A year-long celebration
St Luke, Camberwell celebrates 70 years since consecration
See page 4
Newspaper of the Anglican Diocese of Southwark
Creationtide
Hope and act with creation
See pages 6–7
‘FLOURISH’ Worshipping communities in our schools
See page 12
September 2024
St John’s Church of England Primary and Nursery School, Kingston held a ‘Hope for the future: Wonderful World’ exhibition from 6–8 June. Children from all classes exhibited their creative and colourful artwork – filling the huge space with a vibrant display for all ages.
The exhibition began with bible story boxes, artistically displaying the seven days of creation. Among the exhibits there were audio installations featuring poetry
readings on hope, a polluted river, hot air balloons, a colourful rainbow, the oceans full of life and a giant rainforest featuring a crocodile.
The pupils wanted to share the message of care for creation and highlight the impact of climate change on the world through their art work. Their aim was to raise awareness about the way we live and it’s effects on all the earth’s communities.
Sharing a message of hope through individual and collective action, the
children used a range of art skills to depict how they see the world and their hopes and dreams for their future.
A comment book captured thoughts from visitors to the exhibition from across the country. One visitor said, “The exhibits were extremely thought provoking.”
Another commented and described the display as being “poignant” and a “necessary insight from the young
The Right Revd Christopher Chessun, Bishop of Southwark and The Rt Revd Dr Rosemarie Mallett, Bishop of Croydon on behalf of the Diocese of Southwark have signed a covenant agreement with the Bishop of The Anglican Diocese of
Barbados to form a new companion link between the two dioceses.
The link agreement was formally signed by both Bishops and The Rt Revd Michael Maxwell, Bishop of Barbados in July this year.
The Anglican Diocese of Barbados serves 54 congregations across 11 parishes and over 200 communities and the diocese has long links with Barbados – now an island republic within the Commonwealth of Nations – that has been established
generation at St John’s to the world! Here’s to a better tomorrow.”
Giving their overall thoughts on the artwork, another said, “We loved it! The Hot Air Balloons of Hope with poems, the tigers, the great big crocodile were all fantastic.”
‘The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.’ Genesis 2:15 (NIV)
through the bishops, cathedrals, churches and other institutions over time.
The covenant agreement became effective from 19 July 2024 for five years, subject to renewal. During this time, both dioceses –as members of the Anglican Communion – will seek to work together, learn from one another, and to support one another in love, mission and service.
Continued on page 3
‘There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.’ (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
Summer is often seen as a time for rest and reflection, and summer 2024 will leave much to reflect on. Instead of the expected lazy hazy days, we witnessed a restless storm of pain and misery. The country was left shell-shocked by the horrific attack that killed three young children attending a dance party in Southport. This was immediately followed by some of the worst racist rioting to take place in this country in the last 50 years – making many of us born elsewhere, or of black and brown hue fear for our own lives or livelihoods or worry about the safety of our family and friends who look or sound like us not living close by. And then by God’s grace, communities across the country came out to reject hatred and violence and stood peacefully together to witness to the best of human compassion and care for neighbours and strangers. So as summer draws to a close and a new season starts, we can remind ourselves that each season brings both challenges and the chance to redefine our paths as people of God.
Southwark is one of the country’s most ethnically diverse dioceses and our anti-racist approach to
diversity and inclusion is at the heart of our mission and ministry – as is our work with children and young people. Our schools and colleges hold a very special place at the heart of our vision. As they reopen in September – along with the new books, courses and timetables – the staff at the Southwark Diocesan Board of Education and the staff and schools and university chaplains, will be working with renewed vigour to build and lead generous, welcoming communities of love and learning for students, families and the communities of which they are a part.
September offers us all the opportunity to begin again and to approach fresh or even old challenges with a revitalised perspective – keeping God’s love and compassion at the heart of our vision as we work to inspire, transform and heal.
Discover the joy of generosity
“From His fullness we have all received grace upon grace” (John 1.16).
Generosity Week 2024 runs from Sunday 29 September to Sunday 6 October. The week gives churches an opportunity to celebrate God’s generosity and consider their own generous response. During the week we encourage congregations to consider gratitude and generosity over two Sundays.
The Southwark Giving Team and the National Church Giving Team have produced a suite of materials for you to use and to support you. You’ll find service outlines and liturgy, sermon notes, children’s and young people’s resources, daily podcasts, social media posts to share and more.
Further information at: bit.ly/4dc8SMn
This month we give thanks and remember the life and ministry of The Revd Dr Bishop Karowei, the late Bishop of Woolwich on the anniversary of his death. Bishop Karowei died peacefully after a long struggle with his health on Friday 8 September 2023. He brought so much to the life of the diocese and is often remembered for his inspirational ministry, passionate commitment to evangelism and advocacy for social justice.
As you reflect and remember Bishop Karowei during this time, thank God for his life and please pray for all who mourn his loss. Visit a photo album in his memory at: bit.ly/3SrfH4r
Parish Support Fund – make your pledge by 15 September
The Parish Support Fund (PSF) was introduced in Southwark in January 2016 and since its launch parishes continue to give generously to support mission and ministry across our diocese. Each year we invite parishes to make a pledge and these pledges fund our shared mission in every part of our diocese. The deadline to make your pledge is 15 September 2024. Earlier in the summer, we shared the 2025 PSF materials and we hope that you will continue to feel encouraged by the stories of growth, challenges and God’s blessing across our diocese. If you have any questions about PSF, please contact Gabby.Parikh@southwark.anglican.org.
The Everyday Faith App is here
Everyday Faith is the new free daily devotional app from the Church of England designed to inspire, equip and encourage you in your faith every day of the week, not just on Sundays. Where is God in our daily lives?
How do we find God in the fullness of everyday life? Everyday Faith is designed to support you in your life discipleship or vocational journey. The app will provide you with carefully curated daily reflections, including selected Bible readings, a simple prayer to prepare you for the day ahead, and thoughts based on that week’s theme.
Find out more and download for iOS or Android at: bit.ly/3LK6Kzx
The Bridge is produced & published by:
Communications Department, The Diocese of Southwark, Trinity House, 4 Chapel Court, Borough High Street, London SE1 1HW Tel: 020 7939 9400 Email: bridge@southwark.anglican.org
The Editorial Team from the Communications Department: Commissioning Editor: Anna Drew
Editor: Vernia Mengot
Advertising and Distribution: Joseph Callanan
Editorial Group: Nicola Thomas Alastair Cutting
The Bridge — in print, in your parish,
The OCTOBER edition is due to be published online and in print on 1 October 2024. Material for that edition must be with Vernia Mengot by email by WEDNESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER
Space limitations mean that we cannot guarantee to publish everything we receive and material may be edited. All photographs submitted for publication are assumed to have the necessary permission for printing. Please ensure that people are happy for their photographs to be submitted before you do so. Forms for permission for the use of photographs of children (Form 10) and adults who may be vulnerable (Form 11) can be found at southwark.anglican.org/safeguarding/diocesan-policies-procedures
Welcoming the covenant during a visit to coincide with the bicentennial celebrations of The Anglican Diocese of Barbados, Bishop Christopher expressed his delight at this new partnership saying, “Barbados will join other dioceses with which we already have close links.”
“I am grateful for the already established link that St John The Divine, Kennington has with Codrington College, where for the past 12 years they have been supporting theological education and I look forward to this work flourishing among the many other elements of the covenant as we share in God’s love.”
The trip to Barbados also included a visit to the State House to meet Her Excellency Dame Sandra Mason, the President of Barbados and to Codrington College – the Caribbean Anglican theological college. Additionally, the Bishops visited various parish churches, and enjoyed dinner with senior clergy colleagues and local friends, as well as a tour of the island. To conclude the visit, Bishop Christopher and Bishop Rosemarie attended a Thanksgiving Service at The Garfield Sobers Gymnasium under the theme ‘Let’s Praise God for 200 years of Mission and Ministry of the Anglican Diocese of Barbados’.
Bishop Christopher added, “It has been a pleasure to spend my first ever visit to the Caribbean in the beautiful island of Barbados during what has been such
a momentous occasion for the life of the diocese.”
Bishop Rosemarie who was born in Bridgetown, Barbados, said, “We are very thankful to my Anglican family in Barbados for the invitation to attend the celebrations and to strengthen the bonds between our dioceses. I give thanks that the Diocese of Southwark has established a companion link with a diocese in the Church in the Province of the West Indies which will gladden the hearts of those of Caribbean heritage in South London and East Surrey. It is a joy to be able to celebrate the gospel of Jesus Christ
The final Diocesan Synod meeting of this triennium (the three-year cycle on which Synod members serve) took place at St Peter’s Church in Battersea on Wednesday 17 July. In his Presidential Address, Bishop Christopher urged those in deaneries to continue to pray together whatever their differences: “To make a virtue of praying only with those we think are like us is one of the most curious decisions
a Christian can make. It is a long way from Bartimaeus’s prayer, ‘Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!’ and seriously inhibits the possibility of encounter with God. The consequences are not limited to our spiritual or interior lives, however. If we pray only with those who share our convictions, we render pastoral ministry virtually impossible. What is the logical extension of this choice? That we only bury the dead who agree with us? That we comfort only those who take our view? God forbid! We are the body of Christ and are each members of it in virtue of our baptism. We can show that we honour one another by praying together – it is enough simply to do this, because everything else will flow from it.”
The Synod received the Diocesan Board of Finance’s Annual Report and Financial Statements for 2023. As well as the audited accounts, the report offers an overview of the mission and ministry of the diocese last year, as well as a snapshot of future plans. Hard copies of the report have been circulated to parishes. Among other business, Synod members also discussed and approved an updated Handbook of Governance and heard reflections from The Revd Lotwina
through worship, witness and action with Barbados.”
“We have already started to discuss the exciting possibilities and opportunities of our new companion link. This will give a framework to the long existing friendship and partnership in the gospel between our dioceses.”
Commenting on the new link, Bishop Michael said, “We have already started to discuss the exciting possibilities and opportunities of our new companion link This will give a framework to the long existing friendship and partnership in the gospel between our dioceses.”
Read the full press release here: bit.ly/3YoeApK
Farodoye (Chair of the House of Clergy) and Adrian Greenwood (Chair of the House of Laity). Adrian was thanked for his service to the Synod as he steps down after six consecutive terms. He will serve as Senior Mentor and Lay Chaplain to the Synod for the next triennium.
Diocesan Secretary, Nicola Thomas, gave a presentation and update on Southwark Vision and the recently awarded Diocesan Investment Programme. The latter has seen the diocese awarded £29 million over nine years from the Church of England – the largest sum ever approved for a single diocese. This money will fund a whole-diocese transformation programme, which will facilitate mission and growth projects throughout South London and East Surrey.
As the meeting closed, Bishop Christopher and the Diocesan Secretary extended their thanks to all Diocesan Synod members for their contributions in shaping the life of the diocese over the past three years.
The new Diocesan Synod for the next triennium will meet in November 2024.
On Saturday 22 June and Monday 24 June the diocese held in-person and online PCC Secretaries and Administrators Conferences.
The conferences were an opportunity to welcome PCC Secretaries and Parish Administrators from across our diocese to hear contributions from Trinity House staff and The Venerable Moira Astin, Archdeacon of Croydon.
A varied range of topics were covered from the role and responsibilities of a PCC to the wider context of diocesan activities – including Southwark Vision, communications, and lay ministries. It was also an opportunity to come together in prayer and give thanks for their crucial role in ministry.
This year a new printed handbook has been developed for every PCC to complement the Church Representation Rules – a vital tool for all those involved in parochial, diocesan and national church governance.
To download the PCC Secretaries’ handbook or view a copy of the event slides visit: bit.ly/3WxQXtJ
In July, St Michael’s CE School, Southfields, held its first science fair. Having conducted experiments at home, 58 children from Years 5 and 6 entered the competition (either individually or jointly) to present their scientific processes and findings.
The judging panel was made up of 12 professional scientists who carefully evaluated all elements of the students’ work.
Greer Smith Science Lead said, “We had seven biologists, zoologists and biochemists from Kew Gardens plus four engineers and a microbiologist.
“The students then had the opportunity to discuss their work one-to-one with the scientists! All of the judges were incredibly impressed by the effort and thought the St Michael’s students had put into their projects and it was a close call as to who would win first and second place.
“A special celebration afternoon was held after school and the classrooms were absolutely packed with friends and family, keen to see the projects.
“At 5pm, the winners were announced and the science prizes awarded.
“There was a lot of positive, enthusiastic feedback from both children and adults. We hope we can begin to make the Science Fair an annual event!”
On 4 May, the congregation at St Luke, Camberwell celebrated the 70th anniversary of the church’s consecration.
Miranda Okon, Camberwell Deanery Diocesan representative said, “In true St Luke’s style, we rallied together with our brightly coloured t-shirts and an array of delicacies to celebrate the event, joined by the local police force and NHS nurses.
“A talent show, church tour and choral rendition of traditional and modern hymns kept, the church community riveted!”
The community have planned a year of activities and events to mark the anniversary. In August, friends travelled
Earlier this year, the students and young people who attend the St Mary, Summertown youth group ventured to Eastbourne for a weekend of fellowship, bible study, games and activities.
The event, organised by Christopher Brown (Students & Young Adults Worker at the church), was funded by the diocese through a mission grant of nearly £200.
Christopher said, “We spent the weekend looking at the book of Hebrews, and also went for a walk, took a trip to the
beach at Eastbourne, played some board games and ate a lot of cake – generously provided by our church family.”
Dirk Dale-Emberton, one of the students who attended the weekend said, “We spent the weekend thinking about Jesus, our great high priest, who is seated in heaven after his once-for-all sacrifice. It was an encouraging weekend, that means I feel I can always be in relationship with God”
Find out more about mission grants at: bit.ly/3fYdHgc
A rainbow appeared to crown an evening in Battersea Park, as 40 people gathered for a picnic to celebrate a year of creativity, community and collaboration with Nine Elms Arts Ministry.
to the seaside to enjoy a beach trip. A Thanksgiving service will be held on Sunday 20 October 2024, at 10am to conclude the celebrations – The Revd Les Issacs, founder of Street Pastors, will preach. For more information at: bit.ly/3SwB7gC
The Revd Betsy Blatchley, who leads the ministry, said “It was wonderful to bring together many of the local artists we have worked with this year, alongside participants from our Creative Soul Dance programme and members of our core prayer community – so much laughter and great conversations – and
the rainbow felt like a beautiful blessing from God.”
Nine Elms Arts Ministry is a Fresh Expression of church, using creativity to bring community together around the Battersea Power Station and Nine Elms development. Since 2018 it has created innovative arts events like ‘The Nine Elms Advent Calendar’ art trail, and now runs the popular Creative Soul health and wellbeing programme, offering hundreds of residents free access to creative health sessions in dance, visual art and crafts. More info at: nineelmsartsministry.org , @nineelmsartsministry or email Betsy. Blatchley@nineelmsartsministry.org
On Sunday 16 June, the clergy and congregation at St Matthew, Croydon were delighted to welcome The Venerable Greg Prior, Archdeacon of Croydon, to bless the newly installed defibrillator.
The Revd Ruth Chapman, Vicar of St Matthew’s said, “We are very thankful to have been able to purchase and install this defibrillator. We give thanks for those whose vision enabled this life saving technology, for those whose generosity enabled its purchase and for those who installed it. We pray that its presence here in this community would be a blessing and a sign of God’s love to all especially to those who may be in need.”
This summer, the wellbeing group –RENEW 121 at St Matthew’s, Croydon, gifted up to 200 mesh bags containing
After a year in interregnum, the congregation at St Mildred, Addiscombe has welcomed its new vicar, The Revd Neil Brunskill.
Neil was installed on Wednesday 26 June by Bishop Christopher, joined by the Right Revd Peter Price, retired Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Venerable Greg Prior, Archdeacon of Croydon a™nd The Revd Dr Geoff Dumbreck, Croydon Central Area Dean.
Karen Rooney, Editor of St Mildred’s ‘Parish Post’ church magazine said, “Father Neil was presented to the congregation by the Bishop of Southwark and the service included the ceremonial placing of the Incumbent’s hand on the church door handle, before he tolled the church bell to signify taking possession of the church.
On 16 June, 31 candidates were confirmed by The Rt Revd Dr Martin Gainsborough, Bishop of Kingston, at Christ Church, Gipsy Hill, many from Iranian backgrounds and who all regularly attend churches in Southwark Diocese. The service, organised by the Farsi Ministry at Christ Church, was fully led for Farsi/English bi-lingual speakers.
“During communion, the choir sang a beautiful anthem that had been especially composed for the service by Philip W J Stopford and was accompanied by the splendid sound of the church’s new West Organ.
“After the service, we enjoyed a reception in the adjoining St Mildred’s Centre, where we were able to socialise and meet our new vicar.”
Watch the service at: youtube.com/watch?v=VYl1IZi20bw
The confirmation candidates completed a new six week course that has been developed to disciple Christians of an Iranian background, seeking to deepen their faith within the life of the Church of England.
During the service a poem entitled ‘Sacrifice’ written by the late Bishop Hassan Dehqani-Tafti (Bishop of Iran) to encourage believers in the way of Jesus and highlight the wonder of Holy Communion was read in Farsi by his daughter, Shirin Ward.
shells, wooden cutouts of beach themed items, chocolate and a tag with a bible passage to seven care homes in the parish. This was all made possible through a grant received from the Benefact Group –who provide grants to places of Christian worship. Having started in a local Baptist church, the group became involved in the initiative through former vicar, The Revd Simon Foster – now retired.
Jan Williams at the church said, “After COVID many people were concerned and lonely, so these groups are a safe place for people to come to. Our group is on a Monday 2–4pm and we offer crafts, jigsaw puzzles, games and colouring books.
We also offer tea and cake, prayers and – most of all – company. We are part of a network of churches in the Purley and South Croydon area, where people have somewhere to go every day of the week.”
Find more details about grants at: bit.ly/3WU1Kxd
On Saturday 13 July, Chipstead Village held its 113th annual fair and flower show. Promoting the Loveworks Foodbank, The Revd Hannah Gordon, Rector at St Margaret, Chipstead, Josh Allwith, Youth and Community Worker and volunteers from the congregation went along to the show.
The Foodbank has been running for 14 years across Merstham and Reigate with a donation point at Chipstead Rugby Club on Thursday mornings. The items go to those in need throughout the borough and the Foodbank is in desperate need of donations as demand in the community is increasingly high.
Hannah described it as a chance to tell people where they could donate in our local community and highlight the enduring need: “we had around 400 tins of food bought by a donor which we wrapped with a flyer about the foodbank. We ran a ‘tin can ally’ game and the prize was a tin of food, and a conversation with the winner about what they might do with it. Almost all the food won was donated back and the flyers taken home.”
More information about Loveworks Foodbank: bit.ly/3WCKFYL
In a post on ‘X’ (formerly Twitter) The Rt Revd Alastair Cutting, Bishop of Woolwich said, “Dax Sobowale received the @BishopSouthwark’s #LancelotAndrewesMedal at St Mary, Woolwich today for ‘Godly service and zeal for the Gospel’ as he becomes their Warden emeritus; pictured with Rev Jesse, 28yrs incumbent, and other warden David. @SouthwarkCofE”.
The Season of Creation runs from 1 September to 4 October and is dedicated to God as the Creator and Sustainer of all life. During this time many churches hold special services and events to give thanks for God’s gift of creation, and to renew their commitment to caring for our planet. George Clarke writes…
As a Church and as Christians we are called to safeguard God’s creation, and although there is much further to go, collectively we are already making an impact. This year’s theme is to ‘hope and act with creation’, so we’re sharing and celebrating some of the steps that our parishes are taking to be more sustainable, reduce their carbon footprint, improve biodiversity and make a positive environmental impact.
We hope these stories will inspire you to think about what you can do in your own spaces.
Christ Church has an annual Creationtide Display of pictures, artwork and objects contributed by the congregation. This always includes an installation for the congregation to add their prayers. Last year the display focused on Carbon Footprints and this was reflected during the annual Creationtide Service.
The church has also established a prayer link with the team at A Rocha Kenya who pray for their environmental projects just
as the congregation regularly prays for their conservation work and team.
The church garden has been improved with wildflower beds, bee and butterfly-friendly planting, boxes for birds and the youth group made insect hotels and fat balls to feed birds. Groups for children during the main Sunday service grew sunflowers and have sessions on caring for creatures in the gardens, including bug hunts.
During the renovation of the church hall the team improved insulation and switched to primarily electric heaters and a renewable electricity supply – which has reduced their carbon footprint.
Care for creation is part of everyday life at St Peter and St Paul’s – from holding regular services outside in nature, to improving biodiversity with bug hotels and laying a new, volunteer-led wildlifefriendly hedge between the churchyard and neighbouring farmland. The children from ‘Mossy Church’ created a cairn to mark lost species, and this year the Eco Churches from the Caterham Group organised their first ever Big Green Event with a Big Green Day.
The Shine Pocket Park at St Peter’s sits behind the Two Brewers pub in Clapham. The space between the church and the pub was formerly a dangerous dumping ground but thanks to charities Safe Clapham and Father Nature, the area has been transformed and the new Pocket Park is a safe community and environmentally-friendly space that acts as a welcome to what is otherwise a hidden church.
St Luke’s churchyard is a tranquil, welcoming community space. In 2022 the church set up The Root and Branch Club to increase biodiversity and manage this much-loved local space. The club meets monthly in spring and summer, looking after graves, cutting back invasive foliage and removing litter and plastic. Church members provide delicious refreshments.
The Revd Sara Goatcher said, “We received a grant of £2,000 from the Village Council towards a wild flower meadow, which is now well established, and Surrey County Council has agreed to provide us with six native and wildlife friendly trees: two wild cherry, two field maple and two rowan. They will provide food and nesting opportunities for birds, and be a haven for butterflies and other insects.
“Our churchyard is still open for burials and interments, and those who come to lay their loved ones to rest find the carefully cared-for grounds combined
with its managed wildness to be a truly sacred space in which to spend time in quiet reflection.”
Established in 2000 as a community garden in an area of disused church land, the garden is now a green, tranquil, innercity space for people and a biodiverse habitat for wildlife. Featured on the BBC’s Gardener’s World, this unique green space is a fantastic example of the huge positive impact that repurposing a formerly unloved area can have both on people and nature. The gardens are irrigated with the rainwater from the roof of St Paul’s, which overspills into a wildlife pond.
Find out more about Eden at: bit.ly/3M6viD2
Even in a small space, the team at St George’s has planted an amazing, wildlife-friendly garden. The incredible flowers at the end came from a single packet of wild flower seeds being thrown onto the soil – and what came up this summer has delighted both the church and the bees. The gardeners (pictured) are (l–r) Lorna Alvaranga (churchwarden), Netia Burrell (who lives on the estate) and Simon Peter Ekayangulhu (a church worker).
Members of the Men’s Shed at St Francis Selsdon built these three raised vegetable beds (pictured below), which are planted and looked after by volunteers at the church food pantry. The aim is to grow food for their community lunch, the food pantry and to encourage people to grow their own veg at home. The raised beds are watered using recaptured rainwater
from the church hall – the Light House. St Francis was recently featured in a diocesan Parish Support Fund film which you can watch at: youtu.be/ZfctKuPmslE
The team at St Luke’s in Charlton have been managing their churchyard sustainably to support wildlife. They don’t use any pesticides and leave parts of the churchyard wild with longer grass and ground cover plants like ivy. They have also made a bug house and a wildflower area for bees and butterflies, and switched from using annual flowers to tougher, climate-resistant planting that comes back each year. The church make their own compost, harvest rainwater using water butts and collect the leaves in autumn to use as a mulch.
We’d love to know more about what you’re doing in your parish to make a climate impact. Please email communications@southwark. anglican.org and share how your church is caring for God’s creation.
In October 2022, St Alban the Martyr, in the South Norwood and Thornton Heath area of Croydon, responded to the verse ‘For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me’ (Matthew 25.35) by launching its own foodbank. Mark Polglase at St Alban the Martyr, South Norwood writes:
The church benefits from being very conveniently and prominently located at a main junction of Thornton Heath High Street and between the two communities of Thornton Heath and South Norwood. Members of the congregation are also well connected to their parish and have a good understanding of local needs.
We recognise that many people in our community are struggling with the cost of living. Statistically, the parish of St Alban the Martyr is in the top 10 per cent of the most deprived in the Church of England. We also know that there are both a large number of people moving in and out of the parish who do not have the support of family and friends, and people with feelings of loneliness and isolation who may experience a lack of support during times of need.
We are open every Wednesday from 11am –12.45pm. The primary aim of our foodbank is to provide an emergency meal to anyone who requires it. Guests receive a food bag containing rice or pasta, a ready-made sauce or tinned tomatoes, a source of protein (fish, meat or pulses), tinned vegetables and an additional product such as soup, baked beans, spaghetti hoops or a tinned dessert. We provide additional items for families such as cereals, milk and biscuits. For those who have small children, we provide nappies, wipes and baby food – if we can. We also receive some donations of adults’ and children’s clothes which we make available to guests.
Since the foodbank opened (and up to the end of June 2024), we have given out nearly 4,000 bags of food. As around
50 per cent of these bags go to families – we estimate that we have provided more than 8,000 adults and children with a meal they otherwise may not have had. We have provided an average of 43 bags of food per week and, sadly, this figure has risen since we opened, and continues to rise.
The foodbank is an expression of God’s love for us all and it encourages us to be open and unashamed about our Christian faith and we welcome guests who come to think about Christ. The foodbank operates out of a large vestry – which we have cleared and rearranged for this provision, and there are Christian pictures and symbols on display for guests as they come in to receive their food.
We operate independently from other food organisations – we depend on donations from our congregation, are supported generously by other churches in the deanery and receive occasional gifts, as well as anonymous clothing donations. At the end of June this year, £4,300 was donated by parishioners and others outside our church community. We have also held church events to fundraise for the foodbank, including our fantastic music fest where we showcase local talent.
One of the wonderful results of operating our foodbank is how it unlocks and enables other people’s generosity from within the church and beyond. We have the most amazing group of foodbank volunteers – including several from the Mothers’ Union – whose commitment means that we have been open every week since we started.
The foodbank been a wonderful and humbling opportunity to serve members of our community from different faiths and backgrounds. It is such a rewarding way for us at St Alban the Martyr to meet part of our mission, taken from the Five Marks of Mission, ‘to feed, grow, and worship: to feed the hungry, physically and spiritually, and bring Christ’s love and mercy to all’.
For more information and details on how to support visit: bit.ly/4ddgcau
Give To Go Green is a matchfunding project from the Church of England’s Net Zero Programme – working with churches to double local donations to help pay for carbon reducing projects.
Southwark is one of seven dioceses that has been selected to take part in the programme and 12 churches that put forward projects for funding have had their applications approved.
The diocese has been awarded around £80,000 – the largest amount allocated to any diocese taking part in the national programme.
Projects include installing roof insulation, switching to LED lighting and implementing heating management systems to improve energy efficiency, reduce day-to-day running costs and support our collective journey towards Net Zero.
Pope Francis, head of the Roman Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State, has shared his most recent pastoral letter; Laudate Deum. The encyclical written to Catholic Bishops focuses on the global climate crisis, international politics and creation as a whole in the light of faith and journeying in communion and commitment.
Commending the letter, The Rt Revd Dr Martin Gainsborough, Bishop of Kingston writes:
In May, I returned to my favourite spot in North-West Scotland where I also spent time on retreat prior to my consecration as Bishop of Kingston. Simply the journey there feels like a pilgrimage. Close to the mountainside, the bird life and the sea, I look into the long distance and gain a new perspective.
On 10 July Bishop Christopher met with The Rt Revd Sarah Mullally, Bishop of London, and The Rt Revd Rose HudsonWilkin, Bishop of Dover, to celebrate the launch of the recently established walking and pilgrimage route – the Via Francigena Britannica.
The Francigena Britannica is a 146 km northern extension of the well-established, Council of Europe approved, Via Francigena, which already extends 2,000 km from Canterbury to the Vatican City. Within the UK, the Via Francigena will now cover 177 km
crossing London, Dartford, Canterbury and Dover.
The bishops joined the charity Pilgrims to Rome at the Scoop outdoor amphitheatre on the Southbank – which itself now forms part of the new extended route.
My thoughts returned to this ‘happy place’ as I reflected on Pope Francis’ most recent pastoral letter on the climate crisis, Laudate Deum. It is nine years since Pope Francis wrote his famous Laudato Si and he has written again because, in his words, “I have realised that our responses have not been adequate, while the world in which we live is collapsing and may be nearing breaking point”.
“Unless citizens control political power… it will not be possible to control damage to the environment.”
Some of the most interesting ideas in Laudate Deum concern the Pope’s call for a new kind of politics in the face of the deep failure of existing institutions. “It is no longer helpful,” Pope Francis writes “for us to support institutions in order to preserve the rights of the more powerful without caring for those of all.” The Pope is also clear about the importance of bottom-up pressures to bring about the
“It’s a great joy to mark the extension of the Francigena Britannica to London and I hope that many will take up the opportunity to slow down and invite God into their journey.”
The Francigena Britannica was developed on behalf of Pilgrims to Rome, by its current President, G Carlo Laurenzi OBE with help from fellow trustees and other volunteers.
Bishop Christopher said, “In today’s busy and demanding times, pilgrimage – the act of slowing down, concentrating on the journey, rather than rushing to the destination – is more important than ever. It’s a great joy to mark the extension of the Francigena Britannica to London and I hope that many will take up the opportunity to slow down and invite God into their journey.”
For information about Francigena Britannica visit: bit.ly/3WifxNS
changes we need. Activist groups are only “filling a space left empty by society as a whole”, he writes, concluding: “Unless citizens control political power… it will not be possible to control damage to the environment.”
As I read Laudate Deum, I was deeply conscious of the need to continue changing my own lifestyle but I am also encouraged by the steps we are taking in the Diocese of Southwark. It was a delight to see so many familiar faces on the recent Restore Nature Now march. More and more churches are discovering A Rocha’s Eco Church and we are stepping up our efforts to lower our carbon emissions having recently made an inspired appointment to help us with this work.
I hope, in time, that more people will join this movement for change – not as a burden or something that takes the joy out of life but the very opposite: a quest that will allow us to rediscover a deeper, more fulfilling, more fully human way to live.
Praise God for all his creatures!
Read Laudate Deum at: bit.ly/3y6UBkV
On Thursday 25 July, 75 retired clergy and their spouses attended a reception in the beautiful gardens of Lambeth Palace at the invitation of Bishop Christopher.
Joined by area Bishops and Archdeacons were Retirement Officers The Revd Canon Sue Clarke (Diocesan and Kingston Area), The Revd Derek Chandler (Croydon Area) and The Revd Canon Kim Hitch (Woolwich Area) . The reception was an opportunity for chatting, renewing old friendships and making new ones.
Although the event was for all retired clergy, this includes clergy over the age of 70 years old, who continue in ministry with the Bishop’s Permission to Officiate (PTO), as well as those clergy who have fully retired from ministry. A recent survey of retired clergy confirmed that 44% of responders continued to participate in ministry on a weekly basis – both in their local parish but also helping out with vacancies and times of incumbent absence, due to illness, in their deaneries.
Bishop Christopher thanked all the retired clergy for their valued help and ministry and the afternoon concluded with a gentle walk around the gardens – a historic oasis in the heart of London.
Fiona Foreman, College and University Chaplaincy Development Officer and Rachael Norman, Secondary Schools and Governance Adviser write:
“Many people aren’t sure what I do, but they like that I’m here”. So said an education chaplain recently in our diocese. In a world where ‘doing’ can often be more highly prized than ‘being’, chaplaincy challenges the norm and resonates with all. It is incarnational, the very presence of Christ in places and amongst people who may never visit or interact with church. Through it, spiritual and pastoral care is offered to those of all faiths or none, promoting well-being and a sense of community within institutions such as schools, hospitals, prisons, or military units.
Chaplaincy is a very old ministry, said to have started with Martin of Tours, who lived from 316 to 397 AD. Martin once tore his army cloak, called a ‘capella’, in half to share with a beggar, which led to him being known as the first chaplain. After he became a priest, Martin was assigned to work away from the main church, especially in places where people needed extra help. The places where this special work was done were called ‘chapels’. And so, this ministry has continued.
“Across Southwark Diocese there are over 50 ordained chaplains and many more lay chaplains, serving varied and mixed communities.”
In 2021, there were approximately 1,000 Anglican chaplains in the UK, with over 300 serving in healthcare, 200 in the military, and others in education and prisons. Across Southwark Diocese there are over 50 ordained chaplains and many more lay chaplains, serving varied and mixed communities. Nationally, there are chaplains in shopping centres, Magistrates’ Courts, Fire and Rescue Services and even a nuclear power station. Chaplains address ethical issues, provide counselling, and help individuals navigate life’s challenges, upholding principles of faith, worship, and service. This explicit spiritual presence is in increasing demand. This is nowhere more real than in our schools, colleges and universities where chaplains – of which there over 25 who are either Anglican or connected to the church foundation – are highly valued members of staff teams. This value is increasingly recognised within the Church of England. In July it was announced that Bishop Ruth Worsley, the current acting Bishop of Coventry, will be the Church of England’s lead for chaplaincy.
In June, our annual Education Chaplains summer gathering was hosted by The Revd Dr Daniel Eshun, Chaplain to Whitelands College, and was sponsored by The Guild.
The event was entitled, ‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever; Learning from the past to sharpen the present and re-envision the future’. Chaplains from schools, universities and colleges enjoyed refreshments and a presentation from the former Church of England Adviser for Higher Education, Professor Stephen Heap and the outgoing chaplain to St Saviour’s and St Olave’s School, The Revd Imogen Vibert. Stephen shared a theological approach to chaplaincy in light of the person of Jesus. Imogen shared her personal story and journey to chaplaincy. The sun shone and conversations were shared across the education phases and institutions.
“A living exemplar of Christian faith in the everyday life of their schools.”
This year we have said farewell to chaplains who have served four of our secondary schools, The Revd Nikky Teverson (Bacon’s College, Southwark), Clare Banner (Christ’s School, Richmond), The Revd Imogen Vibert (St Saviour’s and St Olave’s School, Southwark) and The Revd Jonathan Roberts (Ark All Saints Academy). Whilst in our universities, we said goodbye to The Revd Ann Clarke who served the staff and students at Goldsmiths, University of London. Each of them has been a living exemplar of Christian faith in the everyday life of their schools, embodying the ethos and valuing each member of the community as a child of God. Their roles have encompassed missional, spiritual, prophetic, liturgical, pastoral and pedagogic areas of ministry and they have touched and transformed the lives of thousands of adults and children in Southwark Diocese.
We have also welcomed two new secondary school chaplains to our diocese. In February, St Mark’s Secondary Academy in Mitcham welcomed Andy Gray (pictured) as its new Chaplain. Bishop Martin commissioned Andy and shared Pope Francis’ words for Lent, “Fast from hurting words and say kind words, fast from pessimism and be filled with hope, fast from bitterness and fill your heart with joy.”
In May, a service was held at St John the Divine, Kennington to license Father Alan Paterson as the new Chaplain at Saint Gabriel’s College. Bishop Christopher licensed the new chaplain during the service, after which prefects and guests processed back to the school behind the school band as they played “We are marching in the light of God.” Bishop Christopher then blessed a tree that was planted in Father Alan’s honour to welcome him to the community.
Chaplaincy continues to grow in Southwark Diocese, seeking to build connection between the church and the world. We are looking forward to seeing what the next academic year brings.
To learn more about the work of our education chaplaincy visit: bit.ly/4fJDh6y
In our series unpacking the priorities of the Southwark Vision, Natalie Walters writes...
As we continue to explore Southwark Vision and our priorities of the future, we look at ways in which we might enable God’s church to grow through healing. Our communities and world need healing. We all see the fractures in society –including poverty, homelessness, racial injustice and youth violence. It is easy to feel like nothing can be done with so much hurt going on in the world. But as churches and individuals within this diocese, we can stand in the example of Jesus, who modelled a ministry of healing and reconciliation, in which we can all participate.
The prophet Isaiah reminds us of our mandate in words adopted by Jesus himself: The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, for the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the broken-hearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the Lord’s favour has come,
Learning with Christ
and with it, the day of God’s anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the Lord has planted for his own glory. They will rebuild the ancient ruins, repairing cities destroyed long ago. They will revive them, though they have been deserted for many generations.
(Isaiah 61: 1–4).
God’s healing can be seen in various ways. For example, it can be seen in how people who are socially isolated are seen and known at church breakfasts or lunch clubs – or in people being set free from the grip of debt through Christians Against Poverty (CAP) Debt Centre or Money Course. We see healing in the wider work of our Justice Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Team and our Racial Justice Committee. Through the journey of stewardship of this earth. Through vicars standing with those who have lost loved ones through violence – or supporting the marginalised, who may then become some of the rebuilders of their own community. God’s healing ministry transforms people, communities and places.
The Venerable John Kiddle Archdeacon of Wandsworth
depth of compassion for those trapped in pain. (Mark 7.24–37)
This is the gospel; this is the good news. For the areas in need of healing we do not lose hope. We believe, that because of Jesus, things can change and we are empowered to do that.
Like any deep healing it may take time. It will take understanding and care. But we keep going.
Proverbs 31:8–9: Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.
The JPIC Team is available to support parishes in their work in healing and reconciliation. Find out more at: bit.ly/southwarkjpic
Natalie Walters is Head of Justice, Peace and the Integrity of Creation.
Details of Southwark Vision and the core document can be downloaded at: southwark.anglican. org/southwark-vision
Doing a bit of preparation for when I come back from leave, I have been reflecting on the gospel readings for the Sunday mornings in September. The readings come from the middle chapters of Mark’s Gospel and invite us to learn lessons for life and faith as we walk with Jesus.
Jesus calls us to live lives of integrity, where words are matched by actions and faith is expressed in deeds of love and service. (Mark 7.1–8, 14, 15, 21–23)
Jesus shows us what it is to listen to the pleas of those around us and to feel the
Jesus invites us to follow him and to walk with him in faithful and joyful service, discovering as we do so, that in losing our lives so we truly find them. (Mark 8.27–38)
Jesus teaches us the nature of true greatness, by taking a child in his arms and standing among us. He invites us to open our hearts to that child and in so doing to welcome him. (Mark 9.30–37)
Why not use those gospel readings through September to reflect on what it means for you to walk with Jesus Christ?
What is he teaching you? What is he inviting you to see and discover? Is there a challenge? Is there a gift?
* Where does your faith find expression in action as well as words?
* When do your ears open to hear the cries of those in need, and your heart open to their pain?
* How might you let go of something in order to discover life more fully?
* In whom do you see true greatness?
* In welcoming whom, do you find you are welcoming Christ?
You call us to walk with your son, Jesus
As we do so we learn from him and see more clearly the path of life.
Grant us, in your grace and strength a faith marked by integrity and love a heart shaped in compassion a life lived freely and lightly and in all things, the humility to serve.
So may Christ be our way May Christ be our truth May Christ be our life. Amen.
Please send details of your next events for OCTOBER ONWARDS to Trinity House BY WEDNESDAY 11 SEPTEMBER
SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER
SURREY – Surrey Churches Preservation Trust ‘Ride & Stride’. Enjoy a scenic bike ride or walk through Surrey’s beautiful countryside, visiting historic churches along the way. Host an event to contribute to the cause. Choose any date up to the end of September. Information, routes & maps at: bit.ly/4cBlGLC
SATURDAY 14 SEPTEMBER
CLAPHAM – Diddy Disciples Training Day. Meet the author, discuss the principles, walk through a session, and explore ways of adapting Diddy Disciples to your context. 2–4.30pm at St Paul’s Church, Rectory Grove, Clapham, SW4 0DZ. £22.38. Details/book at: bit.ly/DDClapham
♫ Concerts at St John the Evangelist, Upper Norwood
COFFEE CONCERTS: 11.30am –12.30pm (coffee & cake 11am)
Saturday 7 September: Triptych Singers
Saturday 5 October: Riverside Winds
Saturday 2 November: Matthias Wiesner and Peter Mallinson – violas
Saturday 7 December: Eleanor Meynell – soprano – song recital Venue: St John the Evangelist, Sylvan Road, Upper Norwood, SE19 2RX Admission FREE, retiring collection. Details at: sjun.org.uk
SUNDAY 15 SEPTEMBER
DULWICH – Summer Fayre. Stalls, attractions, music, food and refreshments. 11:30am at St Clement with St Peter, Dulwich (entrance Barry Road opposite Silvester Road and at 140 Friern Road).
SATURDAY 21 SEPTEMBER
UPPER NORWOOD – Open House at All Saints with St Margaret’s Upper Norwood SE19, 10.30am–4.30pm. Explore our amazing history – Charles Darwin, Admiral Fitzroy and more –guided talks with a local historian, or feel free to explore. Refreshments. Children’s activities. Free.
SUNDAY 22 SEPTEMBER
WIMBLEDON – Talk: Harry BiggsDavison, Chair of Papyrus, the suicide prevention charity, will give a talk on the work of his organisation. 10am at Holy Trinity, The Broadway, Wimbledon SW19. Details: bit.ly/4cd3wiR
SATURDAY 5 OCTOBER
♫ KINGSTON – ‘Come and Sing’: Messiah: G F Handel. We are offering you the chance to sing this masterpiece in the beautiful surroundings of All Saints Church, Kingston, The Market Place KT1 1JP. Conducted by David Condry, Director of Music at All Saints. Registration 2pm, rehearsal 2.30–5.30pm, performance 7pm. Info: allsaintskingston.co.uk , tickets £20, £5 loan of score, from: bit.ly/3WHTvFv
Southwark Cathedral
Saturday 5 October, 10.30am
Join us for a day of fellowship, learning and celebration, exploring this year’s theme ‘music at the heart of change’. Free.
Find out more: southwark.anglican.org/bhm
SATURDAY 19 OCTOBER
REIGATE – Southwark Against Modern Slavery event: What’s the price of modern slavery? 10am–3pm at Reigate Methodist Church, 53 High Street, Reigate RH2 9AE. Free.
9 NOVEMBER
SAVE THE DATE – Diocese of Southwark Children and young people conference. Growing younger together, how small changes create big impact. Venue TBC. Details to follow soon.
16 NOVEMBER
♫ CROYDON – St Mildred’s Church, Croydon, presents the inaugural concert featuring the worldrenowned organist of Notre-Dame, Olivier Latry. 7.30–9.30pm at St Mildred’s Church, 30 Bingham Road, CR0 7EB. Tickets: £7.5–£50 from: bit.ly/4bumvoH
This newspaper is printed with premier paper and the diocese is part of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) and a Carbon Capture customer. This means that we are part of the Woodland Trust’s Woodland Carbon scheme, a scheme that aims to mitigate the CO2 emissions generated by the production, storage and distribution of the paper purchased. For every pack of the paper sold, 5p of the wholesale price goes directly to the Trust. Of this, 2p goes towards Woodland Carbon and 3p to their other work, such as the protection and restoration of ancient woodland.
Email your upcoming events to bridge@southwark.anglican.org
We are excited that our diocese is part of the two-year pilot of the new national programme FLOURISH – a network which will establish partnerships between schools and their local churches.
There will be 40 intergenerational, entirely optional and extra-curricular, worshipping communities across all dioceses aiming to engage a large number of children, young people and families while enabling and equipping young people to develop as leaders and to shape the spiritual life of their communities.
Three of these worshipping communities will be within our diocese and will have the following
five core principles at the heart of the worshipping communities:
1. Young people’s voices are instinctively at the centre of all leadership decisionmaking and implementation.
2. There is a clearly articulated and shared purpose to grow a younger and more diverse community of Christian disciples.
3. Strategic leadership partnership between school and church.
4. Intergenerational faith development experiences involving children and their families of all ages.
5. Worship that is fully integrated into the regular rhythms, practices, structures and resources of the school’s vision for flourishing of children and adults.
For more information about the FLOURISH network and how the Church of England will establish partnerships between schools or Further Education colleges and their local churches, visit: bit.ly/3WOFrJx
The Southwark Diocesan Board of Education (SDBE) wellbeing conference took place on 12 June at Whitelands College, Roehampton University.
This was the first wellbeing conference held by SDBE, and the day was an opportunity for headteachers and deputy headteachers from Southwark diocesan schools to focus on their wellbeing. Colleagues were invited to receive, reconnect and refresh through speakers, workshops and guided sessions.
The conference opened with a welcome from The Revd Dr Daniel Eshun, College Chaplain. This was followed by a keynote presentation from Professor Cecilia Essau, an expert in Developmental Psychopathology at the University of Roehampton who has created “Super Skills for Life”, a research-based resource
to increase resilience in children and young people.
The keynote was followed by a panel discussion reflecting on resilience principles. There were representatives from The Association of College and School Leaders and the National Association of Head Teachers also shared their observations. Workshops included managing a heavy workload and ‘Space Makers’, a contemplative toolkit designed for schools.
One delegate commenting on one of the workshops said it was, “a beneficial reminder to stand by the principles that we hold dear and know we are right for the benefit of the children we serve”.
The day concluded with a eucharist in the college chapel and a reception overlooking the grounds at Richmond Park.
If you are a senior member of school staff in a diocesan school, the next conference will take place on Friday 13 June. Look out for more information.
Bubble Church is bringing life and love to 46 churches and communities across the UK, from all sorts of backgrounds and traditions. It’s a Sunday church service especially for little ones and their families to worship together, and is a puppet-packed, Jesus-centred, coffeeand-croissant-fuelled, 30-minute kids and families adventure!
Find out how you can join Bubble Church at your church and sign up for an online ZOOM to learn more: bubblechurch.org/zoom
At the end of the summer term, Year 6 pupils from our diocesan primary schools joined together to give thanks during leavers’ services at Southwark Cathedral.
The theme for this year’s services was: ‘valuing the gifts of every person.’ There were eight services for schools within the diocese. Each was a chance to pray for our school communities ahead of the new academic year – valuing the Godgiven gifts of every person.
Schools were invited to contribute by offering a piece of sacred or spiritual music, words, drama or liturgical dance around the theme - interpreting it in ways that inspire them at this time of transition in their lives.
The cost of uniforms, school trips and laptops for homework can start to add up.
clergy families can apply for a grant of up to £500 for school-related expenses.
A prayer for going back to or starting school
Loving God, as we enter the autumn term, we ask that you bless all children starting at a new school or nursery and for those entering a new year group or joining a new class.
We pray for every child and their household and for all teachers and support staff.
Help them to know that you are there for them during this special time of transition.
May they learn new and exciting things each day and look towards the future with hope.
Amen.
