■ Wishing all our readers and advertisers a peaceful and prosperous New Year

Licensed Lay Minister badges are presented to first 11 LLMs Page 12

Welcome to Elizabeth

New Archdeacon of Chelmsford is appointed: See page 3christmasstarts.com

Bring the kids to light a candlefor Christ’s birthday

Christmas startswith

Christingle

A r c h d e a c o n ’ s V i e w

By Ven Mina

Smallman,

Archdeacon of

Southend

HERE we go

again with

New Year

resolutions!

‘In the nick

of time’ means

just in time; at

the precise

moment. So it's another New Year and

let’s welcome in 2016.

I want to share a personal testimony

with you and hope that it doesn’t come

across as self-indulgent. My hope is it will

bring encouragement.

As with everything new, the beginning of

2016 is an opportunity to reflect on the

promises we made in 2015 and to try to

do better the following year.

It was during the diocese's centenary

year that Archbishop Justin Welby visited

us at Chelmsford Cathedral and during

the service Archbishop Justin blessed our

holding crosses (picture: page 5).

As an Archdeacon I had been given one

of the bigger crosses that I would be able

to wear at services and school visits, but I

hadn’t been given a smaller holding cross.

After Archbishop Justin finished the

blessing people were invited to come

forward to collect a holding cross. It was a

very moving moment as one by one folk

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

N E E D T O K N O W I S T O R I E S I A R E A U P D AT E S I E V E N T S N E A R Y O U

www.chelmsford.anglican.org

January 2016

Celebrating the opening of Felsted'snew £560,000community hallPage 2

Chigor's Church Army rank restoredTHE month — Commissioning ceremony at annual meeting in London

2 THE MONTH January 2016

REVD Dr Chigor Chike, the vicar of Emmanuel Church, Forest Gate had his commission as a Church Army Evangelist restored in November.

Chigor explained: "Some years ago the Church Army decided that any of its Evangelists who became ordained would have to resign from the Church Army.

"As a result, when I was ordained in 2006, I resigned from the Church Army.

"Recently, the rules were changed so that even those who are ordained could remain in the Church Army and those who had resigned could have their commissions restored.

"On November 18 I had my

commission restored at the annual meeting of the Church Army at Bloomsbury Central Baptist Church, Shaftsbury Avenue, London and the Bishop of Chelmsford, Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell was there as Chair of the Church Army board."

The picture shows Chigor having his commission restored and two others, David Coleman and Sue Hughes, joining the Church Army as Covenanted Evangelists.

The trio were being led through a process of making their promises to the Church Army by Captain Andrew Chadwick, the Head of Community.

Felsted hall dedicated tomemory ofRobin SmylieMORE than 200 guests gathered at the Church of the Holy Cross in Felsted for the official opening of its £560,000 community hall.

Named after Robin Smylie, who played a big role in the hall's development before he died in March last year, Smylie Hall was opened by his widow Jill (pictured right).

Project co-ordinator Jon Tredwell said: "Robin was instrumental in moving the project from impossible to possible.

"As my predecessor, he was the one who really kick-started the funding and was responsible for securing the biggest grant.

"It was fitting that the hall should be named after him. The name Smylie is rather a nice name to have, as we hope everyone will be happy here."

After nine years of planning and fundraising, Smylie Hall will be used to host several of the church's youth groups, as well as other community groups.

Mr Tredwell said that in light of the village's considerable growth over the past few years, the church wanted to build the hall to provide accommodation for its community groups.

More than half of the building's £560,000 funding was made up of local donations.

The two largest grants were £150,000 received from Viridor Credits Environmental Company and £24,500 from Essex Environment Trust.

"Raising nearly half a million pounds is not easy. A lot of people think the church is a rich organisation, but in reality it isn't," Mr Tredwell said.

"We are grateful for the generosity of people who donated money to the hall. There were times when we wondered whether it was going to be possible, but every time we had an appeal we received an overwhelming response."

After a celebration service

(pictured on front page) and the hall's official opening on October 9, guests returned to the church for refreshments.

Revd Colin Taylor, the vicar of Felsted, said: "What a joy it is to celebrate the completion of this project.

"Our journey from 'impossible to difficult to done' has been long.

"Holy Cross Church has been a feature of our village life from 1120AD and this new facility strongly supports this presence for generations to come."● Report reproduced by kind permission of the Essex Chronicle.

THE Chelmsford Christian Bookshop Reading Group choice for their January 6 meeting is 'The Vicar’s Wife' by Katherine Swartz.

This is the ideal book to curl up on the sofa with on a cold dark winter’s evening, easy to read and engrossing — in fact I read it in one sitting.

The book tells the story of Jane, an American, who is married to a Brit.

He is unhappy about bringing up their children in the city and decides to move the family back to the UK to a small village in Cumbria.

We experience her difficulties in adjusting from the buzz of a big city and working full time to being a stay at home mum

in a strange community. Not unlike the author

herself who lived in New York and is now a vicar’s wife living in Cumbria.

One day she finds a

shopping list written by Alice, 'The Vicar's Wife' of the title who lived in the house when it was a vicarage in the 1930s.

She too has to adjust to living in Cumbria after living in Cambridge and coping with what is required of a vicar's wife.

The stories are cleverly intertwined and work well together.

'The Vicar’s Wife' is available from the Chelmsford Christian Bookshop for £7.25. Order a copy by ringing 01245 294405 or email bookshop @chelmsford.anglican.org for details of reading group meetings.

RACHEL ORFORDManager, Chelmsford

Christian Bookshop

Tale of a vicar's wife

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For distribution contact: internalcomms@chelmsford.anglican.orgTel: 01245 294443.Your newspaper will normally be available from the third Sunday in the month. Any further changes will be advised to distributors.

Editor: Jon LongmanEditorial and photographs for The Month should be sent to:themonth@chelmsford.anglican.orgor Jon Longman, The Month, 1 Bouchiers Place, Messing, Colchester CO5 9TY. Tel: 01621 810530. Mobile: 07860 769906● Digital photographs for publication: Please take pictures at largest size,

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The Month, incorporating NB and East Window, is the free circulation newspaper of Church of England in Essex and East London (Diocese of Chelmsford). www.chelmsford. anglican.org/themonth● Find Chelmsford Diocese on Twitter @chelmsdio● Find Bishop Stephen on Twitter @cottrellstephen● Subscribe to our YouTube channel www.youtube.com/ChelmsfordDiocese● Like us on Facebook: www. facebook.com/chelmsdio● Like our Ask an Archdeacon Facebook www.facebook.com/ askanarchdeacon● View our photostream on Flickr www.flickr.com/photos/chelmsford-diocese

Elizabeth is the newChelmsford Archdeacon

THE MONTH January 2016 3

THE month — 'She brings a real commitment to mission'

Chelmsford South, and Maldon & the Dengie.

The Archdeaconry is part of the Bradwell Episcopal Area.

Welcoming the appointment, Rt Revd John Wraw, the Area Bishop of Bradwell said: “I am delighted that Elizabeth has agreed to be the new Archdeacon of Chelmsford and look forward to welcoming her and Geoff to Essex and East London.

'Elizabeth will bring grass roots experience

and nurture church growth'

"She brings a wealth of practical experience of ordinary parish life together with a real commitment to mission and the growth of God’s kingdom.”

Elizabeth will be Collated and Installed as Archdeacon of Chelmsford in Chelmsford Cathedral on Sunday March 13, 2016 at 3.30pm.

Rt Revd Paul Williams, Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham, said: “I am delighted that the Diocese of Chelmsford will soon be benefiting from the calm wisdom, spiritual depth and vision for growth that has characterised Elizabeth’s ministry as Vicar of Emmanuel with St Mark Bestwood and Area Dean of Nottingham North.

“We shall be very sorry indeed to say farewell to such a valuable member of our diocesan leadership,

REVD Elizabeth Snowden, currently Vicar of Bestwood Emmanuel with St Mark and Area Dean of Nottingham North Deanery in the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham has been appointed as the next Archdeacon of Chelmsford.

Elizabeth will begin her ministry in the Diocese of Chelmsford at the end of March 2016.

She will succeed the Venerable David Lowman who is retiring after 15 years as an Archdeacon in the diocese.

Rt Revd Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford, said:“I very much look forward to welcoming Elizabeth and her husband Geoff to Chelmsford Diocese. Elizabeth comes with great experience as a parish priest and an Area Dean.

"She knows how to make church work at the grassroots; and growth won't really come from anywhere else. In her new role as Archdeacon of Chelmsford she will help our parishes to flourish.”

Elizabeth added: “I am excited to be joining an outstanding senior staff team as the diocese seeks to realise and implement the aims of Transforming Presence and Transforming Leadership.

"I am also intrigued by the influence of the Saxon Bishop Cedd here, whilst his young brother Chad did similar work in the diocese where I was ordained in Lichfield.”

Elizabeth’s new Archdeaconry comprises the Deaneries of Brentwood, Chelmsford North,

REVD ELIZABETH SNOWDENbut once again we are thrilled to be supporting the growth of the church in other parts of the country.

"We wish Elizabeth and Geoffrey every blessing in this new venture.”● ‘Transforming Presence’ is the big vision of the diocese to ‘transform and be transformed’ – transforming the Church for the transformation of the world. See www.transformingpresence.org.uk. The ‘Transforming Leadership’ report was the basis for the decision to create additional Archdeacon posts, one for each Bishop’s Area in order to bring leadership closer to the parishes. ● St Cedd was the missionary Bishop who brought Christianity to the East Saxons in AD 654. St St Cedd’s Chapel at Bradwell-on-Sea is within the Archdeaconry of Chelmsford.

£33,000 makeover for glassTHE stained glass windows at St Lawrence parish church at Bradfield are getting a sparkle.

The north transept, south chancel and vestry windows have been removed to Auravision's studio in Saffron Walden for some re-leading and cleaning.

The north transept window (pictured) is now back in place and is looking bright and clean.

The related stonework and masonry repairs are being undertaken by Lodge & Sons (Builders)

Limited of Stebbing near Dunmow.

The total cost of the work will be more than £33,000, after anticipated VAT grants under the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme.

The Friends of Essex Churches gave a grant of £3,000 and funds have been raised by the Friends of St Lawrence Church, church members and the local community.

It is hoped that the work will be completely finished before the onset of winter.

ELIZABETH has been Priest-in-Charge of the parishes of Emmanuel and St Mark in Bestwood, Nottinghamshire over the last five years and is currently Area Dean of Nottingham North Deanery.

She has worked closely with four other parishes in Bestwood, two of which are Methodist-Anglican Local Ecumenical Partnerships.

Bestwood is a large outer urban estate, with St Mark’s being located

in an ex-mining village which is seeing large housing developments take place.

Her work has focused on joining people together in mission across a large outer urban estate.

In her role as Area Dean, Elizabeth’s focus is on building relationships between clergy and lay people across the deanery.

She became Resident Minister at Holy Trinity Clayhanger, a ‘replanted’ congregation in a

church school and youth and children’s worker in the parish of St James Brownhills after serving her curacy in Burntwood, South Staffordshire.

She studied geography, taught both geography and economics to A-Level and was ordained in 2001 after training at Queen’s Theological College in Birmingham.

Elizabeth is married to Geoff and is a mother of four.

Revd Elizabeth Snowden biography

Annual Conference 2016

18-21 April 2016High Leigh Conference Centre

Song of CreationTransforming Worship and the

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Revd Canon Sue Wallace and Michelle Moran

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4 THE MONTH January 2016

THE month — 'Paul’s spiritual insight is to take us through thick and thin'

Conference draws in 250 delegatesBy REVD STEVE BAZLINTON

DELEGATES numbering more than 250 from all over Chelmsford Diocese met at the Central Baptist Church in Chelmsford in October 2015 for the Chelmsford Annual Bible Conference.

Rt Revd John Wraw, the Bishop of Bradwell, opened the Conference and Revd Dr Peter Scanlon from Tunbridge Wells was the speaker (pictured right) who brought the supremacy of the person of Jesus alive through his exposition of Paul’s letter to the Church at Colossae.

Dr Scanlon showed delegates that Christ’s supremacy as expressed through Paul’s spiritual insight is to take us through the thick and thin of a world which preaches to the church

just as it did when he first wrote his letter.

In a world which actively seeks to put Christ down, Paul’s prayer for the church is shaped by the church’s needs and how to continue in such circumstances.

The church, brought

into faith though the love of Christ by the ministry of Epaphras, Paul encourages them to continue in that hope to the end.

Living in a frenetic world, Dr Scanlon said that we can shift our focus from the one "who was before all things and

in whom all things hold together" and panic.

"Remember that every atomic particle is held together by Him.

"The result for those who have put their trust in that Peace made through the blood of the cross, is that we can relax in Jesus as supreme head of the body."

I could go on. But I will not as you too can benefit from this day by downloading free all four talks at Chelmsford Annual Bible Conference.

Next year’s conference will be held at Central Baptist Church Chelmsford.

The subject is the Epistle to Hebrews and the conference will be lead by Revd Ken Murdock.● For more information, please visit website www.cabc.org.uk/page/ cabc15talks/

Ashdon grant boostASHDON'S All Saints Church has been awarded a grant of £4,000 by the Friends of Essex Churches Trust for plaster and window repairs.

The church's fabric officer Michael Wymer said: “All Saints is a beautiful 13th century Grade 1 listed church. Following our last five yearly inspection we were faced with the need to carry out extensive repairs mainly to plaster and windows.

"Our own Friends of All Saints had raised funds to carry out much of the work which was done under phase one. But we had to wait to carry out phase two until sufficient funds were available.

"A grant of £4,000 from the Friends of Essex Churches Trust has enabled us to move ahead with phase two and complete all the works required by the inspection. We are most grateful to them for making this possible.”

Imagine what it is like to be unjustly imprisoned and tortured. ACAT is an ecumenical movement and a registered charity (no. 1072628). We are a campaigning organisation that takes up individual cases and situations in countries where torture, assassination and death threats are widespread and often hidden by ruling governments. ACAT seeks to make individual Christians in the UK and their Churches aware of one of the major evils of modern society. Remembering that Jesus himself was a victim of torture, we aim to involve Christians in its abolition. Our Patrons include – Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Bishop Declan Lang, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Archbishop John Sentamu and Professor Lord David Alton. You can help us by learning about our work, joining us in prayer, and sending appeals to governments and embassies. We run an annual Christmas Greetings campaign posting messages to those of any faith or none who have been unjustly imprisoned and often tortured. Even just a coloured greetings card is of enormous help to someone in a darkened cell. A similar campaign at Easter focuses solely on Christian prisoners. For information, materials and how to join us see www.acatuk.org.uk, or e-mail uk.acat@gmail.com, Or write to us at 19 The Square, Knowle Park, Bristol BS4 2ST

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THE MONTH January 2016 5

THE month — 'We are carefully considering each response'

Share review group listens to feedback

CONSULTATION on the new Share scheme attracted a high response.

Some 162 replies were received by the November 2015 deadline.

Only five responses found ‘nothing’ or ‘not much’ to like in the principles.

While 11 respondents said they struggled to understand the new scheme, 48 praised the proposals for their simplicity or transparency.

Concerns centred on financial discussions taking place early in the

development of Mission and Ministry ‘Units’ and the absence of detailed figures to comment on.

The Chair of the Share review group, Canon Jenny Tomlinson (above) said: “We are grateful for the feedback and are carefully considering each response.

“Our final report to Diocesan Synod in March 2016 will be accompanied by further financial information as the Mission and Ministry pattern evolves.”

● The Share will be allocated by the diocese direct to each Mission & Ministry ‘Unit’ (MMU) – a way of ensuring each community is served by parish clergy, pioneers and fresh expressions leaders, resources are deployed strategically and there is room for incentive and growth.● The new scheme will abolish:

— The socio-economic grading of parishes.— The floor and ceiling mechanism (maximum/ minimum changes in any one year).

● The direct costs of MMU ministers – self-supporting clergy including house for duty and locally deployed clergy, stipendiary clergy and Readers or Licensed Lay Ministers – will be allocated to MMUs.● The indirect cost of shared services – ministers’

training, Diocesan Advisory Committee, legal, area teams, archdeacons, back office – will be fairly apportioned to MMUs.● MMUs will be invited to give to and/or receive gifts from a Mutual Support Fund (MSF) made up of National Church support, Stipends Fund investment income and offerings by parishes.● The MSF will accommodate significant changes and areas of need and make resources available for innovative mission and enterprise over time.● Parishes will give and receive support from within the Unit before paying into or requesting gifts from the MSF. ● Indirect costs will be calculated on the basis of a rolling average years’ membership extended by up to two years to make a total of five years.

● 92 responses favoured including the cost of curates in shared services, compared with 22 suggesting apportioning this cost to MMUs.● 67 thought offers to the MSF should be guided, a further 34 guided for an initial period, while 24 considered offers should be entirely at the MMU’s discretion. ● 59 replies wanted the MSF to be administered as one fund across the diocese, while 71 thought this should be done in areas/archdeaconries.● Opinion was split on changing the rolling average

for the membership figure to four or five from the present three years, with 61 in favour and 63 against.● 35 respondents favoured retaining the existing deanery formula for parishes not yet part of an MMU. 48 agreed with freezing shares based on current levels and moving them by the average change in the diocesan budget. Among the other suggestions was that each parish could be treated as a mini-MMU until it was part of one.

. . . and how they fared

The proposals at a glance . . .

New Year resolutions here we go again!FROM FRONT PAGEwent forward for their holding cross. I remember turning to one of my colleagues and asked, ‘Can we go forward to get one?’ They were as unsure as I was, but nonetheless we all decided to go forward and collect our holding crosses as there seemed to be enough to go around.

When I look back on that moment there was no way I could have known just how significant that little holding cross was going to be to me and members of my family.

A week after that event I was on my way to attend a course at The Royal Foundation of St Katherine’s at Limehouse in East London. Registration was fairly early the next morning so I decided to stay overnight and have some quiet time. I went out to eat fairly early as I planned to read a little and get an early night. No sooner had I finished my meal when my mobile rang, it was my daughter to say that my brother had taken a turn for the worse and that they didn’t think he would make it through the night. He was in Harefield Heart hospital, about an hour away.

I had none of my books with me or any holy oils for anointing the sick. I had no formal liturgical words to offer my brother, other than myself as a loving sister and priest. It felt like a cruel irony, I had never been in this situation before. I quickly went back to the Retreat House to ask the chaplain if he had any books that I could borrow. He didn’t but he did have holy oils to give me. It almost felt like an out of body experience, as though things were moving in slow motion.

Before setting off I went back to my room to get my car keys out of my work bag: as I rummaged through my bag looking for the car keys to rush off to the hospital, there it was,

the little holding cross. In my busyness rushing from one event and meeting to another I had forgotten to take the cross out of my bag.

It was in that moment time stood still, I held the little cross in my hand and said a quick prayer for my brother Andrew and all the members of the family who would be driving to get to hospital, hopefully ‘in the nick of time’.

I got to the hospital ‘just in ‘the nick of time', Andrew’s eyes were closed but somehow he was responsive enough to squeeze my hand. When finally I called his name, he squeezed my hand to receive the cross and squeezed my hand again when I offered him the final blessing.

That was to be one of the last responses he gave before he died early the next morning.

Over the last few months I have reflected

on how I could have spent more time with my brother if only I had of known the date and time of his departure. I know this is of course silly. But it has led me to rethink the importance of family, the importance of really appreciating all the good things in our life.

When I eventually meet with our Lord, I am hopeful he will be able to say I did 'love your neighbour as yourself'. On the holding cross it says ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’.

We know it is easy to love those who are loveable, but we are called to love everyone, that would include those who challenge us.

While speaking with one of the clergy recently we were discussing the recent terrorist attacks. He said one of the saddest things was that none of the victims had time to prepare for their death and their families didn’t have a chance to say goodbye.

This could sound all very grim but in Christ we have a sure and certain hope of eternal life. As Christians we know this but how many of us really live each day celebrating all the good things we have life?

In this New Year of 2016 I would encourage us all to treasure our lives more and to truly love our neighbour as ourselves. Let us then recommit our devotional lives once again. To read the scripture more often, to pray more often, to attend home groups or bible study. To share our faith more openly and gently, with others who haven’t come to faith yet.

Have you got your Chelmsford Holding Cross yet?

MINA SMALLMANArchdeacon of Southend

● More information about the Holding Cross can be found on the diocesan website – www.chelmsford.anglican.org/discipleship/chelmsford-holding-cross

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THE MONTH January 2016 76 THE MONTH January 2016

Inform Galleywood is easing money worries

THE month — Church team is building bridges by helping people find out what advice they need and where to get it

had not become a Christian, one in five (19 per cent) still wants to know more about Jesus Christ.

Bishop Mike said: "The best kind of communication that we do person to person is with those people with whom are in relationship. We are not talking about insensitive approaches. We are talking about the right time and in the right way. The antidote to poor witness it not no witness, but good witnessing.

"Facts are friends. Even if we don’t like the facts, what we need to do is to define reality before we can make any impact on that reality. There is evidence here that we can go going out, sensitively and willingly to live and speak our faith, and that this might be a game-changer for some people."

churches across the spectrum of Christian denominations. Roy Crowne, executive director of HOPE, Steve Clifford, general director of the Evangelical Alliance, and Yemi Adedeji, associate director for HOPE and director of the Evangelical Alliance’s One People Commission, also attended the Synod presentation.

Roy Crowne said: "The results are a game-changer for churches wanting to share the good news of Jesus. We often hear reports of declining church numbers, but this survey shows that Christianity in England is full of life, and many people are passionate about sharing their faith. Yes, there are some big challenges for churches to face, but the report has given us insights which we can use to help Christians to talk about Jesus relevantly and effectively.’

Steve Clifford said: ‘There are challenges for

our schools as well as for our churches. There is overwhelming evidence in the New Testament and from independent, non-biblical sources indicating Jesus was a historical figure. That nearly 40 per cent of people in this country are unsure of this or think Jesus was a mythical character paints a worrying picture of our education system. While it’s great to see that non-Christians think positively of Jesus, it would be even better if they realised the significance of his life, death and resurrection for their own lives today.”

Yemi Adedeji said: “This invaluable research will give confidence to churches from across denominations, regions and ethnicities and the insight it provides will enable us to answer the questions people are asking of us, not the ones we think they are.”

The report, commissioned by the Church of England, HOPE and the Evangelical Alliance, has surprised church leaders. It showed that most non-Christians know a practising Christian (67 per cent); a friend (40 per cent) or family member (34 per cent) who they would describe with words like: friendly, caring, good humoured, generous, encouraging and hopeful.

When people do become Christians 41 per cent say they were influenced by growing up in a Christian family, 36 per cent by a conversation with a Christian, 28 per cent by attending a church service, and 27 per cent by reading the Bible.

Commenting on the report, Dr Rachel Jordan, national adviser for mission and evangelism for the Church of England, said: "We did this research because we thought Christians were

not talking to others about their faith. And we found that more people are interested than I ever imagined. The survey shows that followers of Jesus are good friends and they are fun. We can take confidence from this."

She drew Synod’s attention to the statistics which show that only one per cent of the population knows a church leader.

"The task of evangelism has to be enabling all the people in our congregations – who are in touch with 67 per cent of the population – to talk about Jesus," she added, noting that more under-34-year-old non-Christians know a practising Christian (who is their peer, not their grandma) than any other age group. Also 18-34 year olds are more active in sharing their faith.

Dr Jordan is part of the team that commissioned the research on behalf of

‘FACTS are friends!’ That was the message from Rt Revd Mike Hill, Bishop of Bristol, when presenting the Talking Jesus report to the Church of England’s General Synod on Wednesday, November 25.

He said Christians need to change the flow. Instead of asking how to get people to come to church, "we need to go out sensitively and willingly talking about our faith".

The report, which explores people’s perceptions of Jesus, Christians and evangelism in England, showed that 40 per cent of people do not realise that Jesus was a real person. However, more than half of non-Christians have had a conversation with a practicing Christian about faith in Jesus (57 per cent).

Having had that conversation, of those who

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INFORM GALLEYWOOD TEAM (left to right): Duncan McKenzie, Jenny Pearshouse and Steve Mack

Bishop Stephen's New Year Message

General Synod surprised by ‘game-changing’ research on evangelism

By DUNCAN McKENZIE, Project Lead, Inform GalleywoodTHE challenge of dealing with debt, benefits and other money-related issues affects many people.

So it is not surprising that in a local survey many people in Galleywood said that this was something where the local church could help.

As a result St Michael’s Galleywood has started a new project ‘Inform Galleywood’ with financial support from the Diocesan Mission Opportunities Fund and expert input from Citizens’ Advice.

The project is looking to partner with local groups and help people to work through the financial difficulties that they face. Indeed, the strap line for Inform Galleywood ‘Church and Community Together’ reflects the bridges that St Michael’s is seeking to build with the community.

Based at St Michael’s, Inform Galleywood opened its doors to the public in early November.

While it won’t be offering advice – that is too difficult for a small organisation – Inform Galleywood will be able to help people find out what advice they might need and where to get it. Help will also be available in filling out forms or sorting paperwork.

Those seeking help will be given space to find the information that they need, with support available from volunteers if wanted.

The project is being taken forward by volunteer co-ordinator Jenny Pearshouse and Steve Mack, our director of training, who has been the champion of the project, with my support as project lead.

A team of 15 people, mostly from St Michael’s, have volunteered to help run the project.

Local organisations including Galleywood parish council and library, as well as local schools, shops and doctors’ surgeries, have taken posters and fliers to help us to raise awareness locally.

We have placed news in the Essex Chronicle, Chelmsford’s The City Times and in local village publications Galleywood Grapevine

and Village Emporium. Social media are a vital tool of communication with pages on Inform Galleywood set up on Facebook and Twitter.

Most days relevant news and developments, both local and national, are posted on Inform Galleywood’s Facebook page.

In this way the community are kept informed and there is an opportunity for the people to tell Inform Galleywood about their views and concerns.

Do take the opportunity to ‘like’ and ‘share’ the Facebook page (see link below).

Providing that consent is given, Inform Galleywood will record topics covered in consultations with clients on an anonymous basis in order to build up a picture of the types of problems that are encountered.

● St Michael’s is open for use by Inform Galleywood at set times three times a week for three hours: on Tuesday evenings (6.30pm to 9.30pm), Thursday afternoon (2pm to 5pm) and Saturday morning (9am to 12 noon).

People can turn up at these times or contact the Inform Galleywood team to set up a time to talk to a volunteer about sorting out their financial problems.

Anyone wishing to get in touch can phone or text 07729 694485, email inform.galleywood@gmail.com or Facebook www.facebook.com/informgalleywood

'In the beginning . . .' shaped everything that follows4 It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking 13. 5 All children, except one, grow up. 6 Two households both alike in dignity, in fair Verona, where we lay our scene. 7 Mr and Mrs Dursley, of number four, Privet Drive, what proud to say that they were perfectly normal, thank you very much.

Do you know any of them? The answers, by the way, are at the end of the article.

How things begin is important. The opening statement sets the scene and gives an indication about all that will follow.

St John's Gospel, echoing the beginning of the Bible itself (hopefully you got that one) starts with the announcement that “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”.

This remarkable declaration is not just about God's presence behind and before all things, it says that God’s Word – the Word that became flesh in Jesus – was God and was also with God in the beginning. It is a declaration that shapes all that follows. God and his son Jesus Christ is the beginning of everything.

How will your New Year begin? What is the first word you want to say? Not just a New Year’s resolution but a declaration that will shape everything that follows. How will God be in and before and behind all that you do?

STEPHEN COTTRELLBishop of Chelmsford

IN my family we play games at Christmas. Some of them are just plain silly – seeing who can build the tallest construction out of spaghetti and marshmallows. Others are more quizzy.

Last year one of them was about beginnings. We were asked to identify what books began with these opening sentences:1 It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife2 Once there were four children whose names were Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy.3 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

THEclosure of Bishop’s Refugee Appeal at the end of December 2015 has been announced following a tremendous response from across the Diocese.

Nearly £100,000 was raised and will be used to help welcome and resettle refugees in East London and Essex.

Speaking in early December Martin Mitchell, Chair of the Diocesan Refugee Resettlement Group, said: "We expect the first refugees to arrive imminently.

"Plans are in place to distribute funds in two ways.

"First we will assist local authorities in towns and districts where refugees are settled and second we will begin to support the development of areas of refugee ministry that are developing in both East London and Essex.

"With such an excellent response in only first three months, it was decided to close the appeal at the end of the calendar year. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed.

“I hope to be able to give an update in the New Year."

ANSWERS – 1. Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice; 2. C.S. Lewis, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe; 3. the Bible, The book of Genesis; 4. George Orwell, 1984; 5. J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan; 6. William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet; 7. J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

D-Day veteran Chris receives Légion d’honneur IT’S not every day you receive a gift which means so much and conveys the gratitude of a nation, but that’s what former RAF medic and D-Day veteran Chris Hamerton (pictured above) was proud to receive and take to Church Langley church to show to his friends in the congregation.

Vicar Ann Kosla said: “We always have a good news spot at the beginning of each service and was not expecting an item like this.

"Chris and his wife Jane are a valued part of our church family and we were thrilled to hear Chris had been honoured in this way. Congratulations Chris!”

The Légion d’honneur (Legion of Honour) or to give the full title of Chris’s particular award – Chevalier de l’Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur – is France’s highest decoration for ‘excellent civil or military conduct'.

Lent evenings in the Cathedral on 'Faith and Film'CHELMSFORD Cathedral is hosting a reflective series of talks on Wednesday evenings in Lent.

The theme is ‘Faith and Film’ with five different speakers showing an excerpt from a favourite film of theirs, and then talking about how it connects to their faith. The dates are February 17, 24, March 2, 9 and 16.

The speaker on March 16 is Bishop Stephen Cottrell, who will talk about the film Cinema Paradiso.

Amongst the other speakers are Canon Jane Freeman and Dean Nicholas Henshall with his wife Christine.

Each talk begins at 7.30pm in the north transept of the Cathedral.

The evening ends with Compline (night prayer), finishing at 9pm. Everyone is welcome and entry is free.

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THE MONTH January 2016 9

THE month — What’s on near you in Essex & East London Thursday, December 17● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.Friday, December 18● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Carols for everyone by the Music Department. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon or bring your own if you wish.● St John’s church, Epping. CM16 5DN. 8pm. Epping Church Choirs Association Christmas Reflections. A selection of choir and participatory carols for the season. Conducted by Simon Winters, organist David Pickthall. Entrance free, Retiring collection for St Clare Hospice. www.eppingchurchchoirs.org.uk ● St Laurence parish church, Upminster. 7.30pm. Bach by Candlelight: Suite no.4 in E flat major BWV 1010; Vom Himmel hoch da komm' ich her BWV 769; Suite no.6 in D major BWV 1012. Alex Rolton, Cello; Richard Brasier, Organ. Retiring collection.Saturday, December 19● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. Chelmsford Singers. Community Carol Service● St James' church, Clacton-on-Sea. 5-6pm. A celebration of Christmas with seasonal carols and readings, featuring the Salvation Army Band.Sunday, December 20● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● St Mary's, Maldon. 6pm. Ceremony of Nine Lessons and Carols with the choir of St Mary's.● Crib and Christingle Service. St Mary's Buttsbury, Ingatestone Road, near Ingatestone. 3-4pm.● Family Nativity, Christmas Then And Now at Emmanuel Church, Church View, Laindon Road, Billericay. 10.30am. A ‘spontaneous’ Family Nativity for children of all ages as we think about how much has changed since that first Christmas. Organised chaos at times, but always great fun!Tuesday, December 22● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.● The Priory Church of St. Laurence, Blackmore CM4 0RN. 8pm (Doors open 7.30pm). Mix of Christmas carols, both old and new, with an opportunity for the audience to join in the singing. The central work this year is the “Fantasia on Christmas Carols” by Ralph Vaughan Williams, and the concert also includes a new carol commissioned from Essex composer Alan Bullard, receiving its first performance in this concert. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served in the interval. You are advised to buy tickets in advance. There may be a limited quantity of tickets available on the door. Tickets £12 (adults) and £6 for under-16s. Available in advance from any choir member, Blackmore Post Office, James Dace & Son (Chelmsford), and Allegro Music (Chelmsford). More information: www.stondonsingers.org.uk, telephone 01992 522300 or e-mail stondon_singers@fsmail.net for information.Wednesday, December 23● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. Christmas Eve, December 24● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.● Chelmsford Cathedral. 2pm. Chistingle. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 4pm. Nine Lessons and Carols. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 11.30pm. Midnight Mass. Christmas services● Visit www.achurchnearyou.com to find details of your local church and details of Christmas services taking place near you.

Christmas Day, December 25● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8am. Holy Communion. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9am. Family Eucharist.● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.30am. Christmas Day Eucharist.● St Mary's Buttsbury, Ingatestone Road, near Ingatestone. 8.45-10.15am.Holy Communion with mince pies and mulled wine afterwards Sunday, December 27● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong.● Nine Lesson and Carols with Shenfield Choir at St Mary's Buttsbury, Ingatestone Road, near Ingatestone. 3pm.Tuesday, December 29● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.Wednesday, December 30● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. Thursday, December 31● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.Friday, January 1● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. Rotary New Year Concert.● New Year's Day Sung Eucharist at 10am at St George's Church, Ongar Road (near Robin Hood roundabout), Brentwood. Come and start the New

Year with the name of Jesus on your lips ....and drinks and nibbles afterwards.Saturday, January 2● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am-12 noon. Cathedral Coffee Morning in the Chapter House. Come and enjoy fresh coffee, home-made scones and bring & buy.Sunday, January 3● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● The Christmass/Epiphany Carol Service around the Crib - the final 'sing' of the carols for this Christmastide - at St George's Church, Ongar Road (near Robin Hood roundabout), Brentwood. All welcome - to boost the singing - and drinks and nibbles in the Church Hallafterwards.Tuesday, January 5● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.Wednesday, January 6● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All are welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall.● Lakeside Shopping Centre, Thurrock. 1-3pm. Café Theology. Meet at the Food Court.● The Chelmsford Christian Bookshop Reading Group. Library at the Diocesan Office, 53 New Street, Chelmsford. 1pm. Everyone is welcome and it is free to join in. For details and encouragement, please contact the bookshop on 01245 294405 or email bookshop@chelmsford.anglican.orgThursday, January 7● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10am. Mothers' Union Corporate Communion in St Cedd’s Chapel.● Chelmsford Cathedral. 8pm. Mothers’ Union Evening Section meets in St Cedd’s Hall.● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.Friday, January 8● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by Ben Bloor - Organ, Rochester Cathedral. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wishSunday, January 10● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. ● St Mary's, Maldon. 6pm. Epiphany Carol Service. Tuesday, January 12● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.Wednesday, January 13● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall.

Thursday, January 14● St Laurence Church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster (car parking available). 1.05pm-1.50pm. Lunchtime concert by Stephen King, organ (Brentwood Cathedral).● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.● Chelmsford Cathedral. 2pm. Mothers' Union Afternoon Section meet in St Cedd’s Hall. Friday, January 15● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by Lunchtime Concert - Nadav Hertzka (piano). Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wishSaturday, January 16● St Mary's, Maldon. Trumpet and Organ Recital featuring the new Hey Orgelbau positiv organ with Samuel Moffit, trumpet and Colin Baldy, organ. Tickets at £15, £12 and £5 (children under 12) are available from Maldon Tourist Office on 01621 856503 or online at essex-live.co.uk● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7pm. Cathedral New Year Ball. Come and enjoy an evening of three course dinner, bar, live band & dancing all for £35. Tickets are now available from Yvonne Spence (tel 465108 or yvonnespence@hotmail.com)Sunday, January 17● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. Tuesday, January 19● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.Wednesday, January 20● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall.Thursday, January 21● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.● St Laurence church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster (car parking available). 1.05-1.50pm. Lunchtime concert by Daniel Nisbet, piano (St Laurence Scholarship).Friday, January 22● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by Midnight Oil - Jazz Trio. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you. Saturday, January 23● Chingford Parish Church,The Green, E4 7ED. 2.30 pm. Music for Two Pianos played by 4, 6, 8 & 12 handsFrom Bach to Berlin, Mozart to Joplin. Admission £11 (concessions £9; children under 15 £4). All proceeds to East Anglia's Childrens' Hospices.● All Saints Church, Woodford Wells, Inmans Row, Woodford Green. 9.30-4pm. Transforming Discipleship, Barking Area Study Day for clergy and lay leaders. For more information contact Jill Mowbray at revjillmowbray@gmail.comSunday, January 24● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. Monday, January 25● Vicar of Baghdad visits Saffron Walden. St Mary’s Church in Saffron Walden will mark Holocaust Memorial Day with a service of commemoration and reconciliation at 1.40 pm. Canon Andrew White, the ‘Vicar of Baghdad’ will speak about his work in Iraq and Israel/Palestine. All welcome.Tuesday, January 26● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.● Julian Meeting at St James the Less, High Street, Hadleigh, Essex. 2-2.40pm. Silent prayer, introduced with words and music.● Faith and Mental Health Conference. Chelmsford Cathedral.11.30am. To book your place, please contact Sidra Naeem at essex.mindandspirit@yahoo.com. (see story in panel above).Wednesday, January 27● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall.● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. Thursday, January 28● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.● St Laurence, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster (car parking available). 1.05pm-1.50pm. Lunchtime concert by Doug Tang, organ (Hallibury College).● Chelmsford Cathedral. 7.30pm. The Welsh Society meets in the Chapter House. Noson Lawen.Friday, January 29● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by Brentwood School Big Band. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wishSaturday, January 30● St John’s church, Epping CM16 5DN. 7.30pm.

Epping Church Choirs Association Winter Concert. Puccini - Messa di Gloria and Haydn - Missa Sancti Nicolai. Conducted by Simon Winters: Organist - David Pickthall Soloists - Julia Wilson-James, Chloë Treharne, Hiroshi Amako, and Laurence Williams. Entrance free, Retiring collection. Programmes £2.50. www.epping-churchchoirs.org.uk● Colchester Area Conference 2016 Living Prayer - Encountering God in different ways. St. John’s Church, St. John’s Close, Colchester. 9.30am to 3.30pmThe Colchester Area conference this year is about prayer… Rt Revd Roger Morris, Area Bishop of Colchester, will introduce the day and its theme, and the Revd Canon Edward Carter, Canon Theologian of Chelmsford Cathedral, will conclude and help us to reflect on it. Most of the day will be spent in workshops, with time spent in prayer as well as learning about prayer. Coffee will be served from 9.30am. Please bring your own lunch – hot drinks provided. Cost: £5 each or five places for £20.Sunday, January 31● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. Tuesday, February 2● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.Wednesday, February 3● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall.Thursday, February 4● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.● St Laurence Church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster (car parking available). 1.05pm-1.50pm. Lunchtime concert. Friday, February 5● Chelmsford Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by Aldhouse (organ) Ely Cathedral. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.Sunday, February 7● Chelmsford Cathedral. 3.30pm. Evensong. Shrove Tuesday, February 9● Kingsland Cafe (above Aldi), Lexden, Colchester. 12-2.15pm. Friendship Group.● Chelmsford Cathedral. On Shrove Tuesday, there will be another quiet day held in the Cathedral for all clergy in the diocese. A light lunch of soup and a roll will be provided. All those wishing to attend will need to sign up this month by going to the Cathedral website, www.chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk, selecting the Faith and Education tab from the menu where there will be a link to the Shrove Tuesday Quiet Day giving details of the day including how to sign up. This will be open from January 11 until 1 February 1.Ash Wednesday, February 10● Chelmsford Cathedral. 1-3pm. ‘Welcome on Wednesday’ in the Cathedral with our lay chaplain Jean Standen; tea/coffee and cakes. All welcome. ● Chelmsford Cathedral. 9.30am-12noon. Baby & Toddler Group in St Cedd’s Hall.Thursday, February 11● Chelmsford Cathedral. 10.45am. Faith and Fitness. A free fitness class with a difference for all ages and abilities. The session will include a prayer, a workout and meditation to improve your physical and spiritual health and well-being.● St Laurence church, Corbets Tey Road, Upminster (parking available). 1.05-1.50pm. Lunchtime concert. Friday, February 12● Chelmsford Cathedral. 12.30-1.15pm. Lunchtime Concert by Forest School Chamber Orchestra. Admission is free, but we welcome your contributions, which are divided between various charities and Cathedral expenses. Light refreshments are available in the Cathedral from 12 noon, or you are welcome to bring your own if you wish.Saturday, February 13● 'From Darkness to Light', a Lenten Quiet Day, led by the Ven. David Lowman, Archdeacon of Chelmsford (retiring January 2016) at St John the Baptist Church, Church Lane, Loughton IG10 1PD. 10am-4pm. Suggested offering of £12 includes tea and coffee. Please bring your own lunch. For further details please ring 0208 508 2948.Wednesday evenings in Lent● Chelmsford. The Cathedral is hosting a reflective series of talks on Wednesday evenings. The theme is ‘Faith and Film’ – five different speakers will show an excerpt from a favourite film of theirs and then talk about how it connects to their faith. The dates are February 17 and 24, and March 2, 9 and 16. The speaker on March 16 is Bishop Stephen Cottrell, who will talk about the film Cinema Paradiso. Amongst the other speakers are Canon Jane Freeman and Dean Nicholas Henshall with his wife Christine. Each talk begins at 7.30pm in the north transept of the Cathedral. The evening ends with Compline (Night Prayer), finishing at 9pm. Everyone is welcome and entry is free.February 2016 diary deadline● Submit event details at www.chelmsford. anglican.org/eventsform or call Sarah Newman on 01245 294443 by January 2 for inclusion in The Month and on the diocesan website.Latest events● You can find the latest events online at www. chelmsford.anglican.org/faith/whats-on

Lent lecture seriesIN Lent 2016 the Bishops of Chelmsford, Barking, Bradwell and Colchester will present four lectures on the four themes of Transforming Presence, the strategic priorities for the Diocese of Chelmsford.

These lectures will be given in three venues across the diocese on the first four Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays of Lent (February 23-March 17). All are welcome. The lectures are free of charge.● Download the leaflet from www.chelmsford.anglican.org (home page). Find out more about Transforming Presence at www. transformingpresence.org.uk.

Faith and Mental HealthRESEARCH commissioned by Essex Mind and Spirit chaired by Chelmsford Cathedral’s Vice-Dean Ivor Moody, has highlighted the positive contribution that faith communities can make to mental ill health management and recovery. A report of the research findings will be launched on January 26 at Chelmsford Cathedral (11.30am-12.45pm).● To book your place please email Sidra Naeem at essex.mindandspirit@yahoo.com.● More information is available online at www.essexmindandspirit.org.uk.

Cumbrian floods appealCHURCHES wishing to relieve distress caused by the flooding that has devastated communities in Cumbria are requested to donate online to a special fund which can be accessed at www.cumbriafoundation.org.

10 THE MONTH January 2016

Title (Mr, Mrs, Rev, other)

First Name Surname

Address

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Telephone Number

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I enclose a one-off gift of £Please make cheques payble to Gilead Foundations

I would like to become a PartnerPlease fill in this form

Any gift you give will be used for the work of Gilead Foundations. If you wish to restrict this for the building fund, please tick this box

Name

Name of your bank

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Account No. Sort Code

Instruction to your bank: Please deduct £from my account on (dd/mm/yy) / / Then monthly until further notice. Pay this sum to Gilead Foundations Account No: 05651441 Sort Code: 54-21-14Nat West Bank, 40 Fore Street, Okehampton, EX20 1EY

Signed Date

Tel: 01837 851240 Fax: 01837 851520 Email: admin@gilead.org.uk www.gilead.org.uk

Registered in England No: 2608644 Limited by Guarantee Registered Charity No: 1002909

PLEASE CONSIDER SUPPORTING GILEADA gift towards our building costs helps us ‘set the lonely in a family’ where they can receive help as they restructure their lives for freedom. Grace Lodge could not have been built without the financial help of donors just like you.If you would prefer to become a regular financial Partner, we welcome donations of any amount but would suggest £20 per month.If you have any questions about our work, please contact Lois Samuel on 01837 851240. If you have questions about making a larger donation or interest free loan to the ministry, please contact Chris Cole (Trustee) on 07957 433973.You can also visit www.gilead.org.uk to find out more about us and donate online.

I am a UK taxpayer and I agree to Gilead Foundations Charity (GFC) claiming tax on all past, present and future donations I make to the charity. Please treat my donations as Gift Aid donations. I confirm that I am paying or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax to cover the amount GFC and any other charities or Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) will reclaim for the tax year (6 April one year to 5 April the next year). Council Tax and VAT do not qualify towards Gift Aid. GFC will reclaim 25 pence of tax for every £1 that has been given.

Signed DatePlease add my details to the Gilead mailing list

Please return this form to Gilead Foundations, Risdon Farm, Jacobstowe, Okehampton, EX20 3AJ

Since 1991, we have developed a clear mission at Gilead: To unlock people from addiction, fear and pain, and release them into their true potential, by teaching them to understand why they do things they don’t want to do and how to do only what will bring real success and ful� lment, so that relapse is a thing of the past.

85% of people who complete the programme at Gilead remain drug free, in employment and with a healthy support network when reviewed 1 and 2 years a� er they leave. We are extending our facilities to make that a reality for more people, and we have built the � rst of three purpose-designed bungalows.

Since 2013, ‘Grace Lodge’, as we’ve named it, has become a safe home for male Clients, house parents and key support workers, who live in an extended family environment. Already, 18 men have stayed at

Grace Lodge during their rehabilitation, so it’s having a massive impact on people’s lives and families. Gary (whose story is on this page) o� en spends valuable time with our Clients at Grace Lodge when he comes to volunteer on the farm.

Plans are underway to complete the next bungalow, ‘Faith Lodge’, to provide purpose-built accommodation for up to 8 female Clients at a time, plus support workers and house parents.

If we had all the money right now, we could build it in 7 months; but we realise it will take a little longer as we have to fundraise £500,000. We are approaching grant funders, who are more willing to help now that we can show them the results from Grace Lodge. We know from experience that we will also need the support of the many generous people who read stories like Gary’s, and want to use their � nances to make a signi� cant di� erence.

At Gilead, we do as much as we can to be self-supporting (including using ground-source heating and solar energy in the new bungalows, opening up a bore hole for our own water supply, and using farm-generated pro� ts to help pay for rehab services). But we cannot complete this next bungalow without � nancial help. Would you please consider supporting us as we build Faith Lodge, to expand the work and enhance the quality of rehab for our female Clients?

Please use the donation coupon on this page, or donate online at www.gilead.org.uk. If you would like to o� er an interest free loan, or discuss making a donation, please call our Trustee Chris Cole on 07957 433973. With your help, we can provide skilled support in a secure environment with family values, enabling people to rebuild shattered lives and families, like Gary has. Thank you.

Gary Spedding spent his adult life between prison, rehabs and the streets. Now he is married, with two lovely daughters, and holding down a steady job. Something happened … Gary tells us what …

“At the age of three, I went into care with my sisters and brother, due to family violence. Then at the age of 7, my sisters and me were fostered. It was the start of a much worse time for us all, especially the girls.

“I was encouraged by my foster parents to steal; things like milk and bread from outside shops on delivery mornings; coal from neighbours; gas bottles from beach huts. My foster Dad was a criminal with a reputation. I idolised him and tried to live up to that, as he gave us ‘jobs’ to do.

“I started smoking and taking drugs from the age of 11, as an escape. My emotions were numb, apart from anger. I didn’t like myself at all, and never felt like I belonged. At 15 I fell out with my foster dad when he punched me in my face, and le� home. By 17 I was in jail for the � rst time. When I came out, I met a girl, she introduced me to heroin. To begin with, it seemed to be everything I was looking for.

“We had a child, but the drugs multiplied my insecurities, and I treated my girlfriend and son really badly. I had a job away from home, laying cables. It was good money, but I spent most of it on drugs. We split up. In the end I lost the job because I kept letting people down.

“Then I spent years living on the streets; going to prison; going to rehabs. I noticed that Christians always seemed di� erent, either in night shelters or rehab. They were happy, you had to be blind not to notice. “I want some of that,” I thought.

“I got a directory of rehabs and found Gilead. In 2009 I was accepted and really liked the farm work and the people. I didn’t put up a wall to Christianity, but the rehab was, for me, a break from addiction. In that time I noticed the kindness and grace and love of Ian and Bron and the sta� . I’d never seen it like that before. It was honest, no faking it. I could easily spot a fake.

“Then I met Kate at Gilead, and in 2010 we made a decision to leave before were really ready. That ended badly, with Kate very depressed and both of us using heroin again. A year later, we both decided to commit fully to Gilead.

“This time I did it with my heart, not just my head. The Genesis 10 step process

was tough, but I worked through it over 16 months. The � nal step was to forgive and ask forgiveness. I never thought I’d be able to do that. I’d � lled the void inside my hardness with drugs and alcohol – forgiveness broke down the walls and released the hate. It was like I’d been carrying around a dead horse on my shoulders and it was li� ed. Something happened that day.

“Me and Kate stayed on sta� , and I learned from watching Ian and Bron how to give God control of my life. I tell the students my story, I � nd that’s really rewarding. Saying ‘your way isn’t the right way’ – people don’t like that, but it’s right.”

Gary and Kate are now establishing their family home, with their daughters. They volunteer to work at Gilead for weekends when the farm manager needs a break. Until recently, Gary had a supervisory job in a quarry, with 12 men working for him, which he has just le� (with great references!) to start a new role supervising over 80 part time workers, some of whom may have stories like his.

“I tell people my story. If you put your heart into it at Gilead, you can become a functioning part of society again. But we have free will to choose it.”

01837 851240 www.gilead.org.uk

DIO1215

Forgiveness was the Key for Gary

Unlocking people, Releasing Potential

Sta� and Community members outside Grace Lodge

Gary at work on the farm

THE MONTH January 2016 11

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Worship & Prayer at Chelmsford Cathedral

Sunday

Daily Services

www.chelmsfordcathedral.org.ukwww.chelmsfordcathedral.org.uk

7.45am Morning Prayer8.15am Holy Communion (also Weds at 12.35 and Thurs at 10am)12.00pm Midday Prayer5.15pm Evensong (sung on Mon, Tues, Thurs and Fri)

8.00am Holy Communion9.30am Parish Eucharist11.15am Choral Eucharist3.30pm Evensong

A warm welcome to your cathedral, serving Essex and East London

THE month — New badge designed to mark transition

12 THE MONTH January 2016

LLMs will lead training and nurture courses

ARCHDEACON Elwin Cockett, chair of the Diocesan Board of Education, visited Becket Keys Church of England School.

Archdeacon Elwin presented each form (pictured below) with Chelmsford holding crosses as part of his visit.

These are being presented for each form to use as part of their sacred space.

The crosses can be used as an aid for prayer and as an encourager in difficult times.

‘Encouragement’ was the theme of Archdeacon Elwin’s visit. He spoke of St Barnabas in Collective Worship and how this saint was seen encouraging others in the Acts of the Apostles.

Archdeacon Elwin focused on generosity, supportive words and spending time with people as key ways students can encourage one another.

Elwin also enjoyed a Thai green curry in the school bistro. He spent time with students and staff, talking about what they like about the school.

He encouraged students and staff in their work and said how pleased the Diocese of Chelmsford is with all that the school are doing.

Next year, the school will have an inspection from the Church of England and it looks forward to sharing its good practice with the inspection team.

By REVD ELIZABETH JORDANCHELMSFORD Diocese has decided that it needs theologically trained lay people to train, supervise and encourage the growing number of lay people participating in the life of the church.

Bishop Stephen licensed the first 11 Licensed Lay Ministers (LLMs) in the Cathedral on October 11.

A new badge was designed to mark this transition from traditional Reader ministry and

presented to the LLMs on a ribbon in Reader blue.

The new LLMs will be leading training and nurture courses, supervising authorised ministries and assisting in the leadership of congregations.

They have completed a diploma in theology, alongside the ordinands, at St Mellitus College and will be the lay theologians in their locality.

Existing Readers in the diocese who wish

to transfer to LLM may do so, and will be able to wear the new badge.

They can also join in the Saturday workshops that are part of the LLM training, to update their skills in training and offering support to others.

This new development in the life of the diocese will mean that there are many more resources and people who are able to nurture and cherish disciples in their communities.

Lenten quiet dayTHE Ven David Lowman, Archdeacon of Chelmsford, is coming to St John the Baptist Church, Church Lane, Loughton to lead 'From Darkness to Light - A Lenten Quiet Day' on February 13.

He retires in January after a busy working life as parish priest, Director of Ordinands and Archdeacon. He describes himself as being in a period of transition. He has conducted retreats and quiet days for ordinands, archdeaconries, deaneries and Parishes, as well as at retreat houses in Holy Island, the Riviera, USA, Pleshey, Bradwell and many others.

David loves to share experiences of the presence of God and uses music, poetry, art, architecture and literature as well as Word and Sacrament in what he does.● The Quiet Day is runs from 10am to 4pm. The suggested offering of £12 includes tea and coffee. Please bring your own lunch. Please ring 0208 508 2948 for further details.

THE title of the next annual Colchester Area conference on Saturday January 30 is “Living Prayer – Encountering God in different ways”.

The event, at St John’s Colchester will mostly be in workshops learning and doing. The day will begin and end with worship, including an introduction from Bishop Roger and a closing reflection from Canon Theologian Edward Carter. ● The cost per place is £5 or £20 for five places. Bookings can be made via Eventbrite at http://bit.ly/1lIZF3A.

Praying differently

IN BRIEF

Parish best buysCHURCHES using the Parish Buying service saved a total of £3 million in 2015. Bulk energy buying was the highlight of the year with 4,070 meters now in the energy basket. Information at http://parishbuying.org.uk/

CHELMSFORD Cathedral kept up the medieval tradition of electing a child to be 'bishop' on St Nicholas' Day (December 6), the patron saint of children.

Cathedral spokesman Clare Broome said: "It is not disrespectful in any way but reminds us, in the words of Jesus, that unless we become like children we cannot enter the kingdom of heaven.

"It reminds us that the birth of God at Bethlehem turns the values of the world upside down."

Matthew Wadey was elected Bishop by the choristers, sat in the bishop's seat at Evensong and blessed the congregation alongside the Dean (pictured left).

LICENSED LAY MINISTER BADGES AWARDED: The Chelmsford LLM badge (left) was presented to the first 11 LLMs licensed to train, supervise and enable other lay ministries.The three new LLMs are (right) Marjorie Austin, Catherine Graham and Trudy Arnold.

Anniversary windowTHE scaffolding has gone up to install the latest commission at All Saints Goodmayes.

The commission is a new East window on the theme of the Holy Trinity designed by Henry Shelton.

The window is currently being made by Richard Paton for All Saints Goodmayes.

The window commemorates the 100th anniversary of the church and has been funded, in part, by donations from the congregation in memory of loved ones.

Henry Shelton is a member of the congregation at All Saints Goodmayes. and he previously created etched glass windows for the Reindorp Chapel in the church.

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ST Mary’s Church in Saffron Walden will mark Holocaust Memorial Day on January 25, 2016 with a service of commemoration and reconciliation at 1.40 pm.

Canon Andrew White, the ‘Vicar of Baghdad’ will speak about his work in Iraq, Israel and Palestine. All welcome.

Vicar of Baghdad in Saffron Walden

Matthew is 'boy bishop'