News from the Diocese of Truro

JUNE 2014 30p

Contents:

The Gift Of The Holy Spirit

First Clergy College

Synod Votes For Women Bishops

Twenty Years On

Truly Man

Out & About

To Be A Pilgrim

Rainbow Shows The Way Ahead

Sun Shines On Prayer Book Society Spring Meeting

Change A Child’s Life - Forever

Training Days For PCC Secretaries And Safeguarding Coordinators

Real Presence

Team Update

Letter To The Editor

Discovering God’s K ingdom

thecoracle

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The gift of the Holy Spirit

Of course, as supporters of England, many of us will have our own ways of coping with events such as the World Cup. Having been disappointed on so many previous occasions, we can assume the worst and almost stop hoping for a miracle.

June, as well as witnessing some games of football – that are not, in fact, more important than life or death – will also contain the Feast of Pentecost. At this time we recall how the Holy Spirit was given to the disciples of Jesus Christ and they were enabled and empowered to live their lives in his name such that through him amazing things were possible.

We are told in the Acts of the Apostles that as a result of being given this incredible gift, the disciples lived their lives differently. They were able to engage with people from different backgrounds, they were able to make a difference in the lives of people, and they were themselves full of the Holy Spirit; such that their relationships were lived at a new and deeper level and they engaged in a new and revolutionary way of life – sharing and holding all things in common (Acts 2 vv. 40 - 42).

How will you celebrate the Feast of Pentecost this year? How important is it in your discipleship and in your sense of who you are as a disciple? There are many special events happening during the Pentecost period and, no doubt, you will have much happening in all of your churches.

IT WAS Bill Shankly (former manager of Liverpool) who said that football is not a matter of life and death – it is far more important than that! There is about to be a World Cup in Brazil where football will capture the lives of many people and hopes will be dashed for some and joy will be unconfined for others.

There is also the Churches Together in Cornwall event on the afternoon of 8 June in Gwennap Pit, when we shall gather together to celebrate and to rejoice in the open air. Of course, it might rain as it has done in the past; of course, you may not hear everything as we are outside and, of course, it may not be as comfortable as we might like it to be. But there is something significant

about being together and about being outside.

The Holy Spirit transformed the lives of the disciples and took them out of their usual way of being and enabled them to lead new and open lives. So, once a year, opening ourselves to the outside and the extraordinary possibilities that the Holy Spirit gives us is a good thing to do.

I do not know who will win the World Cup and I am not going to predict. I will leave that to an octopus or whatever will appear this time around. I am, as a supporter of England, understandably realistic and cautious.

I do know that Christ is alive and that in the power of the Holy Spirit all things are possible. And that God gives amazing gifts to us and yet, so often, we appear reluctant to receive them.

I hope you will all celebrate Pentecost and open yourselves literally and metaphorically to the gift that God gives to us.

Tim

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THE FIRST AMD Clergy College was held during the week commencing 12 May when 12 clergy from parishes across the diocese gathered near St Ives for teaching and reflection under the heading of God’s People.

Accompanied Ministry Development is (AMD) one of the 3 Strands of the ‘Our Vision’ strategy and is a significant investment in the life of parishes and clergy that provides space to reflect upon what it means to be church in the 21st Century, practical resources for local churches, and inspiration about God and our shared faith.

Just as people come in all shapes and sizes, so churches will be different as they emphasise this or that aspect of ‘being church’. This is part of what it means to flourish, for variety is God given. AMD will celebrate this diversity at the same time as desiring growth in all dimensions. So it will not seek to direct but, as its title indicates, accompany churches.

Archdeacon Audrey leads a session on ‘Being a Priest Today’.

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Synod votes for women bishopsHIGH SPOT of Diocesan Synod on Saturday 10 May was undoubtedly the debate culminating in an overwhelming vote in favour of the Consecration of Women in the Episcopate.

By way of an introduction, the Dean of Truro, Roger Bush, outlined the chronological background to the debate and pointed out that the latest proposal was radically different from the original, rejected by General Synod 18 months ago. “It is based on simplicity and a desire to move forward together,” he said, “taking into account the views of all and bound by trust and not legislation.”

Speeches from the floor were heartfelt and measured, with the majority in support of the motion – citing a number of female Cornish saints; the past 20 years of joy and benefits gained following the ordination of women as priests; and the need to be less introspective and to take on board the views of the wider community. “This is all about simplicity, reciprocity and mutuality,” said one delegate. “It also seeks to meet the needs of the opposing minority too,” remarked another.

Speakers against the proposals acknowledged that the deferral of 18 months had been a useful period for reflection and that removal of legislative measures was a positive step. However, in their opinion, there remained deep theological reasons why the consecration of women bishops was unacceptable, and adoption of the proposals would shut doors to closer collaboration with Orthodox and Roman Catholic ecumenical partners.

Summing up, the Dean thanked all the speakers and said: “It has been a good debate that reflects where we are in this matter and a chance to clear away mutual suspicion.”

The final voting was: house of Bishops 2 For, 0 Against; House of Clergy 26 For, 1 Against; House of Laity 37 For, 2 Against. There were no Abstentions.

In his Presidential Address, Bishop Tim encouraged delegates to enjoy the season of Easter. “Look around you … what do you see?” he asked. “We are wonderful, incredible people – alive. It is truly miraculous, yet we can take it for granted.

May I encourage you strongly to enjoy the whole season of Easter. Seven weeks of joyful awareness of the reality of new life in Christ.”

Bishop Tim pointed out that as well as the debate on women bishops, the subject of finance was on the agenda and that the figures might not “appear on the surface to be joyful”.

“We are looking at deficits in our budget and the matters are serious and we do need to take action to address them. My prayer is that we can view the matters of finance as a part of the wider picture.”

“God does not call us to bland mediocrity; God does not call us to uniformity either of style, taste or views. God does not call us to agree at the lowest common denominator. God does not call us to be silent on the difficult and disturbing issues. God does not call us to refrain from telling the world we are his disciples. God calls us to be a fully alive, joyful Easter people.”

In his presentation of the Annual Report of Accounts, finance director, Michael Kent,

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guided delegates through the unpleasant realities of an operating deficit and the measures being adopted to redress the situation, including the 3 Strands of the ‘Our Vision’ strategy and a radical review of the MMF system.

“Parishes have become so immersed in the struggle to meet their MMF obligations that they are putting maintenance before mission and disconnecting with the Church beyond their own parish boundaries,” he said. “This state of affairs is simply not compatible with the strategy of ‘Our Vision’.

Acting DBF chairman, Mike Todd, complemented Michael’s financial analysis with a presentation entitled ‘Moving Forward, Balancing the Books’. In it he described how during the next 12 months

he would preside over a complete overhaul of the method by which the diocesan budget was set; such that it was realistic, stable and sustainable. It would adopt a simple top down, zero-based approach, closely involve the Deaneries and lead to focused decision making.

In other sessions, Sheri Sturgess, reported on November’s General Synod meeting; and Sarah Acraman sought

approval for the diocesan safeguarding guideline documentation, Responsible Caring’. She reported that although there had been increased uptake in safeguarding training across the diocese, there was no room for complacency and that everyone should familiarise themselves with the definition of ‘vulnerable’ in the context of safeguarding.

The full transcript of the Presidential Address, Presentations and the Synod Book are available at

www.trurodiocese.org.uk/about-us/about-the-diocese/diocesan-synod

During Synod, Bishop Tim paid particular tribute to the work of Roger Caudwell and Paul Terrett as they retired from the roles respectively as chairman and vice-chairman of the Diocesan Board of Finance.

He described Roger as “an extraordinary man – quiet and thoughtful, calm and careful, sharp and perceptive with an eye for detail and a heart for the Gospel”; and of Paul he said, “he filled every role imaginable within the governance of the DBF and indeed the diocese” – adding he was “erudite, witty, sharp and to the point, it seems to me he even knew Archbishop Benson before he came to the Diocese of Truro!”

Paul Terrett Roger Caudwell

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ON 3 MAY, under blue skies and with the sun shining, men and women from across the Church of England gathered in Dean’s Yard, Westminster, writes Revd Lesley Walker.

Corks popped, and there was an air of expectation and a buzz of conversation. For many it was an opportunity to greet old friends. Our purpose was to join in a ‘Walk of Witness’.

As 2pm approached, we were called to order as the ‘Walk’ formed up. We left Westminster, crossed Parliament Square, passed along the Embankment and up to St Paul’s Cathedral. There were diocesan banners – both official and homemade – but I proudly waved the Cross of St Piran.

As the 1994 ordinands gathered on the steps for the ‘Class of ‘94’ photo with the Archbishop of Canterbury, there were both smiles and tears of joy. A sea of white covered the steps as around 700 women in albs and white stoles

gathered – among them being several women from our diocese. The women were greeted by spontaneous applause, lasting 15 minutes, as they entered the cathedral and took their seats under the magnificent dome.

Canon Philippa Boardman presided at the Eucharist with Archbishop Justin as deacon and preacher. In his sermon, Archbishop Justin spoke of the journey that the church was on. Much had been achieved but that there was still some way to go. He acknowledged that the institution of the church had struggled with the concept of change.

“As a representative of that institution, I want to thank those here today whose costly loyalty, whose scars, make this celebration possible,” he said. ”And I want to say personally how I grieve that it cost so much, and to apologise for my own part in that hurt.”

Twenty years on

Revd Marion Barrett adds…

Sharing in the celebration was incredibly moving and a great privilege. It was quite a task for a national group to trace and invite all the cohort of 1994 women priests. Of the original 10 women ordained priest in the Diocese of Truro, three have died and some chose to celebrate quietly at home.

I remember sharing their ordination service in the afternoon following my own morning service when I was made deacon. I walked with one of them to St Paul’s, and met others living here, but ordained elsewhere.

Of course, we as a diocese celebrated the 20 years of men and women working together at the Maundy Thursday Chrism Mass, when we renewed our vows together – an equally moving service in a different way. Let us rejoice and be glad and continue to pray for each other as we move forward.

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FOLLOWING my last article, published in the March edition of The Coracle, I was taken to task for denying that Moses wrote the first five books of the Bible. After all, I was told, if Jesus said Moses wrote them then Moses must have done so because Jesus can’t be wrong.

You can apply the same logic to Jonah and the Big Fish. If Jesus thought there had been a real Jonah who had spent three days in the belly of such a fish – and Mark 12.39-41 suggests that he did – then the story can’t be a parable.

You can say the same about David writing particular psalms, as in Mark 12.36. If much mainstream Old Testament scholarship says David didn’t, then so much the worse for Old Testament scholarship.

Likewise, Matthew 24.37-39 shows that Jesus believed in a real flood at the time of Noah. This proves that those who see that story as a version of an ancient and widespread Near Eastern tale we have known about for quite a while are simply wrong. It’s more than that. It’s true.

So then, how can mainstream Biblical scholarship not believe these things when Jesus says they are true? Surely what he said must be right? This is an important question which should not be dodged. What did Jesus know? And how did he know it?

This is in fact a question which the Church Fathers puzzled over when they were trying to work out – and think through – who Jesus really was. It came to a head after the Councils of Nicaea in 325 and Constantinople in 381 had formulated what we know as the Nicene Creed.

According to that Creed, Jesus was ‘God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten not made, of one Being with

the Father’. But saying this led on to further questions, especially – If Jesus was ‘true God from true God’ and the Second Person of the Trinity, then how was he human?

That took them to the Council of Chalcedon in 451. There they insisted that he was indeed ‘truly God’, but they also insisted that he was ‘truly human’ as well. If he wasn’t fully human, they argued, and had not become exactly what we are (with

the exception of sinning) then he could not really have redeemed us.

So Jesus was ‘truly man’, exactly like us apart from sin. So, did he know the formulae of nuclear physics or the geography of China? The orthodox, traditional and official answer is “No; he didn’t.” Had he known such things, the official argument suggests, he would not have been truly human.

Some explain this by saying that he left all that kind of knowledge behind when he ‘emptied himself’ to take our human form, as St Paul puts it in Philippians 2.7. Others try to get their heads around the explanations in the Chalcedonian Definition and the Athanasian Creed. But however you try to explain it, if this ancient idea that Jesus was ‘truly man’ is correct, it follows that when it comes to Moses and the Pentateuch, Noah and the Flood, Jonah and the Whale and David and the Psalms, Jesus thought what everyone else at the time thought.

And if they were mistaken about these things – as many Biblical scholars have said for a century or more – then so was he. This conclusion might make some Christians uncomfortable (and the full humanity of Jesus has always been a problem for some Christians), but it is part of what the traditional doctrine of the ‘incarnation’ means.

Stephen Dawes Canon Theologian

‘Truly man’

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EVER SINCE Polruan Kool Kidz Fun Klub started about six years ago, some of its members have assisted the St Saviour Flower Guild with decorating the church for Easter, Harvest and Christmas, writes Kathryn Hill.

They have, in effect, become the ‘Junior Flower Guild’. By tradition, the youngsters consider certain windows ‘theirs’ to decorate; and they also construct the Easter Garden.

This year’s Junior Flower Guild ‘team’ are Shannon, Jasmine, Rosie and Chloe; and the Flower Guild is delighted to have the young people assisting them. Indeed, they are hoping that as they grow up some of them may even join as fully fledged members.

Out & about‘Junior Flower Guild’

at St Saviour

Praying the compass

TO CELEBRATE the arrival of Spring, we took our regular Thursday Evening Prayer outside in May, writes Revd Annie HenryHolland.

The setting was Sylvia’s field amongst the bluebells and primroses. We sat in quiet meditation with the sun shining on our faces and being aware of the movement of the wind around us.

We joined the song of the birds and bees and prayed with the compass directions.

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THE GOOD NEWS GANG created an ‘animated’ film, entitled ‘Roll Away the Stone’, that was shown in Perranuthnoe Church on Easter Morning, writes Ed Oates.

We created a beautiful Easter Garden, used Lego and Playmobil characters to play the roles, and recorded the script. Then we sang a song for the backing track and titles. The video can be viewed at www.youtube.com/watch?v=CLY9K2r1XT8&feature=youtube_gdata

The Good News Gang meets monthly to explore the Bible through drama, art and music and takes an active part in the monthly Family Service.

ON 2 APRIL, Bishop Tim conducted a Confirmation and First Holy Communion service at Bishop Cornish School, writes head teacher, Jenny Thomas.

In a joy-filled service attended by the whole school and lots of parents and families, Bishop Tim took the theme of ‘Do not be afraid’. He is well known to the children and staff and the uplifting service was a mixture of child-centred warmth with deep spiritual times.

Fifteen children were confirmed, one baptised and confirmed, and a younger sibling baptised. Plenty of baptism water was used and the service was alive with wonderful singing of hymns and the communion setting.

This is the third confirmation service to be held in the school during the last six years.

Rolling away the stone

Making a commitment

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National Readers’ conference

Yo Ho Ho...

SEVERAL TIMES since I became a Reader, I have seen the advertisement for the National Readers’ Conference in The Reader, and thought ‘that looks interesting’ but not got round to doing anything about it, writes Kathryn Hill.

However, this year I did get my act together – partly because the AGM was included in the conference and I am the Diocese of Truro representative! And I am so glad that I did, as it was a wonderful experience.

The venue at Kent’s Hill Park Training and Conference Centre in Milton Keynes was excellent in terms of accommodation and food and everyone was very friendly. When I arrived, the only person I knew was Paul

ABOUT 70 delegates recently met in Falmouth for a conference of the Ecclesiastical Law Association, which includes diocesan registrars and other church lawyers. The guests at the closing dinner were the Bishop of St Germans and his wife, Ellie, and the event ended with raucous singing of sea shanties led by the ‘Falmouth Shout’!

Arthur, who was there as our Truro Readers’ deputy warden, but everyone was very chatty and I had fascinating discussions with Readers from other dioceses.

I also enjoyed the varied worship sessions – although the highlights were the talks on ‘Roots of Unity’ by Father Nicholas King of Oxford University and on ‘Servants of the Word’ by our president, Bishop Robert Paterson.

So, fellow Readers, if you have ever wondered about attending the National Readers’ Conference – or even if you haven’t – do consider attending the next one. You won’t be disappointed!

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THE FINAL pilgrimage in any life – and at any stage of that life – is the journey we each take towards our God. Different experiences and ‘triggers’ help us on The Way, writes Revd Rob Yeomans.

I have always been drawn to ‘holy’ places. As a child on family holidays to Cornwall to the hermitage and chapel of Saint Piran and to the ancient Cross in the sand dunes of Perranzabuloe. That was before the days of the chapel’s most recent ‘burial’!

As a teenager to the Abbey at Glastonbury, as a student to the shrine of Edward called the Confessor – King and Saint – in the Abbey Church of St Peter in Westminster. As a priest and youth officer to the Holy Islands of Lindisfarne and Iona, and to St David’s. In later life and in retirement, to the Holy House at Walsingham and the many holy wells and ancient crosses of Cornwall, and walking the Saints Way from Padstow to Fowey.

The desire and urge to be a ‘walking’ pilgrim to some of these holy places and make the physical journey, as well as the spiritual one, has long been an aspiration. Now as a pensioner it is about to become a reality!

Why? Well Her Majesty the Queen expressed it better than I can in her 2013 Christmas Day message, “We should all make time to turn aside from the pressures of everyday life and take stock.”

Pilgrimages take practice – both spiritual and physical. Our Truro diocesan booklet ‘Way of Life’ and the gatherings it has inspired have, I know, helped many with their spiritual pilgrimage and it continues to do so.

Recently, walking the lanes and footpaths of North Cornwall has been helping me prepare for the physical pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago – The Way of St James. And fortuitously, the

road from home to Crackington Haven and back (about 16 miles) is approximately the distance I shall be walking each day on my Camino pilgrimage.

My plan is to set out for Plymouth and the ferry to Santander on Low Sunday, 27 April and catch a bus from Santander to Pamplona. My first night in Spain I hope to spend in the Albergue – pilgrim hostel – of Jesus y Maria setting off on the road to Santiago early the following day with about 450 miles to go!

I hope and trust that I shall arrive in Santiago in time to celebrate my 70th birthday at the end of May. I know that some kind members of my family and friends will want to give me a gift for this significant birthday! I am asking them instead to make a contribution to a fund that I am establishing in the Stratton Deanery.

The fund is to help those who might otherwise not be able to afford to go on quiet days, retreats or any other sort of pilgrimage that might help them in their journey along The Way. Maybe those of you reading this who would not normally send me a birthday present might like to contribute to the fund too?!

The Rural Dean and Lay Chair of the Stratton Deanery Synod will administer all monies donated. Cheques made payable to ‘The Stratton Deanery’ – with a note indicating that it is a contribution to the

‘Stratton Deanery Camino Fund’ – may be sent to Sue Dickenson, (deanery treasurer) at Ranelagh, Stewarts Road, Week St Mary, Nr Holesworthy, Devon EX22.

Please be generous in your giving and in your prayers for me too! And God bless you on your journey.

To be a pilgrim . . .

www.publicaddress.co.ukinfo@publicaddress.co.uk

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THERE WAS quite a buzz in Camborne Wesley Methodist Church on Friday 4 April as four schools came together to form the Rainbow Multi-Academy Trust (MAT).

Over 400 pupils from Troon, Penponds, St Meriadoc Nursery, Infant & Primary and St Meriadoc Junior Schools gathered to celebrate what is the first time Church and community schools have joined together in a MAT in Cornwall, possibly in the whole country.

The guests included Bishop Tim, Revd Steve Wild (chairman of the SW Methodist District), the Mayor of Camborne, and Trust Directors.

After a welcome from Sally Piper, who had co-ordinated the formation of the Rainbow MAT, the programme continued under the masterly direction of Revd Mike Firbank.

After singing Who Put the Colours in the Rainbow, children and teachers from

Rainbow shows the way ahead

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all the schools spoke of the excitement of working together, playing together and learning from each other.

This was followed by readings and poems about their individual schools and how they will be even better joining together in the Academy.

Bishop Tim spoke of his great joy as everyone came together to celebrate the foundation of the Rainbow MAT. “What could I say?” he remarked “But that the best thing is your name ... Rainbow.”

He pointed out that one of the characteristics of a rainbow is that you never know where it will end. “So capture the sense of hope and

the future,” he said. “Dream dreams and achieve the things you wish for, together.”

Revd Wild continued the theme. “The Rainbow is a wonderful thing,” he said. “It reminds us of the promise from God to love us all. We are never alone. He is with us even at scary times. I wish you all every blessing.”

The celebration ended with prayers, a blessing and everyone joining in with the Rainbow MAT’s own new song, We Belong. Then once pupils had returned to their schools, many of them took part in the Great Balloon Fest!

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MEMBERS of the Prayer Book Society, from across Cornwall, attended its Spring meeting and AGM in the Lychgate Room at Kenwyn Church on Sunday 27 April.

Having opened the gathering with the Collect for the 2nd Sunday of Easter and the Prayer of St Chrysostum,

chairman, Revd Canon Pat Robson, engaged members with an intriguing account of how Eusebius, in his book, the History of the Church, exonerated the Apostle Thomas from his common descriptor, ‘Doubting’ Thomas.

It was a fascinating story involving Eusebius’ access to letters he discovered in a library full of original documents in Edessa – including

correspondence ostensibly between Abgar the Toparch and Jesus – and to which was appended evidence that, far from doubting, Thomas had been instrumental in sending out disciples ahead of his own journeys confirming the good news of the Risen Christ across Mesopotamia.

The Annual General Meeting itself was attended by 25 of the Society’s total 54 individual members. Honorary secretary, John St Brioc Hooper, reminded them of the activities that had taken place during the past

year, the various reports that had appeared in both national and diocesan publications, and the fact that four Deacons had been presented with special copies of the Book of Common Prayer on the eve of their ordination.

John also drew the attention of members to the refreshed national Prayer Book Society website, www.pbs.org.uk There was also some discussion

of the proposed changes to the method of collecting subscriptions.

The formal business completed, PBS members were then held spellbound by Miss Jean Baker who gave a talk on the subject of the Life of Joseph Emidy, the African slave who became a celebrity in Cornwall through his musical accomplishments and who was buried in Kenwyn churchyard.

Born in 1775 in Guinea in West Africa, Joseph (who bizarrely at the age of 12 owned a violin), was captured

by the Portuguese in 1787. His slave master took him to Lisbon where, within a few years, he was playing second violin in an orchestra.

In 1795, the British naval vessel, HMS Indefatigable struck a rock and had to put in to port for repairs. Her Cornish master, Captain Pellew, went to see the opera at which Joseph was playing and – much against Joseph’s will – pressed him into becoming his ship’s

fiddler. However, in 1799, Captain Pellew was promoted and when his ship docked in Falmouth, he freed Joseph to lead his own life.

Joseph earned his living as a violinist and a music teacher and, having married a local tradesman’s daughter, he moved to Truro, eventually becoming the leader of the Truro Philharmonic Orchestra and one of the most celebrated

Sun shines on Prayer Book Society Spring

meeting

Joseph and a group of musicians.

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and influential musical figures in early 19th century Cornwall. He composed many works including concertos and a symphony – although, sadly, no known copies survive.

Joseph died in 1835 and was buried in Kenwyn churchyard.

Following generous sandwiches and a ‘more-ish’ cream tea, Prayer Book Society members visited Joseph Emidy’s grave and laid a wreath, before attending Sung Evensong in Kenwyn Church.

The next meeting of the Prayer Book Society will be on 15 June (Trinity Sunday) at 3pm at Trewithen for a tour of the gardens and house, followed by tea and Sung Evensong in Creed Church at 6pm.

To join the Society or for details of its meetings, contact John St Brioc Hooper at j.stbrioc@btinternet,com or call 01726 76382.

Canon Robson reading inscription.

Miss Baker alongside Joseph’s grave.

Members on path at graveside.

PBS Group outside Kenwyn Church

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WE ARE looking for loving people to become adoptive parents, writes Cornwall Council’s adoption recruitment team manager, Colette Pearce.

At the moment, we are looking particularly for families who feel that they might have the qualities needed to adopt a child with additional needs, such as a disability, or an older child. Becoming an adoptive parent can be fulfilling and life changing, and make a real difference to the life of a child.

On average we place 45 children a year, and we continue to have children waiting for a family. There is no one type of person that makes a good adoptive parent. Every child is different, so every adoptive parent brings different life experiences, backgrounds and skills to the care and support they can give.

Sarah and Mike adopted with Cornwall last year and say: “We have gained an amazing fun-filled family life and recommend it whole heartedly. But be prepared to be exhausted!”

At the moment, we have some 11 children ‘who are waiting for their forever families’

because they have disabilities or are of school age. We urgently need families who feel they can offer these children the love, support, care and stability that they need.

We offer a wide range of support for all adoptive families, and put in place bespoke support for those families that adopt children with additional needs. Our support service – The Family Plus Team – consists of specialists such as youth workers and psychologists.

Alison Waters, adoption service manager, says: “There are still many myths surrounding who can adopt, but in reality, there is no one type of person that makes a good adoptive parent. You can be single, married, over 40 years old, in rented accommodation, in receipt of benefits, and from any ethnic or religious background.”

To find our more, contact us by visiting www.cornwall.gov.uk/adoption or calling 01872 322200.

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EVERY YEAR we run special training days for PCC members in order to help give a better understanding of the different aspects of PCC work and responsibilities. This training has been varied and last year covered the roles of Treasurer and Churchwarden.

It has been a while since we focussed on the role of the PCC Secretary; so, as a priority, this year’s training days will be devoted to the needs and responsibilities of this essential function.

Parish Safeguarding Officers will find much of interest too, because the full morning programme will include a session on safeguarding issues. If you would like to know more about the practicalities of safeguarding and DBS issues, then this training session is for you.

Our Diocesan Safeguarding Officer, Sarah Acraman, will be available to answer questions and to give help and advice. Our Registrar, Martin Follett, will also be on hand to provide

guidance and advice on the legal aspects of the role.

The morning programme will include sessions on:

n An update on Legal Matters & PCC Responsibilities (identifying risks and managing them)

n Practical Advice on Finding Resources (including Parish Buying)

n Safeguarding and the Practicalities of the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks

n Discovering your Parish − using the information you already have to hand (Missions Statistics and Census Data)

n Making the most of your Facilities (especially Church Halls)

At the end of the morning, a pasty lunch will be served.

To book online, click on the appropriate dates in Upcoming Events on the diocesan website Home Page at www.trurodiocese.org.uk.

Otherwise contact Katy Ducker or Agatha Hodges, at katy.ducker@truro.anglican.org or agatha.hodges@truro.anglican.org or by telephone 01872 274351.

Training days for PCC Secretaries and Safeguarding Coordinators

The dates and venues for these Training Days are:

Tuesday 24 June at Heartlands Visitor Centre in Pool, Redruth TR15 3QY

Thursday 17 July at the Shire House Suite, Bodmin PL31 2DQ

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REAL PRESENCE is the title of a book written by Sister Wendy Beckett (Continuum, 2010) about famous early icons, writes Primrose Peacock.

Dating from the 5th century, the icon of St Peter is now in the Monastery of St Catherine in Sinai. Reproductions have become a frequent ordination gift at Petertide (late June) as a reminder of the primary disciple.

Peter is depicted full face, with grey hair and beard holding a bunch of keys in his right hand and carrying the cross of martyrdom. His gentle gaze meets that of the viewer, encouraging contemplation and remembrance.

Icon writing (not painting) commenced probably during the apostolic age. It has never ceased – but has changed significantly. Over the centuries it has also become larded with myth, legend and a wide variation of opinion – and is the subject of many books. Some of them are theological, some descriptive, and some historical. In the latter category, A History of Icon Painting (Grand Holdings – Moscow) is comprehensive.

During the last 40 years, the use and exhibition of icons – originally the province of the Orthodox Church – has expanded in Western Christianity. Icons are now seen in Anglican and Roman Catholic churches; reproductions are no longer restricted to Orthodox sites.

Truro Cathedral is iconed, and has hosted displays of the works of one artist, a group

contribution and a few years ago a history of the subject.

Icon writing has changed and developed over the centuries. Recently, there has been an influx of artists producing representations of ‘new’ or local saints in addition to Biblical ones. Even when produced by highly skilled professionals they often appear cold and clinical, too precise or a pastiche.

Monica Thornton’s work, which was recently displayed in the Cathedral, aptly illustrates this development. The widow of a former Canon Chancellor, she has spent a lifetime in the world of art and book restoration and obtained a number of degrees and awards. Technically her well-presented work cannot be faulted. It sells.

St Peter is on the cover of an explanatory leaflet. He has thick brown curly hair and beard flecked with grey. He is looking somewhere to the right of the viewer and is holding a written scroll in his long bony fingers. He is titled in English.

Real presence

• 23 September Falmouth School

• 30 September Launceston Town Hall

• 9 October Liskeard Town Council Public Hall

• 21 October Penwith College, Penzance

• 23 October Shire House Suite, Bodmin

• 4 November St Erme Community Centre

AUTUMN ROADSHOWS

Watch out for details on www.trurodiocese.org.uk

19

I am the new P r o g r a m m e Coordinator for A c c o m p a n i e d Ministry Development (AMD). Prior to this role, I have worked on behalf of the NHS and the MOD.

My real passions are travel, photography and art, and if I can combine all three, then this is always a real gem! I have travelled to some fantastic places – Egypt, Maldives, Saudi Arabia and North America, and I do hope to travel to many more!

I also enjoy wandering around second-hand stalls and markets, always trying to find a bargain and hoping that maybe a piece of Ming pottery or a Picasso will come my way!

I am very much looking forward to working on the AMD programme and I do hope that my past experience of working within different organisations will be put to good use as my role develops.

I have joined the Diocesan House team as Digital Media Apprentice.

I attended Truro College, where I studied a variety of subjects – ranging from sociology and psychology to media and global development. All of these subjects have informed my perspective on the world, which in turn is inextricably reflected in my work.

During term time, I spend one day a week at college, where I am assigned projects that both build my IT skills and allow me to grow creatively.

So far I have directed, filmed and edited a variety of short videos for a range of purposes and I’ve worked on updating the website. As my apprenticeship progresses, I’m looking forward to taking on more of the ever-increasing opportunities to respond to requests to develop the digital aspects of our diocesan communications.

Sir,

Getting to the truth of the matter

I was interested to read the article by Canon Stephen Dawes in the March edition of The Coracle.

I agree with him on the importance of teaching the truth from the pulpit and have sat in many Anglican churches over the years, not hearing it!

I finally sit in one that speaks ‘the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth’ – straight from the Bible – the inspired Word of God.

At last I feel set free! Unless we take every word literally – and abide by it – I believe the churches will continue to empty. More and more ‘free’ churches are being set up because, sadly, the Anglican Church seldom preaches from God’s Word.

I am pleased to say that I have found one that does.

Enid Haselden 63 Park View, Truro, TR1 2BW.

Team update

Samantha Paul Louis Luckwell

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

20

COMING UP

Concert by Reflections A CONCERT is taking place at 7.30pm on 27 June in Lanhydrock Memorial Hall in aid of repairs to Lanhydrock Church roof, writes Revd Roger May.

The choir, ‘Reflections’, is a mixture of ladies and gentlemen who all live in Southeast Cornwall and are drawn together by their love of music – singing in particular. At present the group comprises 19 members, including our musical director and accompanist, who are

both talented pianists and often provide a contrast to the choir’s singing with piano duets.

‘Reflections’ have given concerts in support of many local charities, sometimes sharing the privilege with other choirs and soloists. Many of our venues have been for religious organisations, either within their services and celebrations or for their related charities, and the choir performed a lunchtime concert in Truro Cathedral just before Christmas 2013.

Our repertoire is very varied and includes sacred music and songs from shows and films, with composers from Bach to Goodall, Cole Porter to Elton John and Karl Jenkins to John Rutter.

Tickets are £5 (obtainable on the door) which includes a cup of tea and biscuit in the interval. Accompanied children will be admitted free of charge. Further information available from Revd Roger May on 01579 342924.

Digging into the text of Mark 20th June 10am - 4pm Diocesan House IN THIS STUDY DAY, we will look at a section of Mark’s Gospel for ourselves with nothing but the text and some coloured pencils or highlighters, writes Revd Howard Peskett.

The text will be provided (we will not use our usual bibles) without chapter, verse, paragraph markings, section titles, cross references or any other such helps. With the use of some simple, basic questions we will discover for ourselves the structure, content and emphasis of the passage in a fresh and immediate way.

I have invariably found, when using this method of direct acquaintance with the Bible text itself (and nothing else) that people attend to the text with fresh intensity and are surprised at what they can discover for themselves. The purpose of our time together will be to introduce this simple bible study tool; and to help us sharpen up the tools we already have for uncovering the treasures of the Word of God.

To book online, visit 20 June in the Events Calendar on the right hand side of the Home page of the diocesan website, www.trurodiocese.org.uk

21

Egloshayle Heritage Weekend AN EXHIBITION celebrating the history of Egloshayle and its parish is being planned for the last weekend in July at Egloshayle Church, writes Angela Richards.

Two years ago our first heritage weekend proved a great success, and we were delighted that so many people with links to the parish came into the church to see the exhibition. This interest encouraged the formation of the Egloshayle Heritage Group, who are putting on a new exhibition on Friday 25 and Saturday 26 July with a concert at 3pm on Sunday 27 July to round off the weekend.

The Heritage Group has been collecting new photos and accounts of village life donated by local people and, in this centenary year, information about local people in the First World War will be included. Sunday’s concert will include music popular 100 years ago, with First World War songs which the audience (we hope) will join in, and local bard Hilary Keam’s amusing Cornish anecdotes and stories.

All profits from the Heritage Weekend are for the Egloshayle Toilet Fund, raising money to build a cloakroom and toilet for the church.

If you have old photos or mementos from Egloshayle parish, we would be very pleased to hear from you, particularly if you have relatives who were involved in the First World War, please contact Angela Richards on 01208 78393, Jenny Treadwell on 01208 813371 or Rosemary Meanwell on 01208 78393.

This photo of soldiers training to dig trenches was found in Egloshayle Church. It may include Richard Josiah Oake Adams, son of Revd Josiah Adams, Vicar of Egloshayle 1904-1916. We would love to hear from anyone who can identify any of the men.

Quiet Days at St Just-in-Roseland ChurchJESUS SET HIS DISCIPLES an example by regularly taking time out to pray, writes Revd Angela Cooper.

In the midst of our busy lives, it can be difficult to find space to be in God’s presence for more than snatched moments here and there. Quiet Days can provide the extra impetus we need to make time for God and refresh our own journey of discipleship.

With a variety of themes and styles within a basic framework, our quiet days encourage

us to come before God, to listen, to pray or simply to be still and know him near. Each has a leader who will give a number of short reflections with space between to reflect further alone, to pray, read, walk or sit in God’s company in the beautiful and inspiring surroundings of St Just Church and creek-side gardens.

Monday 23 June The Celtic Heart Revd Pat Robson

Saturday 12 July Discipleship, Hope & Disappointment The Bishop of St Germans

Tuesday 16 September ‘Love bade me welcome’ – coming home to the hospitality of God Revd Bridget Macaulay

Tuesday 14 October Come and See Revd Angela Cooper

The days run from 10am - 4pm, refreshments and a simple lunch are provided. For booking or further details, contact Revd Angela Cooper on 01326 270338

22

COMING UP cont/d

Cornish quilters working towards Cathedral exhibition THIRTY-FIVE Cornish quilting groups and individuals are busy stitching away hoping to complete their designs in time for an exhibition called ‘Saints of Cornish Churches’ in Truro Cathedral from 30 June to 14 July.

The original idea sprang from an avid quilter, Mary Miller, who had a number of meetings with cathedral staff to help identify a suitable theme for the exhibition. Eventually the theme of Cornish Saints emerged and the work could begin.

Together with quilting friends Helen Edmond, Jo Morgan and Di Wells, news was spread among the quilting community in Cornwall and an overwhelmingly positive response meant that the project could go ahead. Information about the size and display of the quilts and its theme were disseminated and quilters from all over the county started visiting local churches seeking inspiration and ideas for their chosen designs.

The exhibition, which will be open between 10am -5pm daily (Sundays from noon) is free but with a chance to donate to offset the costs. Further information from Mary Miller on 01326 211045 or at smarymiller@hotmail.co.uk; or Jo Morgan on 01872 279063 at ka.morgan@btinternet.com

60 years of ministry ON 13 JUNE, Revd David Woods will be celebrating the diamond anniversary of his ordination – 40 years of which has been spent in the Diocese of Truro.

Revd Woods was ordained Deacon by the Bishop of Truro, Dr Edmund Morgan, on 24 May 1953 and was ordained priest in Camborne Parish Church on 13 June 1954. He served his first curacy in Camborne under Canon George Sandfield and then moved to Bromley in Kent for his second curacy.

For eight years he was Vicar of Holy Trinity Church, Tewksbury, and then moved to the “industrial parish” of Stapleford in Nottinghamshire.

In 1970, Revd Woods was instituted as Vicar of Fowey where he served for 22 years, during which period he was Rural Dean of St Austell.

Although now retired and living in Pelynt, Revd Woods continues to take services.

23

Announcements

The content of this publication is believed to be correct at the time of going to print, but its accuracy is not guaranteed and does not form part of any offer or contract.

The Revd Ellen Elizabeth Goldsmith BA to be Team Vicar of Probus, Ladock, Grampound with Creed and St Erme in the Diocese of Truro. She was licensed by the Bishop of St Germans at 7pm on Thursday 8th May at Ladock.

The Revd Dr Peter Colin Johnson at present Priest in Charge of Breage with Godolphin and Germoe to be also Priest in Charge of Porthleven and Sithney in the Diocese of Truro. He will be licensed by the Bishop of St Germans at Porthleven on Sunday 1st June at 9.30am.

The Revd Christopher David Newell MA Dip in Religious Studies at present Chaplain for the Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust to be self-supporting Priest in Charge of St Goran with St Michael Caerhays in the Diocese of Truro. He will be licensed by the Bishop of St Germans at St Goran on Monday 21st July at 7pm.

The Revd Dominic Peter Whitting BA at present Assistant Curate of the Benefice of St Breoke and Egloshayle in Wadebridge in the Diocese of Truro to be Vicar of Crowan and Treslothan in the Diocese of Truro. He will be licensed by the Bishop of St Germans at 7pm on Monday 2nd June at Crowan.

Retirements

The Revd Michael Lewis Pascoe Priest in Charge of Penponds in the Diocese of Truro with effect from 14th May 2014.

ST ENDELLION CHURCH Sunday 8 June 6pm Evening Worship with Taize chants by candlelight. Sunday 13 July 6pm Evening Worship with Taize chants by candlelight.

What’s on

Egloshayle Church, Wadebridge Come and explore the history of Egloshayle at EGLOSHAYLE HERITAGE WEEKEND Friday 25th July to Sunday 27th July Friday and Saturday, 10am - 4pm. Sunday 12.30 - 3pm Light refreshments served all day. Admission free to exhibition SUNDAY AFTERNOON CONCERT Popular music of the First World War Cornish Bard Hilary Keam’s Stories and Anecdotes

Cornwall Organists’ Association (joint event with Plymouth & District Organists’ Association) Saturday 21 June 2014 St Eustachius’ Church, Tavistock 3.30pm. Organ recital by Gabrielle Lewis 4.10pm. Baroque Concert 4.45pm. Opportunity to try the organ 5.15pm. Tea in the Parish Centre For details contact gabriellelewis@waitrose.com

St Gluvias Church, Penryn, Cornwall ORGANIST WANTED Traditional Anglo-Catholic parish seeking to appoint organist. Main service: Sung Mass, with Evensong and Benediction. Traditional robed SATB choir. Applicant ideally to work with Priest and Director of Choir to maintain current musical tradition. Organ recently refurbished two-manual instrument with detached draw stop console, with 32 level capture system. Salary negotiable. Contact Fr Stephen Wales steve.wales301@btinternet.com

St Tudy Church COMMUNITY FESTIVAL

27 - 29 June

Flower Festival in the Parish Church Garden Safari

Arts & Crafts in Methodist Chapel plus other events

Enquiries to Dr Geoffrey Gibbons, 01208 851267 or e-mail gngibbonsii@gmail.com

Par Mothers’ Union 1914 - 2014 CENTENARY

DISPLAY OF WEDDING DRESSES 20 - 21 June 10.30am - 4.30pm

22 June 11.30am - 2pm

The Good Shepherd Church, Par. Supporting Four Ways Youth Centre

and Kernow Young Carers. Morning Coffee – Lunches – Afternoon teas.

St Eval Parish Church Flower Festival

‘ALL ABOUT CORNWALL’

Friday, Saturday & Sunday 27 - 29 June 10am-5pm

Refreshments, Raffle. Disabled Access.

DANGERS IN CHURCHYARDS Risk assessment surveys, memorial stability testing and individual appraisals of problem monuments,

by qualified, insured consultant, to latest Ministry of Justice standard.

NFCF Memorials ‘At Risk’ Register, and help for funding; part of Living

Churchyard Project.

Contact Robert Moor, NAMM Associate, 01872 272929, rmoor@penmoor.co.uk

for quotation.

SERVICES OFFERED

Wanted

thecoracleJune Dates

Printed and Distributed by Nationwide Print. Holmbush Ind. Estate,

St Austell, Cornwall PL25 3JL.

Design: Karen Jackson Design, Falmouth www.karenjacksondesign.com

The Coracle is published with the authority of the Bishop of Truro.

Editor & advertising: David Watson david.watson@truro.anglican.org

Diocesan House, Kenwyn, Truro TR1 1JQ Telephone 01872 274351 www.trurodiocese.org.uk

Last day for copy to Editor 28th May

(for July issue)CTruroCathedral

Truro Cathedral Calendar Exhibition display of photographs from our 2015 calendar (continues during summer). Free.Helstonbury Exhibition continues. Local charity work with young musicians (continues until 4 June). Free.Sunday 1 4pm. Mayor of Truro’s Civic Service.Tuesday 3 5.30pm. Solemn First Evensong of Petroc of Cornwall.Wednesday 4 5.30pm. Solemn Eucharist of Petroc of Cornwall.Friday 6 at 1.10pm. Rachel Mahon (Truro Cathedral) free lunchtime organ recital.7pm. Award-winning environmental film Trashed. Tickets £2 from Cathedral Office or on the door.Saturday 7 Noon-2pm. Messy Table Fun. Free.5.30pm. First Evening Prayer of Pentecost.7.30pm. Truro Choral Society, Verdi Requiem. Tickets HfC, 01872 262466, www.hallforcornwall.co.uk or on door.Sunday 8 10am. Solemn Eucharist for Feast of Pentecost.4pm. Solemn Evensong for Feast of Pentecost8pm. Open to Question – Informal reflection with Stephen Dawes in Pearson Room.Tuesday 10 5.30pm. Solemn First Evensong of Barnabas the Apostle.Wednesday 11 10am. Friends’ Coffee Morning in the Pearson Room (10-12 Noon). 5.30pm. Solemn Eucharist of Barnabas the Apostle.Friday 13 1.10pm. Robin Jackson and Maureen McAllister (International Organ duo) free lunchtime organ recital.Saturday 14 7.30pm. Handel & Mozart (re-interpretation): Messiah with St Mary’s Singers and Orchestra. Tickets £12 & £15 (U19s free) from HfC, 01872 262466, www.hallforcornwall.co.uk or on the door.Sunday 15 11.30am. Fairtrade Table after Morning EucharistNoon Father’s Day Carvery in the Cathedral Restaurant. Must pre-book by calling 01872 245011 or catering@trurocathedral.org.uk

Wednesday 18 5.30pm. Solemn First Evensong of Corpus Christi.Thursday 19 1pm. Bristol University Madrigal Ensemble informal concert, free with collection. 2pm. Mothers’ Union Glendurgan Gardens followed by tea with Mawnan Smith MU.5.30pm. Solemn Eucharist of Corpus Christi.Friday 20 1.10pm. Rachel Svendsen (Yale, New Haven, USA) free lunchtime organ recital.Saturday 21 11am - 1.30pm. Messy Table Fun.5pm. For the Fallen A Truro Cathedral Choir concert of music composed between WW1 and WW2. Tickets from HfC £12 (students £6, under-18s free) 01872 262466. Sunday 22 10am. Sunday Eucharist and Farewell to the Canon Missioner.Monday 23 5.30pm. Solemn First Evensong of Birth of John the Baptist.Tuesday 24 5.30pm. Solemn Eucharist of Birth of John the Baptist.Friday 27 1.10pm. Roger Judd (Hereford) free lunchtime organ recital.7.30pm. Ordination of Deacons.Saturday 28 10.30am. Ordination of Priests.2pm. Order of St John Service.5pm. Full peal attempt.5.30pm. First Evening Prayer of Peter & Paul, Apostles.Sunday 29 10am. Solemn Eucharist of Peter & Paul, Apostles.4pm. Solemn Evensong of Peter and Paul, Apostles 5pm. Lutheran Vespers with Truro Cathedral Choir and Orchestra – loose reconstruction of Vespers from Bach’s time at St Thomas’s Church, Leipzig. Monday 30 10-5pm. Saints of Cornish Churches: exhibition organised by Cornwall’s Quilters. Free with collection. 1pm. Vienna Ladies Choir informal concert free, with collection.