Peterborough Diocese Document

The Diocese of Peterborough
DON - Diocesan Office Newsletter November/December 2010
An A4 magazine style version of DON may be download via this link: DON Information for clergy, licensed lay ministers, churchwardens, church secretaries & treasurers and parish child protection co-ordinators. Who's turn to return? A plea for information from parishes DON to be replaced People news National campaigns - Christmas, Easter, weddings Church buildings, churchyards School admission appeal panels Legal matters: Licensing, land registry Grant schemes Enabling Church conference Notices Resources Adult Education and training Events and retreats Diocesan Synod News: What happened at the meeting of Diocesan Synod on 9 October 2010 Who’s turn to return? Top Richard Pestell, Diocesan Secretary, writes: I am most grateful to those parishes which sent in their annual returns this year, that is the Statistics for Mission and Finance returns, and the annual Accounts for 2009. Sadly we are not reaching the national target of a 90% but I sense some of that is an uncertainty as to who is to make the return for each parish. The responsibility for making it happen rests with the Chairman of each PCC but in practice it will be others who do the work, probably the PCC Treasurer for the Accounts and the Finance Return and a Churchwarden for the Statistics for Mission. Last year we sent out individual Statistics for Mission forms for each parish to incumbents / priests in charge (and church wardens 1 where there was a vacancy) but it was clear that many of those were lost. This year we are sending copies of the forms to everyone, with this issue of DON. If you receive DON by email, do please ask for paper copies if they would be helpful. Having mentioned paper copies we do welcome returns that are made electronically. The forms, which are all on the diocesan website, can be completed electronically and then returned. We are also happy to receive them as .pdf files. Finally, it is important that you know why the returns are important. The enclosed leaflet Why we are asking for your help gives the answer. Thank you for your help in this. DON to be replaced by monthly email bulletins This will be the last issue of DON in its current form. Having looked at ways in which we can pass on information to Church officers, clergy and lay ministers in a more prompt and efficient way, we have decided to introduce two new, brief email bulletins to replace the bi-monthly DON. Each of the new emails will be sent once a month The first will be a Training update. This will highlight the rich array of courses offered to church members by the diocese. The second will be the Diocesan Office Newsletter (DON). This will be a round up of news and tips for churchwardens, treasurers, secretaries and child protection co-ordinators. Both emails will be printable for display on church noticeboards, or can be forwarded to others by email. We will be using a recognised email marketing system to minimise the risk of our emails being mistaken as spam by internet service providers, and deleted. It will also allow us to keep the emails colourful and easy to read, without becoming large files. If we do not currently have your email address, please send it to: communications@peterborough-diocese.org.uk . For those without email we will print and send the e-bulletins periodically, by post. We will review the new scheme in due course, so if you have any comments or concerns please contact Liz Hurst, Communications Officer on 01733 887012. PEOPLE NEWS Top General Synod elections The elections for the new quinquennium of the Church of England General Synod have now taken place in in all 44 dioceses. Those elected in our diocese are, House of clergy: Christine Allsopp, Willaim Croft, Stephen Trott. House of laity: Dennis Allsopp, Veronica Heald, Andrew Presland Appointments The Revd Stephen Benoy, Vicar of Christ the King Kettering, has been appointed Diocesan Director of Ordinands from 28 February 2011. The Revd Clive Deverell, Assistant Curate of Paston has been appointed Anglican Team Minister for West Swindon & the Lydiards Church Partnership (Bristol Diocese) from 10 November. The Revd Susan Faulkner, Priest in charge of St Silas Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, and on the staff of the Urban Ministry and Theology Project, has been appointed Priest in charge of the Knightley Parishes (Badby with Newnham and Charwelton with Fawsley and Preston Capes) from 6 November. The Revd Canon Peter Gompertz, who retired in February, has been app-ointed a Canon Emeritus of Peterborough Cathedral. The Revd Canon Julie Hutchinson, Diocesan Director of Ordinands and Vocations, has been appointed Chaplain to the Bishop of Peterborough from 1 January 2011. The Revd Gillian Jessop, Rector of Paston and Director of Reader Training, has been appointed Rural Dean of Peterborough in addition to her existing responsibilities. The Revd Jonathan Kimber, Priest in charge of St Benedict’s Northampton has been appointed Vicar of the same parish from 11 November. The Revd Tony Lynett, Vicar of All Saints Welling-borough and Rural Dean of Wellingborough, has been appointed Priest in Charge of All Hallows Wellingborough in addition to his existing responsibilities. The Revd David MacPherson, who has Permission to Officiate has been appointed as Chaplain to Retired Clergy and Clergy Widows Officer for the Brackley, Daventry and Towcester deaneries. The Revd Canon John Roberts, has retired from this role. The Revd Paul McLeod, Vicar of Newbiggin Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne has been appointed Vicar of the Whittlewood Benefice (Silverstone and Abthorpe with Slapton and Whittlebury with Paulerspury) from 6 November. The Revd Roy Mellor, Rector of Blisworth & Stoke Bruerne with Grafton Regis & Alderton, Priest in Charge of Milton Malsor and Surrogate for the Issue of Marriage Licenses of Towcester Deanery is to retire on 30 November. The Revd Peter Morrell, Assistant Curate (SSM) of Uppingham w Ayston & Wardley w Belton has been appointed as Assistant Curate (SSM) of Nassington w Yarwell & Woodnewton w Apethorpe from 1 November. The Revd Michael Petitt, Priest in charge of Cottesbrooke with Great Creaton and Thornby; Guilsborough with Hollowell and Cold Ashby; Spratton; Ravensthorpe (The Uplands group of parishes) has been appointed Vicar of St Mary’s Ilkeston (Derby) from 4 November. The Revd Terence Richards, Assistant curate (SSM) of Middleton Cheney with Chacombe and Greatworth and Marston St Lawrence with Warkworth and Thenford (The Chenderit Benefice) has been appointed Assistant Priest (SSM) in the same benefice from July 2010. The Revd Claire Rose-Casemore, Vicar of Daventry with special responsibility for Braunston and Ashby St Legers, and sub-warden of Readers for the Greater Northampton Deanery has been appointed Priest in charge (Team Rector designate) of the Torridge Estuary Team Ministry with particular responsibility for St Mary’s Bideford; and also Leader of the Bideford and Four Village Mission Community (Exeter Diocese), from 21 November. The Revd Marcus Stewart, Chaplain at HM Prison Elmley, has been appointed Lead Chaplain of Peterborough and Stamford Hospitals to be licensed by Bishop Donald on 15 December in the chapel at the new Peterborough City Hospital. The Revd Clem Upton, vicar of St Andrew’s Wellingborough, is to retire on 30 November 2010. The Revd Ron Watkinson, currently Assistant Priest (SSM) of Peterborough Deanery was licensed as Priest in charge (House for Duty) of St Paul’s Peterborough in October. The Revd Stephen Webster, Curate of Oundle with Ashton and Benefield with Clapthorn, is to be Associate Minister of the same parishes from 10 October. The Revd Canon Alison White has been appointed Honorary Canon Theologian at Sheffield Cathedral from 14 November. The Whites stress that this is an honorary appointment and that it can be carried out from Newcastle! Mr Peter White, Youth and Children’s Worker at St Giles’, Northampton, has been appointed Diocesan Co-ordinator for Youth Work Placements (part time), in addition to his existing role, from 1 October 2010. The Revd Timothy Whitwell, Chaplain of Lichfield Cathedral School has replaced the Revd Chris Mason as Chaplain of The Peterborough School. He was licensed on 4 October. The Revd Derek Williams, the Bishop of Peterborough’s Administrator and Press Officer, is to retire as such on 31 December. He has been appointed Diocesan Press Officer and administrator of the 2011 ministers’ conference, on a part time basis, from 1 January 2011. The Revd Canon Peter Woodward has resumed the role as Chaplain for Retired clergy and clergy widows for the Brixworth, Gtr Northampton and Wellingborough deaneries. Obituary Mrs Mary Attley, church warden of Ringstead over a period of 40 years and known widely within the diocese, died on 27 September 2010. The Revd Douglas Catt who served in the diocese since 1966 as Rector of Croughton and Hinton in the Hedges w Steane, Vicar of Evenley, Chaplain of St Andrews Hospital and holding PTO since his retirement in 1988 died on 7 October 2010. Mrs Jane Purser wife of Bob Purser, Churches Officer for New Communities, died in September. Her funeral took place at St Peter & St Paul, Abington on 30 September. Mr Guy Phipps Walker, Chairman of the Friends of Ecton House, member of the Guild of Centurions and long serving Churchwarden of Boughton died in October. His funeral was held at Boughton on 25 October. Mama Caren Wabukala, wife of Archbishop Eliud of Kenya (former Bishop of Bungoma Diocese) died unexpectedly after a fall on 5 September. The Diocese of Peterborough was represented at her memorial and funeral services in Nair-obi, Bungoma and Kibeu. Diocesan office news Anne Pooley, Bishop Frank’s Secretary took early retirement on 30 September 2010 after 8 years in the post. Anne will remain in touch with the diocese in her capacity as Churchwarden of Irchester and is looking forward to catching up with her other interests. NATIONAL CAMPAIGNS Top He’s on his way - Christmas poster campaign Parishes in the diocese are being encouraged to take advantage of free Christmas advertising materials that will link their own Christmas services to an eye-catching nationwide poster campaign. The posters, from churchads.net, reflect how 21st century parents-to-be proudly announce the coming birth by showing friends and family the scan of the baby in the womb. This convention is used to place the birth of Christ in an ultra-contemporary context. There is no doubt that the campaign will capture people's attention, generate headlines and be a conversation starter about the true meaning of Christmas. The vision of churchads.net is that 40 million people will see the poster displayed on over 2000 poster sites around the country. The posters are backed up by radio commercials that will be aired on 200 stations. Rather than booking poster sites directly, supporters are asked to donate towards the campaign as a whole, via the website www.churchads.net Parishes are invited to build on the recognition and momentum generated by the posters by downloading the poster image for themselves, free of charge, and displaying it on noticeboards locally. Resources for creating service sheets and invitations are also available via the website, as are low resolution versions of the poster image that can be used on websites, emails and Facebook pages. Nearer to Christmas worship materials, and the radio commericals themselves, will also be available from the website. www.churchads.net Putting Jesus back into Easter It's hard to believe that, out of the whopping 80 million chocolate Easter Eggs sold each year, not one of them mentions Jesus on the box. That was until the Manchester-based Meaningful Chocolate Company launched The Real Easter Egg in October this year. The Real Easter Egg is the first and only Fairtrade chocolate Easter egg to explain the Christian under-standing of Easter on the pack. Its profits also support charity and development projects - buying everything from medical equipment for new mums here at home, to chickens and fresh water for farmers in Africa. In order to persuade supermarkets of the demand for The Real Easter Egg in time for them to stock up for Easter, church schools are being invited to order and pay for 12 or more eggs by 1 December 2010. Schools can download the order for from: www.RealEasterEgg.co.uk. In January 2011 there will be a wider parish ordering campaign, so keep an eye on the website for details. Children should be allowed at wedding ceremonies A new survey conducted by the Church of England’s wedding show promotions team suggests a majority of people agree with the Church that children should be welcome at the service. The ICM Omnibus online fieldwork survey of 2,008 people in Britain showed that 85% agreed that children should be allowed at wedding ceremonies, with 9% disagreeing and just 6% saying they didn’t know. A majority of people also thought that it was down to churches to initiate the welcome to children, and actively plan how to amuse younger ones during the service. As result a new advice sheet called Welcoming Children at Weddings has been produced, based on feedback from Children’s Advisers including our Children’s Missioner, Rona Orme. You can find the advice sheet at: http://xa.yimg.com/kq/groups/23404912/284897142/name/welcoming%20children%20to%20weddings.doc CHURCH BUILDINGS & CHURCHYARDS Top Church maintenance: Things to do November Check that the flagpole is secure. Check the roofs for damage. Broken or missing slates and tiles indicates that there may be a problem. Clear leaves and debris from gutters and rainwater pipes regularly and check for any storm damage. Frequent attention may be required if the church building is surrounded by trees. December Parapet and valley gutters need to be kept clear of snow to prevent melt water rising above them and causing damp internally. Extra caution is needed in icy conditions. Gulleys beneath rainwater pipes should be cleaned out regularly and drains should be rodded out if they overflow during wet weather. Remove silt and debris and ensure the water discharges freely. Make sure the fire safety equipment has been serviced. Source: The SPAB Faith in Maintenance calendar. New action pack offers tips on “sensitive churchyard care” This year is International Year of Biodiversity and Caring for God’s Acre, the charity for the conservation of churchyards and burial grounds is encouraging all churches to look at how they manage their churchyards, to enhance them as places for wildlife and people. Sensitive churchyard care can be a fairly simple process and has a number of benefits: It can save time and money. It enhances the churchyard for visitors (human visitors and wildlife). It demonstrates a care for the natural world. It creates a place of beauty for peaceful reflection. It enhances the opportunities for learning within the community. To help people as much as possible, Caring for God’s Acre has produced a new Churchyard and Burial Ground Action Pack. The pack consists of an A4 plastic file with twenty-three advice guides in individual plastic wallets. The different guides cover a wide range of topics, ranging from the steps to getting started on a scheme, how to manage grassland, trees and stonework, leading on to involving and inspiring the local community, including schools, to become involved in activities. The Churchyard and Burial Ground Action Pack is for sale at a cost of £12.50 plus £4 P&P. Send a cheque for £16.50 payable to Caring for God’s Acre, 6 West Street, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 8ES. Website www.caringforgodsacre.org.uk Appealing work? School Admission Appeal Panel members needed Top Are you interested in education? Are you clear-thinking and fair-minded? Could you spare some time? School Admission Appeals are held when parents have been unsuccessful in obtaining a place for their child in a school of their choice. An Independent Appeals Panel hears the case and, following the rules and procedures laid down in Government Regulations, decides whether the child should be given a place. The Panel consists of three people – those who are eligible can be lay members (people without personal experience in the management of any school) or education members (people who have experience in education). All Panel members are volunteers; they are supported throughout the hearing by an expert Clerk, who advises them on law and procedure. Training is provided and travel expenses are available. Panel members have complete freedom in deciding how frequently they serve; even one or two days a year would help. The Diocesan Board of Education is seeking to appoint new members to our roster of Appeals Panellists. We are particularly keen to increase the number of lay members. We would love to hear from you to discuss this opportunity. Please contact the Diocesan Deputy Director of Education, Peter Goringe, for an informal chat on 01604 887061, peter.goringe@peterborough-diocese.org.uk LEGAL MATTERS Top Licensing alert There has been local press coverage in recent weeks about the sudden cancellation of a brass band concert at Long Buckby church. Daventry District Council said that to go ahead with it would be breaking the law because the event did not have a license. The similar concerts had happened in the church before and no alcohol was to be served, so there was some concern about the correct legal position. The Diocesan Registrar, Ray Hemingray says that the 2003 Licensing Act appears to state that entertainment at places of public religious worship do not need a licence (unless alcohol or food are involved). However churches should consult their licensing authority if they are in doubt. Some helpful notes for parishes, prepared by St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocese, are on our website at: www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/downloads/2003act.pdf Land Registration and PCC owned property 1. Does your PCC (or Incumbent and Churchwardens) own property? 2. Has it been registered with Land Registry? If it’s yes to 1 and no to 2, then please read on: The DBF currently has an arrangement with the Land Registry for the voluntary first registration of all its properties. PCC (or Incumbent and Churchwardens) property can be registered under this arrangement for £20 per application through the Diocesan Office. If an application was made direct to Land Registry it would cost at least £40! Interested? Then please contact Jackie Newman at the Diocesan Office (01733 887023 or jackie.newman@peterborough-diocese.org.uk) for details. Please act now as this arrangement will be coming to an end. Compensation announced for radio microphone channel change Ofcom has announced the details of a compensation package for users of licensed wireless micro-phone systems whose equipment may be made redundant following changes to spectrum allocation from 2012. This is likely to affect larger churches using Channel 69, which tend to be those using four or more wireless microphones, or those in dense urban areas which have experienced problems with interference in the use of unlicensed channels. Compensation of up to 55% of the cost of replace-ment equipment, or modi-fication costs up to the same amount, are likely to be available to churches who held a valid Channel 69 licence during 2008. It is vital that such churches register with the scheme administrator between September and December this year, in order to be eligible for the compensation. For details see: http://media. ofcom.org.uk /2010/08/05/ofcom-explains-how-government-funding-package-for-wireless-microphone-users-will-work/ GRANTS Top Listed places of worship grant scheme - Urgent action may be needed! On 7 October 2010 The Department for Culture Media and Sport announced that the concession, secured in 2006, to include professional fees, repairs to clocks, pews, bells and organs in the Listed places of worship grant scheme, is to be withdrawn. Please note that the final closing date to apply for a grant to cover the VAT on such items is 31 December 2010. Any congregation currently undertaking repairs needs to be sure to submit claims by that date or it will lose its grant. The better news is that on 20 October 2010 The Department for Culture Media and Sport announced that the Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme will continue when its present period of operation expires at the end of March 2011, although the items withdrawn from the scheme on 7 October will not be re-instated. The value of the scheme to churches will be enhanced in view of the increase in the rate of VAT due in the New Year. For more information see: www.cofe.anglican.org/news/pr9410.html Wolfson Foundation offers grants The Church Buildings Council administers applications for grant aid towards fabric repairs to Anglican Churches on behalf of the Wolfson Foundation. Applications are considered on the grounds of the architectural and historic importance of this building, the urgency of work and the ability of the church to contribute financially. The criteria for consideration of applications are: · The building must have Grade I, or exceptionally, Grade II* status. · The majority of the building must pre-date 1850. In addition: The applicant must not have received a grant from the Foundation in the previous five years. 50% of funding must be in place prior to application. The parish must show that it has applied to English Heritage for grant aid, even if rejected. The work must be undertaken and the grant claimed within one year of being offered. Conservation of bells or organs are ineligible. Details at: www.churchcare.co.uk/funding.php?IM USEFUL CONTACTS: Church buildings: Dr Paul Middleton, DAC Secretary, 01733 887007 dac@peterborough-diocese.org.uk. See also: www.peterboroughdiocesanregistry.co.uk Funding: Paul Adams, Stewardship and Funding Officer, 01604 887071. paul.adams@peterborough-diocese.org.uk see also: www.parishresources.org.uk/ Enabling Church conference Top Jackie Topp, Diocesan Disability Adviser, attended a conference entitled Enabling Church in London in October. It was a gathering of over 400 delegates, the majority of them disabled and many of whom had travelled great distances to be there. Among the speakers was the Revd John Naudé, who preceded Jackie in her role as our Disability Adviser and now leads a church in Portsmouth. This is an extract from Jackie’s report: “If weakness is viewed as strength perhaps all disabled people need to show themselves in all their weaknesses. This does not mean relinquishing our rights for independence and equality. It acknowledges our mutual need to be interdependent and valued differently by those who appear to have it all.” To read Jackie Topp’s full report follow this link: www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/downloads/enablingchurch.pdf NOTICES Top Home for Christmas? Would you share your festivities with an international student at a UK university who might otherwise be stuck on an empty campus? HOST is looking for invitations for 2 or 3 days for students from China and many other countries. Please see www.hostuk.org or call HOST’s voluntary organiser Mandy Talbott on 01472 851084. Christians Aware - Christmas cards now out Christians Aware, the international and ecumenical movement for developing multi-cultural understanding chaired by Bishop John Flack, is offering a range of Christmas cards. You can see the cards at: www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/downloads/christiansaware.jpg Spare tables and chairs needed The Somali Social Club in Northampton is looking for tables and chairs for a new After School Club. If churches have any they are no long need please contact in the first instance David Wiseman on 01604 633254 or david@wiseman50.freeserve.co.uk Website discount for Peterborough Diocese Following the recent seminar run by Church Edit, the church website company is offering a 20% discount on the first year's fee to parishes or benefices in the Peterborough Diocese who wish to use their system. Church Edit offers easy to update and powerful church websites. Prices start from £149+vat pa (this can be shared between parishes in a benefice, with each having their own web address). For details visit: www.churchedit.co.uk/peterborough-diocese Kainos Community seeks mentors Kainos Community is a Christian Charity working in UK prisons. Its mentor project offers follow-up support for graduates of the Challenge to Change programme and their families both while in custody and on release. The focus is on developing relationships to give support to offenders on release from custody. Volunteers are urgently needed for the Peterborough area. Mentors meet with an ex-offender once a week for approximately two hours on a one to one basis. Reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Training and support will be given. Contact Jeremy Butler on 0787 259 2355, jeremybutler@kainoscommunity.org New Churches Conservation Trust website The Churches Conservation Trust, the charity which manages and restores 340 churches across England has re-launched its website. To find out more about the Northamptonshire and Rutland churches in its care, follow the links at www.visitchurches.org.uk 2012 Olympics - new Church webpage The Church of England has launched a special Olympics page and podcast at www.cofe.anglican.org/olympics. St Paul’s Cathedral launches finance think tank The St Paul’s Institute will explore moral themes in business, finance and global economics. It will host lectures, debates etc. See: www.stpaulsinstitute.org.uk Contact details for Spiritual Direction Please note new contact details for the East Midlands SPI-DIR Network. For those seeking help in finding a Spiritual Director please contact the Revd Lynda Randall on 01327 350203, email revlyn@uwclub.net. Family Care's new address and Christmas cards Family Care’s central office has moved from 222 Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough, to High Trees, 270 Eastfield Road, Peterborough PE1 4BE. The telephone number remains 01733 554817. Family Care have a range of Christmas cards that can be ordered from their website at: www.familycare.co.uk St Andrew's Healthcare, Northampton seeks Chapel Organist/Director of Music Sessional contract 3.75 hours per week. £3,448.75 per annum. The Chaplaincy Team is looking for an Organist/Director of Music to provide Sunday morning worship in the Hospital Chapel, lead choir practices and play at annual festival services requiring music and choir. In addition the post holder will have first opportunity to play for all occasional offices such as weddings, funerals and memorial services. The Organist/DoM will lead Sunday morning choir practice and seek to develop the musical abilities of paid choir members both patients and volunteers, maintain a record of attendance and be responsible for the Choir Achievement Scheme. There is a fine two manual Father Willis (1894) organ rebuilt by Harrison and Harrison in 1993 and refurbished by them in 2008. The post holder will ensure all statutory and mandatory training requirements as expected of St Andrew’s Healthcare staff are completed including enhanced CRB. Details from: Revd Neil Tyrer, Senior Chaplain on 01604 616379, ntyrer@standrew.co.uk, Closing date: 12 November 2010. RESOURCES Top Alcohol, Open Hands and Advent We spend over £30 billion on alcohol in the UK every year. The NHS spends about £1.6 billion on healthcare related to alcohol misuse and the drinks industry spends an estimated £800 million in encouraging us to drink more. It is also estimated that between 780 thousand and 1.3 million children are affected by parental alcohol problems. The Church Urban Fund’s advent resources focus on Open Hands, a project they support that offers recovering alcoholics counselling, friendship, a place to live and the possibility of a new beginning. The prayers and reflections are suitable for Sunday worship or for small groups. See www.cuf.org.uk/resources-churches/advent-christmas Shelter at Christmas Due to the current economic crisis, Shelter is asking churches to help them provide urgently needed advice and support to those in housing need this Christmas by holding a special service and collection in aid of Shelter. Visit the website to download a free Christmas service booklet at http://england.shelter.org.uk/what_you_can_do/fundraising/raise_money_with_your_church or call Amy Russell on 0344 515 2130, churches@shelter.org.uk Christingle resources The Children’s Society’s FREE Create-a-Christingle pack contains all you need to have a fun and inspirational Christingle service in your community. The pack includes service suggestions and engaging activities for children and young people. You can also download a short film to introduce people to The Children’s Society’s work by telling the story of Robbie who, at 12 years old, was so unhappy that he ran away to a lonely and dangerous existence on the streets. The resources are available at www.christingle.org or call 0845 600 8585. Share the light ‘Share the Light’ is about taking time at Christmas to share the light of Jesus with our local community. The idea is to give light (a candle) to someone and invite them to be part of a Share the Light service at your church. CMS has a range of resources and ideas to help churches reach out in mission to their local community. For more details see www.cms-uk.org/advent or call 01865 787515. Poverty & Homelessness Action Week 2011 Poverty & Homelessness Action Week runs from 29 January to 6 February 2011. 30 January is Homelessness Sunday and 6 February is Poverty Action Sunday. The theme this year is 'Who Counts?' The 2011 census will try to list all the people who live in the country – but chances are there are many it won’t include - such as the ‘hidden homeless’ and destitute asylum-seekers. Plenty of ideas and resources for churches are available at: www.actionweek.org.uk ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING Top Diary of training events Full details of the adult education programme are at: www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/ministry/diary.htm Being a Disciple at Work We offer a downloadable 3-session course, free for you to use with church groups. The materials can be adapted to your own needs. Several churches have found this very helpful in opening up the whole subject of faith and work with their church members. We also now have a Facebook group: Christians in the Workplace in Peterborough Diocese – do join! EVENTS AND RETREATS Top Training for Churchwardens Saturday 20 November, 10am - 12 noon at Flore Monday 7 March 2011, 7pm - 9.30pm at Oundle Saturday 14 May 2011, 9.30am - 12.30pm at Brackley These sessions are free to churchwardens in the diocese. They will cover building, legal and security matters, as well as the wider pastoral duties of churchwardens as bishop's officers. The Archdeacons of Oakham and Northampton will be there, as well as the DAC Secretary and a surveyor and building consultant from the Ecclesiastical Insurance Group. Churchwardens are invited to book on the date most convenient to them by contacting Sally Crossley on 01604 887049 or sally.crossley@peterborough-diocese.org.uk There will be a morning for children’s leaders in Wellingborough Deanery on Saturday 12 February 2011 For more details contact Rona Orme on 01604 887045, email: rona.orme@peterborough-diocese.org.uk Launde Abbey Diocesan Retreat House Tel: 01572 717254. For Advent and new year events and retreats visit: www.launde.org.uk Ferrar House, Little Gidding PE28 5RJ Ferrar House is a small retreat centre overlooking open country, on the wolds of west Cambridgeshire. Individuals or groups seeking space to relax, study or write are welcome, either for day or residential visits. For more information contact the warden, Allan Bell, on 01832 293383, email: info@ferrarhouse.co.uk or visit www.ferrarhouse.co.uk Top
www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk

DON - Diocesan Office Newsletter
November/December 2010

An A4 magazine style version of DON may be download via this link: DON

Information for clergy, licensed lay ministers, churchwardens, church secretaries & treasurers and parish child protection co-ordinators.

Who's turn to return? A plea for information from parishes
DON to be replaced
People news
National campaigns - Christmas, Easter, weddings
Church buildings, churchyards
School admission appeal panels
Legal matters: Licensing, land registry
Grant schemes
Enabling Church conference
Notices
Resources
Adult Education and training
Events and retreats

Diocesan Synod News: What happened at the meeting of Diocesan Synod on 9 October 2010

Who’s turn to return? Top

Richard Pestell, Diocesan Secretary, writes:
I am most grateful to those parishes which sent in their annual returns this year, that is the Statistics for Mission and Finance returns, and the annual Accounts for 2009. Sadly we are not reaching the national target of a 90% but I sense some of that is an uncertainty as to who is to make the return for each parish.

The responsibility for making it happen rests with the Chairman of each PCC but in practice it will be others who do the work, probably the PCC Treasurer for the Accounts and the Finance Return and a Churchwarden for the Statistics for Mission. Last year we sent out individual Statistics for Mission forms for each parish to incumbents / priests in charge (and church wardens 1 where there was a vacancy) but it was clear that many of those were lost.

This year we are sending copies of the forms to everyone, with this issue of DON. If you receive DON by email, do please ask for paper copies if they would be helpful. Having mentioned paper copies we do welcome returns that are made electronically. The forms, which are all on the diocesan website, can be completed electronically and then returned. We are also happy to receive them as .pdf files.

Finally, it is important that you know why the returns are important. The enclosed leaflet Why we are asking for your help gives the answer. Thank you for your help in this.

DON to be replaced by monthly email bulletins

This will be the last issue of DON in its current form. Having looked at ways in which we can pass on information to Church officers, clergy and lay ministers in a more prompt and efficient way, we have decided to introduce two new, brief email bulletins to replace the bi-monthly DON. Each of the new emails will be sent once a month

The first will be a Training update. This will highlight the rich array of courses offered to church members by the diocese. The second will be the Diocesan Office Newsletter (DON). This will be a round up of news and tips for churchwardens, treasurers, secretaries and child protection co-ordinators. Both emails will be printable for display on church noticeboards, or can be forwarded to others by email.

We will be using a recognised email marketing system to minimise the risk of our emails being mistaken as spam by internet service providers, and deleted. It will also allow us to keep the emails colourful and easy to read, without becoming large files.

If we do not currently have your email address, please send it to: communications@peterborough-diocese.org.uk . For those without email we will print and send the e-bulletins periodically, by post.

We will review the new scheme in due course, so if you have any comments or concerns please contact Liz Hurst, Communications Officer on 01733 887012.

PEOPLE NEWS Top

General Synod elections
The elections for the new quinquennium of the Church of England General Synod have now taken place in in all 44 dioceses. Those elected in our diocese are,
House of clergy: Christine Allsopp, Willaim Croft, Stephen Trott.
House of laity: Dennis Allsopp, Veronica Heald, Andrew Presland

Appointments

The Revd Stephen Benoy, Vicar of Christ the King Kettering, has been appointed Diocesan Director of Ordinands from 28 February 2011.
The Revd Clive Deverell, Assistant Curate of Paston has been appointed Anglican Team Minister for West Swindon & the Lydiards Church Partnership (Bristol Diocese) from 10 November.
The Revd Susan Faulkner, Priest in charge of St Silas Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, and on the staff of the Urban Ministry and Theology Project, has been appointed Priest in charge of the Knightley Parishes (Badby with Newnham and Charwelton with Fawsley and Preston Capes) from 6 November.
The Revd Canon Peter Gompertz, who retired in February, has been app-ointed a Canon Emeritus of Peterborough Cathedral.
The Revd Canon Julie Hutchinson, Diocesan Director of Ordinands and Vocations, has been appointed Chaplain to the Bishop of Peterborough from 1 January 2011.
The Revd Gillian Jessop, Rector of Paston and Director of Reader Training, has been appointed Rural Dean of Peterborough in addition to her existing responsibilities.
The Revd Jonathan Kimber, Priest in charge of St Benedict’s Northampton has been appointed Vicar of the same parish from 11 November.
The Revd Tony Lynett, Vicar of All Saints Welling-borough and Rural Dean of Wellingborough, has been appointed Priest in Charge of All Hallows Wellingborough in addition to his existing responsibilities.
The Revd David MacPherson, who has Permission to Officiate has been appointed as Chaplain to Retired Clergy and Clergy Widows Officer for the Brackley, Daventry and Towcester deaneries. The Revd Canon John Roberts, has retired from this role.
The Revd Paul McLeod, Vicar of Newbiggin Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne has been appointed Vicar of the Whittlewood Benefice (Silverstone and Abthorpe with Slapton and Whittlebury with Paulerspury) from 6 November.
The Revd Roy Mellor, Rector of Blisworth & Stoke Bruerne with Grafton Regis & Alderton, Priest in Charge of Milton Malsor and Surrogate for the Issue of Marriage Licenses of Towcester Deanery is to retire on 30 November.
The Revd Peter Morrell, Assistant Curate (SSM) of Uppingham w Ayston & Wardley w Belton has been appointed as Assistant Curate (SSM) of Nassington w Yarwell & Woodnewton w Apethorpe from 1 November.
The Revd Michael Petitt, Priest in charge of Cottesbrooke with Great Creaton and Thornby; Guilsborough with Hollowell and Cold Ashby; Spratton; Ravensthorpe (The Uplands group of parishes) has been appointed Vicar of St Mary’s Ilkeston (Derby) from 4 November.
The Revd Terence Richards, Assistant curate (SSM) of Middleton Cheney with Chacombe and Greatworth and Marston St Lawrence with Warkworth and Thenford (The Chenderit Benefice) has been appointed Assistant Priest (SSM) in the same benefice from July 2010.
The Revd Claire Rose-Casemore, Vicar of Daventry with special responsibility for Braunston and Ashby St Legers, and sub-warden of Readers for the Greater Northampton Deanery has been appointed Priest in charge (Team Rector designate) of the Torridge Estuary Team Ministry with particular responsibility for St Mary’s Bideford; and also Leader of the Bideford and Four Village Mission Community (Exeter Diocese), from 21 November.
The Revd Marcus Stewart, Chaplain at HM Prison Elmley, has been appointed Lead Chaplain of Peterborough and Stamford Hospitals to be licensed by Bishop Donald on 15 December in the chapel at the new Peterborough City Hospital.
The Revd Clem Upton, vicar of St Andrew’s Wellingborough, is to retire on 30 November 2010.
The Revd Ron Watkinson, currently Assistant Priest (SSM) of Peterborough Deanery was licensed as Priest in charge (House for Duty) of St Paul’s Peterborough in October.
The Revd Stephen Webster, Curate of Oundle with Ashton and Benefield with Clapthorn, is to be Associate Minister of the same parishes from 10 October.
The Revd Canon Alison White has been appointed Honorary Canon Theologian at Sheffield Cathedral from 14 November. The Whites stress that this is an honorary appointment and that it can be carried out from Newcastle!
Mr Peter White, Youth and Children’s Worker at St Giles’, Northampton, has been appointed Diocesan Co-ordinator for Youth Work Placements (part time), in addition to his existing role, from 1 October 2010.
The Revd Timothy Whitwell, Chaplain of Lichfield Cathedral School has replaced the Revd Chris Mason as Chaplain of The Peterborough School. He was licensed on 4 October.
The Revd Derek Williams, the Bishop of Peterborough’s Administrator and Press Officer, is to retire as such on 31 December. He has been appointed Diocesan Press Officer and administrator of the 2011 ministers’ conference, on a part time basis, from 1 January 2011.
The Revd Canon Peter Woodward has resumed the role as Chaplain for Retired clergy and clergy widows for the Brixworth, Gtr Northampton and Wellingborough deaneries.

Obituary
Mrs Mary Attley, church warden of Ringstead over a period of 40 years and known widely within the diocese, died on 27 September 2010.
The Revd Douglas Catt who served in the diocese since 1966 as Rector of Croughton and Hinton in the Hedges w Steane, Vicar of Evenley, Chaplain of St Andrews Hospital and holding PTO since his retirement in 1988 died on 7 October 2010.
Mrs Jane Purser wife of Bob Purser, Churches Officer for New Communities, died in September. Her funeral took place at St Peter & St Paul, Abington on 30 September.
Mr Guy Phipps Walker, Chairman of the Friends of Ecton House, member of the Guild of Centurions and long serving Churchwarden of Boughton died in October. His funeral was held at Boughton on 25 October.
Mama Caren Wabukala, wife of Archbishop Eliud of Kenya (former Bishop of Bungoma Diocese) died unexpectedly after a fall on 5 September. The Diocese of Peterborough was represented at her memorial and funeral services in Nair-obi, Bungoma and Kibeu.

Diocesan office news
Anne Pooley, Bishop Frank’s Secretary took early retirement on 30 September 2010 after 8 years in the post. Anne will remain in touch with the diocese in her capacity as Churchwarden of Irchester and is looking forward to catching up with her other interests.

NATIONAL CAMPAIGNS Top

He’s on his way - Christmas poster campaign

Parishes in the diocese are being encouraged to take advantage of free Christmas advertising materials that will link their own Christmas services to an eye-catching nationwide poster campaign.

The posters, from churchads.net, reflect how 21st century parents-to-be proudly announce the coming birth by showing friends and family the scan of the baby in the womb. This convention is used to place the birth of Christ in an ultra-contemporary context. There is no doubt that the campaign will capture people's attention, generate headlines and be a conversation starter about the true meaning of Christmas.

The vision of churchads.net is that 40 million people will see the poster displayed on over 2000 poster sites around the country. The posters are backed up by radio commercials that will be aired on 200 stations. Rather than booking poster sites directly, supporters are asked to donate towards the campaign as a whole, via the website www.churchads.net

Parishes are invited to build on the recognition and momentum generated by the posters by downloading the poster image for themselves, free of charge, and displaying it on noticeboards locally. Resources for creating service sheets and invitations are also available via the website, as are low resolution versions of the poster image that can be used on websites, emails and Facebook pages.

Nearer to Christmas worship materials, and the radio commericals themselves, will also be available from the website. www.churchads.net

Putting Jesus back into Easter

It's hard to believe that, out of the whopping 80 million chocolate Easter Eggs sold each year, not one of them mentions Jesus on the box. That was until the Manchester-based Meaningful Chocolate Company launched The Real Easter Egg in October this year.

The Real Easter Egg is the first and only Fairtrade chocolate Easter egg to explain the Christian under-standing of Easter on the pack. Its profits also support charity and development projects - buying everything from medical equipment for new mums here at home, to chickens and fresh water for farmers in Africa.

In order to persuade supermarkets of the demand for The Real Easter Egg in time for them to stock up for Easter, church schools are being invited to order and pay for 12 or more eggs by 1 December 2010. Schools can download the order for from: www.RealEasterEgg.co.uk.

In January 2011 there will be a wider parish ordering campaign, so keep an eye on the website for details.

Children should be allowed at wedding ceremonies

A new survey conducted by the Church of England’s wedding show promotions team suggests a majority of people agree with the Church that children should be welcome at the service.

The ICM Omnibus online fieldwork survey of 2,008 people in Britain showed that 85% agreed that children should be allowed at wedding ceremonies, with 9% disagreeing and just 6% saying they didn’t know. A majority of people also thought that it was down to churches to initiate the welcome to children, and actively plan how to amuse younger ones during the service.

As result a new advice sheet called Welcoming Children at Weddings has been produced, based on feedback from Children’s Advisers including our Children’s Missioner, Rona Orme. You can find the advice sheet at:
http://xa.yimg.com/kq/groups/23404912/284897142/name/welcoming%20children%20to%20weddings.doc

CHURCH BUILDINGS & CHURCHYARDS Top

Church maintenance: Things to do

November
Check that the flagpole is secure.
Check the roofs for damage. Broken or missing slates and tiles indicates that there may be a problem.
Clear leaves and debris from gutters and rainwater pipes regularly and check for any storm damage. Frequent attention may be required if the church building is surrounded by trees.
December
Parapet and valley gutters need to be kept clear of snow to prevent melt water rising above them and causing damp internally. Extra caution is needed in icy conditions.
Gulleys beneath rainwater pipes should be cleaned out regularly and drains should be rodded out if they overflow during wet weather. Remove silt and debris and ensure the water discharges freely.
Make sure the fire safety equipment has been serviced.
Source: The SPAB Faith in Maintenance calendar.

New action pack offers tips on “sensitive churchyard care”

This year is International Year of Biodiversity and Caring for God’s Acre, the charity for the conservation of churchyards and burial grounds is encouraging all churches to look at how they manage their churchyards, to enhance them as places for wildlife and people.

Sensitive churchyard care can be a fairly simple process and has a number of benefits:

It can save time and money.
It enhances the churchyard for visitors (human visitors and wildlife).
It demonstrates a care for the natural world.
It creates a place of beauty for peaceful reflection.
It enhances the opportunities for learning within the community.

To help people as much as possible, Caring for God’s Acre has produced a new Churchyard and Burial Ground Action Pack. The pack consists of an A4 plastic file with twenty-three advice guides in individual plastic wallets. The different guides cover a wide range of topics, ranging from the steps to getting started on a scheme, how to manage grassland, trees and stonework, leading on to involving and inspiring the local community, including schools, to become involved in activities.

The Churchyard and Burial Ground Action Pack is for sale at a cost of £12.50 plus £4 P&P. Send a cheque for £16.50 payable to Caring for God’s Acre, 6 West Street, Leominster, Herefordshire HR6 8ES.
Website www.caringforgodsacre.org.uk

Appealing work? School Admission Appeal Panel members needed Top

Are you interested in education?
Are you clear-thinking and fair-minded?
Could you spare some time?

School Admission Appeals are held when parents have been unsuccessful in obtaining a place for their child in a school of their choice. An Independent Appeals Panel hears the case and, following the rules and procedures laid down in Government Regulations, decides whether the child should be given a place. The Panel consists of three people – those who are eligible can be lay members (people without personal experience in the management of any school) or education members (people who have experience in education).

All Panel members are volunteers; they are supported throughout the hearing by an expert Clerk, who advises them on law and procedure. Training is provided and travel expenses are available. Panel members have complete freedom in deciding how frequently they serve; even one or two days a year would help.

The Diocesan Board of Education is seeking to appoint new members to our roster of Appeals Panellists. We are particularly keen to increase the number of lay members. We would love to hear from you to discuss this opportunity.

Please contact the Diocesan Deputy Director of Education, Peter Goringe, for an informal chat on 01604 887061, peter.goringe@peterborough-diocese.org.uk

LEGAL MATTERS Top

Licensing alert
There has been local press coverage in recent weeks about the sudden cancellation of a brass band concert at Long Buckby church. Daventry District Council said that to go ahead with it would be breaking the law because the event did not have a license. The similar concerts had happened in the church before and no alcohol was to be served, so there was some concern about the correct legal position.

The Diocesan Registrar, Ray Hemingray says that the 2003 Licensing Act appears to state that entertainment at places of public religious worship do not need a licence (unless alcohol or food are involved). However churches should consult their licensing authority if they are in doubt.

Some helpful notes for parishes, prepared by St Edmundsbury and Ipswich Diocese, are on our website at: www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/downloads/2003act.pdf

Land Registration and PCC owned property
1. Does your PCC (or Incumbent and Churchwardens) own property?
2. Has it been registered with Land Registry?
If it’s yes to 1 and no to 2, then please read on:
The DBF currently has an arrangement with the Land Registry for the voluntary first registration of all its properties. PCC (or Incumbent and Churchwardens) property can be registered under this arrangement for £20 per application through the Diocesan Office. If an application was made direct to Land Registry it would cost at least £40! Interested? Then please contact Jackie Newman at the Diocesan Office (01733 887023 or jackie.newman@peterborough-diocese.org.uk) for details. Please act now as this arrangement will be coming to an end.

Compensation announced for radio microphone channel change
Ofcom has announced the details of a compensation package for users of licensed wireless micro-phone systems whose equipment may be made redundant following changes to spectrum allocation from 2012.

This is likely to affect larger churches using Channel 69, which tend to be those using four or more wireless microphones, or those in dense urban areas which have experienced problems with interference in the use of unlicensed channels. Compensation of up to 55% of the cost of replace-ment equipment, or modi-fication costs up to the same amount, are likely to be available to churches who held a valid Channel 69 licence during 2008.

It is vital that such churches register with the scheme administrator between September and December this year, in order to be eligible for the compensation. For details see: http://media. ofcom.org.uk /2010/08/05/ofcom-explains-how-government-funding-package-for-wireless-microphone-users-will-work/

GRANTS Top

Listed places of worship grant scheme - Urgent action may be needed!

On 7 October 2010 The Department for Culture Media and Sport announced that the concession, secured in 2006, to include professional fees, repairs to clocks, pews, bells and organs in the Listed places of worship grant scheme, is to be withdrawn.

Please note that the final closing date to apply for a grant to cover the VAT on such items is 31 December 2010. Any congregation currently undertaking repairs needs to be sure to submit claims by that date or it will lose its grant.

The better news is that on 20 October 2010 The Department for Culture Media and Sport announced that the Listed Places of Worship Grants Scheme will continue when its present period of operation expires at the end of March 2011, although the items withdrawn from the scheme on 7 October will not be re-instated. The value of the scheme to churches will be enhanced in view of the increase in the rate of VAT due in the New Year. For more information see: www.cofe.anglican.org/news/pr9410.html

Wolfson Foundation offers grants
The Church Buildings Council administers applications for grant aid towards fabric repairs to Anglican Churches on behalf of the Wolfson Foundation. Applications are considered on the grounds of the architectural and historic importance of this building, the urgency of work and the ability of the church to contribute financially.

The criteria for consideration of applications are:
· The building must have Grade I, or exceptionally, Grade II* status.
· The majority of the building must pre-date 1850.
In addition:
The applicant must not have received a grant from the Foundation in the previous five years.
50% of funding must be in place prior to application.
The parish must show that it has applied to English Heritage for grant aid, even if rejected.
The work must be undertaken and the grant claimed within one year of being offered.
Conservation of bells or organs are ineligible.

Details at: www.churchcare.co.uk/funding.php?IM

USEFUL CONTACTS:
Church buildings: Dr Paul Middleton, DAC Secretary, 01733 887007
dac@peterborough-diocese.org.uk. See also: www.peterboroughdiocesanregistry.co.uk
Funding: Paul Adams, Stewardship and Funding Officer, 01604 887071.
paul.adams@peterborough-diocese.org.uk see also: www.parishresources.org.uk/

Enabling Church conference Top

Jackie Topp, Diocesan Disability Adviser, attended a conference entitled Enabling Church in London in October. It was a gathering of over 400 delegates, the majority of them disabled and many of whom had travelled great distances to be there. Among the speakers was the Revd John Naudé, who preceded Jackie in her role as our Disability Adviser and now leads a church in Portsmouth. This is an extract from Jackie’s report:

“If weakness is viewed as strength perhaps all disabled people need to show themselves in all their weaknesses. This does not mean relinquishing our rights for independence and equality. It acknowledges our mutual need to be interdependent and valued differently by those who appear to have it all.”

To read Jackie Topp’s full report follow this link: www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/downloads/enablingchurch.pdf

NOTICES Top

Home for Christmas?
Would you share your festivities with an international student at a UK university who might otherwise be stuck on an empty campus? HOST is looking for invitations for 2 or 3 days for students from China and many other countries. Please see www.hostuk.org or call HOST’s voluntary organiser Mandy Talbott on 01472 851084.

Christians Aware - Christmas cards now out
Christians Aware, the international and ecumenical movement for developing multi-cultural understanding chaired by Bishop John Flack, is offering a range of Christmas cards. You can see the cards at:
www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/downloads/christiansaware.jpg

Spare tables and chairs needed
The Somali Social Club in Northampton is looking for tables and chairs for a new After School Club. If churches have any they are no long need please contact in the first instance David Wiseman on 01604 633254 or david@wiseman50.freeserve.co.uk

Website discount for Peterborough Diocese
Following the recent seminar run by Church Edit, the church website company is offering a 20% discount on the first year's fee to parishes or benefices in the Peterborough Diocese who wish to use their system. Church Edit offers easy to update and powerful church websites. Prices start from £149+vat pa (this can be shared between parishes in a benefice, with each having their own web address). For details visit: www.churchedit.co.uk/peterborough-diocese

Kainos Community seeks mentors
Kainos Community is a Christian Charity working in UK prisons. Its mentor project offers follow-up support for graduates of the Challenge to Change programme and their families both while in custody and on release. The focus is on developing relationships to give support to offenders on release from custody. Volunteers are urgently needed for the Peterborough area. Mentors meet with an ex-offender once a week for approximately two hours on a one to one basis. Reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Training and support will be given. Contact Jeremy Butler on 0787 259 2355, jeremybutler@kainoscommunity.org

New Churches Conservation Trust website
The Churches Conservation Trust, the charity which manages and restores 340 churches across England has re-launched its website. To find out more about the Northamptonshire and Rutland churches in its care, follow the links at www.visitchurches.org.uk

2012 Olympics - new Church webpage
The Church of England has launched a special Olympics page and podcast at www.cofe.anglican.org/olympics.

St Paul’s Cathedral launches finance think tank
The St Paul’s Institute will explore moral themes in business, finance and global economics. It will host lectures, debates etc. See: www.stpaulsinstitute.org.uk

Contact details for Spiritual Direction
Please note new contact details for the East Midlands SPI-DIR Network. For those seeking help in finding a Spiritual Director please contact the Revd Lynda Randall on 01327 350203, email revlyn@uwclub.net.

Family Care's new address and Christmas cards
Family Care’s central office has moved from 222 Dogsthorpe Road, Peterborough, to High Trees, 270 Eastfield Road, Peterborough PE1 4BE. The telephone number remains 01733 554817. Family Care have a range of Christmas cards that can be ordered from their website at: www.familycare.co.uk

St Andrew's Healthcare, Northampton seeks Chapel Organist/Director of Music
Sessional contract 3.75 hours per week. £3,448.75 per annum. The Chaplaincy Team is looking for an Organist/Director of Music to provide Sunday morning worship in the Hospital Chapel, lead choir practices and play at annual festival services requiring music and choir. In addition the post holder will have first opportunity to play for all occasional offices such as weddings, funerals and memorial services. The Organist/DoM will lead Sunday morning choir practice and seek to develop the musical abilities of paid choir members both patients and volunteers, maintain a record of attendance and be responsible for the Choir Achievement Scheme. There is a fine two manual Father Willis (1894) organ rebuilt by Harrison and Harrison in 1993 and refurbished by them in 2008. The post holder will ensure all statutory and mandatory training requirements as expected of St Andrew’s Healthcare staff are completed including enhanced CRB.
Details from: Revd Neil Tyrer, Senior Chaplain on 01604 616379, ntyrer@standrew.co.uk,
Closing date: 12 November 2010.

RESOURCES Top

Alcohol, Open Hands and Advent
We spend over £30 billion on alcohol in the UK every year. The NHS spends about £1.6 billion on healthcare related to alcohol misuse and the drinks industry spends an estimated £800 million in encouraging us to drink more. It is also estimated that between 780 thousand and 1.3 million children are affected by parental alcohol problems. The Church Urban Fund’s advent resources focus on Open Hands, a project they support that offers recovering alcoholics counselling, friendship, a place to live and the possibility of a new beginning. The prayers and reflections are suitable for Sunday worship or for small groups. See www.cuf.org.uk/resources-churches/advent-christmas
Shelter at Christmas
Due to the current economic crisis, Shelter is asking churches to help them provide urgently needed advice and support to those in housing need this Christmas by holding a special service and collection in aid of Shelter. Visit the website to download a free Christmas service booklet at http://england.shelter.org.uk/what_you_can_do/fundraising/raise_money_with_your_church or call Amy Russell on 0344 515 2130, churches@shelter.org.uk
Christingle resources
The Children’s Society’s FREE Create-a-Christingle pack contains all you need to have a fun and inspirational Christingle service in your community. The pack includes service suggestions and engaging activities for children and young people. You can also download a short film to introduce people to The Children’s Society’s work by telling the story of Robbie who, at 12 years old, was so unhappy that he ran away to a lonely and dangerous existence on the streets. The resources are available at www.christingle.org or call 0845 600 8585.
Share the light
‘Share the Light’ is about taking time at Christmas to share the light of Jesus with our local community. The idea is to give light (a candle) to someone and invite them to be part of a Share the Light service at your church. CMS has a range of resources and ideas to help churches reach out in mission to their local community. For more details see www.cms-uk.org/advent or call 01865 787515.
Poverty & Homelessness Action Week 2011
Poverty & Homelessness Action Week runs from 29 January to 6 February 2011. 30 January is Homelessness Sunday and 6 February is Poverty Action Sunday. The theme this year is 'Who Counts?' The 2011 census will try to list all the people who live in the country – but chances are there are many it won’t include - such as the ‘hidden homeless’ and destitute asylum-seekers. Plenty of ideas and resources for churches are available at: www.actionweek.org.uk

ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING Top

Diary of training events
Full details of the adult education programme are at: www.peterborough-diocese.org.uk/ministry/diary.htm

Being a Disciple at Work
We offer a downloadable 3-session course, free for you to use with church groups. The materials can be adapted to your own needs. Several churches have found this very helpful in opening up the whole subject of faith and work with their church members. We also now have a Facebook group: Christians in the Workplace in Peterborough Diocese – do join!

EVENTS AND RETREATS Top

Training for Churchwardens
Saturday 20 November, 10am - 12 noon at Flore
Monday 7 March 2011, 7pm - 9.30pm at Oundle
Saturday 14 May 2011, 9.30am - 12.30pm at Brackley
These sessions are free to churchwardens in the diocese. They will cover building, legal and security matters, as well as the wider pastoral duties of churchwardens as bishop's officers. The Archdeacons of Oakham and Northampton will be there, as well as the DAC Secretary and a surveyor and building consultant from the Ecclesiastical Insurance Group. Churchwardens are invited to book on the date most convenient to them by contacting Sally Crossley on 01604 887049 or sally.crossley@peterborough-diocese.org.uk

There will be a morning for children’s leaders in Wellingborough Deanery
on Saturday 12 February 2011
For more details contact Rona Orme on 01604 887045, email: rona.orme@peterborough-diocese.org.uk

Launde Abbey Diocesan Retreat House
Tel: 01572 717254. For Advent and new year events and retreats visit: www.launde.org.uk

Ferrar House, Little Gidding PE28 5RJ
Ferrar House is a small retreat centre overlooking open country, on the wolds of west Cambridgeshire. Individuals or groups seeking space to relax, study or write are welcome, either for day or residential visits. For more information contact the warden, Allan Bell, on 01832 293383, email: info@ferrarhouse.co.uk or visit www.ferrarhouse.co.uk

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