CROSSLINCS News from around the Diocese of Lincoln www.lincoln.anglican.org
Dioceselincoln
@cofelincoln
May / June 2016
‘Thy Kingdom Come’ – longing for a great ‘wave of prayer’ across the land at Pentecost
The Archbishops of Canterbury and York have issued an invitation to churches to pray for ‘the evangelism of the nation’ during the week leading up to Pentecost Sunday (8–15th May 2016). ‘Thy Kingdom Come’ will be a week of prayer that will culminate in ‘Beacon events’ around the country over Pentecost weekend, ‘where people will pray for the renewal of the Holy Spirit and the confidence to share their faith’. For more information, including a blog and a letter issued by the Archbishops, please see thykingdom.co.uk and also page 2 of this issue.
FEATURE
DEVELOPING DISCIPLESHIP
Remembering in the gift of the present...
The story so far...
Friesthorpe remembers the Beechey family in stained glass PAGE 3
Fotherby & North Somercotes and St John’s & St Stephen’s, New Clee PAGES 22–23
2 CROSSLINCS
Crosslincs is produced by the Diocese of Lincoln
The submission deadline for the next issue is 21st May 2016.
Welcome...
Welcome to the May/June issue of Crosslincs. In this issue we look back at some recent events, activities and developments around the diocese, and we also look forward to major events on a national (‘Thy Kingdom Come’) and a more local (West Lindsey Churches Festival) level. Please keep your ideas, stories and notices of events coming, and I hope that you enjoy this issue. The Revd Adrian Smith
Editor E: crosslincs@lincoln.anglican.org
‘Thy Kingdom Come’ (continued from page 1)
Communications Officer The Revd Adrian Smith T: 01522 50 40 37 M: 07885 99 99 06 E: adrian.smith@lincoln.anglican.org
It is said that as part of ‘Thy Kingdom Come’, a time of prayer during the week leading up to Pentecost Sunday (8–15th May), the Archbishops of Canterbury and York hope that all Christians will deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ; all will have confidence to share the Gospel; and all will respond to the call of Jesus Christ to follow Him as disciples, to live out the Gospel and to seek God’s Kingdom from day-to-day.
Diocesan Offices Edward King House, Minster Yard, Lincoln LN2 1PU T: 01522 50 40 50 E: enquiries@lincoln.anglican.org www.lincoln.anglican.org www.facebook.com/Dioceselincoln www.twitter/CofELincoln www.flickr.com/Dioceseoflincoln The Bishop of Lincoln The Right Reverend Christopher Lowson T: 01522 50 40 90 E: bishop.lincoln@lincoln.anglican.org The Bishop of Grimsby The Right Reverend Dr David Court T: 01522 50 40 90 E: bishop.grimsby@lincoln.anglican.org The Bishop of Grantham The Right Reverend Dr Nicholas Chamberlain T: 01522 50 40 90 E: bishop.grantham@lincoln.anglican.org Diocesan Secretary Angela Sibson OBE T: 01522 50 40 32 E: angela.sibson@lincoln.anglican.org
There are many different ways that people may participate, praying with other churches across the nation. For example, you may wish to: include special prayers in Sunday worship; take part in a prayer walk in your community; organise a prayer meeting; or create prayer spaces in your church. For helpful ideas and resources, please see www.thykingdom.co.uk Speaking ahead of this time of prayer, Bishop Christopher said “I share the archbishops’ passion to see the life of our nation and our church transformed by the love of God. Prayer is at the heart of Christian life and together, as God’s people in this diocese, we have the capacity to make a real difference through our prayer and our service. It is essential that we pray together, and my own prayer is that every church in the diocese will find a way to participate in this initiative in whatever way is appropriate. This is a great opportunity for us to join together, pray for one another, and support each other in our calling to share the good news of Jesus Christ.” During the week the chapel at Edward King House in Lincoln will be available for individual prayer outside of designated ‘formal’ times of prayer. More details will follow on the diocesan website and via the e-bulletin.
PA to the Diocesan Secretary Kay Clayton T: 01522 50 40 32 E: kay.clayton@lincoln.anglican.org The Archdeacon of Stow and Lindsey The Venerable Mark Steadman T: 01522 50 40 39 E: archdeacon.stow@lincoln.anglican.org The Archdeacon of Boston The Venerable Dr Justine Allain Chapman T: 01522 50 40 39 E: archdeacon.boston@lincoln.anglican.org The Archdeacon of Lincoln The Venerable Gavin Kirk T: 01522 50 40 39 E: archdeacon.lincoln@lincoln.anglican.org W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
Photo: Chris Vaughan
The Ven. Gavin Kirk was installed as Archdeacon of Lincoln in the Cathedral on Easter Day. We look forward to welcoming our new Archdeacon at St Mary’s Church in Horncastle on Sunday, 5th June 2016 at 6pm. Please continue to pray for Gavin in this new phase of his ministry.
CROSSLINCS 3
Remembering in the gift of the present Friesthorpe remembers local family with poignant memorial At the beginning of March the Archdeacon of Stow and Lindsey, The Ven. Mark Steadman, visited St Peter’s Church in the tiny hamlet of Friesthorpe to dedicate a new stained-glass window with a very special story. Heather Moore, PCC treasurer, reflects on a memorable and moving occasion and this new permanent memorial. The window was commissioned by the descendants of the Beechey family so as to create an imaginative, poignant and permanent memorial to the greatest sacrifice made by this family during the First World War. The Revd Beechey lived in the Rectory in Friesthorpe from 1890 to 1912, when he died, and so, perhaps mercifully, he never knew what happened to his sons. As a result, this tiny parish, of around 20 people, has a close association with The Revd Beechey’s eight sons who went to war, only three of whom returned – one of only two families in the UK to have been so devastated. Their mother, Amy Beechey, who had to leave the hamlet and live with her daughters in Lincoln (in Avondale Street) received telegram after telegram, notifying her of the deaths of five of her sons. Such tragedy provided the theme for the poem ‘In Avondale’ written by Simon Armitage, and this was read with great emotion and poignancy in the dedication service by Josephine Warren, daughter of Edith Beechey, the youngest of the Revd Beechey’s six daughters.
“I did not give them willingly” Several members of the Beechey family were able to join the Friesthorpe villagers for this special service. Also present were the producer and the writers of the promenade play, Leaving Home, which was enacted over Lincolnshire, culminating in Friesthorpe, on the exact day that war was declared, 100 years previously. Representatives from BBC Radio Lincolnshire were in attendance, together with Andrew Seddon, who created the window, and Michael Walsh – Michael originally brought the story together, when he collected letters written home to Avondale Street by the Beechey Brothers, and he consequently wrote Brothers in War to reflect this story. Friesthorpe PCC had been fortunate in gaining a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which enabled them to replace part of the oak frame for the bells, which had not been
rung out for those 100 years, but which greeted the actors in the play, and also heralded the start and end of our service of dedication. An opening prayer, hymn and reading were followed by Philip Mucklow, the son of Edith Beechey, giving his account of the events leading to the commissioning and the installation of the window, with his sister, Josephine, then reading ‘In Avondale’. In his address, the Archdeacon referred to the words of Amy Beechey depicted in the window – “I did not give them willingly” – spoken to Queen Mary, capturing the raw emotion that underpinned her sacrifice, he referred to chapter 15 of John’s gospel and concluded by saying that we are to work for a kingdom of God where violence is past and grief is no more. A task for us all. The window was then dedicated by the Archdeacon; a time of prayer was followed by a hymn; Anthony Goodwin, Chairman of Lincolnshire County Royal British Legion, said The Commemoration; The Last Post was sounded, and then a final prayer was read from words found scratched on the walls of a cell in Cologne. The service concluded with a blessing and many people remained; to take photographs to reflect and discuss, and to offer grateful thanks for a moving and memorable afternoon in Friesthorpe. DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
4 CROSSLINCS
Our church family The Bishop of Lincoln was pleased to be invited to open the new school hall at Kirby on Bain Church of England Primary School. The opening was a day of great celebration, as two of the pupils at the school, Octavia and Amber, report...
Our Hall Opening Day! On the 1st of February we had the grand opening of our new and amazing school hall. We had never had the opportunity to have a different place for our collective worships ever before. We always used to have it in our biggest classroom, Oak. It had taken a lot of time and hard work to make one of our school’s biggest dreams become a reality and having the Bishop of Lincoln there to celebrate and open it with us made it even more special. Libby from Chestnut became a bishop for the day and got to dress up in the bishop’s robes! It was even better with the parents and all the guests there to enjoy the celebration with us. We shall use our school hall for many things, such as: PE, collective worship, cake sales and gymnastic lessons, clubs and eating our lunch. Our hall opening ceremony was such a special day for everyone at Kirkby on Bain and all of our guests. Octavia and Amber
On Tuesday the 8th of March, as we remembered and gave thanks for Bishop Edward King around the diocese, the Bishop of Grantham visited Bishop King Church of England Primary School in Lincoln. As well as time spent listening to all that the children had prepared and singing and praying together, Bishop Nicholas complimented the children on the mitres they had prepared in readiness for this special day, and he spoke of the life of Bishop Edward King. After this time of celebration we then made our way outside, where we gathered around the school’s new Peace Garden as the Bishop offered a prayer of blessing. This was a special time together as we gave thanks for the ministry of Bishop Edward King. W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
CROSSLINCS 5
Focusing on education On Friday, 11th March the Annual Diocesan Conference for Head Teachers, Senior Leaders and Chairs of Governors was held at the Showroom in Lincoln. During the morning session the speakers were The Rt Revd Stephen Conway, The Bishop of Ely, who spoke on the Church of England’s Vision for Education, and The Rt Hon. the Lord David Blunkett, Former Secretary of State for Education and Employment, who offered a personal perspective of current education policy.
The Bishop of Ely and Lord Blunkett
Following afternoon workshops and table discussion, the delegates were led in a time of collective worship by the children of Coningsby St Michael’s Church of England Primary School.
Also in March was the most recent meeting looking at Social Issues in the Fens, which this time took the subject of education as its focus. Held in the Market House in Long Sutton, Fr Jonathan Sibley introduced a programme that featured speakers addressing the subjects of adolescent neglect, health and wellbeing and the effects of poverty on young people.
Delegates at the Social Issues in the Fens meeting. Photo: Angela Reeve
Jackie Waters-Dewhurst (Diocesan Director of Education; pictured left alongside Fr Jonathan Sibley) spoke on the impact of poverty in schools and she suggested that a route out of poverty for children is via education. The next meeting is to be held on Thursday, 6th October 2016 (10am–2pm, including lunch). The subject will be the use and importance of sacred space, with the main speaker being Geoffrey Court, Honorary Director of The Circle Works (Reflective Zone, The Royal Foundation of St Katherine, London). For more information please see fensociety.org DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
6 CROSSLINCS
Faithful, confident, joyful Services of Confirmation have been taking place around the diocese. The months of January, February and March saw joyful services held in Horncastle, Long Sutton and the Cathedral, with more to come during the rest of the year. Reflecting on the service held at St Mary’s Church in Horncastle, The Revd Charles Patrick, Rector of the Horncastle Group, said that “We had a wonderful service of Confirmation on Wednesday, 27th January 2016. In total there were 15 candidates from across the deanery, including five adults and ten young people, including my daughter, Claire. We were very blessed to have two bishops with us for the evening; the Bishop of Lincoln, who presided at the service, and also the then-newly consecrated Bishop of Grantham. We used ‘Moving Images, Changing Lives’, upon the recommendation of the diocese, as the basis for the Young People’s Group preparation, and the ‘Pilgrim Course: Turning to Christ’ with the adults. It was a very special evening and people were still ‘glowing’ with it several days afterwards.”
The Bishop of Lincoln with those confirmed at Horncastle.
Meanwhile, a service was held at St Mary’s Church, Long Sutton, on Sunday, 14th February. Fr Jonathan Sibley said that “It was a lovely occasion with seven adults confirmed, four baptised and one received from the Roman Catholic Church.” We send our prayers and congratulations to all. Dates for Services of Confirmation in 2016 are online at http://www.lincoln.anglican.org/news-events/news-stories/ services-of-confirmation-in-2016/
The Bishop of Grantham and Fr Jonathan Sibley with those confirmed at Long Sutton. Photo: Angela Reeve
The Church Hall in Ashby, Scunthorpe was the setting for a ‘Dinner for newly married couples’ staged by the Parish of Bottesford-with-Ashby in February. All the couples who were married in the parish during 2015 were invited, and 18 people (seven wedding couples, plus two host couples from the parish) sat down to enjoy a three-course meal, planned, prepared, cooked and delivered by a team of 10 parishoners. The theme was Italian, and the guests arrived to a room decorated with red, white and green bunting and candlelit tables. It was said to be gratifying that these couples chose to return to the parish where they were married to spend a relaxed evening together, arriving as strangers and leaving as friends. Although the parish had hoped that more couples would take up the invitation, the smaller number made for an intimate atmosphere and it was evident from the reaction that the evening was a great success, and was much appreciated by the guests. W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
Priest-in-charge, Timothy Astin, said “We want to build relationships with the people we meet through weddings, to celebrate with them their marriages, and to present the welcoming face of our parish and its activities. Also, we see value in introducing couples to each other, to encourage friendship among those embarking on the common journey of married life. We shall certainly consider repeating it next year.”
CROSSLINCS 7
Recent clergy appointments The Ven. Gavin Kirk is to be welcomed as Archdeacon of Lincoln at a service to be held at St Mary’s Church in Horncastle on Sunday, 5th June 2016 (6pm). The Revd Kevin Dyke, Curate in Gainsborough and Morton parish, is to be Team Rector of Bottesford with Ashby Team Ministry. Kevin was due to be licensed on 28th April 2016.
The Revd Bryan Dixon is to be the next incumbent of the Middle Rasen Group of Parishes. The Revd Dixon currently serves as Priest-in-charge of the Gateway Group of Parishes in the Diocese of West Yorkshire and the Dales, and a short biography for him has been published on the diocesean website. A date for the service of institution will be announced in due course.
The Revd Marian Toyne, currently non-stipendiary Assistant Curate in the benefice of Frodingham and New Brumby, has been appointed stipendiary Assistant Curate in the same benefice with effect from 1st September 2016.
We pray for each of these people as they take up these new appointments in the diocese. Please do hold them in your prayers, together with the people and the places that they will seek to serve.
PRIZE CROSSWORD No. 13 1
2
3
4
8
6
7
H S I C I N L M L I M E E C A R O H E A U D I R M I N I O R A D I I D P R E T E D
9
10
12
5
11
13
16
14
17
15
18
21
19
22
24
20
23
A G O G R
A S E C E E N T I D O E T D O E M U M P A O D O L E E N D E S O
Solution to No. 12: O C C V P U L C H R E E O R R N D A I R Y E H S R O O S T E R P A H P O W E R O E I E M A R I N E R E D W N B E L O W O O A E R L I S L E K T S K
Winner of Prize Crossword No. 12: Ms E. Hill of North Hykeham. Thank you to all who entered. To enter: completed entries should be sent to Crossword no. 13, Crosslincs, Edward King House, Minster Yard, Lincoln LN2 1PU. Closing date for No. 13: 21st May 2016.
25
26
– set by Kettlebird
27
The editor’s decision is final.
Across 1 6 8 9 10 11 12 15
Joint found everywhere? (9) Oberon’s aide flies about on rink (4) The feel good factor (8) Isnt as easy to define the blessed (6) How to judge in moderation (6) Pasta too mashed up perhaps (8) One of the 9A. Luke 10 v38 (6) aka corncrake (8)
16 Left hanging about for engagements (8) 19 See 9 A cross (6) 21 “He was...” Messiah alto aria (8) 22 Instruction book written in Braille? (6) 24 A groan from goats (6) 25 A duet tip. Don’t perform unless you have the flair (8) 26 Tied in wood? (4) 27 Athens building lost its marbles (9)
Down
1 Dangles in throat (5) 2 Will she be in it? (7) 3 Heavenly gates not quiet before time (5) 4 Hair taken by native American followed by the Spanish for knife (7) 5 Unit alas I sank in 1915 (9) 6 Artist on boat may have 26’s in (7) 7 Wheelie good one of 9As (9) 13 Clytemnestra’s murdered husband (9)
14 Flash light for Morse (5,4) 17 Turn pixel to take advantage (7) 18 Rufus locks said to show temper (3,4) 20 Blind charity of another of the 9As (7) 22 May be safety but incendiary (5) 23 Wayward princess. Another of the 6As. Monk of Iona and bishop of Lindisfarne (5)
8 CROSSLINCS
Churches Festival marks 20th anniversay This year will see the 20th anniversary of the West Lindsey Churches Festival, with a record number of 94 churches set to take part in 2016. Now one of the largest open churches festivals in Europe, this year’s event is to be held on 7–8th May (featuring churches to the east of the district) and 14–15th May (churches to the west of the district), with some of the churches taking part also offering facilities, activities and entertainment such as lunches, organ music, bell ringing, crafts, book sales, art displays and themed exhibitions. Guest speakers at this year’s Churches Festival conference, held at Hemswell Court in March, were the Archdeacon of Stow & Lindsey, The Venerable Mark Steadman, and the writer and broadcaster Dr Jonathan Foyle, who reflected on the development and history of Lincoln Cathedral and its architectural impact and legacy. A printed festival guide can be found in West Lindsey libraries and participating churches, and further details are now available at www.churchesfestival.info
Art Exhibition 14–15th May 2016
During the West Lindsey Churches Festival weekend of 14–15th May 2016 there will be a unique and original exhibition of Paintings and Pen & Ink Drawings by local artists, Carol and Chris Bason. The exhibition will be held across the Churches of St Hugh, Langworth and St Edward the Confessor, Sudbrooke. Visitors are invited to go along, to browse, to buy or to just enjoy the settings of these beautiful churches. Sudbrooke (LN2 2QH): open Saturday 10am–4pm and Sunday 12 noon–4pm. Langworth (LN3 5BD): open Saturday 10am–4pm and Sunday 11am–4pm.
It has been good to hear of so many events taking place around the diocese this year. In addition to the Crosslincs Calendar page and the events section of the diocesan website, here are details of some flower festivals and other community events coming soon... Friday, 29th April–Monday, 2nd May 2016 (11am–4pm daily): Flower Festival (Footlight Fantasies) at St Peter’s Church, Holton-Le-Clay. Refreshments and stalls. For more details please call 01472 590896 or e-mail bb.wilkinson1@ntlworld.com Saturday, 14th May 2016 (10am–4pm): Bonanza Plant Sale at All Saints’ Church, Wellingore, Lincoln. To include refreshments, stalls and a raffle. Please ring 01522 810450. Friday, 3rd June–Monday, 6th June 2016: 150-year Celebration Flower Festival at St Peter’s Church, Cleethorpes, combined with the start of the three-month Concert Season (Friday lunchtimes from 12 noon–1pm). Friday 3rd June: Orpheus Choir. Free entry. Refreshments
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
will be available. For more details please contact: St Peter’s Parish Office on 01472 231198 or e-mail admin@stpeterscleethorpes.org.uk Saturday, 11th June: South Elkington Church Open Day, 10am–4pm). Join the fun and activities at All Saints’ Church. Part of national Cherishing Churchyards week, activities will include village stalls, quizzes and a family Songs of Praise to finish the day at 3.30pm. Refreshments will also be available, and The Lincolnshire Wolds Countryside Service will be present with God’s Acre Rucksacks to help people explore the nature and history of the churchyard. Saturday, 11th June–Tuesday, 14th June 2016 (10.30am– 5pm Saturday and Sunday, commencing with a Service of Thanksgiving at 9.30am on Saturday): Flower Festival at St Oswald’s Church, Crowle – to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th Birthday. Light refreshments and stalls. [Monday and Tuesday visitors please contact dottysmith@hotmail.com or ring Betty (01724 710815).]
CROSSLINCS 9
Flower festivals and events Saturday, 18th June 2016 (11am–5pm); Sunday, 19th June 2016 (11am–2pm; Evening Prayer at 3pm); Monday, 20th June 2016 (11am–4pm): Flower Festival at St Andrew’s Church, Hannah-cum-Hagnaby (A1111). Theme: ‘Famous Lincolnshire Yellowbellies’. Free admission. Refreshments available. Contact: Mrs Mary Johnson on 01507 440866 or at r.johnson1977@btinternet.com Saturday, 18th June 2016 (11am–5pm): Open Village in Hemingby. Theme – ‘Come into the garden, Maud’. Six open gardens; many more with poem-themed front garden displays; church floral displays; stalls; teas. In aid of St Margaret’s Church, Hemingby. Contact: Alison on 01507 578539 or e-mail: ali@hemingby.net Sunday, 26th June 2016 (10am–5pm): Hibaldstow Open Gardens and Scarecrow Day. There will be at least 10 gardens open to the public, together with around 40 scarecrows throughout the village. St Hybald’s Church will be open with displays and flowers, with entertainment provided by The Vale of Ancholme Academy Band and, weather permitting, a Spitfire flypast. Refreshments including light lunches will be available at the village hall and tea/coffee and cakes will also be available at the Sunday, 19th June 2016 (12 noon–6pm) Welbourn Open Gardens Over the years, money raised through Welbourn Open Gardens has been used to benefit a variety of the village charities. The past few years has seen much-needed funds put towards the renewal of St Chad’s Church roof, and in 2014 money raised covered the cleaning and restoration of the Village War Memorial which stands in memory of the local lives lost in the Great War. Funds raised this year are to be put towards the renewal of the church paths. Thirteen gardens will be open, along with an old
church hall. For those that don’t want to walk around the entire village a free mini-bus service will be in operation. Admission is £3 per person (no charge for accompanied children) and is payable at Hibaldstow Village Hall (Station Road, Hibaldstow), where there is ample free car parking. Donations from the day will be made to Hibaldstow Medical Practice, which will go towards an audiometer, and also to Lindsey Lodge Hospice in Scunthorpe. Sunday, 3rd July 2016 (1pm–5pm): Nettleton Open Gardens in aid of the fabric fund for St John the Baptist Church. Ten beautiful varied gardens along the Nettleton Beck, near Caistor, on the A46. Programme £3. For more information please call 01472 851792. Thursday, 28th July–Sunday, 31st July 2016: Gedney Flower Festival – Its 50th anniversary! Theme: ‘Gold for Gedney’. The flowers to be prepared by over 70 arrangers. Refreshments available. Free entry and car parking. Disabled access and toilets. Many stalls, including bric-a-brac, produce, plants, cakes, tombola and books. Everyone welcome. Gedney Church (PE12 0BU). Doors are open from 10am each day. Phone 01406 365436 for more information.
orchard originally planted in the late-19th century that features many apple varieties originally raised in Lincolnshire. The village’s Victorian Blacksmith’s shop and forge, dating from 1864 and still in full working order, will be open to visitors, with the forge fire lit and Friends of Welbourn Forge on hand to answer questions. There will be an art exhibition in the church, and in the village hall there will be plant stalls, artisan honey and bee-keeping products, an RSPB stand, decorative metalwork, wooden products, a quiz, cards, a raffle and more. Refreshments will also be available in the village hall, with pub lunches available at The Joiners Arms, High Street. Admission (£3.50; no charge for accompanied children) is by programme, available from the village hall (Beck Street, LN5 0LZ), along with parking/maps/toilets and disabled access. (Welbourn is 10 miles south of Lincoln on the A607.) For further information please contact Nina McBeath on 01400 279027.
DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
10 CROSSLINCS
Around the diocese Members of the Lincoln Diocesan Mothers’ Union gathered at St Peter-at-Gowt’s Church in Lincoln for the Commissioning of the Diocesan President and Officers by The Bishop of Lincoln. Those newly elected and appointed to lead the Mothers’ Union in the diocese for the next triennium were: Diocesan President, Elizabeth Page and Diocesan Chaplain, The Revd Sylvia Rice-Oxley. The Officers commissioned were: Patsy Moore, Faith and Policy; Dorothy Newton, MUe (MU Enterprises Ltd); and Pauline Lister, IMPC (Indoor Members’ Prayer Circle). Branch leaders and officers were also commissioned. Their aim is to work together to enable and support the members in their service to the Church and the community. Each office carries great responsibility, for the Left–right: Patsy Moore, The Revd Richard Rice-Oxley, The Revd Sylvia Rice-Oxley, Mothers’ Union is a worldwide society within Bishop Christopher, Elizabeth Page, Pauline Lister, Derek Page, The Revd John Bruce. the Church with special concern for all that strengthens and preserves marriage and Christian family life. During the service all members present stood to affirm their commitment to the Mothers’ Union in this its 140th anniversary year. Following such a splendid and happy church service photographs were taken and a generous tea was enjoyed in the church hall.
“WOW!” “What an incredible treat!” “A really uplifting experience”. These were some of the comments received after the latest performance of The Jesus Story Musical, written by The Revd Richard Rice-Oxley. First performed last year by a local choir, the musical has been very warmly received and money has been raised for local churches – this year in Harrowby Lane Methodist Church, Grantham and Edenham Church. Around 100 people came and enthusiastically joined in two rousing choruses. The Jesus Story Musical is suitable for local choirs and schools to perform. There are plans to make the full score available later this year. The next performance will be held at Morton Church on Saturday, 25th June 2016. For more information please see rev-rice-oxley.uk
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
CROSSLINCS
Please pray for the Uffington Group
Wed 29
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLICAN.ORG
Thur 30
Please pray for the Bishop’s Office
Barholme, Braceborough, Gretford, Tallington, Uffington, West Deeping, Wilsthorpe The Revd Carolyn Kennedy, The Revd Mark Thomson
Stamford St Mary and Stamford Baron St Martin The Revd Gavin Cooper
Irenaeus, Bishop of Lyons, 200
Peter and Paul, Apostles
Please pray for the Benefice of Stamford St Mary and St Martin
Stamford St George The Revd Canon Martyn Taylor, The Revd Lis Ward
Please pray for the Benefice of Stamford St George w St Paul
Please pray for those being ordained Deacon today in the Diocese of Lincoln
Please pray for those being ordained Priest today in the Diocese of Lincoln
Tues 28
Cyril, Bishop of Alexandria, 444; Sarah Swift, Nursing Pioneer, 1937 (Furthering Holiness, page 47)
Mon 27
Trinity 5, Ordinations (Deacons)
Sun 26
Armed Forces Day, Ordinations (Priests)
Sat 25
Stamford Christ Church The Revd Nikki Bates
Please pray for the Benefice of Stamford Christ Church
Fri 24
The Birth of John the Baptist
Stamford All Saints The Very Revd Mark Warrick, The Revd Nikki Mann
Please pray for the Benefice of Stamford All Saints w St John
Etheldreda, Abbess of Ely, 678
June Thur 23
14
John the Evangelist, Ante Portam Latinam (BCP)
Fri 6
Ascension Day
Thur 5
Rogation Day; Augustine Webster, Prior of the Isle of Axholme Charterhouse, 1534 (Furthering Holiness, page 33) and All Saints of the Reformation Era
Wed 4
Rogation Day; Henry Vaughan, Poet, 1695; The Invention of the Cross (BCP)
Tues 3
Philip and James, Apostles; Rogation Day
Mon 2
Easter 6, Rogation Sunday
May 2016 Sun 1
DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
The Revd Canon B Barnes, The Revd Canon M J Boughton, The Revd Canon R S Eyre, The Revd S J Foster, The Revd C M H Frere, The Revd Canon G I George-Jones, The Revd K A Guy, The Revd R A King, The Ven J H C Laurence, The Revd P N H Moreton, The Revd D Mowbray, The Revd M J O’Connell, The Revd P A Paynton, The Revd Canon R Rodger, The Revd B G Saunders, The Revd M R Saunders, The Revd D E Smith, The Revd Canon A J Stokes, The Revd G C Whittle, The Revd R G Wilkinson, The Revd C A Zotov
Please pray for the retired clergy of Christianity
Bracebridge In Vacancy
Please pray for the Benefice of Bracebridge
Boultham The Revd Canon David Osbourne; The Revd Michelle Godbold
Please pray for the Benefice of Boultham
Lincoln St Swithin The Revd Jim Prestwood
Please pray for the Benefice of Lincoln St Swithin
Lincoln All Saints In Vacancy
Please pray for the Benefice of Lincoln All Saints
Rural Dean - The Revd Canon David Osbourne Lay Chair - Charles Shaw
Please pray for the Deanery of Christianity
Prayer Calendar
CROSSLINCS 13
14
CROSSLINCS
May Sat 7
Sun 8 Easter 7, VE Day, Archbishops' Week of Prayer begins
Mon 9 Gregory of Nazianzus; Europe Day; Liberation Day, Guernsey and Jersey (1945)
Tues 10 Wed 11
Thur 12 Simon of Cyrene, Bearer of the Cross of Christ; Gregory Dix, Scholar, 1952
Fri 13 Sat 14 Matthias the Apostle
Sun 15 Pentecost, Whitsun Week, Christian Aid Week begins W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLICAN.ORG
Please pray for the Benefice of St John the Evangelist Bracebridge Heath St John the Evangelist Bracebridge Heath In Vacancy
Please pray for the Benefice of Lincoln St Giles St Giles Lincoln The Revd Canon Nick Buck
Please pray for the Benefice of St Mary le Wigford w St Benedict and St Mark Lincoln St Mary le Wigford w St Benedict and St Mark Lincoln The Revd Jeremy Cullimore
Please pray for the Archdeacon’s Visitation and Supporting Church Officers Day taking place at the Petwood Hotel For all Church Officers in the Diocese of Lincoln
Please pray for the Benefice of Lincoln St Mary Magdalene w St Paul in the Bail and St Michael in the Mount Lincoln St Mary Magdalene w St Paul in the Bail and St Michael in the Mount The Revd Canon Alex Whitehead
Please pray for the Benefice of St Faith and St Martin w St Peter-atArches Lincoln St Faith and St Martin w St Peter-at-Arches Lincoln The Revd Julie Wearing
Please pray for the Archdeaconry of Stow & Lindsey Visitation Service taking place at St Margaret's Church, Laceby For all Churchwardens in the Archdeaconry of Stow & Lindsey
Please pray for the Benefice of St Peter in Eastgate Lincoln St Peter in Eastgate Lincoln, St Peter in Carlton & Glebe The Revd Edward Bowes-Smith; The Revd James Radcliffe; The Revd Sam Durant
Please pray for the Plurality of St Botolph, St Peter-at-Gowts and St Andrew, Lincoln St Botolph, St Peter-at-Gowts and St Andrew, Lincoln The Revd Jeremy Cullimore
June Thur 16 Richard, Bishop of Chichester, 1253; Joseph Butler, Bishop of Durham, 1752
Fri 17 Alban, first Martyr of Britain, 250; Samuel and Henrietta Barnett, Social Reformers, 1913 & 1936; St Botolph, Monk and Missionary, 680 (Furthering Holiness, page 44)
Sat 18 Bernard Mizeki, Apostle of MaShona, Martyr, 1896
Sun 19 Trinity 4
Mon 20 Translation of Edward, King of the West Saxons, 979; World Refugee Day
Tues 21
Wed 22 Alban, First Martyr of Britain, 250
Please pray for the North Lafford Group
Cranwell, Leasingham, Ruskington, Anwick and Evedon The Revd Canon Christine Pennock
Please pray for the Benefice of Kirkby Laythorpe
Kirkby Laythorpe and Ewerby The Revd Val Greene
Please pray for the Benefice of Quarrington Quarrington In Vacancy
Please pray for the Benefice of Sleaford
Sleaford The Revd Philip Johnson
Please pray for the Deanery of Stamford
Rural Dean - The Very Revd Mark Warrick Lay Chair - Mr D O’Brien
Please pray for the Retired Clergy of Stamford
CROSSLINCS 13
@COFELINCOLN
The Revd E J Bangay, The Revd J I Batty, The Revd D M Bond, The Ven M P Brackenbury, The Revd M J Brebner OBE, The Revd S J Calderin, The Revd Canon Dr K M Denison, The Revd Canon Dr D C Gray, The Revd J P Hart, The Revd R J Mackrill, The Revd M R Ruff, The Revd E J Widdows
Please pray for the diocesan spiritual directors network
DIOCESELINCOLN
CROSSLINCS
Asgarby, Burton Pedwardine, Hale Magna with Hale Parva, Heckington with Howell, Helpringham, Scredington and Swaton The Revd Capt Chris Harrington
Please pray for all at Lincoln Cathedral
Basil the Great, 397; Richard Baxter, Puritan Divine, 1691
Wed 15
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLICAN.ORG
Evelyn Underhill, Spiritual Writer, 1941
Please pray for the Heckington and Helpringham Group of Parishes
Ashby de la Launde, Bloxholme, Digby, Rowston, Dorrington, Scopwick, Kirkby Green and Silk Willoughby In Vacancy
Please pray for Benefices in Vacancy – the Digby Group and Silk Willoughby
Billinghay, Walcott, Martin, Timberland, North Kyme and South Kyme The Revd Mike Rose
Please pray for the Carr Dyke Group
Aslackby, Billingborough, Dowsby, Horbling, Sempringham w Pointon The Revd Anna Sorensen
John and Charles Wesley, Evangelists, Hymn Writers 1791 & 1788
Tues 24
Mon 23
Trinity Sunday
Sun 22
Helena and Constantine, Protectors of the Holy Places, 330 & 337
Sat 21
Alcuin of York, Abbot of Tours, 804; Ethelbert, King and Martyr, 794; Chad, Bishop of Mercia, 672
Fri 20
Dunstan, Archbishop of Canterbury, Restorer of Monastic Life, 988
Thur 19
Rural Dean - The Revd Richard Billinghurst Lay Chair - Nigel Dickin
Please pray for the Deanery of Graffoe
The Revd Jonnie Parkin
Please pray for the community of Luminous
St Luke, Birchwood The Revd Linda Harris
DIOCESELINCOLN
Please pray for the Benefice of St Luke, Birchwood
For all Church Officers in the Diocese of Lincoln
@COFELINCOLN
Please pray for the Archdeacon’s Visitation and Supporting Church Officers Day taking place at Lincoln College
St George, Swallowbeck, Lincoln The Revd Canon Ian Silk; The Revd James Gandon; The Revd Sarah Bird
Please pray for the Benefice of St George, Swallowbeck
St John the Baptist, Lincoln The Revd Canon Stephen Hoy; The Revd Philippa White
Please pray for the Benefice of St John the Baptist, Lincoln
For all Churchwardens in the Archdeaconry of Boston
Please pray for the Archdeaconry of Boston Visitation Service taking place at St James', Freiston
Please pray for the Billingborough Group
For all Churchwardens in the Archdeaconry of Lincoln
Please pray for the Archdeaconry of Lincoln Visitation Service taking place at St Denys', Sleaford
St Nicholas w St John, Newport Lincoln The Revd Hugh Jones; The Revd Cameron Watt
Please pray for the Benefice of St Nicholas w St John, Newport Lincoln
Folkingham, Pickworth, Walcot, Threekingham, Osbournby, Scott Willoughby, Aswarby, Swarby, Newton, Aunsby and Dembleby The Revd Nick Munday
Wed 18
Tues 17
Caroline Chisholm, Social Reformer, 1877
May Mon 16
CROSSLINCS 13
Please pray for the Benefice of South Lafford
The Revd J A Blanchard, The Revd Canon R C A Carey, The Revd P G Faulkner, The Revd R Harris, The Revd E Horner, The Revd Canon W P K Kentigern-Fox, The Revd H H Nesbitt, The Revd Canon G J Wickstead, The Revd G P Williams, The Revd D B Woods, The Revd Canon M Wright
Please pray for the retired clergy of Lafford
Tues 14
Anthony of Padua, Friar, 1231
Mon 13
Trinity 3, John of Dalderby, Bishop of Lincoln, 1320 (Futhering Holiness, page 41)
Sun 12
Barnabas the Apostle; Trooping the Colour
Sat 11
Fri 10
Columba, Abbot of Iona, Missionary, 597; Ephrem the Syrian, Deacon, Hymn Writer, Teacher
June Thur 9
14
14
CROSSLINCS
May Wed 25 The Venerable Bede, Monk at Jarrow, Scholar, Historian, 735; Aldhelm, Bishop of Sherborne, 709
Thur 26 Day of Thanksgiving for Holy Communion (Corpus Christi)
Fri 27 The Venerable Bede, 735 (BCP)
Sat 28 Lanfranc, Prior of Le Bec, Archbishop of Canterbury, 1089
Please pray for the Lincoln Diocesan Trust and Board of Finance, which meets today
Please pray for the Bassingham Group The Withamside United Parish - Aubourn w Haddington, Bassingham, Thurlby, Norton Disney, Carlton le Moorland, Stapleford In Vacancy; The Revd Andy Jackson-Parr
Please pray for the retired Clergy of Graffoe The Revd Canon M J Bamforth, The Revd Canon E B Barlow, The Revd Canon J E Bowers, The Revd A K Greenhough, The Revd H Hall, The Revd F Hinton, The Revd C Knowles, The Revd I D McGrath, The Revd Canon A H Nugent, The Revd G Parrott, The Revd J T Rooke, The Revd D Saunders, The Revd J E Smith, The Revd Canon S Spencer, The Revd B A Stalley, The Revd J R Taylor, The Revd Canon T W Thompson, The Revd R E Trevelyan, The Revd J P H Tyrrell, The Revd P W Walker, The Revd L T Whitfield, The Revd S G Williams
Please pray for the Graffoe Group Boothby Graffoe, Navenby, Wellingore, Temple Bruer, Coleby, Harmston In Vacancy
Please pray for the Benefice of Skellingthorpe w Doddington
Trinity 1
Skellingthorpe and Doddington The Revd Richard Billinghurst
Sun 29 Mon 30
Thorpe on the Hill, Eagle, North Scarle, Swinderby In Vacancy
Please pray for the Benefice of Swinderby
Washingborough, Heighington and Canwick The Revd George Goalby
Please pray for the Benefice of Washingborough w Heighington and Canwick
Josephine Butler, Social Reformer, 1906; Joan of Arc, Visionary, 1431
Tues 31 The Visit of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLICAN.ORG
Please pray for Bishop’s Council, who meet today
Metheringham, Blankney and Dunston The Revd Alan Coates
CROSSLINCS 13
Please pray for the Benefice of Metheringham w Blankney and Dunston
Branston, Nocton and Potterhanworth The Revd Lorna Brabin-Smith
Please pray for the Benefice of Branston w Nocton and Potterhanworth
Waddington The Revd Annabel Barber
Please pray for the Benefice of Waddington
Please pray for all at Edward King House
North Hykeham All Saints, North Hykeham St Hugh and South Hykeham The Revd Peter Collins
Please pray for the Benefice of Hykeham
Prayer Diary June 2016 Wed 1 Justin, Martyr at Rome, 165; Nicomede, Priest and Martyr at Rome
Thur 2 Coronation Day; Blandina and her companions, Martyrs at Lyons and Vienne, 177
Fri 3 The Divine Compassion of Christ
Sat 4 Petroc, Abbot of Padstow, 6th century
Sun 5 Trinity 2, World Environmental Day
Mon 6
Please pray for the Sisters of the Community of St Francis at San Damiano
D Day
Tues 7
Please pray for the Deanery of Lafford
Rural Dean - The Revd Canon Christine Pennock Lay Chair - Audrey Wayman
@COFELINCOLN
Wed 8 Thomas Ken, Bishop of Bath and Wells, Non-Juror, Hymn Writer, 1711
DIOCESELINCOLN
CROSSLINCS 15
Faithful, confident, joyful Centering Prayer Day ‘sells out’! Such was the demand for places on the recent day on Centering Prayer held at the Cathedral Centre that, not only was a waiting list in place, but many people had to be disappointed when they enquired about the day a couple of days in advance. Canon Stephen Hoy, diocesan Spirituality Adviser, said: “The course was full within a few weeks of it being advertised, and we could have filled it twice over. A number of people rang expecting to be able to book places in the week running up to the event, and were surprised that it had been so popular!” Elizabeth Smith from Contemplative Outreach UK ran the day, introducing the participants to the principles of Centering Prayer as developed by the American Cistercian monk, Thomas Keating. “We had 45 people attend the day from all over the diocese,” said Stephen, “and it was also good to see colleagues from both the Roman Catholic and Baptist churches taking part as well.” Several Centering Prayer groups, some ecumenically based, are
being established throughout the county and further information may be obtained from Stephen on 01522 525621. “It was really exciting to see so much interest in a day on prayer,” Stephen said. “We hope to build on this and put some more events on in the next couple of years.” The next event is to be held on the 11th of May – a talk on the past, present and future of Anglican Religious Orders – but please contact Stephen soon so as to book your place as they are going quickly.
Since the last issue of Crosslincs a further round of funding has been designated for projects that have been successful in their application for assitance from The Bishop of Lincoln’s Social Justice Fund. The total amount awarded from the second round of funding was £54,750, with grants awarded to the following groups and organisations: • • • • • • • • •
Acts Trust, Lincoln – £7,200 St Giles Community Garden Group, Lincoln – £3,800 Christian Action & Resource Enterprise (CARE), Grimsby – £8,000 Alford Day Centre – £3,500 Stepping Stone Theatre for Mental Health (based at Trinity Arts Centre, Gainsborough) – £5,200 Lincolnshire Youth Mission, Boston Borough – £5,000 Harbour Place, Grimsby – £7,350 YMCA Humber – £5,000 Centrepoint Outreach, Boston – £9,700.
At the time of going to press, the third round of Panel Awards was due to be considered, and, as stated in the last issue of Crosslincs, we are looking forward to profiling as many of the recipients of funding as possible so as to document the impact of The Bishop of Lincoln’s Social Justice Fund in the diocese.
In the meantime further applications are invited from churches involved in social justice activity, voluntary or community organisations who have clear links to a local church community, and locally managed groups. If you have a project with aims that include the improvement of social cohesion, the alleviation of isolation and poverty, and service of older people and children and young people, please contact Ian Thompson at Lincolnshire Community Foundation. T: 01529 30 58 25 E: ianthompsonlcf@gmail.com
DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
16 CROSSLINCS
Around the diocese Bishop of Uganda visits Lincoln infant school St Peter in Eastgate Infant School in Lincoln was pleased to receive Bishop Johnson of Uganda recently. Crosslincs received the following account of this special visit... The Bishop and his wife took part in the school’s collective worship and explained to the pupils what life was like in Uganda for children. Christine, the bishop’s wife, showed the children a number of jobs girls in Uganda are required to do before going to school, such as sweeping the floors and collecting water for the family to drink and bathe in. Christine demonstrated carrying the water on her head and some of the children tried this too. Christine also showed the children how they carry their babies on their backs. Bishop Johnson talked to the children about his job and how important it is, and he explained to the children that they only have one meal a day and that this is at 3pm each day.
St Benedict’s Scrivelsby hosts Lambing Service A Lambing Service held in Scrivelsby drew a large congregation to St Benedict’s Church in early April. The service was lead by The Revd Andrew Roberts and included popular hymns, readings from the Bible and poetry, prayers for those who work the land and for the local community, and an address that reflected on the role of a shepherd and the abundance of God’s love for us. Following the service there was time for all to have a closer look at the lambs and to take in the beauty of the church and its surroundings. It is now hoped that the Lambing Service will become an annual event in Scrivelsby.
The Revd Andrew Roberts and Mrs Gail Dymoke with one of the lambs.
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
CROSSLINCS 17
Sharing in song at St Hugh’s, Scunthorpe Formed five years ago after an idea to stage ‘Wings of Peace’, St Hugh’s Singers from Old Brumby, Scunthorpe, have since gone from strength to strength, bringing people together and making a significant contribution to their local community. The musical director, Duane Tow, charts the group’s story so far... I had a whim in 2011 to perform ‘Wings of Peace’ and so I asked members of St Hughs’ Church and a few musical friends if they would humour me and form a singing group. The poems within ‘Wings of Peace’, written in the 1920s, are relevant today but the hymns were dated and so I substituted more suitable songs. Thirty-two singers and readers performed the piece, very successfully, at St Hughs’ Church, Old Brumby on the 22nd of April and at St Paul’s, Ashby on 6th May 2012. We were then asked to perform a concert of patriotic songs at St Hugh’s Church picnic to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee on the 3rd of June and a few days later at Heslam Park Rugby Club to raise funds for Cancer Research.
“Who would have thought we would still be together as a result of a whim?” We have fun at rehearsals and we enjoy each others’ company and so decided to carry on, but what next? I suggested an ‘Olde Tyme Music Hall’ involving acting and dancing as well as singing, which was a shock to the system for some, but by the time we opened on 26th October 2012 all 40 performers were ‘stars in their own right’. I was so proud of them. Again, everyone wanted to continue and so I drafted a programme called ‘Friday Night at the Movies’. In the meantime we gave a concert at Balmoral House residential home and two concerts for members of the Stroke Club. Who would have thought we would still be together as a result of a whim? We received many wonderful compliments after our ‘Movies’ concert on 13th November 2013. Our fame was spreading and we enjoyed rehearsals for our ‘Victory Hit Parade Concert’ held in October 2014, commemorating the sacrifice of so many people during the two World Wars. Further invitations followed, and The Revd Julia Clark, a member of our ministry team, asked us if we would repeat ‘Wings of Peace’ in June 2015 as part of a ‘Celebration of Peace’ weekend. We had very little time to prepare and on one evening we
rehearsed 39 songs from the three different concerts. The Singers rose to the occasion, as usual, and presented a “lovely thought-provoking and uplifting concert” to a very appreciative audience. The weekend was a huge success, with many children writing poems and drawing pictures stating what peace means to them. Their wonderful contributions were on display in church. The weekend culminated in a special Sunday service dedicated to peace in which Lincoln Gardens Primary School choir joined and sang two items. On Friday, 23rd October 2015 we hosted a concert in St Hughs’ Church Hall that was entitled ‘The A to Z of Song’. This contained some favourite songs beginning with the 26 letters of the alphabet and it was another success. This would be followed by rehearsals for our Christmas engagements, including our ‘Christmas Greetings’ variety concert at St Hugh’s. Members of St Hugh’s Singers have raised in excess of £3000 since 2011, which is a great credit to all for their hard work and dedication at rehearsals and concentration at concerts. All the proceeds have gone to the church/designated charities where performances were held. We’re now looking forward to a concert to be staged in October 2016 entitled ‘Rolling Round the World’. Reflecting on the life of St Hugh’s Singers to date, The Revd Canon Cameron Martin, has said: “How wonderful it is to see people giving of themselves in service to the local community and beyond through the gift of music, and in the process enriching many peoples’ lives.” For more on the life of St Hugh’s Church in Scunthorpe please visit the church website at sthughschurch.org
DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
18 CROSSLINCS
Spring Harvest 2016 Sixty-two people from the around the diocese took up the recent invitation issued by the Bishop of Grimsby to join him at this year’s Spring Harvest event at Butlin’s in Skegness. The theme for this year was ‘game changers’, and after gathering for coffee and a welcome from The Rt Revd Pete Broadbent (The Bishop of Willesden), the first offering from the day’s programme was a time of worship in the Big Top, leading on to Bible teaching lead by Simon Ponsonby (Pastor of Theology at St Aldates Church, Oxford). Before and after lunch there was an opportunity to attend a range of seminars, including a session for church leaders focusing on serving in teams and working through instances of conflict.
The afternoon sessions included topics relating to mission and ministry, and also creative workshops on subjects such as photography and a dicussion on being a Christian in the world of media, arts and entertainment that featured the comedian and writer Paul Kerensa and gospel singer and former X-Factor contestant Annastasia Baker. In the evening there was the nightly Celebration gathering in the Big Top, featuring worship leader Lou Fellingham, prayer and Bible-based drama, and also teaching and reflection provided by Rob Parsons, international speaker, author and the founder and chairman of Care for the Family. A busy, varied and enjoyable day with friends old and new, further details on Spring Harvest may be found online at springharvest.org
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
CROSSLINCS 19
Celebrating and preserving our heritage St Mary’s, Frampton is water-tight once more! After four years of fundraising by the Friends of Frampton Churches and a grant of £46,300 from the Listed Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund, the roof of St Mary’s Church in Frampton (pictured, left) is no longer leaking. The 12th-century listed building suffered several attacks by lead thieves, which had allowed rainwater to pour in. Additional security measures have since been taken and a three-month project has now been completed to replace stolen lead with Terne-coated steel. The repairs also included the replacement of rainwater guttering and downpipes and new tiling to the vestry and south porch. Special tiles had to be used in places, to allow for bat entry and exit points in order to comply with the law. St Mary’s Church, Frampton.
St Etheldreda’s celebrates HLF first-round pass St Etheldreda’s church in West Halton has announced that it has received a first-round pass of up to £207,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund for its Restoration and Sustainability project. The project aims to replace the nave roof to make the church watertight, install a functioning drainage system, improve access with the addition of a proper footpath and develop a heritage area. Development funding of £28,600 has been awarded to enable specialist investigations to take place and a second-round submission will be made later in the year. It is reported that work undertaken to date has already unravelled a fascinating history: a church with a 14thcentury inscribed bell, three fonts and a surviving west gallery in a landscape of spiritual significance close to a 4000-year-old Bronze Age barrow. There has been a church on this site in the village since 671 and now there is a chance to secure the future of the present church and its rich Saxon heritage for generations to come. Holy Trinity Church in Messingham, North Lincolnshire, has also announced that it has received initial support in the form of a first-round pass of up to £229,600 from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The funding is for a project titled ‘Revealing, Sharing and Caring for our Heritage’, and this project aims to carry out essential and extensive repairs to the roof of the Grade II* church and address other areas in order to preserve the building for the enjoyment of current and future generations.
The work was overseen by local architect Mary Anderson and the contractors were Belfry Ltd of Peterborough. Commenting on the completion of the project, lay reader John Marshall said: “We are very pleased with the work. Without the fundraising efforts of the Friends of Frampton Churches and the large grant, we could not have managed to get the job done. The temporary plastic sheeting would not have withstood another winter, leaving the roof timbers and the interior of the church at serious risk. We are very grateful for the support of all those involved with the project.” For further information please visit www.framptonchurch.com and look for the page titled ‘St Mary’s Roof Repairs’.
Celebrating 200 years at Wildmore Do you know what a Fen Chapel is? Is it a church or is it a chapel? Would you like to know more? If so, you are invited to visit St Peter’s Church at Wildmore (New York) over the weekend of the 25th and 26th of June as it celebrates 200 years of being one. St Peter’s is said to be one of only five Fen Chapels left that still engages in worship. There were originally seven, built as the result of an Act of Parliament, to save the souls of those who were engaged in draining the Fens. To celebrate this quite unique event the church is holding a Flower Festival, with the theme of ‘In an English Country Garden’, while also offering an insight into the church’s history. Lunches and afternoon teas will be available, with the food and the flowers kindly being arranged by Horncastle Flower Club. All will be made most welcome.
DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
20 CROSSLINCS
Fresh Expressions Following on from the first of a new fresh expressions column in the March/April issue of Crosslincs, the Revd Jonnie Parkin, diocesan Fresh Expressions Enabler, reflects on a recent visit to St John’s and St Stephen’s, New Clee, Grimsby, which is often referred to as ‘Shal Church’... Since starting in post as Fresh Expressions Enabler in January, I have been conducting a mapping exercise to help get a picture of what is happening on the ground. This has included touring deanery synods and chapters, inputting and listening at the recent fresh expressions vision day at Sleaford, and, to get a more detailed view, visiting individual projects, churches and communities. This led me to Grimsby to spend time with John Ellis and the team at Shal Church. What has been done here over the years prefigures much of the thinking in the fresh expressions movement, and illustrates that fresh expressions are not just some latest fad, but an integral part of what missional church has always done, even if it has gone by different names.
“Everything we do is rooted in prayer. Otherwise we would forget it’s about God’s kingdom.” John has been in Grimsby for a long time. He moved to Grimsby the year before my family moved there when I was just a few months old, which is a while back now! John and the team have built a new church community in the East Marsh comprising largely of people who were not previously part of church. The church has grown through a thoroughly engaged social and pastoral ministry based on responding to the needs of the local community. While I was there I saw good evidence of pastoral care, a growing prayer and worshipping life, and a commitment to mission and discipleship. These are all hallmarks of a good fresh expression of church. In talking with John I noticed that many of the things he spoke about could be summarised with six Ps. So here are the ‘Six Ps of Pioneering’, based on our conversations. Prayer “Everything we do is rooted in prayer,” John told me. “Otherwise we would forget it’s about God’s Kingdom.” I got a sense that the sort of prayer talked about here was real and honest, and probably involved some colourful language. We were not talking here about beautifully
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
Shal Church, Grimsby. Photo: The Revd Louise Vincer
crafted intercessions or a list of reminders to God, just in case God forgot to be just and loving. We were talking about a real wrestling prayer, honest and open prayer, not afraid to argue the toss with God, yet rooted in a deep desire to know God’s will and submit to it. It is essential that any fresh expression of church is rooted in prayer right from the get go. The leaders must spend time praying for the location or network they wish to serve, discerning what it is God has put on their hearts. It’s not just about praying for, but also listening to; listening to what God is saying, and looking for the signs of God’s activity in bringing about God’s Kingdom. It’s important to have prayer support as well – people who will commit to praying for the team. Presence “A lot of it is about being there in the right place at the right time,” John told me. “I don’t just mean passively, but active and engaged.” John went on to describe how being in the right place at the right time has paid dividends for Shal Church. Fruitful networks and creative opportunities don’t normally just appear, they have to be worked for. In building those good and trusting networks, you are then well placed to make the best of the ‘chance’ opportunities when they arise. In building a new church community (or building up an existing one, for that matter) being actively engaged in and present with the community or network you are seeking to serve is essential. Patience It was very clear to me that John plays the long game. To show people you are committed to them you have to give that most precious of commodities: time. In a culture that seeks instant and flashy results to impress funders and
CROSSLINCS 21
‘The Six Ps of Pioneering’ decision-makers alike, this can go against the grain, but for a church to grow organically and sustainably it needs patience and time. Most of us won’t get 40+ years to serve the same context, but we do need to have the long view in mind, and to let things grow at their own pace without forcing them, patiently waiting for God to act, and God’s children to respond. Persistence “You have to keep plugging away, you can’t just give up the first time you meet opposition,” John reminded me. Persistence is the companion of patience. If growing Christian community requires time, it also requires effort; faithfully, slowly and sometimes indiscernibly working to build trust, faith and love. “Sometimes you don’t see the results straight away, but you just keep going, because one day it can pay off.”
“Partnership in fresh expressions is not just a means to an end, it is a key dimension of the end itself.” Planning I loved John’s approach to planning. Some of his plans got shelved, only to be dusted off and used when the time was right. “You might make plans and then it be years before you can use them,” he said. “When the time is right, you’ll be glad you have a plan.” John used the plans for the church building as an example, plans he thought might not come to anything but then the right time and opportunity arose. This requires the prayer, presence, patience and persistence referred to earlier. It’s good to dream dreams and have visions, and it’s good to draw up plans to envisage how those dreams and visions can come to fruition, but we should never turn our plans into idols. We are serving God’s Kingdom, not our own. Partnership “You can’t go it alone, you have to work with others,” were John’s wise words to me. Working in partnership is important both for practical and theological reasons. It means we can get more done, it is done more fruitfully and with more people owning it. It helps build relationships with those we seek to build community with, modelling our theology of God as communion of three Persons united in love and common endeavour. Partnership in fresh expressions is not just a means to an end, it is a key dimension of the end itself.
I had a fantastic time with John and the team and was greatly impressed with their work. This summary probably doesn’t do justice to John’s wisdom and experience, but I offer you these ‘Six Ps of Pioneering’ – prayer, presence, patience, persistence, planning and partnership – to help you in your own practise. If you have a fresh expression operating in your parish please contact Jonnie with details. Please also contact Jonnie if you would like some help and advice relating to the setting up of a fresh expressions initiative in your parish. You may email Jonnie at fxenabler@lincoln.anglican.org
Great ‘Messy News’ from the North Beltisloe Group of Churches ‘Sometimes we do not see things until we are ready to see them. Faith provides purpose and perspective’. As we prepare for our sixth Messy Church session with support and encouragement from our churchwardens, lay ministry team and volunteers in our group of seven churches, we celebrate the vision of Messy Church which has proved to be such a success, with an average of 18–22 children and adults at each session. We hold our Messy Church monthly on Saturday mornings (10am–12 noon) in Boothby Pagnell Village Hall. We were concerned that in our group of churches nothing was available for pre-school and primary school children to take part in worship. We were ready to see the way forward. Gathering together a group of disciples who make up our team, once a month we welcome and celebrate on a chosen theme with craftwork, story, song and prayer. Finally, we share a meal together. This encourages the values of Christ-centered hospitality, creativity and celebration. As we move forward into 2016 with new ideas, enthusiasm for Messy Church and hope for the future, we give this example of fresh expressions in our group of churches. We would like to thank The Revd Ian Walters, Rector of Gosberton, who provided help, encouragement, friendship and support in our way forward. Diana Burrows and Jan Saunders
DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
22 CROSSLINCS
The Developing Discipleship Programme (DDP) Focus on the DDP reflection event in Fotherby & North Somercotes, and St John’s & St Stephen’s, New Clee “There is no single recipe for growth… what seems crucial is that congregations are constantly engaged in reflection; churches cannot soar on autopilot.” From Anecdote to Evidence (2013), Professor David Voas (pg. 7)
A year on from the DDP process being launched in the diocese, the first mission communities are holding their annual reflection events. Fotherby & North Somercotes and St John’s & St Stephen’s, New Clee, have recently reached this stage, as The Revd Louise Vincer explains... The reflection event is a key part of the DDP cycle. It helps churches to look back over the past year and reflect together on their growth plans. Of course, life doesn’t always go to plan, and taking the time to look back helps congregations recognise ways in which the Holy Spirit can be leading the church in fulfilling its vision. The resurrection story of Jesus talking with his disciples on the road to Emmaus shows the importance of reflection in understanding God’s work both in the scriptures and in everyday conversations. In DDP reflection events congregations think about five ‘S’s: successes, sticking points, surprises, where the Spirit is at work, and what they would like to share with the diocese. It is tempting to want to share only successes, but we often learn most from where things didn’t go as we planned. Here we have two examples of the process of reflection in very different contexts where things haven’t quite gone according to plan. Fotherby & North Somercotes The churches of Fotherby and North Somercotes were one of the groups that piloted the DDP events. In February they held their first annual reflection. Their situation had moved on significantly in the year as their vicar, The Revd Sue Allison, had moved to a new post. Looking back over
W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
the year together the group recognised how their plans had helped keep them focused during the vacancy. They made plans for the coming year that built on their shared learning. The group recognised the importance of good communication both amongst the churches in the group and with the local schools and villages. They also noticed a growth in confidence and leadership in the congregations. The work of the Holy Spirit was seen in different ways: the group Rogation Service offered unexpected opportunities for conversation and connection with the villages, curious to know what the church was doing. In the vacancy process the support offered by the Archdeacons is fostering an experience of being part of one body in Christ. St John’s & St Stephen’s, New Clee St John’s & St Stephen’s, New Clee held their annual reflection in Advent. The church has a strong sense of vision, and you can read more of this in the fresh expressions feature contained in this issue of Crosslincs. Looking at their context, the congregation recognised that there were few men involved in church life and they wanted to change that. Their first year’s plan was to begin a men’s breakfast. It was an ‘off the top of the head idea’ that looked like a possibility. The first breakfast attracted several newcomers but soon attendance dwindled, and it was decided to end the offer. Around that time, one of their congregation suggested trying out a soup kitchen. The facilities at the church were well suited to this and they began serving hot food (not soup!) at lunchtime one day a week. Food and money have flowed in, and the team is supported by local businesses
CROSSLINCS 23
St John’s and St Stephen’s, New Clee
Rachel, Sally and Michaela, serving their local community.
who recognise the important support the church is providing; for example, a nearby chemist holds a weekly food collection. “We’ve found that the DDP is not a programme; it’s not about success or failure but about getting in tune with the Spirit, and when you get it right spiritually, resources come,” said The Revd John Ellis. The soup kitchen is currently open three days a week and breakfast is now served on Fridays too. It is open to everyone but the volunteers have found that men in particular are coming along. There is a clear sense of community as people get together and enjoy the church’s hospitality.
John, one of the members of the growing community at New Clee.
On Thursdays a short service of Holy Communion is held in the church. Everyone is warmly invited to attend and conversations have been opened up. Their plan to attract more men has worked, but not in the way they first planned. With this in mind, The Revd Ellis is clear that the process of reflection is vital to church life: “If you don’t do reflection you just trundle on in a sort of aimless fashion”. Further details relating to the DDP are available online at www.lincoln.anglican.org/faith-discipleship/discipleship Alternatively, please contact The Revd Louise Vincer (DDP Coordinator) at ddp@lincoln.anglican.org
Photo: Angela Reeve
Christian Question Time panel responds to questions of life and faith in the 21st century
A recent Christian Question Time event held in Long Sutton comprised a guest panel of The Revd Canon Andrew Vaughan, Jackie Waters-Dewhurst, Mike Pemberton (Chair), Gilson Lavis, Pastor Chas Sandhu and The Revd John Leach. During the evening some of the questions tackled by the panel related to human suffering; the soul and the conscience; modern technology and its impact; and the Holy Spirit. For more on local events at Long Sutton see www.longsuttonchurch.org
DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN
CALENDAR MAY Ongoing until Saturday, 21st May (Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am–2.30pm; Saturday times may vary): Art in the Minster – ‘Deities at the Botton of the Garden’ at Grimsby Minster
Friday, 27th May (7.30pm) at St Bartholomew’s Church, Keelby (DN41 8EE): Jazz with the New Orleans Heat Band. Advance tickets (£10) from Mace Store, St Martin’s Place, Keelby, or contact Karen on 07739 171375. £12 on the door.
Saturday, 7th May (2–5pm): The Bishops of Grimsby and Hull take part in the Walk Across the Humber for Christian Aid (for updates relating to the Walk please see the News section of the diocesan website)
Saturday, 28th–Monday, 30th May Annual Fine Art & Craft Exhibition, and Sale of Work (daily 11am–5pm). Tathwell St Vedast (LN11 9SR). Including secondhand books; local postcards; jams; cakes; and refreshments. Admission £1.
Tuesday, 10th May (9.30am arrivals): Archdeacons’ Visitation and Church Officer Training Day at The Petwood Hotel, Stixwould Road, Woodhall Spa LN10 6QG Friday, 13th May (7.30pm): Archdeacons’ Visitation Service – Stow & Lindsey Archdeaconry. St Margaret’s Church, Church Lane, Laceby DN37 7BW Tuesday, 17th May (7.30pm): Archdeacons’ Visitation Service – Lincoln Archdeaconry. St Denys’ Church, Market Place, Sleaford NG34 7SH Wednesday, 18th May (7.30pm): Archdeacons’ Visitation Service – Boston Archdeaconry. St James’ Church, Freiston Saturday, 21st May (9.30am arrivals): Archdeacons’ Visitation and Church Officer Training Day at Lincoln College, Monks Road, Lincoln LN2 5HQ
JUNE Sunday, 5th June (6pm): Service of Welcome for The Ven. Gavin Kirk, Archdeacon of Lincoln, at St Mary’s, Horncastle. All are welcome. Wednesday, 8th June (7.30pm) at Lincoln Cathedral: ‘Out on a Limb’ – A Voyage Around Schubert and Other Famous Folk! Tickets: £12, available from the Cathedral. Supporting the British Limbless Ex-Servicemen’s Association.
Saturday, 25th June (10.30am – please note new time): Service for the ordination of priests in Lincoln Cathedral. Sunday, 26th June (10.30am): Service for the ordination of deacons in Lincoln Cathedral. AUGUST 3rd, 5th, 6th, 8th–13th August Lincoln Mystery Plays. Lincoln Cathedral. For more details and to book tickets please see lincolnmysteries.co.uk Tuesday, 9th August–Saturday, 13th August (10am–2.30pm). Flower Festival & Mothers’ Union Displays. St Benedict’s Church, High Street, Lincoln.
Saturday, 21st May (6.30pm) – St Peter & St Paul Church, Langton by Spilsby The seventh season of two annual summer concerts in Langton’s unaltered Georgian church opens on 21st May with a concert that is supported by the Countess of Munster Musical Trust for outstanding young performers. The artists will be Sarah Bennett (flute), Oliver Cave (violin), Luba Tunnicliffe (viola) and Peteris Sokolovskis (cello). Their programme will include Weber’s overture to Oberon, Vivaldi’s la Notte Flute Concerto, and Schubert’s String Trio in Bb Major, plus other works. The concert will be followed by canapés and drinks in the candlelit church. Donations: £15 on the door (£13.50 in advance). For further details please call 01790 753649 or email david@douglases.net
Faith and the Environment Conference Saturday, 7th May 2016 (10am–4.30pm) Edward King House, Lincoln An exchange of up-to-the minute information about environmental issues, and the opportunity to reflect together on how, as people of faith, we might respond. Speakers are to include Dr Ruth Valerio (Churches and Theology Director of A Rocha UK; arocha.org. uk); The Revd Leslie Batty (ecologist, W W W.LINCOLN. ANGLIC AN.ORG
Cursillo Weekend: 17th–20th June 2016 At Bishop Grosseteste University in Lincoln from the evening of Friday, 17th June until the afternoon of Monday, 20th June 2016. Please contact The Revd Jeff Wilson (01652 648687; jeff-wilson13@ yahoo.co.uk) or Sandra Smith (01469 530065; smithsandra1971@gmail.com). See also www.lincolncursillo.org.uk
Anglican priest and environmental theologian); Mr Geoff Stratford (environmental activist and retired science teacher); The Revd Canon Alan Robson (Agricultural Chaplain); The Revd Dr Sally Myers (Principal of the Lincoln School of Theology and lecturer in Christian ethics); and Dr Terry Miller (Environmental Chaplain in Lincolnshire until 2013). There is no charge for this event. All are welcome. To book your place email LSTadmin@lincoln.anglican.org DIOCESELINCOLN
@COFELINCOLN