Bishop of Guildford’s Foundation is such a worthwhile cause that I had no hesitation in taking up the place on offer.”

You can sponsor Phil and support the Bishop of

The Wey March/April 2016

MU prison support I was somewhat surprised, on reading the ‘Focus on Prisons’ in the February Wey, that no mention was made of the work the Mothers’ Union has been doing in prisons in the diocese for nearly twenty years!

At High Down prison our team of ten volunteers are on duty, every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon throughout the year. We provide a wide variety of toys, drawing materials and games for visiting children. Our work in Send prison provides female prisoners with a non-authoritarian listening ear, and reassurance that worries and concerns they share with us will not be noted or reported.

At Coldingley prison MU staffs ‘Kidzone’, on Thursday and Saturday afternoons, and ‘Friday Club’ which runs twice monthly, to give visiting children a time of normality in what can be a very stressful situation. Until Downview women’s prison closed for refurbishment in 2013, we ran knitting and craft sessions, and a library project.

We should be delighted to hear from anyone who would like to join one of our teams. Please call us on 01932 352680 to find out more.

Jacky Atkins, former MU Diocesan President llEd - Thanks Jacky. Space is always an issue in print and we simply had too much content for this feature.

Information from the MU is featured in more detail on the diocesan website www.cofeguildford.org.uk/ whats-on/news/detail/prison-volunteers.

In Brief Show & Tell: Ministry among older people

12 April, 2-4pm, Education Centre, Stag Hill. GU2 7UP Part of the ‘Show and Tell’ series, run by the parish development and evangelism team, during which parishes can share ideas and good practice with each other. This event focuses on examples of fruitful ministry amongst older people. Examples will include: llSongs of praise (Lightwater) llHearing aid clinic (Goldsworth Park) llConnections (Claygate) llQueen’s 90th birthday opportunities – free resources available llCommunity befriending (Busbridge)

Guildford’s Foundation by going to http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/giving/ and putting Phil Parker in the ‘Find your friend’ box.

LLMs (Readers) to celebrate 150 years!

To mark the 150th anniversary of the re-establishing of Reader ministry, the Central Readers Council of the Church of England will be holding a special event in July this year.

FOLLOW 2016, a Christian Day Festival for 21st Century Disciples, will be held on Saturday 16 July at De Montfort Hall, Leicester from 10am–4pm. The event will feature a wide selection of resources to encourage and equip Christian disciples. There will be representatives from, among others, Street Angels and 24-7

Letter

Prayer as well as a practical resources centre.

Advance booking is now open, and tickets cost £5 (under 5s free).

Bookings are subject to a single £3 booking fee for individuals or groups of less than 10, and therefore bulk booking is recommended. Tickets are available by telephoning 0116 233 3111 or online at www.demontforthall.co.uk/events/ events.php/2016/1499/follow-2016/

llPlus the ‘2-minute marketplace’ for you to share ideas that have worked for you.

Come to learn from each other and to contribute if you wish. Book via pdet.admin@cofeguildford.org.uk

Band offer Out Of The Ashes, a band with a loving message to encourage and enliven local congregations at Sunday services or evening concerts, is offering its services to parishes in the Diocese of Guildford.

They have had their latest single The Right Place played on Paul Jones’ BBC Radio 2 show, and have completed tours to the USA and Tenerife. They have a new album planned for 2016.

This offer is purely aimed at supporting and blessing your local church, so don’t worry about the fee – they will agree something you can afford. If you are interested to know more please visit www.outoftheashesmusic.uk or email joel@soundconsultancy.co.uk.

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.

FEBRUARY RECITAL 29 February, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Chinatsu Izumikawa (Piano) Suggested donation £3

MARCH EFFECTIVE LISTENING 5 March, 10am-4pm, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Come and explore what it means to listen to God, yourself and those around you. Be equipped with effective, reflective listening skills.

Cost £35 to include a light lunch and refreshments during the day.

Led by Acorn trainers.

To book contact 01420 478121 or email vslater@acornchristian.org PRAYING WITH THE GOSPELS 7 March, 10am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Another quiet Monday, led

by Linda Scrivener and Pam Thorogood Suggested donation: £15, bring your own lunch. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk RECITAL 7 March, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Malcom Stowell (Organ) Suggested donation £3 THEOLOGICAL BOOK GROUP 10 March, 7.45-9.30pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB This month’s book is Against the Flow by John Lennox. Led by the Revd Gillaine Holland and Becca Rowland. Refreshments are included.

Free but donations welcome. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk CONCERT 12 March, 7.30pm, Holy Trinity Church, Guildford Bach – St. John Passion, sung by the Occam Singers conducted

by David Gibson. Cost £12.50 in advance from Guildford TIC and Record Corner, Godalming - £15 on the door. In aid of Guildford Action.

CONCERT 12 March, 7.30pm, St Nicolas’ Church, Bury St, Guildford GU2 4AW Stainer’s Crucifixion (plus a sequence of music for Passiontide

by Bach, Byrd, Morley and Lassus) - Chantry Singers

chamber choir Tickets £12 (16 and under £2) from chantrysingers@gmail. com or 01483852493 (Now also recruiting for new members) CONCERT 13 March, 3.30pm, St James’ Church, Shere, GU5 9HG Tea Time Cello Classics - a feast of beautiful and familiar music

by Saint-Saens, Fauré, Bach & Rachmaninov. Jennifer Janse (cello), Virginia Hanslip (piano).

All proceeds to Ride for a Reason, therapeutic horse riding for children.

Cost: adults £12, children £5 to include afternoon tea in the interval. Tickets from 01483 548959 or email 20jackson.16@ gmail.com RECITAL 14 March, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Fumi Otsuki (Violin) and Gemma Kateb (Piano) Suggested donation £3 CONFERENCE 18 March, 9.45am-2.30pm, Westborough URC Church, 4B Southway, Guildford GU2 8DA Learning to love the word in order to live it - a one-day conference from Guildford Know Your Bible.

Speaker: Joyce Sibthorpe Cost: £8, coffee and tea provided.

Please bring a packed lunch.

Further info from Angela Stride 01483 273698 or angelastride@ hotmail.com COURSE 18-20 March, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Wholeness through Christ prayer ministry course. This three-day course will include times of worship, teaching, intercession, listening to the Holy Spirit and an extended time of personal and confidential ministry, led by a team from Wholeness Through Christ Cost: £275. Bookings through 01324 714946 or email office@ wholenessthroughchrist.org.

CHRISTIAN HEALING EXPLORED 18-20 March, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Deepen your understanding of the healing ministry in a friendly and relaxed setting. Opportunities for discussions, group work and corporate prayer Cost £35 to include a light lunch and refreshments during the day.

Led by Acorn trainers.

Cost £190 fully residential, £140 non-residential. To book contact 01420 478121 or email vslater@ acornchristian.org

LEARN THE ORGAN WORKSHOP & RECITAL 19 March, 12noon-4pm, St Mary’s, Quarry Street, Guildford GU1 3TY A chance for pianists (and keyboard players) to try the organ, and learn more about the Surrey Organists’ Association organ student scheme, finishing with a recital at 4pm by Tom Bell. More information www. surreyorganistsassociation.org.

Guildford Cathedral.

Register with Gerry Moss by email to g.p.moss@qmul.ac.uk or by post to 10 Hurstleigh Drive, Redhill, Surrey RH1 2AA. Tickets £12 (pay on the door) otherwise £14. Applications will be acknowledged by email or with a SAE.

Lent lectures

RECITAL 18 April, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Woking College students Suggested donation £3

ll3 March – Revd Canon Dr Andrew Bishop (residentiary canon and Anglican chaplain at the University of Surrey) ll10 March – Revd Canon Martyn Neale (vicar of Hawley) ll17 March – Revd Canon Dr Julie Gittoes (residentiary canon) For further details please contact Canon Julie Gittoes at julie@guildford-cathedral.org.

RECITAL 21 March, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Joe Matthews (Organ) Suggested donation £3 GOOD FRIDAY QUIET DAY 25 March, 10am - 4pm Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Led by the Revd Elizabeth Knifton. Theme: Appointment in Jerusalem.

Cost £40 incl refreshments & lunch. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org

APRIL SYMPOSIUM 2 April, 9.55am-5.00pm Ashtead Peace Memorial Hall, Woodfield Lane, Ashtead, KT21 2BE Surrey Local History Committee symposium ‘Change and Continuity in Churches and Chapels in Surrey’ - eight talks on their history from the Reformation to the present day, including one on the People’s Cathedral Oral History Project by Helen Ellis of

CONTEMPLATION STUDY DAY 4 April, 10am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB A reflective study day exploring Fra Angelico’s paintings and the Dominican teaching on art and faith.

Cost: £25 to include lunch. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@ stcolumbashouse.org.uk RECITAL 4 April, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Heather Churchill (Contralto) and Stephen Rose (Piano) Suggested donation £3 DEEPER HEALING DAY 7 April, 10am – 4pm, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon This day retreat focuses on creating a safe space for you to draw closer to God and take new steps forward in your healing journey.

Cost £40 incl refreshments & lunch.

To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org RECITAL 11 April, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG

COURSE 15-16 April, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Healthy leadership for churches.

Led by Acorn’s director the Revd Wes Sutton and Mary Sutton, with Acorn’s director of training Jennie Fytche and Ian Fytche Cost £150 fully residential or £100 non-residential. To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@ acornchristian.org FAMILY FUN DAY 16 April, 11am-3pm Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP A free activity-packed event for families to enjoy. A huge selection of activities for children aged 3-12.

Plant your own seed ready for the summer; join one of our guides on a special spring trail; or make something to take home with one of our absorbing craft activities.

Further info from Helen Ellis on 01483 547888 or email helen@ guildford-cathedral.org

This year’s Lent lectures at Guildford Cathedral will explore the place of Psalms in our life of prayer. As Lent approaches, Praying the Psalms provides an opportunity to learn more about the Psalms, which are at the heart of Christian scripture and worship.

Each talk starts at 7.45pm on a Thursday evening, and will conclude with compline in the Lady Chapel at 9pm.

Series coordinator Canon Dr Julie Gittoes says: “The Psalms are at the heart of our scriptures and our worship and articulate our hopes, fears, joys and sorrows. As we journey through Lent, we’ll explore how praying the Psalms equips us to walk on the way of God and to delight in his commandments.”

Dates for the talks are: ll25 February – Katherine Dienes-Williams (organist and master of the choristers)

POETRY AT THE CATHEDRAL 19 March, 4.30-7pm, Education Centre, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP Roy Parker will lead a session about two ‘worker poets’ – Joseph Skipsey and Henry Chappell.

More information from Jan Glen 01483 563039 or emailbgrundy@ waitrose.com.

David Oldfield (Organ) Suggested donation £3

RECITAL 25 April, 12.40pm Christ Church, Town Square, Woking GU21 6YG Timothy Guntrip (Organ) Suggested donation £3

ART DAY AT ACORN 29 April, 10am-4pm, Acorn Christian Healing Foundation, Bordon Come and spend the day at Acorn to paint, write, sculpt, draw, weave, collage etc. (Limited materials available, please bring your own) Cost £25 to include a light lunch.

To book contact 01420 478121 or email info@acornchristian.org ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS DAY 30 April, 9.30am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB Take time out to bring those parts of our lives to the one who can heal us and set us free. Learn the insights that can help you to pray more effectively. Led by the Wholeness Through Christ Team.

Cost: £18. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@stcolumbashouse. org.uk

MAY INTRODUCING THE ENNEAGRAM 7 May, 9.30am-4pm, St Columba’s House, Maybury Hill, Woking GU22 8AB This one-day workshop will introduce you to the nine personality types in the Enneagram system and will enable you to identify which personality type you are. Led by Rod Boreham Cost: £40. Tel 01483 766498 or email retreats@stcolumbashouse.org.uk

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The Wey March/April 2016

Page 15

Fellow Travellers Bishop Christopher awarded visiting professorship The Rt Revd Christopher Herbert has been awarded a visiting professorship in Christian ethics with the University of Surrey’s International Care Ethics (ICE) Observatory.

Bishop Christopher is an assistant (retired) bishop in the Diocese of Guildford. During his ministry he spent nine years as vicar of The Bourne, Farnham and was director of post-ordination training for the Diocese of Guildford and Archdeacon of Dorking, before becoming Bishop of St Albans in 1995.

He has had a lifelong interest and dedication to medical ethics, establishing a reputation as a speaker on the subject in the House of Lords while Bishop of St Albans.

Speaking about his appointment, the University of Surrey’s professor of ethics and care and director of the ICE Observatory, Ann Galla­gher said: “We are delighted that the Rt Revd Christopher Herbert has accepted a visiting professorship in Christian ethics.

His expertise and commitment to ethical care will add an important dimension to ethical discussions that draw on a range of philosophical and theological perspectives. We very much look forward to working with him in his new role.”

Bishop Christopher added: “The professorship at the University of Surrey is a huge honour, and it is a role which I will thoroughly enjoy. The pioneering work that Professor Gallagher and her colleagues carry out is intensely practical and makes a real difference. It is about research and training in the field of nursing care in hospitals and in care homes; practical, evidencebased research to ensure that people in need have the highest quality treatment and care.

Bishop Christopher Herbert – visiting professorship in Christian ethics

“At the heart of this is ethics. Good behaviour; good practice; compassionate care; doing unto others as you would have them do unto you. And it is the contribution that Christian ethics can make to debate and training in this field to which I shall be devoting myself in the years ahead.”

New president for Mothers’ Union Antonia Wilson, who attends Holy Trinity Church, Claygate, has been elected diocesan president of the Mothers’ Union (MU), taking over from Jacky Atkins from St Andrew’s, Oxshott. Antonia was inspired to join the Hinchley Wood Mothers’ Union in 2003 after hearing a talk about the literacy programme, which helps women and men learn to read and write and also facilitates them in helping others in their communities.

She became a speaker in 2005 following a holiday meeting with MU members in Malawi, was branch leader for four years from 2009 and has been Emly deanery co-ordinator since 2013. She was co-opted as a trustee in 2013.

Antonia says: “It is a real privilege to have been elected diocesan president. Our aim as a board is to ensure support of young families in particular, as well as supporting marriage and family life for all.” llThis year the Mothers’ Union celebrates 140 years of supporting families. It all Former president Jacky Atkins hands over the started with Mary Sumner and a meeting president’s chain of office to Antonia Wilson. of women in 1876. Since then MU has in building healthy communities. The literacy grown to a fellowship of over four million programme is one of many projects MU operates members in 83 countries who uphold Mary to help families around the world. To find out Sumner’s founding principle of prayer, support more about the work of Mothers’ Union go to and education and recognise that strong www.mothersunion.org.uk. relationships and the role of the family are crucial

From Haslemere to the West Bank

Elaine Waddington

BE SEEN Page 16

To advertise in this newspaper, contact Glenda or Michelle on

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or email glenda@cornerstonevision.com

The Wey March/April 2016

non-violently alongside Palestinians, Israelis and the international community and aims to bring hope to those living facing injustice.

The role of EAs includes monitoring checkpoints or the gates of the separation barrier in order to help locals access the necessities of life, such as medical care, schools or their farmland. Their presence helps protect those at risk from hostility and violence from settlers and the military and they report any incidence of human rights violations they witness.

Elaine, who has previously worked in Egypt, Lebanon and Yemen as a teacher commented: “This is a longstanding and worsening situation and it will be a privilege to walk alongside Palestinians and to witness what life is like for them – to be with them and to support them in their daily challenges, as they go to work or to school, or face their home being demolished, or their olive trees being uprooted.”

As a volunteer EA, Elaine is an advocate for change, and part of her work is to highlight the realities of the situation under occupation. She will be blogging on http://eyewitnessblogs.com and on the EAPPI-UK-Ireland Facebook page. On her return in May she is offering to give talks to groups on her experiences.

A Haslemere woman is putting her cosy Surrey life on hold for three months to volunteer as a human rights observer in the West Bank to support those living under occupation.

Elaine Waddington, who is a member of 3 Counties Church in Haslemere, and worked for the diocese as part of the parish development and evangelism team until November last year, left the UK on 15 February for occupied Palestine and Israel. There she will act as an ecumenical accompanier (EA), living and walking beside vulnerable communities and individuals to support them in their daily lives as the conflict continues around them.

The Ecumenical Accompaniment Programme in Palestine and Israel (EAPPI) is a World Council of Churches initiative, which was set up in 2002 in response to an appeal for help for Church leaders in Jerusalem as life grew increasingly difficult for Palestinians after the second intifada. EAPPI works EAPPI volunteers at work on the West Bank