THE RETURN OF THE RODMELL BELLS - Diocese in Europe
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ISSN 2056 3310
www.chichester.anglican.org
ISSUE 30 • SUMMER 2021
THE RETURN OF THE
RODMELL BELLS
PAGES 20-22
BEACON MEET THE HIDDEN HERITAGE
OF HOPE ORDINANDS IN PATCHAM
/ 18-19 / 12-15 / 24
Rev Julie Sear shares New ministry of deacons Read how a lottery grant
a growing partnership to be celebrated across helped a church back to
story in Hartfield the diocese its former glory
Order an event pack and stage
your own Maycamp event this year
More information on page 33
or click here www.maycamp.org/booking
ISSUE 30 3 The importance of faith in dark times This edition of Faith in Sussex indicates how much we have all been immersed in loss and survival during the pandemic. As we move into a cautious release from restrictions, we also know that we have all been changed by the experience of the past year. We have learnt things about ourselves, and the importance of faith in dark times. We have been shown evidence of shocking disparity and ingrained processes of damage within our society. We have been confronted by the fragility of our life and of our common home, the earth, how easily it was taken for granted, and the beauty if holds as God’s first gift to us. The message that emerges from our diocesan stories is a tremendously positive one of change inspired by hope and faith in Jesus Christ. Our faith makes possible the capacity to respond with kindness, joy and generosity to every situation. The resurrection of Jesus from the dead is the template on which we build our hope for living a better life, in a fairer society, with a greater reverence for the mystery of creation entrusted to us. We are the children of the resurrection. Heaven is our destiny and Alleluia is the song we sing on our pilgrim way. +Martin
PCR2
Making
churches
safer.
In 2020 The Church of England commissioned a new independent Past
Cases Review (PCR2) All parishes in the diocese of Chichester have now
fully responded and the independent reviewers will complete their work
this summer.
We are making a further call to any individual who wishes to share
information or make a disclosure regarding church-related abuse.
Please be encouraged to make direct contact with the Diocesan
Safeguarding Adviser.
Colin Perkins, Diocesan Safeguarding Advisor
01273 425 030 | PCR2@chichester.anglican.org
Picture: Chichester Cathedral
ISSUE 30 5
BUILDING CONTENTS
FOUNDATIONS
FOR THE FUTURE / 10 -11 6-9 NEWS
10-11 BUILDING FOUNDATIONS FOR THE FUTURE
A diocesan wide-plan 12-15 ORDINATIONS
from Gabrielle Higgins
16-17 STUDYING FOR AN MA IN CHRISTIAN MINISTRY
18-25 PARISH NEWS
26 A PRIVILEGE AND A JOY
COVID HELPED 27 ENVIRONMENT NEWS
ME BACK TO THE 28 THE SOUTH OF ENGLAND SHOW IS BACK
JOB I LOVED / 30 -31 29 STORIES OF GENEROSITY, SIGNS OF HOPE
A church Reader tells us his story 30-31 COVID HELPED ME BACK INTO THE JOB I LOVED
32 HYMNS UNPACKED
33 MAYCAMP - CONNECTED
!
34 NEWS FROM FAMILY SUPPORT WORK
CRACKDOWN ON 35 PATIENCE AND PERSEVERANCE
DOMESTIC ABUSE /38-39 36-37 A WAY FORWARD WITH MOTHERS UNION
38-39 CRACKDOWN ON DOMESTIC ABUSE
Together in Sussex
shows how we can help 40-41 CATHEDRAL NEWS
42-43 BOOKS AND REVIEWS
MAY CAMP 2021 /14-15
Still connected and still
part of something bigger
Editor: Lisa Williamson
To subscribe to Faith in Sussex magazine, please
lisa.williamson@chichester.anglican.org
contact the communications department:
communications@chichester.anglican.org Editorial Support: Kate Parkin, Amber Jackson
Pictures: Thank you for all the photo contributions
If you would like to discuss an article for a future issue
of Faith in Sussex please contact the editor: Design: kaufcreative.com
lisa.williamson@chichester.anglican.org
Contact us www.chichester.anglican.org
Faith in Sussex magazine is published in
Diocesan Church House
conjunction with the weekly e-bulletin. 211 New Church Road Chichester Diocese
Hove, BN3 4ED
@Chichesterdio
Switchboard: 01273 421021
Fax: 01273 421041 Diocese of Chichester
Published by: The Chichester Diocesan Fund and Board of Finance Incorporated. 211 New Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 4ED. Opinions expressed in the magazine
do not necessarily reflect official diocesan or Church of England policy. We reserve the right to shorten or omit any submitted articles. Submitted material becomes
copyright of The Chichester Diocesan Fund and Board of Finance Inc. © Copyright 2018 Chichester Diocesan Fund and Board of Finance Inc.
6 FAITH IN SUSSEX
NEWS ACROSS OUR DIOCESE
CALL FOR THY KINGDOM
SURVIVORS OF COME 2021
ABUSE TO COME THIS year there are plenty of great resources for
FORWARD churches to use in activities with children, youth
and adults. Take a look at the website here
THE diocese has been working in partnership and find out about the new children’s initiative
with charities that support victims and Cheeky Pandas - all episodes will be available
survivors of abuse to encourage them to come here to download from May 7. Why not create
forward and share their experiences as part of a your own church Cheeky Panda prayer trail?
national review of safeguarding in churches. TKC wants to know your plans so don’t forget
All local authorities in Sussex as well as Survivor to tag it on social media - you can use the
Network and others have been sharing the #ThyKingdomCome hashtag.
message over the past months. In the meantime,
four independent reviewers are busy finalising a
report into all past cases in the diocese.
This will form part of a national report which
will identify future recommendations or
changes to national policy. You can speak in
confidence with a safeguarding professional by
emailing pcr2@chichester.anglican.org
BISHOP Martin leads a pilgrimage to the Holy
CHICHESTER Land following in the footsteps of Jesus with
an optional visit to The Rose Red City of Petra.
DIOCESAN The dates are November 29 to December 6, 2021.
There is a video to watch and a booklet available
PILGRIMAGE TO to view on the diocesan website which gives an
outline of the pilgrimage journey to prepare for
THE HOLY LAND the celebration of faith here
ISSUE 30 7
PARISH ADVISER GROWING
RETIRES PARTNERSHIPS
Parish adviser John Kemp has had a very The Diocesan Education Team has launched a
rewarding eight years with the diocese. He flagship initiative to support schools and church
joined the staff at Church House in October communities to grow together in partnership.
2012 having migrated from a small Suffolk
Trevor Cristin, diocesan director of education,
village to live in Sussex.
said: “I’m delighted to be able to finally
John said: “I have been made so welcome by announce this exciting venture. The initiative
all the staff at Church House and thoroughly has been created after discussions with people
enjoyed the major part of my role to assist and at all levels and in all areas across the diocese.
resource Church councils with answers to Growing Partnerships is all about building
questions of charity accounting, governance, a foundation upon which school and church
and stewardship. Travelling around the diocese communities can grow together in partnership.
has been exciting and very rewarding; finding
“Together we are part of the Household of Faith.
myself repeating the benefice names while
This phrase reflects our unity as worshiping
driving through beautiful countryside and
communities who are seeking to fulfil God’s
doing my best to remember all of you who made
mission in our localities. Our hope and prayer
yourselves known to me at the regular seminars.
is that this Growing Partnership initiative will
“At this time it thrills me to be retiring on the help equip and support schools and parishes as
cusp of new generous giving initiatives being we look to the future in hope and confidence.
rolled out nationally, and many more churches Our aim is to offer a resource that will develop
taking the plunge into digital methods of what may well already exist or help new
receiving donations. Parish Giving Scheme goes aspirations and relationships to emerge.
from strength to strength and is accessible fully
“Other dioceses have taken an interest in this
online for those willing to try it. I wish you all in
piece of work so we would love to hear back
our Church councils every success in the years
from you telling us how it is being used or how it
ahead. May God bless you all richly as you serve
has guided your thinking.”
him.”
This good practice guide contains suggestions
For more on the new online Parish Giving
for partnership work. The Covenant is a
Scheme: https://www.parishgiving.org.uk/
blueprint for schools and parishes to work with
For more on digital resources: https://www. and apply as they see most effective. To obtain a
parishbuying.org.uk/categories/giving-and- copy of the guide, contact Michelle Perry on
payments/solutions michelle.perry@chichester.anglican.org
And not forgetting your church in your will:
https://www.churchlegacy.org.uk/
8 FAITH IN SUSSEX
NEWS
READERS NEW CLERGY
LICENSING WELCOMED
SIX candidates will be licensed as readers at The Rev Benedict (Ben) Atkins, currently priest
Chichester Cathedral in a service on September in charge of St Matthias, Canning Town, to be
11 at 11am. Readers are licensed to ministry associate vicar of St Cuthman’s, Whitehawk.
and assist priests in a range of tasks including Date of licensing to be confirmed.
leading worship, preaching and pastoral
The Rev May Barker, currently priest in
ministry. We will hear more from the candidates
charge, Hatch Warren and Beggarwood, to be
in the September issue of Faith In Sussex. They
incumbent of the United Benefice of North
are:
Mundham with Merston and Hunston. Date of
Andy Delves, All Saints Waldron and St Barts, licensing to be confirmed.
Cross in Hand (Parish of Waldron)
The Rev James Knowles, currently associate
Kate Wydra, St George’s ,West Grinstead vicar, Christ Church Cockfosters, has been
appointed vicar of All Saints, Eastbourne. Date
Lis Telcs, St Nicholas, Saltdean
of licensing to be confirmed.
Martin Hennock, St Mark’s, Holbrook
Dr Owen Edwards, former assistant curate,
Miriam Owen, Trinity Church, Lewes St Paul, Kersal Moor, Manchester, was licensed
as Rector of Brede, Udimore, Beckley and
Elaine Corbett, Amberley with North Stoke,
Peasmarsh on April 26.
Parham, Wiggonholt and Greatham
The Rev Martha Mutikani, currently assistant
Please pray for each candidate and the parish
priest, Horley in the Diocese of Southwark, is to
in which they will serve. For more information
be licensed as House for Duty in Isfield, Uckfield
about Reader training look here
and Little Horsted on May 20 at 4pm in the
Bishop’s Chapel.
RETIRING
STORIES OF
The Rev Keith David Richards, rector of
Balcombe, retires on May 31.
CALLING
The Rev Keith Perkinton, vicar of Hangleton, TO celebrate vocations in the church to mark
retires on July 5. Vocations Sunday on April 25, the diocese
The Rev Sharon Francis, vicar of New published a series of videos recorded by lay and
Groombridge and Rural Dean of Rotherfield, ordained ministers, who talk about their own
retires on August 22. vocational journey. You can find the videos here
Please pray for all those moving into new posts
and for all those moving on who have served
faithfully in the diocese.
ISSUE 30 9
HELP FOR PARISHES
THE diocese made two new appointments in
March to help parishes in their mission and
ministry. Both have been made possible by
funding from the national church.
The Rev Dr Jack Dunn has been appointed as a
part-time parish development officer. His post
has been made possible by a sustainability grant
from the Archbishops’ Council.
The Rev Andrew Smith has been appointed as JACK DUNN
the Generous Giving Adviser for the diocese
and his role has been funded by a grant from the
National Giving Team.
Rob Dillingham, deputy director for Apostolic
Life, welcomed both appointments. He said:
“We are so grateful to the Archbishops’ Council
and the National Giving Team whose grants
cover the costs of these posts and made the
appointments possible. ANDREW SMITH
ANTI-RACISM ORDER OF
TASKFORCE CALLS ST RICHARD
FOR URGENT CEREMONY
CHANGES TO GO AHEAD
THE Archbishops’ Anti-Racism Taskforce has THE Order of St Richard, an annual award
published its report From Lament To Action, for lay people who have made exceptional
with proposals to begin bringing about a change contributions to the parish, the community or
of culture in the life of the Church of England. the diocese, was launched in 2019. A celebratory
award ceremony took place in October 2019
Rather than attempting to erase the past or
where 40 people received the Order of St
rewrite history, the report calls for a “healthy
Richard in the cathedral. The pandemic meant
revision of memory and history in a way that
last year’s ceremony was cancelled. But with the
will provide scope for education and formation”.
vaccination programme under way, the hope is
It also recommends the new Racism Action to hold an award ceremony in the cathedral on
Commission should examine broad questions of October 9 this year. Parish clergy need to get
how parish life could become more inclusive. their nominations in by May 31. The nomination
form can be found here
The Diocese of Chichester is reflecting on the
report and strives to be as inclusive as possible
while condemning all forms of discrimination.
10 FAITH IN SUSSEX
Our Diocesan Vision
Building
foundations
for the future
By Gabrielle Higgins – Diocesan secretary
A major programme of deanery planning will
be launched at Diocesan Synod on the eve of
Pentecost. Its aim is to build a diocesan-wide plan
of our mission, ministry and financial resourcing,
rooted in local needs and based on local input.
One particular goal is to explore the possibility of an increase in
the generosity of our giving, where possible. This will enable us
to assess whether parishes across the diocese are together able
to give sufficient funds in parish share to enable us to continue
to deploy the number of clergy we presently do.
This is an urgent need if we are to be able to live out our vision
to be a Christian presence in every community and underpin our
commitment to the parish system. Recognising the weariness
and strain which have resulted from over a year of lockdown,
isolation and grief, it would be wonderful to be able to defer
it, but the demands placed upon us are a call to act now. Those
demands are not only financial but also our response to the
challenges and opportunities brought by the pandemic.
The programme will have three distinct but interrelated phases.ISSUE 30 11
PHASE 1 PHASE 2 PHASE 3
Phase 1 is focused on mission Phase 2 will run in parallel We will gather in the results of
action planning and an with Phase 1, looking at finance. those two phases in the autumn,
assessment of both community Briefing meetings are being held so that both feed into Phase
needs and existing resources. It between Deanery Leadership 3, which will take place in the
will build on a decade of mission Teams, suffragan bishops, early part of 2022. Taking into
action planning, on each parish’s archdeacons, the Chair of the account both the needs identified
commitment to doing One Thing Finance Committee and the and the resources identified as
over the last five years, and on diocesan secretary, to discuss the likely to be available, a plan for
learning from the pandemic. financial picture for the diocese the deployment of ministers will
and the deanery and explore be developed, so that the many
Many parishes and some entire
where additional generosity gifts we have are well stewarded.
deaneries are already well
might be released. Deployment of stipendiary
advanced with this, having a
clergy, by far our greatest area
deep and well-recorded grasp The current financial picture is
of expenditure as a diocese, will
of both the needs in their stark, with a structural deficit
be considered along with all
local communities and of the of nearly £2m a year. But the
other ministers, lay and ordained,
resources available to meet them generosity shown during the
paid and voluntary. Deanery
– from church and hall buildings pandemic gives great cause
leadership teams will consult
to the huge range of dedicated for hope that this gap can be
with parishes again before the
Christians, both paid and narrowed in the next few years
plan is finalised.
unpaid, who lead worship, keep more by additional giving than by
accounting records, run youth reductions in ministry. While this plan will need to
groups, organise food banks and be constantly reviewed as
So many of our church members
so much more. circumstances change, it will give
are already giving sacrificially
us a solid base on which to plan
For those who need more of their time and money to work
for the future. It is a core part of
help, audit resources are being together to strengthen and grow
our Five Year Diocesan Vision for
made available, and are being their local churches and serve
Growth: to be More Open, More
introduced to the clergy of each communities and we want to
Converted to Jesus Christ, More
deanery at chapter meetings build on this sign of discipleship,
Generous and More Engaged.
by members of the Apostolic mindful that many parishes serve
Early feedback from deaneries
Life Team. Parishes will be areas of considerable affluence.
which have already had briefing
encouraged to engage with them Materials, including two new
meetings has been extremely
in the months after Pentecost. videos, will be made available
encouraging, and we hope all
for Deanery Leadership teams
parishes will engage with the
to engage with parishes in their
process with open hearts.
deanery, again after Pentecost.12 FAITH IN SUSSEX
ORDINATIONS
The Bishop of Chichester will be ordaining eight candidates
as new Deacons at The Cathedral on Saturday 26 June 2021
Please pray for the candidates and the parishes in which they will serve.
Patrick (Paddy) Donavan Kizzy Penfold
To serve in Chanctonbury parish To serve in the parish of St Helen’s with St
Barnabas, and Christchurch Ore
I grew up in a non-christian family, living in America
and Switzerland before settling in North Somerset. My husband Dave and I are excited to be moving
I came to faith whilst at University in London, to Hastings in June to assume my title post in
being evangelised and subsequently grafted into a the parishes of St Helen’s with St Barnabas, and
community of believers who were passionate in their Christchurch Ore, working with Rev. Tim Bell. My
discipleship, sharing the gospel message of Christ faith began as I grew up in a vicarage with loving,
and seeing the Kingdom permeate our surrounding prayerful parents from whom I learned about the
culture. In University the opportunity arose to serve Christian faith, and I have loved both God and the
in various ministries which ultimately led me into church for as long as I can remember. From a young
full-time Youth Ministry after graduating. During age, I have been passionate about social action
this time, God’s call to ordination grew stronger, and seeing lives transformed. Before training for
becoming clearer to myself and those around me. ordination, I worked in a small estate church plant
in Brighton, as their children, families and youth
In the immediate, I feel most excited about
coordinator for 4 years. Whilst in this role, I first
contributing in the area of discipling new and
sensed a call to ordained ministry and through a few
long-standing believers [and myself] into deeper
years of discernment God was gracious enough to
revelations of God’s truth. The shared vision
confirm this call gently but clearly in several ways.
of communities being impacted by their local
Despite some nerves, I consider the prospect of
Churches, set on fire, fills me with hope and
ordained ministry such a privilege. We have relished
exhilaration for the coming years across Chichester
these three years training in Bristol at Trinity
Diocese.
College. Whilst we’ve mourned being so distant
Paddy is married to Sarah and they have one from that community over this past year, we’re
daughter, Mary. so excited for the new adventure of curacy and to
getting stuck into parish life.ISSUE 30 13
Laura Darrall Joe Padfield
To serve in the parish of Rustington To serve in the parish of East Blatchington,
Seaford
“Let us consider how to provoke one another to love
and good deeds.” (Hebrews 10: 24) Well, it has to be I was brought up as a Christian from birth, and was
said, God has certainly been doing some provoking an acolyte and server at my local church throughout
during my journey to ordination! my childhood and adolescence. Despite discerning
a call from God at an early age and consequently
I spent most of my life working in the theatre and
completing a degree in theology, I ended up in the
television as an actor before founding a mental
world of social work, and my career so far has been
health awareness campaign called #itaffectsme,
in the probation service and children’s safeguarding.
which is when my discernment to the priesthood
However, in the last few years, God’s call to
truly began. Before training at Mirfield I worked as
ordination became stronger to the point that I could
the Pastoral Assistant at All Saints, Hove, and am
no longer resist, and time spent on retreat and in
delighted to be returning to the Diocese and to SS
prayer convinced me that I had no option other than
Peter and Paul, Rustington.
to follow this path. I find myself at last on the brink
During this year, the need has never been greater to of fulfilling my vocation, and I can’t wait!
recognise the impact of the pandemic on our mental
I was fortunate to be able to complete almost 5
wellbeing, and as the Church it is vital we continue
terms of my training at St Augustine’s College
to bring those concerns before God and embody that
before lockdown, which gave me the opportunity
same care for others.
to undertake placements and fully engage in the
It can be far too easy to slip into a vision of God as formative process of training. Since lockdown, the
Gentle Jesus Meek and Mild, but the Triune God is experience has been quite different but continues to
one of challenge and provocation too, spurring us challenge my thinking and formation.
on through the workings of the Spirit and the gift of
It is with a huge sense of excitement and privilege
God’s very self in Christ into acts of costly love. And
that I anticipate moving to East Sussex with my
never have we needed it more.
wife, Imogen, and being the new Assistant Curate
for the United Benefice of East Blatchington and
Bishopstone.14 FAITH IN SUSSEX
Mr Jan Butter Simon Earnshaw
To serve in the parish of West Blatchington, To serve in the Parish of Clayton with Keymer
Hove
I originally come from Blackburn, Lancashire and
Though the start of an exciting new adventure, have moved around over the years settling in East
ordination also feels like the end of a journey. In Sussex for the past several years after a period living
my early twenties I had already mentioned to those in South Africa. Although I felt called to ministry
close to me that I felt called to ordained ministry. since early adulthood, I was unsure what form this
Lots of work travel with the global children’s charity may take. I have been involved in numerous roles
World Vision and then the Anglican Communion in a wide variety of church contexts over the years
Office, plus two overseas postings in Sri Lanka and after entering the discernment process in 2017
and New York were some reasons I postponed the I realised God was calling me to ordained ministry.
discernment process. When, in 2015, our family I learnt to lay aside my own plans and surrender
moved to Sussex and I started a home-working fully to God’s plans and moved on from my previous
job it wasn’t long before the Holy Spirit reminded career as a Dentist and began full time ordination
me about ordination. A conversation with the training at St. Mellitus College London.
wonderful leaders of our Fresh Expressions church,
I currently live in Crowhurst East Sussex with my
The Point in Burgess Hill, about this possible
wife Victoria and two daughters. We are looking
calling, made me contact the DDO. Training at St
forward to moving to Hassocks as the next stage
Mellitus College while still working full-time was a
of God’s plan becomes a reality. As we move, we
challenge, especially during the COVID lockdown.
know the Christian journey is a great adventure but
Nevertheless, it gave me a unique insight into
one embarked upon not in our own strength but in
effective time management, the power of digital
God’s, trusting in His love grace and faithfulness as
ministry, and more that I pray I can bring to my
well as knowing that He goes with us and before us.
SSM curacy. Fresh Expressions since 2002, I was
My hope for this next step is to continue to make
surprised when God asked me to serve at a more
known the Gospel of Jesus so that many more people
traditional Anglican church, but I’m so thrilled to be
can know, love and follow Him and in doing this
joining Tim and the church family at St Peter’s, West
demonstrate His love to our neighbours.
Blatchington in Hove.ISSUE 30 15 Anna Bouch Toby Lancaster To serve in the parish of Woodingdean To serve in the parish of Holy Trinity Hastings I originally found my way to faith through I became a Christian in my early twenties after engagement with the Christian mystics and meeting my (now) wife. A couple of years after contemplative prayer. My journey involved a long coming to faith, I was at Focus – a Christian search for a place to put my faith in God and my conference – where I heard the Archbishop of sense of calling, before I found that place was a draw Canterbury speaking, towards the end of his talk towards ordained ministry. Once I had grounded he gave the opportunity for anyone who felt a call that calling, I went on to study at theological college to ordained ministry in the Church of England to for six years, firstly as an independent student. come forward for prayer. Before I knew it I had stood During that time, I have felt humbled to have been up and made my way to the front. I had had a few alongside fellow pilgrims and wonderful teaching. conversations with my vicar prior to this but was, Gathering on-line in the pandemic was hard as some as of yet, unsure if I was being called into ministry. of the physical symbols of our collective love of God At Focus I felt totally unprepared but sure that I were through a screen. Yet I remain excited to be was being called, albeit not without some measure entering curacy at this time where we can consider of reluctance. After sometime in the discernment how to reach new communities through different process, and now some 5/6 years later, I find myself media. Thinking about ordination I am minded of on the cusp of being ordained deacon. As my sense of two words: ‘wow’ and ‘yes.’ My journey to ordination vocation and call has grown, my sense of inadequacy has opened my eyes and my heart and deepened my for the task of ordained ministry has not wavered, love of God, and my training has prepared me come but I take comfort in the example of Jesus himself, to these new starting blocks, the beginning of the who was reluctant, yet willing to do his Father’s will. next part of my journey. Thank you for your prayers. Priestings 2021 Family and friends will be supporting all 17 deacons to be ordained priest in the Diocese of Chichester on June 27 at 3.00pm. The services take place in different parishes across the diocese. You can find the list here All candidates have already been ordained deacon. As priests, they will be able to celebrate the Eucharist and offer God’s blessing as their vocation to the priesthood comes to fruition. Please pray for the candidates and the parishes they will continue to serve
16 FAITH IN SUSSEX
Fi red u p
...and excited
to see where
we go next
FIRST year student Lucy Hodges on
studying for an MA in Christian ministry
THIS has been the best I was initially drawn to this I can honestly say, however,
decision I could have made course because it was open that it has never been a setback.
about how to further my to both lay and ordained No distinction is made on this
vocational journey. candidates and it wasn’t course between who is lay
necessary to have prior and who is ordained, and no
When I first started making
theological training or to be assumptions are made about
enquiries about the MA course
working in a paid ministerial prior theological knowledge.
at Chichester University, I was
role. We are all learning together
on placement as a pastoral
and the approach in class is
assistant at All Saints Church, I hadn’t studied theology at
one of openness to the insights
Hove. My interest in studying undergraduate level – my
that different experience
theology had been sparked by educational background is
brings.
our clergy and I was searching in the humanities, but not
for a university course which specifically Christianity – My fellow students and I
would enable me to continue and I feared this might represent a range of different
exploring the Christian faith in be a disadvantage when age groups, professional and
an academically accredited way. studying alongside those with academic backgrounds and
ministerial training. levels of ministerial experience
etc and we are all, in a sense,
“new” to public theology.ISSUE 30 17
“This has been the best decision
I could have made about how to
further my vocational journey.”
In years one and two the Feedback on assignments is
course is taught via three thorough and always designed
schools, each one lasting three to be encouraging.
days, with year three dedicated
My previous experience of
to the final dissertation.
higher education was one
Our first school, in August, of feeling rushed and never
was taught on campus and the having time to read in depth
second, in January, was online so, for me, the fact the course
under lockdown restrictions. extends over three years is
another bonus.
Though my preference would
LUCY HODGES
always be for face-to-face It offers an opportunity to have
teaching, I thought both a longer period in which to go
There is great flexibility about schools were equally effective. beyond a mere skimming of
topic selection for assignments, the subject’s surface.
They were extremely rich in
providing ample scope for each terms of content, tailored It is already helping me
individual to extend his or her to suit a range of different to become a theologically
own research interests. learning styles and offered reflective practitioner, one who
My choice of topic for the Bible plenty of opportunity for is constantly applying insights
and public theology module, participation. from the course to her life and
for example, investigates ministry.
I came away from both fired up
scriptural undercurrents in with enthusiasm and keen to I have been stretched by the
contemporary secular film, follow up suggested readings course in exactly the way I’d
taking me into completely new for the assignments. hoped when I first read about it,
research territory. and I am excited about where
The schools are intensive –
The structure of the course it’s going to take me next.
course tutors pack a lot into
makes it especially “do-able” the three teaching days – but, To find out more about the
for anyone needing to fit in my experience, you come University of Chichester MA
study around work and other away on a high with a sense of Christian ministry course, visit
commitments. achievement about new ground the website or contact Prof
covered. There is plenty of Graeme Smith at g.smith@chi.
support on offer in terms of ac.uk.
academic skills, and library
and IT services.18 FAITH IN SUSSEX
PARISH
NEWS
A BEACON OF HOPE
By Rev Julie Sear, rector of The school vision statement is for the bags along with plants,
the parishes of Hartfield, to “Learn with love, strength chocolates, food vouchers,
Coleman’s Hatch and Holtye and faith, following the toys and homemade cakes.
example of Jesus”. The past Cards were written and a team
Romans 15:13 “May the God
year has enabled us to find delivered. The conversations
of hope fill you with all joy
ways of living out this vision had on doorsteps really lifted
and peace as you trust in him,
together. Throughout the people’s spirits. Some of those
so that you may overflow
pandemic a group of people we visited have begun to come
with hope by the power of
committed to pray every day to church.
the Holy Spirit”
between 10am and 11am for
At the beginning of this year, it
THIS year has been tough on the world, our school and our
became clear there was a need
so many levels for our parishes community. Those prayers
for families and the school to
and schools. It has also been have made a huge difference.
prepare for outdoor spaces,
an opportunity for the church
I can’t begin to thank everyone laptops for families and staff
and our school, St Mary the
for the amazing acts of and a project to bring hope
Virgin, to work in partnership
kindness and generosity. In to the children in the lead up
in the community. It has been
December we decided to to Easter. Again, donations of
very clear that the church is
deliver bags of “Christmas laptops, money and inspiration
not held by the boundary of
hope” to those who live alone made this all possible.
the buildings but by the people
or who had recently been
living out their faith in word Joe, the school caretaker, made
bereaved. We also delivered
and action. us some large letters spelling
spring bags of hope in the
out the word HOPE. These
lead up to Easter. People
were edged with lights so that
donated hampers and items
the whole village could comeISSUE 30 19
May the God of
hope fill you with
all joy and peace
as you trust in him
and visit day and night to add Particularly over this Easter,
their messages and prayers of when hope is such a key theme,
hope. The week before Easter it has been brilliant to link
each class came up to the with the church in the creation
church and added their prayers. of the Easter garden.
We also talked of the Easter
“The children have all been
story, God’s love shown for
learning about Easter in school
each one of us by dying on the
and have loved being a part of
cross and then rising to new
a project in the village. The
life.
last year has meant so much
It was inspiring to listen to the disruption to their usual
to church and ended each of
children talk of their hopes for school life so focusing on the
our services outdoors singing
the coming year. The children hope that is to come has been a
To God Be The Glory at the top
then each took a stone, wrote lovely, refreshing focus on the
of our voices.
a prayer or drew something future. We are very thankful
to represent hope and added to Rev Julie for all her prayers Despite the huge sadness and
it to the Easter garden. As a and support of the school and loss over this past year, it feels
school governor and rector, I are very much looking forward important that the church
can’t begin to put into words to when we are able to return should continue to be a beacon
how inspirational the staff and to our weekly church visits and of hope.
children have been over this inviting our supportive friends
I pray that our local parish
past year. The voices of the in the village back into school.”
churches will continue to
children in the playground
It was so encouraging to have be places where all who
have made such a difference to
record numbers at our Easter are exploring the Christian
the whole community.
services this year. Our all age faith, can come and find
Head of school Becca Hare Good Friday Service was held Jesus, where there is space
said: “At St Mary’s school, we outdoors in the freezing cold. for healing and prayer. May
have a fantastic relationship Families and elderly turned our churches be places where
with the church and up to stand at the foot of the love and friendship can find a
community and usually enjoy cross and to add their own way to rebuild a community
joining in with events across message of hope. On Easter for everyone, of every age
the village through the year. Day we welcomed new people following the example of Jesus.20 FAITH IN SUSSEX
PARISH
NEWS
THE RETURN OF
RODMELL CHURCH BELLS
A story of hope and Since the late 1920s the bells But, out of the blue a few years
encouragement had largely fallen into disuse. ago, a visitor to the village,
Over recent years one had been Michael Royalton-Kisch, had
By Lorna Melia
faithfully chimed by Christine asked if we knew how special
THE huge tractor rumbled Isitt, a member of the PCC, and unusual our Peal of Six
up and swung into action, before services. were?
not something one would
Throughout lockdown in Michael, an experienced ringer,
usually associate with the
2020, the vicar Marcus Brown said the largest three dated
joyous ringing of bells.
and his wife Jenny regularly back to the 17th century and
Yet that was the sound that chimed two bells to ensure he wanted to know if the PCC
announced the return of the the church was still a living would allow him to organise
long silent “Peal of Six” to presence in the village. The and finance their restoration.
their ancient home in Rodmell advice was that it was unsafe
It didn’t take us long to decide.
Church tower. to do more due to the age of
their fittings. Michael was grateful for
Marcus Brown’s warm
hospitality. He grew to love the
village and bought a house near
the church.ISSUE 30 21
The bell project
has been a timely
source of hope and
encouragement and
has helped us look to
the future.
He knew just what to do. First,
the bells would have to be
taken down. New fittings and
iron clappers would be needed;
three of the old wheels would
have to be replaced and three
more made to match, with
ash spokes and steam bent Anne courageously stepped Peter Hayward and Tom Blyth
rims; the fifth bell, which was into his shoes as warden. Then from Blyth and Co, church bell
cracked, was to be sent to Covid-19 hit the country and specialists, were driving them
specialists in East Anglia for we all know how difficult down from Newark and as
welding; then all six would be lockdown has been. Peter has been involved with
transported to Somerset for bells for 51 years and Tom has
Last summer services in
retuning (“The person there loved them since boyhood, we
Rodmell resumed but in
is the best!”). Smart new bell knew they would be in good
August the whole village was
ropes would be ordered from hands.
stunned when Marcus was
Bristol too. diagnosed with pancreatic The first one out was the
Having put all the initial cancer and a few weeks later tenor, cast locally by Brian
arrangements for the bells’ we laid him to rest beside Jim Eldridge in 1641, its cool, black
renovation in motion, he kept in the churchyard. Since then, metal gleaming, and weighing
us posted on progress Jenny and Anne have bravely in at around a quarter of a
kept Rodmell Church open ton. This bell (soon to be
But hard times were ahead. and looking beautiful and as “christened” St Peter after our
We are a benefice of four wardens have held services church saint) bore a special
churches in the Ouse Valley whenever appropriate. plaque commemorating Rev
and for the last ten years Marcus Brown. His last visit
We have also been blessed by
Marcus and Rector Geoff to the church had been to see
the support of the Rev Mary
Daw shared ministry here. the bells taken down from
Sitwell and Archdeacon Martin
However Geoff has had to the tower and he had keenly
Lloyd Williams.
undergo several operations supported this project from
and numerous courses of The return of the refurbished the very beginning.
chemotherapy and is sadly bells was going to be a joyful
Two bells followed (St Mary
needing to isolate yet again. day to remember. With the
and St Lewinna) also cast
whiff of spring in the air and
Just over a year ago our well- by the Eldridge family, then
the magnolias coming into
loved church warden Jim the three smaller ones
bud overhead, we hovered at
Roberts died from cancer (Saints Cuthman, Richard of
the entrance to the twitten to
(there was standing room only Chichester and Wilfrid) cast
await their arrival.
at his funeral) and his widow by John Warner and Sons of
London in 1909.
(Continued over page)22 FAITH IN SUSSEX
PARISH
NEWS
(Continued from previous page)
This was to be a real
community event. Local
farmer Chris Wetton had
offered the services of his
powerful fork-lift tractor,
By 5pm the churchyard held Jenny and the family as they
which was manoeuvred with
an expectant crowd, which mourn his death. As that bell
skill by his son.
included Archdeacon Martin is rung many will remember
The diocesan bell adviser, and Rev Mary Sitwell, primed him and the faith that he
David Kirkcaldey, was over to read the Great Commission proclaimed that calls us to the
from Steyning to advise and from the end of Mark’s Gospel eternal love of God.”
lend his strength when needed, as part of the service. We were
The service drew our attention
along with Ollie Watson, ready.
to the deeper purpose of
another local bell ringer. The
Little did Bishop Will realise this historic peal: that of
rest of us ran up and down
when he came to Lewes that summoning people to prayer
with planks to be helpful and
his duties would include the and worship over the years,
tried not to get in the way.
“Christening of Bells”, but he of marking significant events
One by one the bells were presided at the ceremony with in the life of the village and
expertly hoisted by the dignity and warmth. making God’s presence and
Wettons into the twitten, then blessing audible.
Bishop Will anointed each
a special trolley and lots of
bell with oil and sprinkled Now the bells are being
muscle power was used to
holy water using the sprigs of rehung in the tower. We plan a
push them up the slope and
rosemary. celebration this summer when
through the lych gate, on
“The Six” will be put through
to the church path. There He said: “This has been a real
their paces by experts, and in
Michael and the team carefully local project and thanks are
time, some of us hope to train
positioned them in a row on due to so many, but one name
and form a team of Rodmell
blocks of wood, each with a was very much in our hearts.
ringers. We are all looking
lip overhanging, so the bishop The Rev Marcus Brown played
forward to hearing the full peal
could later reach in with the such a big role within the life of
in due course
sign of the cross. Jenny arrived local church communities and
with a wheelbarrow full of was passionate about getting The bell project has been a
freshly cut cypress sprays for the bells restored. One of the timely source of hope and
decoration, then she and Anne last trips he made was to see encouragement and has helped
coiled the colourful bell-pulls the bells removed from the us look to the future. It has
into garlands to go atop the tower. Marcus sadly died last been an exciting opportunity
bells,while parishioner Robert year and it is very appropriate to bring the community
fetched trays of bell-shaped that his name is recorded on together in these difficult
cinnamon biscuits for folk to a plaque attached to the tenor times. As it says on one of the
help themselves to afterwards. bell. We continue to pray for bells, “Ad Dei Gloriam”.ISSUE 30 23
APRAYERATIF, ANYONE?
HASTINGS Old Town Tourism is expected to A new venture, weather
Parish is no stranger to increase with the opening of permitting, will be
pestilence. Both its churches, a small permanent exhibition “Aprayeratif” on Hastings beach
St Clement’s c1380 and All entitled Rossettis In Love near the fishermen’s huts. Rev
Saints c1420, were built later this year. DG Rossetti Hunt said: “I’ve nicked the idea
when memory of the Black married Elizabeth Siddal from Holy Trinity, Nice. It’s
Death was still strong and in St Clement’s in 1860 and a social occasion for a drink,
the second wave of that Christina worshipped there alcoholic or non-alcoholic,
pandemic was a periodic during her periodic stays in the before supper prefaced by an
reality. It is therefore Old Town. Christina was in opportunity to thank God for
appropriate that, as the civic love with the agnostic Charles the blessings we receive, many
church, St Clement’s will Cayley whose family lived in of which we so easily forget,
be hosting the borough’s nearby St Leonards. and a very short Bible study.
post-pandemic service in Other beach users are welcome
Community groups make
November. to join us and to learn that the
good use of both churches,
Church is very much part of
We hear from Reverend Paul especially St Clement’s
Old Town life.”
Hunt, the parish’s recently which was re-ordered with
appointed house for duty community use in mind in Collaborative ministry is the
priest, who has been very busy 2012. There is even an annual most distinctive feature of
rebuilding the parish with his Morris Dancers’ Eucharist the post-pandemic re-build.
eye on another post-pandemic at the heart of the May Bank The parish has been without
future. He tells us about holiday celebrations. a full-time priest since 2016
his plans for collaborative and a ministry team of eight
Another fusion of mission
ministry, a junior choir scheme is being developed with three
and community use is Night
and his Aprayeratif Bible study newly minted authorised lay
Church on the third Saturday
initiative. ministers.
of each month which will
The new website with its reopen when conditions With the relocation of the
donation button and members’ allow. Reader Pat Lock said: parish office to St Clement’s
only area went live on Easter “It’s basically unconditional itself and an exciting scheme
Day and is indicative of hospitality. It attracts lots to build a junior choir it seems
new life in the parish. Both of visitors from the simply both churches are set to
churches attract visitors, curious to the modern remain at the heart of the Old
St Clement’s in particular Nicodemus coming to Jesus by Town for years to come.
because of its location in the night.”
heart of the Old Town, and
the expectation is that the
new contactless payment will Find out more about Night Church and
increase income from tourists. Aprayeratif on the new parish website, Hastings
Old Town Parish – One parish, two churches
(oldtownparishhastings.org.uk)24 FAITH IN SUSSEX
PARISH
NEWS
THE HIDDEN HERITAGE ALL SAINTS CHURCH
OF ALL SAINTS CHURCH AFTER RENNOVATION
PATCHAM
All Saints Church, parts Sue Ward, Churchwarden at
of which have been found All Saints during the major
during the course of the works said, “We were delighted
recent programme of repair to have been awarded the
and conservation, dates grant by the Heritage Lottery
back to the 11th Century, Fund. It went a long way
making it probably the oldest towards supporting our major
building in what is now the restoration project. Being
City of Brighton and Hove. awarded this grant will mean ALL SAINTS CHURCH
being able to pass on the BEFORE RENNOVATION
The Church was built of field
building to future generations.
flints, like so many Sussex
It will also allow us to increase
downland churches and was created using brick and
its usage as a heritage venue
medieval buildings, but was flint in its construction. In the
and centre of historical
covered in heavy cement course of the recent work the
interest.”
render sometime during the remains of a medieval South
19th and 20th centuries. In The church is appreciated by Aisle have been revealed.
recent years this has caused many in the local community
serious deterioration to the and is often used for weddings, The grant will also allow for
original structure of the baptisms and funerals in work to stabilise a 13th century
building. addition to regular church Last Judgement or Doom
services, as well as other painting, uncovered in 1879,
Now, thanks to generous which is in the nave of the
community events.
grants totalling over £145,000, church, positioned over the
including a substantial grant The Church has a history chancel arch.
from the Heritage Lottery dating back to Saxon times.
Fund, the external cement It is built in the vernacular All Saints Church was listed
render has been removed to flint which was widely used as Grade 2* in 1952 and is the
expose the original flintwork. for building construction in Parish Church of Patcham,
Internally, the cement has been Sussex in the middle ages. The Hollingbury and Westdene and
removed from the chancel nave is Norman dating from has a population of over 18,500.
and nave, south walls and the 12th century. The tower
replastering and lime washing dates from the 13th century
has brought the church back to and the chancel from the 14th
its former glory. century. In 1898 a north aisleISSUE 30 25
TREE OF THANKS –
AND GRATITUDE!
St Mary’s Ringmer
celebrated a month of
thankfulness this spring
with the aid of a few bare
branches of beech… they did
not stay bare for long!
“As we emerged
from the gloom
of January, the
response to
the tree was
fabulous.
The Tree of Thanks was
erected on 7 February just SOME OF THE YOUNGER MEMBERS
OF THE CONGREGATION ADDING
outside the porch at the THEIR OWN THANKS FOR FAMILY,
FRIENDS AND FOR SPRINGTIME.
church, tying in with a theme
of gratitude for the family
service podcast. Through the Marisa Hayes, a church “The schools circulated details
weekly pew sheet, families’ member said: “As we emerged to the families and children.
news, the village magazine from the gloom of January, Some came with grandparents
and social media, the people of the response to the tree was to show them and say: “that’s
Ringmer were invited to stop fabulous. It could be seen my ribbon”. A simple but
for a moment, to tie a ribbon or from the road and footpaths effective means to capture the
wool onto a branch and simply and attracted wide attention. imagination of all ages.”
to give thanks. “Many people returned
frequently to adorn the tree
with a sign of thanks, some
came once to give thanks for
our schools and colleges as
they opened.26 FAITH IN SUSSEX
I am thankful that last summer all fund-raising activities
A privilege and a joy I was able to make a number cancelled.
Andrew Blackman made of deeply rewarding, informal
At the same time we have
history when he was sworn visits to charities, community
found a renewed sense
in as the High Sheriff of groups and emergency services
of common purpose, a
East Sussex in March 2020 while infection rates were low.
determination to pull through,
because, due to the virus Those visits and the people
a clearer vision of our place in
lockdown, the ceremony had I met on them have been the
our community.
to be carried out virtually. A highlight of my year.
year on, he tells us about the Outdoor services last summer
It had always been my
positive things that emerged were filled with joy and
intention to focus less on the
during what proved to be an tangible proof to the village
social side of the High Sheriff’s
extraordinary year in office. that we remain active, hopeful
calendar and more on the
and perhaps not quite such a
THREE days after the first core objectives of supporting,
funny, unapproachable bunch
national lockdown began, I encouraging and thanking
as they might have thought.
made my declaration as High those doing their utmost to
Sheriff of East Sussex via Zoom serve the communities of East Ride and Stride was more
on March 27, 2020. It was Sussex. appreciated than ever in Pett
immediately apparent that this as a rare chance to come
Covid rather hijacked my
was to be no ordinary shrieval together as a body with friends
plans, which meant the
year. from neighbouring churches
emphasis shifted more than
to appreciate our beautiful
As my time in office now draws had perhaps been my original
surroundings, fresh air and
to a close 12 months on, I pray aim. But this year of all years,
exercise, and each other.
that the pandemic is in its final it has been the greatest joy
stages too. The extraordinary and privilege to listen to the The overwhelming positives
national vaccination effort many extraordinary stories of this year for me have been
certainly gives great cause for of empathy, compassion, to see communities work
hope and thankfulness. generosity and hope across the together, locally, across the
county. county and nationally; to see
As for many of us over the last neighbour find time to listen to
12 months, adaptability has We hear and read so much that
and appreciate neighbour; to
been key in finding ways to is negative and divisive, but of
see individuals reconnect with
keep this ancient role relevant course there is far more good
what is most fundamental and
in such challenging times. in our neighbours than bad and
important in life.
Zoom, Teams, Skype and all it is the happy task of a High
the other online platforms Sheriff to shine a spotlight on It has been an undeniably
have proved a godsend while that whenever and wherever tough 12 months for so many
meetings in person haven’t possible. of us but if we can hold on to
been possible. some of those recalibrations
I am a member of the PCC at St
in our lives, a great deal of
But like most others, I have Mary and St Peter, Pett, a poor
good will have come out of an
found the lack of face-to-face rural parish in the far east of
immensely challenging year.
contact at times exhausting the county near Hastings.
and discouraging. We all need Our year as a church has in
proper human interaction and many ways been a microcosm
talking through a screen can of the wider picture. We
never be a replacement for that. have had our struggles - a
constant need to adapt to new
regulations, a congregation ANDREW WITH THE HASTINGS
HOMELESS TEAM FROM
nervous about the virus, ST JOHN AMBULANCE AT
SEAVIEW IN ST LEONARDSISSUE 30 27
Environment news
By Debbie Beer, diocesan environment officer
Enjoy the wonders of God’s If your community has a Energy and climate update
creation this summer wildlife or environmental Please make sure your church
group, explore how you might has entered its energy usage
IN THESE Covid times,
work together. statistics for 2020 into
offering outdoor activities
exploring and celebrating the For an excellent Church of the national CofE Energy
natural world is a great way England guide to all aspects Footprint Tool, part of the
for churches to bless their of organising outdoor church annual finance returns.
communities as well as to activities, with many examples Click here
grow in understanding and and links to resources, click The national CofE
caring for the diverse and here Environment Team has
interdependent web of life of mapped out A Practical Path
which we are part. Learning more about how To Net Zero Carbon for church
They don’t need to be to care for land and nature buildings, with the quick
elaborate. Why not produce wins first, set out in a guided
Also during Nature Week, checklist, backed up by some
a simple leaflet of a reflective the Church of England
prayer walk around your excellent webinars and more
Environment Team is offering detailed practical guidance:
churchyard or the open spaces a series of one-hour free
of your community? You can webinars on land and nature www.churchofengland.org/
put it together with copies (www.churchofengland.org/ resources/churchcare/net-
of some of the downloadable about/environment-and- zero-carbon-church
activity sheets from wildlife climate-change/webinars-
organisations as an activity It’s not too late to join in with
land-and-nature-churches- Climate Sunday - choose your
pack which can be used flexibly count-nature-week). Topics
by households or “bubbles”. own date between now and
include Nature And Climate: late August: https://www.
You could adapt it to produce twin crises, shared solutions; climatesunday.org
some “at home” versions – Forest Church; Finding our
one for the garden and an faith in trees; Five Steps to Take part in the climate prayer
‘armchair’ version for those good management of your relay virtually (https://www.
whose health keeps them in churchyard; Practical examples yccn.uk/relay) or join the
the house. If you want to be of churchyards managed for climate prayer chain organised
more ambitious once larger nature; Flower-rich grasslands by Christian Aid, TearFund,
outdoor gatherings are allowed, ; the Land section of Eco CAFOD and Renew Our World,
consider outdoor worship, Church; Beginner’s guide www.christianaid.org.uk/
pilgrim walks, exploring to biodiversity and ecology; pray/prayer-chain
wildlife days, or joining in the the National Burial Ground
Churches Count on Nature Survey; How to get started
Week (June 5 to 13, www. with recording nature in
caringforgodsacre.org.uk). churchyards.28 FAITH IN SUSSEX
South of England
Show is back…
(and so is Sanctuary)
THE South of England Show
was cancelled last year
The show has always been an
due to Covid but the show excellent opportunity for outreach,
committee has decided to
go ahead with plans for this to both visitors and stall holders.
summer.
For the first time in its history catering van and a place to rest and often being asked to judge
the show will take place from weary feet. We operate as a a competition, get involved
Friday to Sunday, June 11 to safe space for any lost people in the education hub or to
June 13. Traditionally it is from with the support of the show sample some of the fine foods
Thursday to Saturday. ground personnel. from local producers.
Rev Sue Wilkinson will once “Books Alive book shop, based “This year we will see some
again be co-ordinating the in Hove, will also be joining changes to accommodate
Sanctuary area. This space is us again and we will have the the Covid restrictions. Sadly,
staffed by representatives from usual area for baby changing. we had to stand down our
the diocese and wider faith refreshments and washing-up
“The Sanctuary in its current
communities. teams because Salvation Army
set-up has been going for five
need to use their own teams
Sue said: “We are delighted years now but the church has
using takeaway cups.
to be back at the showground always had a presence at the
again this year. Visitors and show from the very beginning. “But, be assured you will
the showground staff have It celebrated 50 years in 2017. receive a warm welcome from
appreciated the presence the team.”
“The show has always been
of the Sanctuary space and an excellent opportunity for For more details, call Sue on
we consistently get positive outreach, to both visitors and 07713097661
feedback. stall holders. Visiting clergy
You can buy tickets here
“The Sanctuary is a relaxed area and faith leaders from other https://www.seas.org.uk/
staffed by a small team with Christian denominations
south-of-england-show/
hot drinks available from our come along to help take the
friends at the Salvation Army Church out into the wider
community by being presentYou can also read
