In Shape Winter 2012

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In Shape

Winter 2012 : Issue 7News and Stories For Your Church

inshape Winter12.indd 1 24/10/2012 13:32

ContactsIn Shape is edited by:Liz Hudson-Oliff Keith CousinsMike Harrison Barry Hill Andy Rhoadese-mail: [email protected]

The Diocese of Leicester administration and Leicester Cathedral Tel 0116 261 5200

The Office of the Bishop of Leicester Tel 0116 270 8985 [email protected]

Diary Dates should be sent [email protected] or entered at www.leicester.anglican.org/events by Monday 4th February. Inclusion is dependent on space available.

Signup to Diomail at www.leicester.anglican.org/misc/diomail-signup

Commercial advertisers are invited to call for current rates. The inclusion of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute any endorsement of a product or service by either the editors or the Diocese of Leicester

lives and communities transformedworship in a way that renews and inspires

self-giving service to the communitybeing rooted in prayer

confident and sensitive evangelismlifelong Christian nurture

the welcome of newcomersbecoming child friendly

celebration of people and places

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In This Issue3. Bishop’s Letter4. People in Mission5. Worshipping Today6. A Sense of Scale 6. Omega Course7. Lent Course for Kids8. Everybody Welcome9. Hope Together10. Breathe across the Diocese11. The emerging ‘2020 Vision’12. Change in the air13. Church Urban Fund14. Inter faith week15. Ground heating at St Catherines18. leicester.anglican.org/announcements19. leicester.anglican.org/events20. The Interview: Ven Dr Tim Stratford

This magazine is the quarterly publication of the Diocese of Leicester (The Church of England in Leicester and Leicestershire). The themes of In Shape are centred on the diocesan vision “Shaped by God” on which the nine Marks of Mission are based.

This vision is of flourishing mission in the 300 Anglican churches of the City and the County.

Cover Photo: Christmas Tree Festival, St Mary’s, Melton


3

Bishop’s Le� erAt the end of October, we said goodbye as a Diocese to Vivienne Faull as Dean of Leicester. During the last twelve years our Cathedral has made a signifi cant journey towards becoming a gathering place for the City and the County to celebrate major events. It has also been a focus for our Diocesan life at ordinations and on many other occasions.

We have much to thank Vivienne for and we assure her of our prayers for her new ministry at York Minster. The appointments process for a new Dean will take several months to complete. It is an opportunity for all of us to think and pray about the meaning of our Cathedral and its place in the life of our communities. Of course our parish churches are the principal place of meeting and growing for every local congregation, but the Church of England has always recognised that there needs also to be a gathering place for all the congregations and a

place where the Bishop’s ministry is visibly exercised. Our Cathedral has gradually become such a place and the opportunities in the years ahead are enormous.

The recent discovery of the possible remains of Richard III and the opportunity to create a civic space around the Cathedral – Cathedral Gardens, off er the Cathedral for the fi rst time in its life an opportunity to be a genuine focus for the City and the County. Very few other institutions can bring people together and connect communities in the way that Cathedrals can.

When the Queen visited Leicester Cathedral last spring we saw how the Cathedral became a major focus for the whole City and County. And this happens when we celebrate our Armed Forces, when we ordain new clergy, when we honour our civic leaders or when we bring people of diff erent faiths together.

All of this is witness to the Lordship of Christ and to the creating and redeeming work of God. I hope you will pray for our Cathedral and for all who have responsibility for discerning who the next Dean should be.

live on BBC Radio Leicester 7pm Monday 17 December 2012Sing along with the broadcast at:

Join the BBC Leicester Big Christmas Sing

Find out more at www.singchristmas.org.uk

Post all Advent and Christmas services on your parish’s page at

www.achurchnearyou.com and see them replicated on

www.achristmasnearyou.com

Bring everyone to your doorthis Christmas

Join the Church Challenge!We want every Church to join up with a pub, residential home or other venue and get involved!


4

celebration of people and places

Bishop Tim, his daughter Rachel (media team leader for Christian Aid), Leicester Vicar Richard Worsfold and Jenny Worsfold visited our Tanzanian link Dioceses of Mount Kilimanjaro and Kiteto in August. Richard writes about two of the people they met during the visit.

Ombeni Mbise (pictured above) is the new primary school headteacher at Kiteto Christian College. He applied for the job because of his love for children and his excitement at Bishop Isaiah’s vision of aff ordable education delivered in a Christian context. He’s certainly not doing it for the money as he knew the school would be struggling this year to meet the salaries of its teachers!

Like most of the new teaching staff , Ombeni comes from outside Kiteto, which highlights one of the challenges for this very dry, underdeveloped region of Tanzania: The lack of home grown teachers and the diffi culty of persuading other teachers to move here. For Ombeni his being here is part of his calling as a Christian.

Ombeni lives in one of the single storey school buildings that surround St. Michael’s Cathedral on four sides; he eats the daily diet of ugali (maize) and beans in communal fashion with the pupils and other staff . Here the life of worship and education is closely interwoven, right from the early morning when the strains of unaccompanied singing from the Cathedral compete with the sounds of children doing star jumps round the

quadrant. Ombeni himself has a rich, deep bass voice that he will use to good eff ect in worship at the slightest opportunity!

The vision that has a� racted Ombeni to be here is that of the Bishop of this brand new Diocese. Bishop Isaiah is a local man with great charisma and a deep, pragmatic faith who is building a loyal team commi� ed to a tripling of the college’s primary and secondary population. He has halved the school’s fees to make them more aff ordable to local people in the town of Kibaya, where there is no established government secondary school. He has opened the doors of the school to Christian and Muslim pupils alike and the school should break even again as pupil numbers rise. Not only that but Bishop Isaiah already has long-term plans for a crucially important teacher training college on land recently gi� ed to the Diocese.

Ombeni is passionate about the needs of his children. He is delighted at the new desks and books gi� ed by Kirby Muxloe Parish and Market Bosworth Primary School and is hopeful for more support from Leicester Diocese in the coming year. He is particularly determined to improve the dormitory accommodation of the boarding pupils, who at present o� en sleep without ma� resses, with the youngest ones sometimes four to a bed.

There is a real sense of youthful enthusiasm currently at heart of this newborn Diocese. I was le� convinced that it is a crucial time for our Diocese to be as supportive as we possibly can be in helping to nurture its full potential.

Jacob Ma� ias (pictured right) is from Babati deanery in the Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro. He has recently trained as

an evangelist at Munguishi Bible College (which sales of ‘Munguishi Coff ee’ in Leicester help to fund), but his daily work is that of tending his maize fi eld and supporting himself through small-scale farming.

Jacob has been identifi ed by Bishop Stanley as one of a team of full-time church-planting evangelists. For the fi rst half of 2012 Jacob has been a part-time evangelist, working Monday-Thursday on his fi eld at Endamaghai. Then on Thursday

a� ernoon he has been cycling for 4 hours up into the mountains, to the town of Derrida which has been rapidly expanding due to its location alongside the newly tarmacked main road out of Babati. There he has been working as an evangelist at the newly planted church over the

People in Mission One World, Two Lives

Bob Brown, Luke Stra� on – both teachers on the DMK/Kiteto link group – and Janet Ingram – diocesan RE Adviser and cathedral education offi cer – are preparing a learning pack for schools. Like the 2002 ‘One World, Two lives’ material it will be appropriate for primary and junior secondary schools and church groups. It should be ready early in 2013.

The pack will comprise power point presentations on diff erent topics (school life, shopping, Kilimanjaro, assemblies among others), direct pupils to other web sites and videos and use pictures, stories and information taken from the experiences of those who have visited Tanzania. The aim is to bring to life the spirit and voice of Tanzanian people with materials which do justice to the lives of people like Ombeni and Jacob.


worship in a way that renews and inspires

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Philippa-Lee Howe writes, “I am a worship leader at St Peters in Church Langton and came across a leafl et in our Church advertising a course named W4T or (Worship for today). The ‘Today’ in this title resonated strongly with me as I was developing a heart for worship which was relevant to our post modern society. It was these other expressions of faith and worship I was keen to explore.

I had already completed a Journey in Faith course with the School for Ministry, so knew that standards would be high and I would learn enough for this position. In particular the W4T course has highlighted three main things to hold on to:

• Firstly to pray, prepare, and pray again, allowing the Spirit of God to guide us in all we do, prayer is the alpha and the omega for all those leading worship. A disciplined prayer life is critical to the growth of our church, - it has been said that,

‘without prayer, the Church dies’.

• Secondly, humility. We are told in the Bible that ‘Those who bow down and humble themselves before God, will be li� ed up’ .So as we lead others in worship it is essential to ourselves come before the throne of God with humility.

• Thirdly, when planning, we are to recognise that we are all equal parts of the body of Christ - all God’s children, all dearly loved. We honour God when we work in co-operation and in love, we share in the rich diversity of gi� s, skills and abilities that God has given us. Our priests, evangelists, musicians and tea makers are equal parts of Christ’s body, therefore I strongly promote close working relationships to improve the worship in any Church. If there is not enough time to meet,

Philippa-Lee involved in worship with ‘Free Spirit’ from Church Langton at an event in Leicester’

Worshipping Today

look at your priorities, and make time. ‘Do not stop meeting as some are inclined to do’ (Hebrews, chapter 10, verse 25). I have been blessed to witness the journey of others on W4T, to see how God has lead and spoken to them in ways that are wholly unique to each person. The W4T course has given me lots of ideas for creative worship which with the team, over time, we will implement.

To conclude, I would encourage anyone who feels called to a particular role in the Church but lacks wisdom - to pray,then email Stuart Burns at the School for Ministry for guidance. I believe that ongoing training and development is, in part, our search for the living God inside each of us. W4T has made a huge diff erence to me. Thanks to my tutors, Louise Corke, Simon Stokes and Stuart Burns.”

weekend before cycling all the way back to start work again on Monday.

Now as a full-time evangelist, Jacob is moving up to live in Derrida and for three years he will receive an income from the Diocese. In this way he can devote himself to his work as an evangelist and gradually get himself back into a position where he can start supporting himself through farming in Derrida.

It was wonderful to be able to experience at fi rst hand Jacob’s excitement about

the new work to which he has been called. And it was good to know that the Diocese of Mount Kilimanjaro is being supported by Bishop Tim’s Lent Appeal in being able to deploy these new evangelists over the next three years.

A short DVD fi lm of Bishop Tim’s visit is being made available to every parish in the Diocese. There will be an opportunity to support Bishop Isaiah’s vision for education through making contributions to the cost of a new dormitory for the children of Kiteto Christian College.

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A Sense of Scale?

6

lifelong Christian nurture

At the start of the last century, the British Navy used to have essentially one main design of vessel that was built small, medium or large. Sometimes as churches we operate in the same way, not always recognising the eff ect size has on how we are made up, how we make decisions, how we worship, welcome new people and reach out in mission.

Next Spring, there are two special morning conferences to explore issues of size and scale in church, one for churches of under twenty people and one for churches of between one hundred and two hundred. They are open to all but especially aimed at clergy, churchwardens, church council members, administrators, treasurers, those involved in leading worship, children and young people’s groups. The conferences are free but places are limited to 150 people so book soon with [email protected] or 0116 261 5348. Both start with coff ee at 9am, fi nish at 1pm and are at St Martins House in Leicester.

For churches 100-200 people: Saturday 23rd February 2013, including:

• Keynote speaker and author Bob Jackson will help us consider the possibilities and challenges of being a numerically larger church;

• We will consider the latest research on church size, exploring some of the organisational factors which have sometimes inhibited churches of 100-200 growing much beyond that;

• Seminars on a range of topics: ‘How do we lead, organise and decide together in order to grow?’ ‘How is our worship and tradition keeping us the size we are?’ ‘Unity or uniformity’ ‘How do we avoid being merely a friendly church and grow instead as a church easy to make friends in?’

• Bishop Tim will off er some personal refl ections and a structured opportunity to tell him about what the diocese as whole can do to help you fl ourish.

For churches under 20 people: Saturday 13th April 2013, including:

• Keynote speaker Amiel Osmaston, Director of Training in Carlisle Diocese, will bring her considerable personal experience supporting smaller congregations.

• We will consider the latest research on church size, exploring how churches can be the best they can be for the size they are.

• Seminars on a range of topics. Working with children and young families. Size appropriate worship. Working with very few young people. Having diffi cult conversations and creative use of buildings.

• Bishop Christopher will off er some personal refl ections and leading us in worship, refl ection and prayer.

We can hardly read a newspaper today or look at a TV guide without fi nding the topic of old age and the implications for society of an ageing population.

The enormous fi nancial implications on medical and social care budgets; the loneliness of many elderly people living alone and the increasing lure of assisted dying for those who feel life no longer has any purpose once useful activity ceases – all these are issues we’re grappling with as a society. Is ageing just a huge problem or can it be a signifi cant opportunity?The idea of the Omega Course was born from a conversation with a retired school teacher in Loughborough, who suggested that the Church needed a course for older people to explore the challenges of growing old and preparing for death – just as there was an Alpha course for those exploring the basics of Christian faith and beginning the journey.

Working as a Hospice Chaplain at LOROS, I encounter many people facing the end of life and I have become aware that the depth of faith of some of our Christian patients does not seem to bear the weight of illness and the approach of death. I realize that in many churches the subjects of suff ering and dying are rarely spoken about. A theology of a powerful and redeeming God, without the

Introducing the Omega Course

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5. Eggventure Beads provide another way of discussing the Easter story, while making a threaded bracelet. More information about that is available at www.experienceeaster.org/

4. Make your own hot cross buns – children love cooking and can participate in that; again with the opportunity to discuss the symbol of the cross and the biblical importance of bread while you do it – as well as eating a few spare raisins along the way.

3. Making an Easter garden: a good activity for younger children but supervision and support is necessary. You can talk the Easter story through while you are making it, in a way that is not too gruesome.

2. Making Easter bonnets; but, while fun, it doesn’t have any bearing on the Easter story.

1. Making a crown of thorns: very thought provoking but perhaps for older children

Barbara Coulson, South Framland Benefi ce

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becoming child friendly

How early in the year we have to start planning these days. But mindful of the adage “If you fail to prepare, then prepare to fail” this is the moment to be thinking of your next Lent Course.

Lent course for children? The death knell surely, it’s bad enough a racting adults… but kids?

Friends and Heroes, the Christian DVD series, were advertising a children’s Lent Course and with Parish Mission Funding we purchased the whole series. Predictably, when we got it we discovered that the course related to the last four instalments of a 39 series pack! Ah well….So we ran a three week introductory taster to the series in Lent.; Sunday evenings at 6pm we had a ‘cosy up’ at home with kids sprawled in sleeping bags, and under duvets , on the sofa etc with their Mums; followed by a supper (baked beans on toast and ice cream, but not together) and prayers before home. I had expected perhaps 6, but we were between 8 and 10 plus mothers who were invaluable as helpers and good company too. To watch DVDs cuddled up together on a dark Sunday evening was a lovely experience – but by the end of Lent the clocks had changed. The light evenings made it really diffi cult to keep them inside to watch a DVD. That was a lesson!

It was such a success that we rashly ran a holiday club using the Series. Great fun, so the hard work passed unnoticed. This too was a success, a racting 13 until the last day when it suddenly shot up to 18. Buoyed up by this, or perhaps just made foolhardy, we moved on to a special Harvest Festival, using the series - amazing - 25children. So now we intend to split into two groups and revert to Sunday evenings, so that next Lent we will be able to run the full Lent course correctly. A year late, but well…

The Lent course provided the seeds to start growth, so perhaps in a backwards way forwards we were able to use Lent

correctly.

Children are very young and tender in a way we o¡ en forget. Huge care is needed in the way the passion narrative is portrayed. On the last day of the Lent course we showed a song and video called “Remember me”, a song of the Last Supper with the story of Christ’s passion from the last supper to the crucifi xion in 3D cartoon format. Both the children and their Mums who had got to know the person of Jesus depicted in the cartoon series and just said “ Oh, what a sad story”. Never overestimate the biblical knowledge of participants! I thought they knew the passion story.

Easter Activities

accompanying perspective of a vulnerable and suff ering God, can leave people of faith feeling bere¡ when faced with a terminal diagnosis.

Many people don’t want to think about death and dying before they have to and fi nd the subject frightening or depressing. However, nothing can change the fact that we are all going to die and none of us knows when. I believe that it’s as we face our fears about ageing and dying and discover spiritual resources to sustain us in the evening of life, that we will fi nd courage and fresh hope.

This 4 week course is for:• Anyone who has a pastoral concern

for the elderly in our Church communities

• Those who are newly retired and want to anticipate and prepare for the challenges of older age

• Those who work with the elderly in residential and community se ings.

The Course covers:• Spirituality and the second half of life• Living with Loss and change• Befriending death• Keeping meaning and purpose alive

For more details on the Omega Course contact [email protected] or on 0116 261 5317

Helen Newman, Co-ordinating Chaplain at LOROS

Lent Course for Kids


This day conference will address three key questions: 1. How to develop and strengthen Messy Church? 2. How are disciples growing in Messy Church? 3. How can we make the most of the opportunities

Messy Church presents for growing disciples?

Come and join the discussion about this important issue; the day offers something for everyone no matter what stage of Messy Church you are at. To book contact email: [email protected] or contact Claire Stapleton on 0116 261 5317

Growing Messy Church, Growing Disciples

With Lucy Moore

Saturday 8th December 2012 10am-3.30pm

St Paul’s Church, Hamble Road, Oadby, LE2 4NX

Free!!!

Bring your own lunch and we’ll provide the coffee!

Free!!! This day conference will address three key questions: 1. How to develop and strengthen Messy Church? 2. How are disciples growing in Messy Church? 3. How can we make the most of the opportunities

Messy Church presents for growing disciples?

Come and join the discussion about this important issue; the day offers something for everyone no matter what stage of Messy Church you are at. To book contact email: [email protected] or contact Claire Stapleton on 0116 261 5317

Growing Messy Church, Growing Disciples

With Lucy Moore

Saturday 8th December 2012 10am-3.30pm

St Paul’s Church, Hamble Road, Oadby, LE2 4NX

Free!!!

Bring your own lunch and we’ll provide the coffee!

Free!!!

8

the welcome of newcomers

I wonder if you have shared my experience. You pluck up courage to visit the local Church for the first time, hoping to meet with God and be part of a warm, welcoming Church family. Once you’ve found the service times and the Church location you make your way gingerly across the threshold.

What do you find? A warm welcoming smile and helpful guidance on the service sheet, hymns and an introduction to someone you might sit with? OR no-one at the door, a pick n mix of service sheets and hymn books to select from, the building seems dark and cold, the congregation seem to be sitting on their own or in pairs in silent contemplation and you couldn’t possibly talk to anyone, so you sit on your own. The service feels like a lonely experience, especially as you have picked up the wrong sheet and you walk out without talking to anyone, as the minister rushes around trying to get people to sign up for the coffee rota! I imagine you never return to that Church.

Welcoming newcomers is so important and St Mary’s, Lutterworth have taken this to heart as a vibrant Church in South Leicestershire, they wanted to ensure that their Church was welcoming to everyone. The results have been encouraging. An increased attendance at their main Sunday service, an increase in the electoral roll and the welcome rated as what people liked most about the Church. The list of improvements have been far reaching from new notice boards, a new welcome team and essential signs to the loos; to pastoral follow up for newcomers and making space for historic artefacts that visitors came to see and more improvements are on their way.

Barry Hill from the Mission and Ministry team explains that “‘Everybody Welcome’ is a four session course, to help churches look at themselves through the eyes of someone who is new. Through a series of reflections it offers both encouragement and challenge to a worshipping community, as well as practical ideas for improvement”.

It was this course, that Rosemary Lowdon and Dawn Pope from St Mary’s proposed to their PCC and gained agreement to run over four weeks in Lent with coffee and cake! Fifty people were encouraged enough to attend each evening, including the home groups; and sessions were broken down into DVD clips or short discussions in small or large groups about transforming the welcome in the Church. All the good things the Church did were noted along with areas for improvement that are gradually being tackled by the PCC.

What I liked about St Mary’s experience was that they recognised how important refreshments are for welcoming newcomers, much of Jesus ministry took place around a meal, and so St Mary’s also purchased a coffee machine to serve excellent coffee!

Everybody Welcome

Is everybody welcome in your Church? Why not try the course?Andrew Rhoades

The ‘Everybody Welcome’ material is available from the Diocesan Mission and Ministry team who can advise or facilitate the sessions for clusters of churches (0116 261 5317)


9

confi dent and sensitive evangelism

Hope in Leicester and Leicestershire is about Unity, Kingdom and Word and Deed Mission. Building on the dozens of churches who reached out in Hope 08, the special Hope ‘13 in Leicestershire will be ‘Youth Led’, as many revolutions are, and ‘whole Church’ because God made us to be family.

• We see 2012 and 2013 as a time of praying, preparing, training, resourcing and equipping, a time to bring Churches together for Mission in their towns, villages and cities.

• In the Autumn of 2013 we are going for a big youth mission in schools and communities across the city and county.

There will be lots of opportunities for young people to be involved in mission where they live and beyond and to be a catalyst for their churches to do the same. • Beyond 2013 we also want to leave a legacy of ongoing word and deed mission in Leicester and Leicestershire.

Hope Together ForumsOver the next year we are pu� ing on Hope Together Forums that we would like to invite you to. The aim of the forums is to inform, inspire, equip, connect and pray. The theme of our fi rst Forum in September was “Hope and my church?” To enable as many people as possible to be involved we are repeating the

forums on 4 separate evenings, in 4 diff erent parts of Leicester and Leicestershire.

There are more Forums planned for 5th, 6th, 12th and 13th March and 3rd, 4th, 10th, 11th September 2013 (all 7:30pm, sign up to the bi-monthly e-mail for more details .

Hope Revolution Mission Academies for Young PeopleThe Mission Academy is going to help young people learn what a lifestyle of mission could mean for them and will certainly grow them in faith. They can dream, plan and put into practice, relevant ways of sharing hope with others, using words and actions. Leicester East and West Mission Academies are about

to get started, get involved!

Get Involved in HopeFor more information on any of the above or to sign up to receive our newsle� erEmail: ma� @realityyouthproject.co.uk or call: 0116 2623037

Imagine all over Leicester and Leicestershire in communities large

and small, churches working together, bringing Jesus’ story alive through

word and deed. Imagine lives turned upside down and despair turned

inside out. Imagine lives changed and communities transformed for

the sake of God’s Kingdom here in Leicester and Leicestershire.

Together, with God’s help, we can see faith, hope and love come to our

beautiful and broken City and County.

The biggest Youth Mission ever in Leicester and Leicestershire is coming

together, we wanted to let you know some details as soon as we could, so that

you can plan it into your programme. Here’s a few of the high points:

Thursday 26th September 2013: Soul Survivor Celebration

30th September-11th October 2013: Schools Missions

Saturday 19th October 2013: Youth Leaders Training Day

23rd-27th October 2013: ncounter extra, 5 day youth mission

4th November-15th November 2013: Schools Missions

Thursday 21st November: Soul Survivor Celebration

On 24th September Hope 13 was commended by the Church leaders of Church Together in Leicester (pictured below), “We were pleased to affi rm the work of ‘Hope08’ through

our individual Churches and as Church Leaders of Churches Together in Leicester and Leicestershire, commi� ed to

sharing in the mission of Jesus Christ. We are delighted to commend the ongoing work of ‘Hope Together in Leicester and Leicestershire’ as a gi ̄ to the Churches in this City and County.”

Denominational leaders commending Hope 13, left to right: Neville Bailey - New Testament Church of God, Janet Perry - The Society of Denominational leaders commending Hope 13, left to right: Neville Bailey - New Testament Church of God, Janet Perry - The Society of Friends/Quakers, Michael Hockaday - Congregational Federation, Revd Lynn Fowkes - URC, Lieut-Colonel Mike Caffull - The Salvation Army, Revd John Anderson - Chair of the Enabling Group of Churches Together in Leicestershire, Bishop Paul of Trichy (as a guest), Revd Tim Woolley - Methodist Northampton District, Bishop Tim Anglican Bishop of Leicester, Revd Michael Moore - Roman Catholic Diocese of Nottingham, Ian Jones - All Nations Church.


10

being rooted in prayer

This Autumn saw the beginning of a two year project run by Leicester Cathedral called Breathe Across the Diocese. The aim of the project is to strengthen ministry and engage with the spiritual needs of young people through the use of a resource called Breathe.

Breathe was designed by the organisation dare2engage as a tool to enable young people (14-19 yr olds) to engage with bigger life questions. It uses a large parachute style mat with 12 stations and iPods to open up aspects of the Christian story in a user friendly way.

Over the last three years, Breathe has been used extensively throughout Leicestershire with schools and parishes and now with thanks to the Henry Smith Charity, the Cathedral Education Team is able to extend its work to support clergy in schools and parishes across the diocese. This work has already begun with three training sessions undertaken and further opportunities for training are available. There is no fi nancial cost to parishes. We hope this will be a tangible way in which the Cathedral might support the work of ministry in the diocese and help schools and parishes cement their

working relationships. The parish church in Kibworth has used Breathe successfully with its local high school and is a good example of how Breathe has been used to strengthen rural ministry and connect with the young people in the parish. Revd Ludger Fremmer, the parish priest, reported on the success of the project:

“My PCC invited the nearby high school to use Breathe in our church and the school found that the pupils had such a positive experience that they asked for a second visit. Since the fi rst installation, links have strengthened between the church and

the school and the work that the church’s youth worker was doing beforehand was reinforced by Breathe; since its initial use a lunch time club has been established at the school to help children develop their understanding of those life and spiritual issues raised by Breathe. The wider

community also benefi ted as it was able to use Breathe on the days the school was not using it.”

The transforming aff ect of Breathe on students has been very apparent through their reaction and comments.

“One thing I loved about Breathe was being able to relax and think about the people that love me.”

“It touched my heart to be honest.”

Canon Michael Rusk, has said: “As an Area Dean, I would like Breathe to be brought out to every church and school in the deanery. There can be few more eff ective ways of enabling people to experience God in a contemporary, guided but non-directive way. Breathe taps into the deep spiritual yearnings of people today. It is wonderful medium for beginning the journey of faith. I recommend Breathe unreservedly.”

If you are a parish priest, youth mission worker or have a heart for young people and would like to participate in the next training dates on Friday 12 or Wed 17 April please contact the Breathe administrator, Julie Tyler to reserve a place. [email protected] 0116 261 5372

If you would like to discuss this opportunity further contact Janet IngramCathedral Education Offi [email protected] 0116 261 5355

Breathe Across the Diocese

“Breathe gives a deep meaning and understanding of life and yourself.”

“Breathe gave me time to think about what I normally wouldn’t. It made me think

about my future and motivated me to change and become a be� er person.”

“It made me think about how lucky I am in my life—going to school, having materialistic things etc. It also made me think about the

people I love and owe a lot to.”

“Breathe was good and made us think. We worked alone, it made

us feel more independent.”

“I enjoyed it because it gave you a chance to relax and think about your

beliefs and future.”

“I enjoyed ‘Breathe’ because it gave me an idea of what Christians believe and think. It made me think about God and how he created everyone.”


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Glass Candles by Farris £3.95Stained Glass ISBN: 9786000005283Crib Scene

ISBN: 9786000003999 Other designs available.

Our Christmas Cards come in all shapes and sizes, packs or singles. Lots of Charity Fundraising Cards. Not a Santa in sight!

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ISBN: 9786000003999 ISBN: 9786000003999 Other designs available.Other designs available.Other designs available.Other designs available.Other designs available.

Down to Earth By Rosie RushtonISBN: 9781848675285£15.99

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Messy NativityBy Janc Leadbe� erISBN: 9780857460554£4.99

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Why do we call it Christmas?DVD By Buck DenverISBN: 0853026002370£9.99

Metal Stable with fi gures £29.99ISBN: 5050544030846We have many more Nativity Scenes and fi gures. Prices start from £14.99

Joy Nativity Ornament by Blossom Bucket £5.90ISBN: 0809678866365We have many more Blossom Bucket Nativity Figures, prices start from £4.50

Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree Meaningful Fairtrade Christmas Tree DecorationsDecorationsDecorationsDecorations from the makers of The Real from the makers of The Real from the makers of The Real Easter Egg. £4.20Easter Egg. £4.20Easter Egg. £4.20Easter Egg. £4.20Easter Egg. £4.20Easter Egg. £4.20Easter Egg. £4.20Easter Egg. £4.20ISBN: 6060253080049 ISBN: 6060253080049 ISBN: 6060253080049 ISBN: 6060253080049 ISBN: 6060253080049 ISBN: 6060253080049

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1

There’s more to Christmasat your local Christian Bookshop

This Christmas, choose gi� s that are a li� le more meaningful. At Christian Resources Leicester, you ‘ll fi nd inspirational gi� s for your whole family, gi� s that refl ect what you believe and who you are, gi� s that might just change someone’s life.

www.christianresourcesleicester.comSt Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, LE1 5PZ


I was just wanderingBy Jeff LucasISBN: 9781853458507£8.99

Faith in the Public SquareBy Rowan WilliamsISBN: 9781408187586£20.00

A Clergy Husband’s Survival GuideBy Ma� hew CaminerISBN: 9780281067909£8.99

Seriously Funny 2By Adrian Plass and Jeff LucasISBN: 9781850789673£8.99

Silences and NonsensesBy Adrian PlassISBN: 9781850788768£9.99

The Real Gi� of ChristmasMusic CD & InspirationISBN: 9781616263973£5.99

Redeeming Love By Francine RiversISBN: 9781854246592 £8.99Illusion By Frank Pere� iISBN: 9780857213266 £9.99Babe’s Bible By Karen JonesISBN: 9780232529203 £10.99

A Hobbit Devotional By Ed StraussISBN: 9781616267438£7.99

About Christian ResourcesWe are a friendly and well-established Christian Book & Gi� Shop situated in the heart of Leicester City Centre, next to the Cathedral. Founded over 20 years ago and formerly an SPCK branch, the shop now forms an integral part of St Martins House, which is owned by the Diocese of Leicester. The building is a place dedicated to hospitality, outreach and service and several Leicestershire charities are based here. All surplus profi ts from the shop, a� er meeting it’s needs as a business, are ploughed back into the valuable outreach work of the House.

Bible Trek: Trivia Quiz BookISBN: 9781616266936 £3.99Jumbo Bible Sudoku ISBN: 9781616269470 £4.99The Exciting World of Churchgoing By Dave WalkerISBN: 9781848250291 £6.99

We have a wide range of journals, and notebooks of all shapes and sizes, great for presents or stocking fi llers

Small (12 inch) £15.95, Large (15 inch) £20.95Individual Advent Candles £2.95. Many other candles in stock, including christingle candles.

Packs of Advent Candles

10 Second SermonsBy Milton JonesISBN: 9780232528824£5.99

Gifts books

Fiction

2


Meaningful gi� s for Mums, Wives, Sisters & Friends.From Christian Journals and Pens, to Day Brighteners, Candles and Inspiring Mugs, we are sure you will fi nd something special.

Church Accounts We can recommend excellent books for you and your church, we supply books for conferences and bookstalls, sale and return. 80% of Leicestershire Churches already hold an account with us. We can off er 10% Discount and 30 days’ credit, delivery can be arranged within local areas. Nearly all of our stock is available to order online at www.christianresourcesleicester.comIf you would like to set up an account with us, please ring 0116 2615222.

Our Mission Statement is simple….“Encouraging Faith,

Equipping Christians”www.christianresourcesleicester.com

Gifts for her

Gifts for him

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Thoughtful presents for men and light-hearted gi� s that will make them smile.

“Keep Calm” and let us inspire you….

We have a wide range of Children’s Books, Puzzles & Activities for li� le hands. One side of our shop is devoted to Children’s Gi� s because we know how important it is to share God’s message with young children.

3


Opening Times9am - 5pm Monday to Friday9.30am - 4.30pm Saturdaywww.christianresourcesleicester.comenquiries@christianresourcesleicester.com0116 2615222St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, LE1 5PZ

Courageous DVDFrom the creators of Fireproof, an inspiring new story about everyday heroes who long to be the kinds of dads that make a lifelong impact on their children.ISBN: 0602341005494£14.99

Abide With Me DVDOne hour of best-loved hymns with subtitles to sing along with, accompanied by inspirational fi lm of village churches, nature, land and sea.ISBN: 5038508004225£9.99

Johnny DVDA heartwarming family fi lm involving a foster child with leukemia.ISBN: 5031330594216£13.99

Our People DVDThe remarkable story of William & Catherine Booth that led to the birth of the Salvation Army.ISBN: 0727985013428£13.99

Best of Lou Fellingham Live30 of her best songsISBN: 5019282330120£14.99

Ultimate Hits for Kids12 big hits in Christian Music recorded by kidsISBN: 0080688860028Price: £7.99

50 Favourite Christmas Songs ISBN: 5019282306026 £9.99The Hymn Writers 15 hymns by Charles Wesley ISBN: 5060321070002 £12.99Keep Calm It’s Christmas ISBN: 0656172277957 £7.99

Favourite Christmas Carols 40 Carols on two CD’sISBN: 5024952020041 £7.99The Salvation Army 34 Festive Favourites ISBN: 5024952640300 £7.99

Wow Christmas 32 Christmas Songs ISBN: 0080688815622 £14.99Wow Hits 2013 30 Top Christian HitsISBN: 5099930161627 £14.99

4


11

When the 2020 Vision process was launched in 2010, people wanted to know if it was just a down-sizing exercise for a cash strapped church.

Certainly knowing that a decreasing number of stipendiary clergy could not just keep being stretched more thinly was a major driver. But that alone would never be a suffi cient rationale for a vision. The real question was discerning how God was continuing to resource his church and how we pursue mission with those resources. The deaneries have drawn up pastoral plans for the deployment of clergy, but there is much more than that. Beyond such practical decisions lies the challenge of a whole change of culture for the church which needs to be discerned, articulated and owned.

At the heart of a new vision is a new responsibility, by which we live out the truth that we are all the church, we are all its ministry and mission, and we are all the change we long to see. We are all the church... 2020 Vision calls for a new understanding of the interdependent roles of diocese, deanery and parish. Historically the local parish has looked to ‘the diocese’ for the deployment of a subsidised clerical ministry. However the 2020 process has involved the deanery as a place where real strategic decisions are discerned and many have spoken of a new quality of conversation that is occurring between churches. This does not replace

episcopal leadership, but it does point to a grown up partnership in strategic oversight. Furthermore ‘Shaped by God’ has already introduced the ‘mission partnership’ as the place where the nine marks of mission might be eff ectively delivered.

Again this does not replace the parish but our mission does not end with the parish boundary because some things will be done be� er in partnership with others and we are servants of the kingdom of God, not just the local church. Many 2020 plans posit new collaborative structures and they will need time to grow. We are all the church....and for that we need mature interdependence working through clear structures that allow the whole church to take appropriate responsibility at every level, diocesan, deanery and parish.

We are all the mission and ministry.... Decreasing numbers of stipendiary clergy give an opportunity not only to re-evaluate the role of clergy but also to realise the ministry of the whole people of God. Some lay people will fi nd themselves in new roles, perhaps as the ‘focal minister’ in a local church where the ordained leader is non resident. They may assume all sorts of ministries in the church and in wider society as we maintain our vision for the common good.

For the clergy it may well be less signifi cant in the future whether they

The emerging ‘2020 Vision’are stipendiary or non stipendiary but whether they exercise essentially a local church ministry or a wider enabling leadership. The key is that everyone is baptised for ministry and within that soil will grow many forms of service, licensed and informal, ordained and lay, church and world focused. Furthermore if we are all the mission and ministry, then we are all to some extent the discernment of those gi� s and encouraging vocation becomes everybody’s responsibility.

Everyone with a role will also be asking “who is my apprentice who I can equip to succeed me?” Vocational discernment and training will be worked out interdependently at every level of church. Finally we are all the change.. the future of the church is no-one else’s responsibility. This is not a vision that we can evaluate with critical detachment and wait to see how others take it on. This calls us all as participators to be the change we long to see in the church. It calls us to a process rather than a destination and we may not know for some time what shape of church will emerge through this transition. However, it will clearly not be created by those who on hearing God’s call “Whom shall I send? And who will go for me?” return with the answer “Hear am I. Send them.”

David Newman. Archdeacon of [email protected]

THE NEAR NEIGHBOURS FUND IN LEICESTER If you live in the City of Leicester and have an idea which will bring neighbours of faith and ethnicity together in your community talk to the Near Neighbours team. Grants are available from £250—£5000 to help local groups meet together and build stronger neighbourhoods. We offer help and advice every step of the way. Contact us today.

Call 0116 273 8813 Call 0116 273 8813 Call 0116 273 8813 Call 0116 273 8813 email: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]


12

lives and communities transformed

Change in the air…Change has been in the air at St Catharine’s in Houghton on the Hill over the last couple of years, during which time it has been the se� ing for an experimental church growth initiative.

We all know, of course, that these are challenging times for the church in the UK—we’re regularly reminded of this in the media (if you believe all that you read, I think the church is due to cease to exist sometime during the next 20 years or so…). But increased emphases on mission and growth in recent years have borne fruit in all kinds of ways. Much of the work on church-planting and fresh expressions, though, has taken place in urban, or at least suburban, se� ings. What would happen if we tried it in a village?

That was the essential question and idea behind an innovative proposal jointly developed between St Luke’s Church in Thurnby, which has thrived and grown in recent years; along with the small but enthusiastic congregation of St Catharine’s, Houghton, with input and encouragement from the wider diocese.

What if a group of 15 worshippers moved from St Luke’s to St Catharine’s, to broaden its age-range and to share the experiences gained having worked as part of a growing church? What if this coincided with the appointment of a new minister, who, with mission funding, would focus full-time on this single parish, and who would have a mandate to lead the church through a series of changes, in order to develop its eff ectiveness in outreach and evangelism in the community?

One year in, and we are beginning to see some shoots of new life. Just over a year ago, the average Sunday a� endance at St Catharine’s was under twenty. In addition to gaining a church gra� of fi �een people from St Luke’s, the congregation has, modestly but signifi cantly, increased in size. For all of us involved, the last year has been a real learning curve, as we’ve

got to know one another, sought to build relationships and try new things. We’ve got some things right; and, inevitably, we’ve also made some mistakes. We’re not kidding ourselves that we’ve done more than take some fi rst steps at this stage. But there have certainly been some encouragements, and we are grateful to the Lord for all that he has been doing amongst us.

One church member told me recently that the thing she liked best about St Catharine’s is “the enjoyment and excitement of working alongside like-minded Christians in reaching out to a whole new group of people from my own village.” Another commented that what was particularly exciting was “seeing St Catharine’s grow into a family friendly village church where the gospel is the central message”.

It should be said that what we are doing is, as they say, not rocket-science. All of the things we are trying to introduce have been done before elsewhere. So, it’s been about a changed pa� ern of services with a mix of the traditional and the contemporary; an emphasis on families and young people, with a regular Sunday School and new youth group meeting in the local primary school (building on the strong link with our church primary school has been a key element in the process

and has been of benefi t to both church and school); it’s been about regular all-age worship, the running of enquirers groups, and an emphasis on ge� ing people to meet together, both socially and to read the Bible and to pray regularly. Perhaps above all, it’s been about a commitment to expository preaching—coming from a conviction that we are to be people of the Word, sharing the gospel in a needy world.

We’ve a long way to go—but we are encouraged, as we see the work of the Holy Spirit within our church and in the lives of individuals too.

Rob Miles

#Mini-Reviews #Mini-Reviews #Mini-Reviews “40/40” by Phil Green.“40/40” by Phil Green.“40/40” by Phil Green.

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13

self giving service to the community

Many people in the poorest parts of England are trapped in cycles of deprivation, aff ecting all aspects of life, from health and well being to quality of education and the chances of ge� ing a job. Children from deprived backgrounds are nearly a year behind their peers in language skills by the age of fi ve and they are over three times as likely to suff er from mental health problems as those in be� er-off families.

It is o� en diffi cult to understand the extent of poverty in the UK, but the statistics are staggering: 13.2 million people are currently living in poverty* – that’s more than one in fi ve! One in three children in the UK are living below the poverty line. This is one of the highest rates of child poverty in the industrialised world.

In the poorest communities there are commi� ed, talented and enthusiastic local people working to tackle poverty. These people feel called by God to do something about the deprivation they see around them, following the example of Jesus to reach out to the poor.

Over the past 25 years Church Urban Fund has worked with thousands of inspiring individuals and churches who are responding to the needs of those struggling with the eff ects of poverty. The projects that they run address issues such as homelessness, youth unemployment, and drug and alcohol dependency; working to meet people’s material, spiritual and emotional needs.

Within the Leicester diocese there are many examples of called, dedicated Christians tackling poverty locally. In the past three years, Church Urban Fund has supported nine projects within the

diocese, giving out over £41,000 to help projects get started.

Projects such as ‘Fresh Start’ which works with women seeking asylum. A local church used their empty vicarage to house six destitute asylum seekers for a six month period, during which time they received signifi cant legal support and sensitive case work to make a fresh appeal for asylum. In the UK, asylum seekers receive only £35 a week in

benefi ts – just £5 a day. Church Urban Fund helped ’Fresh Start’ by providing the church with a grant that allowed

them to furnish and decorate the house to make it a comfortable and cheerful place to live in.

Christ the King in Beaumont Leys obtained a 2 year grant for their ‘Tuesday Friends Project’, to lay on a range of activities for elderly people who have found themselves isolated. The project is aimed at providing a sense of inclusion and wellbeing.

‘Breathe’ run by Leicester Cathedral is a set of resources that helps young people to explore faith and values in an interactive and engaging way. Church Urban Fund provided the funding to take ‘Breathe’ on tour to six schools in areas of Leicester suff ering deprivation, giving teenagers the opportunity to refl ect on life’s big issues using media that was relevant to them.

Since 1987, Church Urban Fund has given out over £65million worth of funding to over 6,500 urban and rural projects just like those in Leicester, tackling poverty across the whole country. At the grassroots level, we get alongside local Christians and support them in their work, providing essential funding, training and support. On a national level CUF is providing a voice for poverty in England. Our vision is to see every church

in every community joining with us to tackle poverty through giving time to get involved, money to support workers, action to spread the message, and prayer for transformation.

CUF welcome opportunities to speak about poverty and our work to your Church and we value any donations to help with projects. Importantly we welcome prayer for our work and for those living in poverty across our country today.

For more information on how to be involved with Church Urban Fund please contact Ma� hew Page at ma� [email protected] or on 07738 883 709 and for grant applications contact Barry Naylor at [email protected]

Ceri Rhoades, Church Urban Fund, www.cuf.org.uk

*Poverty in this country is classed by the government as someone who’s total household income is lower than 60% of national median income per month a� er tax, adjusted for household size and composition. In real terms, a single person with an income of £665 or less per month a� er tax is below the poverty line and a couple with two children living on £1389 or less would be just below the poverty line.

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I can hear you saying it! What kind of liberal politically correct activity is In Shape promoting now?

Truth to tell, Inter faith week which falls this year between 18th and 27th November is a very good thing. A government sponsored initiative; this will be the 3rd year it has been observed. It would be wrong to say the week is ‘top down’ government directed, for unlike many other ‘weeks’ that are in the calendar it has no formal badging and it is entirely up to faith communities with other bodies to make of it what they will. Significantly, it gives recognition to the part faiths play in our diverse society and celebrates our commonality and community life, the positives in being ordinary people who live by faith. It is a chance for Christians together with people of other faiths to show off publicly the very best of what they believe.

What happens then? Well, people of different faiths organise themselves to hold activities to promote their faith

and showcase activities they might do together for the benefit of all. There has always been an intention that children and young people participate in events during Inter faith Week and that has always been the case in Leicester. And, there is always the opportunity for people to engage in dialogue and learn more. One might call it a week of mission, conducted in an informative, gentle and respectful way.

Here in Leicester, the St Philip’s Centre has always celebrated Inter faith week and this year we are holding an Open Day at the Centre when everyone is welcome to visit. On Friday 23rd November the Centre will be open from 10 am to 3pm. Why not come and enjoy our hospitality and see the resources available. We have special events on in a number of schools during the week and there will be special inter faith dialogue events to which everyone is invited.

Each year, in the Highcross Shopping mall, the Leicester Council of Faiths hold a faiths stall throughout Inter Faith

week to receive shoppers enquiries. Always popular, the LCF are grateful for volunteers from the churches to come and help meet the public (contact George Ballantyne 01162546868).

If doing practical good neighbours type deeds is your thing, then join Mitzvah Day being organised out of St Philip’s Centre on Sunday 18th November. It is a Jewish and St Philip’s joint initiative working with people from all different faiths to provide company for the lonely, in two of Leicester’s residential care homes (contact Riaz Ravat 01162733459)

If you would like to know more, or hold an event at your church to mark Inter faith Week do give the St Philip’s Centre a call contact Rev John Hall 01162733459

John HallDirector of the St Philip’s [email protected]

Inter faith week 2012

14


St Catherine’s Church, Burbage is a large building. It has been heated by a Victorian system with a domestic gas boiler that has failed to fire each year for the past five years. To heat the building through five cast iron radiators, sufficient heat had to rise to the roof before descending to heat the chilled congregation. The boiler needed to be chugging away for at least 6 hours before anyone could feel comfortably warm, whilst enduring at best a fiery Sunday morning sermon. Quarterly gas bills were coming in at in excess of £400 and were destined to rise considerably. Something had to be done, especially considering a possible cost of £50,000 for a new appropriate boiler, but still linked to Victorian radiators. Quite simply, the system was inefficient, ineffective and very costly.

As a Church that takes environmental and ecological issues very seriously, and which are incorporated into the mission statement, conversations began with our conservation architects, Acanthus Clews of Banbury. A number of systems were examined and considered. Such included solar panels and air to air possibilities. However, it was agreed that the best on offer would be ground source heat, taking heat from the extensive Churchyard. It was also agreed that underfloor would be the best and most efficient system on the basis that if your feet feel warm then the rest glows, whereas if your head, whether protected by hair or otherwise, feels the heat then such does not necessarily translate into overall warmth.

A trial bore hole was dug to ascertain the nature of the ground in the Churchyard, and this was felt to be satisfactory. Discussions took place as to the best location and number of bore holes required. It was agreed that six to the north side of the Church should prove sufficient, each bore hole going to a depth of 133 metres. Sufficient space was required for the pump and related equipment, and the former clergy vestry, again to the north side of the Church, was ideal, although the door needed to be removed to enable access.

There were a number of further and related considerations. Because the whole of the existing nave floor needed to removed and dug to a level of 1 metre to install the underfloor pipework, the Church would need to be closed for a period of 14 weeks. This began on 15th August, 2011, although pressure was exerted upon the Diocesan Advisory Committee to agree to this timescale (the Church needed to be functioning for Advent and Christmas!). All of the rather poor quality existing pews needed to be removed and for which there were ready cash purchasers, including the pub opposite the Church (parishioners can thereby still sit in the original pews), and the PCC agreed to install specially made moveable and stackable bench pews based on a design and company seen in the Church of St Thomas of Canterbury, Goring-on-Thames.

The new floor was to be in York stone. Apart from a lot of mess both in the Church and in the Churchyard, and confusion over the electric supply to the pump, everything went to plan, including the removal of the ancient and defunct gas boiler. The system was ‘fired’ at the beginning of December 2011, and we quickly had to learn how to turn it down as the congregation complained of being too warm.

St Catherine’s now has an eco-friendly heating system, using God-given heat from the ground and with no complaint from the residents of the Churchyard. We also have complete flexibility in the use of the nave, and in June 2012 hosted a dinner for 166 people with a disco and dancing (the north extension to the Church is also licensed!). Finally, we have just received our first payment from Ofgem under the Renewable Heat Initiative scheme, and which will continue for the next 20 years. Although costly to install, much of which related to the floor and the pews (for which members of the parish contributed in excess of £20,000), the Church is more than happy and content with what has been done and achieved. All that remains is to paint the interior of the Church, which suffered as a result of 14 weeks exposure to the elements, and to install a fit-for-purpose new lighting system. We are in the 21st century.

David JenningsRector, Burbage with Aston Flamville

Ground Source Heating for St Catherine’s

before and after

15


16

We are often asked why are less and less young people entering the Priesthood, or youth work, or becoming readers, evangelists, pastoral assistants or taking up other parish based roles. The answer we get from young people is . . . “I may be interested but how do I know what it will be like?”

So have you ever thought of having a parish intern but not know how to go about it .. how to ensure they have the experience they deserve, how to support them, how to develop them,

how to pay for them?

This year, with the blessing of the Bishops’ Staff we are running a trial with an organisation called DNA who have been working with parish and church based internships for over twenty years. We have interns working on their year out programme with a view to developing a partnership with them. Currently interns go to Bromley for two days a month to train, and here at St Martins House we are considering how we could develop that so the training can take place in Leicester and be supported by us.

So in September next year you could have a parish based intern, supported by you, by DNA, and by the Diocese ..

If you would like to know more contact [email protected] (Youth Ministry Officer) or 07795 805196. For more information take a look at their web site : www.dna-uk.org

Host: At home this Christmas?

Many UK based international students will be alone and would love to celebrate with you. Inviting a student to stay will make them feel welcome here.

Learn about other cultures, meet new people and make the world a little friendlier!

To learn more about volunteer hosting at Christmas or any weekend of the year, visit www.hostuk.org or call Regional Organiser Marie Songhurst on 01132 607270.

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GodbabyTM

He cries. He wees. He saves the world.


17

For straightforward advice on� Savings� Investments� Protection� Retirement

Contact Darrel Foulk, Independent Financial Adviserfor Leicester Diocese and area

01295 256 715 direct tel

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[email protected]

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Project1:Layout 1 16/6/10 11:21 Page 1

Leicester Grammar Junior School and Leicester Grammar School located together on one 75 acre site in Great Glen, off ering independent, co-education based upon Christian

principles for pupils aged 3 to 18.

For more details contact 0116 2591900 [senior school] or 0116 2591950 [junior school]

London Road, Great Glen, Leics. LE8 9FL

In His FootstepsA Pilgrimage to the Holy Land led by the Bishop of Leicester

Tuesday 29 October to Thursday 7 November 2013www.leicester.anglican.org/in-his-footsteps


AWARD WINNING DESIGN Pilgrim Gardens is a HAPPI winner! The ‘Housing our Ageing Population: Panel for Innovation Award’ sponsored by the Housing Design Awards.Opening Spring 2013, Pilgrim Gardens is a Warden managed, Assisted Living complex with 31 one and two-bedroom apartments for rental or leasehold purchase. Prices range from £115,000 to £148,900.

Take the virtual tour on our website www.pilgrimsfriend.org.uk Or email for a DVD and more information – [email protected]

Or write to: Michelle Hydon, Warden, Pilgrim Gardens, Evington, Leicester LE5 6AL Phone 0300 303 8455

Award Winning Pilgrim Gardens

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St Martins House7 Peacock Lane

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18

leicester.anglican.org/announcementsRevd Nicky McGintyHaving successfully completed her curacy in the Benefices of Barrow-upon-Soar with Walton-le-Wolds and Prestwold with Hoton. Nicky finished on Sunday 9 September in order to focus more on her consulting work and ministry and has been given Permission to Officiate.

Canon Barry NaylorIn addition: Acting Dean of LeicesterCurrent Appointment: Urban Canon at the Cathedral and Priest in Charge of the benefices of The Abbey and The Holy Spirit Team Ministry

Revd Canon Jean SemeonoffThe Bishop announces the death on Sunday 5 August of the Revd Canon Jean Semeonoff.Jean was ordained Deacon in 1987 and served as Parish Deacon with the Holy Spirit Team Ministry (St Nicholas and St Andrew) in Leicester in 1987 and again from 1989 to 1994. During the period from 1987 to 1994 Jean served as Chaplain to

the Deaf in Derby (1987 to 1989) and in Leicester (1989 to 1994). Jean retired in 1994 but continued to serve as the Bishop’s Advisor for Women’s Ministry (1993 – 1997) and as Minister for Special Pastoral Duties (1994 – 1999). Jean was an Honorary Canon of Leicester Cathedral from 1992 to 1999 and has had the Bishop’s Permission to Officiate since 1999. Jean leaves a daughter, Rachel and son, Julian.

Mrs Marie SlaterThe Bishop announces the death on 29 August of Marie Slater. Marie was a former Lay Chair in the Akeley East Deanery and a Reader with Permission to Officiate in Barrow-upon-Soar. Marie leaves two grown up children

Revd Jane KennedyNew Appointment: NSM Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) in the Avon Swift Team MinistryPrevious Appointment: Curate NSM in the Avon Swift Team Ministry

leicester.anglican.org/events

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Prestwold Classical Music ConcertFriday 2nd March - to be held at Prestwold Hall, Nr Loughborough, LE12 5SQ at 7pm for 7.30pm featuring Junko Kobayashi (pianist) and Tamara Zivadinovic (soprano)

Coff ee Morning, St Margaret’s, LeicesterSaturday 3rd March - 10 am - 12 noon. The Lord Mayor of Leicester will be in a� endance and the monies raised will go to the Lord Mayor’s Appeal.

Who do you say that I am?Saturday 10th March - A queer conversation on identity and faith. Pádraig Ó Tuama leads a workshop exploring the interface of sexuality and spirituality. 3.00-5.00pm. St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, LE1 5PZ £3 (concs £2)

Emmanuel Lunchtime ConcertsThursday 15th March - 1pm. Loughborough Endowed Schools bring a feast of choral and instrumental music. Chamber groups and soloists will enrich and entertain.

350th anniversary of the 1662 Book of Common Prayer evensongSunday 18th March - Leicester Cathedral Full choral evensong, with music from the Choirbook for the Queen, at 4pm

Worship With a Classical FlavourSunday 18th March - St Mary in Charnwood, Nanpantan, Loughborough at 6pm. With Ma� Lax (trumpet) & Angela Foan (piano)

Evening Talk by John FloranceThursday 22nd March - “Why bother with Wagner?” in The Kempe Room, St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane , Leicester, LE1 5PZ at 7.30pm

Spring Concert by the Shepshed SingersSaturday 24th March - at Holy Trinity Church, Barrow upon Soar. 7.30pm. Conducted by Andrew Goff . Tickets £7 (£6 concessions) from www.shepshedsingers.org.uk - or at the door

Spring Cra� Fair, Scrapto� Saturday 31st March - All Saints Church Scrapto£ . 10am - 3.30pm. Genuine cra£ stalls . Run by The Friends of All Saints Church Scrapto£ and Netherhall.

Lunchtime Recital St. Margaret’s, LeicesterThursday 12th April - 1 pm - 1.30 pm. Paul Bricher - Organ, Admission free - tea and coff ee provided

A Quiet Day In Eastertide At Off a HouseMonday 16th April - The Fellowship of Contemplative Prayer off er a day of silent listening to the Word of God at Off a House (near Leamington Spa) on from 9.30am to 3.15pm

Coff ee Morning - St. Margaret’s, LeicesterSaturday 5th May - To raise money for CHRISTIAN AID. 10 am - 12 noon. Many stalls, including raffl e and refreshments.

Lunchtime Recital St. Margaret’s, LeicesterThursday 10th May - 1pm - 1.30 pm. Phillip Herbert - Organ, Admission free - tea and coff ee provided.

Emmanuel Lunchtime ConcertsThursday 17th May - 12.45pm Join us for a lunchtime of Jeanine Thorpe’s virtuosity and musical passion.

Worship With a Classical FlavourSunday 20th May - St Mary in Charnwood, Nanpantan, Loughborough at 6pm Jeanine Thorpe (violin) & Jeremy Kimber (piano).

‘At the heart of the hoped-for future, which comes from the God of love, is the flourishing of individuals, communities, and our world globe’

Prof Miroslav Wolf

Five conversations in Lent exploring faith and contemporary issues in our society.

Headlined Health, Education, Justice, Economics and Welfare.

Experts from the national stage, alongside regional spokespeople and Christian thinkers will meet together and invite us into a public conversation chaired by Bishop Tim.

Tues 28 FebruaryTues 6 MarchTues 13 MarchTues 20 MarchTues 27 March

All weeks 7.00-9.00pm

The Grand Hall, St Martins House, 7 Peacock Lane, Leicester, LE1 5PZ

life in abundance?

more than a meeting

See www.leicester.anglican.org/lent-lectures-2012for more details

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leicester.anglican.org/events

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Three (Theological) Chords and the truth: Pop Music and SpiritualityTuesday 27th November, 7.30pm - 9.30pm at St Martins House - An exploration of how popular music ‘works’, and what this means for theology and spirituality today.

Jack and the Beanstalk in HugglescoteWednesday 28th November to Saturday 1st December - St John The Baptist, Hugglescote. 7.30pm and 2.00pm matinee on Saturday. Adults £5.00 & kids £2.50

A Christian approach to Death and AgeingFour sessions starting on Wednesday 28th November - A four session pilot course looking at the distinctive perspective that Christian faith offers to the subjects of death and ageing.

Holy Trinity Barrow Christmas Tree FestivalThursday 29th November to Sunday 2nd December. Refreshments available all day.

Christmas Tree Festival, Burton Overy.Friday 30th Nov to Sunday 2nd Dec- St Andrew’s Church, 10-30am to 6-30pm, Sun til 5-30pm. Adults £2.50, children free.

Christmas Tree Festival MountsorrelSaturday 1st to Monday 3rd December - Christ Church, Rothley Road, Mountsorrel from 10am to 4pm each day.

Concert by Shepshed SingersSaturday 1st December - 7.30pm at Loughborough Parish Church. Details at www.shepshedsingers.org.uk

Christmas Fair at St James the Greater Oaks in CharnwoodSaturday 1st December

Whitwick Christmas FayreSaturday 1st December - Whitwick Parish Church 4pm - 6.30pm

The Man Inside Exhibition of creative artwork by ex-offendersWednesday 5th to Sat 8th December - at St. Nicholas Church, St Nicholas Circle Leicester LE1 4LB. Opening times 10am-2pm (Saturday til 4pm )

Christmas Tree Festival, NarbouroughFriday 7th to Sunday 9th December - All Saints Church Narborough - 10am- 5pm and Sat 12noon until 4pm. £2 admittance Coffee Morning with a Christmas themeSaturday 8th December - St Margaret’s Leicester. 10 am - 12 noon. Stalls, tombola, and raffle, Refreshments. Admission free.

Messy Church Day - FREE eventSaturday 8th December, 10am - 4pm at St Paul’s Church, Oadby. Help develop and strengthen Messy Church and how can we make the most of the opportunities Messy Church presents for growing disciples? Come and join the discussion about this important issue;To book: [email protected] or contact Claire Stapleton on 0116 261 5317

Christmas Tree Festival, Tilton on the HillSaturday 8th and Sunday 9th December - St Peter’s Church, LE7 9LG. 11am - 4pm £2.50 adults and free for children. Christmas market in Village Hall Disabled access. Details www.tiltonchurch.co.uk

Enderby Brass Band ConcertSaturday 8th December - St. Mary Magdalen Church, Knighton, Leicester 7.30pm. Adults £8.00, Children £5.00. Refreshments. Tickets in advance Sue Ardley on 0116 2219604

Coffee Morning with a Christmas themeSaturday 8th December - St Margaret’s Leicester. 10 am - 12 noon. Many stalls, raffle, tombola and refreshments. Admission free.

Christmas Festival SwithlandSaturday 8th December - At St Leonard’s Church 10am till 5pm. Refreshments all day

Carol Service WyfordbySunday 9th December - Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin, Candle-lit Carol Service at 6.30pm. With refreshments.

St Margaret’s Leicester Carols by CandlelightSunday 16th December - 6pm followed by light refreshments.

Christmas concert ShepshedWednesday 19th December -St Botolphs Shepshed. Loughborugh Concert and Shepshed Singers.

Emmanuel Lunchtime ConcertThursday 20th December - Emmanuel Church, LE11 3NW @ 12.45

Recital St Margaret’s LeicesterThursday 20th December - 1 pm - 1.30 pm - David Crick - Organ. Admission free. Tea and coffee provided

Coffee Morning St Margaret’s LeicesterSaturday 5th January - (and 2nd February) Stalls and raffle. Refreshments available. Admission free

Sabbatical Planning MorningWednesday 9th January, 10am - 1pm at St Martins House - For those planning a sabbatical to share and learn with others and to hear from those who have recently undertaken a sabbatical.

Recital St Margaret’s LeicesterThursday 10th January - 1 pm - 1.30 pm. John Bence (Harpsichord) and Ben Carr (Recorder). Admission free.

Christingle Service St Margaret’s LeicesterSunday 27th January - 11am - Christingle Service.

Gender and Leadership - Theological Reflection and Research GroupThursday 21st February, 10am - 3pm - Gender affects and influences the way leadership is seen and received. It affects the way we are, and the way we approach others. This day is an opportunity for us to consider some of the emerging issues in Leadership studies, and connect to our practice and organisational cultures.

Exercising Senior Christian Leadership in a Multi Faith SocietyThursday 21st February - St Philip’s Centre presents a one day course for Christian leaders of all denominations to challenge and inspire fresh thinking across a range of inter faith areas.


The Interview

Ven Dr Tim Stratford Archdeacon of Leicester

The last Saturday in September saw the welcome to the diocese of the new Archdeacon of Leicester, Tim Stratford. As he settles into Leicester, In Shape sat down to find out more about Tim, his life and faith…

I was brought up in a non-churchgoing family but by parents who wanted the best for their children. The area we lived in was a tough outer estate called Huyton. I think my parents decided that the best way to provide me and my two brothers with a solid moral framework was to send us to church and to a church school. At about the age of eleven or twelve I rebelled, and my brothers shortly after me. They were both younger. Only a couple years later friends drew me back into the life of the church and a Scout group. Close fellowship led on to Confirmation and then on to a firm faith commitment. My own story continually reminds me about the importance of Christian fellowship, the outgoing reach of Christian people, and the rite of Confirmation.

One time when I felt particularly close to God was on the day I married Jen. And the reason for that seems to be for me that God and love belong together. That day was all about love. God always seems to be distant when love is also distant - so I suppose when I see people treating each other uncharitably or without respect then God seems far away. That can be the case when my thoughts are filled with the

sad truth about war and poverty; it can happen close at hand when politicking and selfishness take over.

Faith is energised for me when I know that I am part of a fellowship of people who are encouraging to one another and who try to walk in the way of Christ. We are not called to be Christians alone. Jesus called a group of disciples together, they were sent out to call others together, and it seems to me that it is in the space we share together that the Spirit comes.

My last two posts have been as the Incumbent of outer estate parishes, one just inside the Liverpool city boundary and one just outside. The first of these was Norris Green, where I spent 9 1/2 years. The Church of the Good Shepherd represented the Gospel beautifully. It was a small church of perhaps 40 worshippers but drew together over 100 people who volunteered to work in the Church Community Centre each week, and about 900 people a week visited that place. More than half considered themselves to be part of that church. The church stood for something quite different to the surrounding estate which was a place where I felt community had almost completely broken down. There was something attractive about the Good Shepherd. Whilst I longed to draw more into worship, I was delighted to encourage the green shoots of growth we could see.

I have also spent a similar period in Kirkby. Whilst the town is an area of severe multiple deprivation, society has not broken down as it had in Norris Green. Kirkby is a good place to live. Church was a bigger setup. We had four church buildings, a Church School, a youth centre in which we employed between a dozen and eighteen youth workers, and a good staff team. We worked at developing new congregations and sought to provide a range of differently shaped doors through which people could find their way into fellowship with God.

The two main areas of interest I brought to both churches were for urban mission and for good worship. I have found that friends from across the wider church of England have nourished and stretched my thinking too through bodies like the General Synod and the Liturgical Commission. I have always valued what the wisdom of the national church can offer to the local, and that lessons learned in local churches can challenge the wider church.

I don’t know what words friends would use to describe me. You should ask them really. I’d like to think that they said ‘open’ and ‘willing to learn’. I’ve just asked a friend sat next to me and he said, “You go straight to the point”. I don’t know if that means that I’m sharp or blunt!

As Archdeacon of Leicester I am hoping that I can play a part in building up a diverse range of worshipping communities, committed to the localities and networks that they serve. I particularly hope that these can be churches that people would like to be a part of: attractive, loving, open and Godly. And I would add then that this is something I would hope to model in the Staff Team, committees and Councils I will be a part of.

There is a long story of church presence, ministry and mission here in Leicester, a lot of learning and much wisdom. I need to listen to this and would value prayer for the space and time to do so. Please also pray for the family as we settle here: Jen has had to give up her work and Ben is travelling to and from School in Liverpool each weekend.

Moving to Leicester provides us with a fantastic new geography to explore. As a family we love visiting places and I am looking forward to discovering Leicestershire. I enjoy trying to create beautiful images with my camera and the new landscape is like a painter having a new canvas. I also enjoy cycling, music, good food and conversation.

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In Shape Winter 2012