Drivers give their services to take you to
your appointment, wait, then bring you home. You give a donation to cover
the expenses, depending on the distance travelled.
The drivers enjoy it. Why? Quite apart from knowing that they are
providing a useful service (the patients tell them!), it can be great fun,
and very interesting, but only if you like people. Closeted together in a
car to St. Helier and back, you get to know a lot about people!
They must enjoy it, because many of the
drivers in the Car Service have been doing it for many years, often after
they retire from full time work. It's vital for the future of the service
that more people volunteer to join the group.
Drivers are called on once a week at most, at
a time of their own choosing (if you can't do it you say so) and enjoy a
get-together lunch about four times a year.
If you think you could help, please get in
touch with the Chairman, Guy Tortise (L 374653), who would be delighted to
give you further details.
P.S. If you are the patient and need a lift, ask the receptionist at your
surgery for details.
Alison Wright
NEWS FROM THE FAIRTRADE FOUNDATION
We hope the old myths about Fairtrade wine being “terrible" are long
behind us, with many Fairtrade wines both award-winningly delicious and
widely available on supermarket shelves.
But have you heard about Fairtrade wine from Lebanon? This week Will has
written about the wonderful story of how Fairtrade grapes have transformed
the region of North Bekaa from illicit poppy and cannabis production to a
safe and flourishing industry for local farmers.
The vibrant and fiercely proud Lebanese wine industry has also enabled
many refugees to find new opportunities for themselves and their families.
“I felt like I was doing a dirty job and I constantly lived in fear. Many
think the hashish business is easy and profitable, but this is untrue.
Now, finally, I can have peace of mind. Growing grapes is more lucrative
and leaves you with a clean conscience,” says Walid Habchi, Member of
Heliopolis Cooperative.
The wine, Coteaux les Cedres, is the first in Lebanon and the
Middle East is the first in Lebanon and the Middle East to have both
Fairtrade and Organic certifications, and you can pick your up in your
local Co-op.
We’ll raise a glass to that!
Harriet, Supporter Team, Fairtrade Foundation
MORE NEWS FROM THE FAIRTRADE FOUNDATION
On Monday morning, 2 September, members of the Foundation went to
Parliament with friends from Global Justice Now, Sum of Us,
and War on Want to hand in their petition to the House of Lords.
Together they handed in 67,027 signatures asking Peers to amend the Trade
Bill to include a democratic and transparent process for negotiating our
future trade deals.
They will be keeping a close watch when the Lords discuss the Bill on 11
September. The hope is that Peers will amend the Bill as it progresses
through the House of Lords, and that the government will accept the
Foundation’s arguments for trade democracy. The Foundation will let us
know.
Margaret Jones
September 2018
The Licensed Lay Minister writes ...
September 2018 Parish Magazine Leader
I have never attended a music festival and I probably never will but last
week I did something similar. I spent a week camping with about 12,000
other people, sharing portable loos and showers, attending various
different events, eating outside, basking in glorious heat and sunshine
and sheltering from torrential, tropical style rainfall. I have to admit
that I was in a caravan and so in dry comfort compared to many. There was
lots of loud music; babies wearing ear protectors were a common sight!
What surprised me were the times of utter peace and serenity that were
also to be found amongst this melee of people.
I was attending the Christian conference New Wine at the South
West Showground near Shepton Mallet. It is the last year the conference
will be held in that venue as after 30 years New Wine is moving north to
the East Show Ground in Peterborough. There was a small group of us from
the Parish Church, one of whom has been there since it all started 30
years ago.
It was refreshing to be in the company of so many people, of all ages, all
backgrounds, yet all united by their Christian faith. Refreshing to be in
queues where people turned and chatted to complete strangers, didn't try
and jump the queues, didn't complain about having to queue and smiled even
when it was raining. Wonderful to see mobile phones left in the loo block
being handed into Lost Property and even notes from seminars carefully
placed in envelopes and taken to lost property in the hope they would be
reunited with their author. There was a great sense of community and
family, as you would expect and hope for from a Christian gathering.
I wonder if all the 12,000 people returning home will continue to
experience that sense of community and family. I hope that as Christians
they will continue to act as caring, responsible members of their local
communities. Paul in the book of Acts tells us that the early Church lived
in community, "All the believers were together and had everything in
common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke
bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts,
praising God and enjoying the favour of all the people. And the Lord added
to their number daily those who were being saved.'' Acts 2:42-47
Plenty of people chose to live in communities today, both religious and
secular communities. With house prices and rental costs proving
prohibitive to many the appeal of communal living is attractive to the
prohibitive to many the appeal of communal living is attractive to the
young and old alike. Even if we choose not to live in a community in the
sense of co-housing we can live in a community as members of the early
Church did. As we experienced at New Wine we can live in harmony
together, look out for the weakest among us, care for the elderly and the
sick and share all that we have, and we can do all that here in our local
community, without the need to live on a campsite or in a tent.
How good and pleasant it is when God's people live in unity!
Psalm 133:1
Sally Milner
Church Notes - September 2018
Notes
from the Belfry September 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
please click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
Design & Building Works
The digging of the test pits in the church and outside in the area of the
annexe has been completed. The archaeologist's report has been
received and has highlighted a number of possible tombs under the floor of
the church. A brick tomb with a domed top has also been found under the
floor of the Lady Chapel. The excavation of the floor of the church will
have to be undertaken with great care under the supervision of an
archaeologist. The archaeologists report suggests that nothing was found
which is likely to impede the implementation of the works as planned.
A design solution to implement wheelchair access to the chancel by
lowering the concrete slab, where the Parker organ previously stood, has
the tacit approval of the DAC and archaeologists. The reinstatement of the
Parker organ will now be at chancel floor level.
An official Public Notice was posted outside church on 26th July with
regard to the re-ordering and renovation of St Mary & St Nicholas
Parish Church. The main Faculty, which covers the entirety of the project
with the exception of the Tower Rooms was subsequently submitted to the
Registry on 8th August for the Chancellor's consideration.
The calls for tender for the construction contract were sent out to five
companies at the beginning of August. Having extended the tender return
date by three weeks (at the request of the bidding contractors), tender
submissions will now be with us the third week of September. Once a
contractor has been identified, and trusting that we receive the
Chancellor's approval, we envisage starting on site in late October.
Fundraising
While the summer saw several excellent fundraising events (Read about
Hedley Kay's very successful musical evening lbelow), we still need to
raise substantial additional funds if we are to complete all the
renovations and improvements detailed within the main Faculty.
The funding team would love to hear if you know of any other potential
untapped sources of finance. Please renew your efforts to promote
flagstone dedications to families and friends, who have connections past
and present with the church - such a lovely way to remember a marriage,
baptism, or other special occasion for generations to come!
We continue to share our plans with the wider community on the first
Saturday of each month in the Swan Centre (sign up to be part of this
team) and will be at the River Mole Discovery Day on 30th September.
The Project Team
Hedley and Friends Musical Evening
Hedley Kay had many parishioners and old friends in the audience for his
sell out musical evening in the Parish Church Hall on July 20th. This was
very much a community event of wonderful, relaxed entertainment, raising
funds for the Making History Project.
Those just used to hearing Hedley in church would have been surprised at
the variety of his music, gathered over many years as a folk singer and
entertainer. There was "A Nightingale sang..", Irish ("The Mountains of
Mourne"), a Welsh Lullaby (Suo Gan), Cliff Richard ("Please don't tease"),
Elvis ("Can't help falling in love"), Sinatra ("I have been a Rover").
With local additions, such as when Hedley realised Veronica was the one
for him, outside the "Running Horse"!)
When not singing on his own, Hedley was joined by Chris Stagg (drums),
Doug Waters (keyboard), Dave Greenwood (bass), Angela Rive (flute), and
Alison Draper (recorder). Jay Bristow gave him a rest, with his keyboard
and excellent rendering of songs such as "Day Dream Believer", - and also
providecTthe sound system. Beverley Mehta and Alison Draper provided
flowers and Martin Cole greenery.
Members of the audience surprised (but delighted) to be invited on to the
stage were Dave (Dutch) Holland and Dick Quinnell, who sang a lurid folk
tale of a local woman!.
Mention must also be made of the female vocal backing group "The Pussycat
Dolls" (Jane Haslam, Angela Rive, Alison Draper, and Veronica Kay) who
ably contributed to the final songs of the evening!
Star of the kitchen was Linda Hauxwell, who made 80% of the lasagne and
100% of the pavlovas! Very many thanks to all who made this event
special....
Alison Wright
Sincerest thanks to everyone who supported the "Hedley and friends..."
musical event on 20th July by their attendance, and also to those who
provided food, music, and assistance to make the whole evening such a
great success!
Over one hundred and twenty guests from the Parish and surrounding areas
came and enjoyed the evening and, thanks to some spontaneous generous
donations, plus ticket sales and raffle, £4,355.00 was raised in total.
Thank you!
Hedley Kay
Journey's End
“A major emotional experience" was how one parishioner described Graham
Pountney's recent splendid production of R.C. Sheriff's "Journey's End".
The tensions and conflicting emotions during four days in a dugout in 1918
came across with forceful clarity in this anti-war classic.
We saw it in the theatre of St. John's School, before it transferred to
the Leatherhead Theatre, and the close proximity of the action made it
even more moving and dramatic. The characters were all excellently played,
with complete credibility, and we shared their helplessness in face of the
pointless loss of life.
Proceeds from the play go to support the Royal British Legion, SSAFA, and
Combat Stress. Moving contributions from these charities reminded us that
the armed services still have to cope with the traumas and suffering that
war brings. The events R.C. Sherriff depicts came even closer to home when
we learnt that he lived in Esher and served in the East Surrey Regiment in
the Ypres Salient until 1917 when he was wounded in the battle of
Passchendaele.
Alison Wright
AUTUMN FAYRE Saturday 13th October 2018
Opens 12 noon Grand raffle draw 2.30pm
Leatherhead Parish Church Hall
Church Road, Leatherhead, KT22 8BD
Entry: Adult £1 Children entry: Free
12 noon - BBQ outside Cafe - Afternoon Tea Leatherhead Trinity School
Choir Fun stalls
Bargains to be had
Can you donate some items? We are looking for winter coats, soft toys for
our new Teddy Tombola stall, DVDs, unused Beauty items, chocolate,
bric-a-brac, jewellery, accessories, bottles of wine, complete toys and
items for the tombola - all in good, clean condition. Collection boxes for
donations will be in the Parish Hall at the start of October.
Thank you for your support.
August 2018
The Rector writes ...
No it was not a holiday
No, it was not a holiday but, yes, it was a time of refreshment and
renewal.
I have just spent three days in a conference centre in Derbyshire - at the
Triennial Clergy Conference of the Diocese of Guildford. Three days spent
in the company of my fellow clergy, some of whom have been ordained for
forty years or more, some for only three days-those ordained Deacon the
previous Sunday.
The conference had an overarching theme - "Traces of Grace" - and its
purpose was to:
- meet, eat, worship, pray, have fun, learn and relax together s feed
ourselves in body, mind and spirit
- be enriched, enlivened and stretched
- look out for traces of God's grace
We were treated to a rich variety of speakers and presenters, ranging from
practical applications and handicraft, through high fibre Bible study,
inspirational devotional poetry and passionate challenge, to a one-man tour
de force that took us from the almost extinct 600-strong tribe of
homo sapiens in a rift valley in Africa to the furthest borders of our
Solar System ... and beyond.
There was an undercurrent in all of the sessions of the need to cross
borders in order to grow - personal, physical, geographical, cultural,
spiritual. The most challenging was from the Bishop of Burnley, Philip
North, who reminded us that the Church of England is called to have a
"bias to the poor". He named the new heresy, the heresy of "Declinism".
The church is not in decline, he declaimed, it is growing day by day, but
not necessarily in this country.
He went on to assert that revival or renewal would inevitably come, just
because Jesus Christ is Lord ... and that it would come from the poor.
When I regularly took my youth group in Gloucester to the Soul Survivor
Christian youth conference, its founder and leader, Mike Pilivachi, used
to call us to minister to "the last, the least, the lost and the lonely".
Bishop Philip encouraged us all to seek new leaders among them, to offer
what was needed in the way of service to them and, whilst doing so, to
proclaim the Word of God. He characterised the ultimate deprivation as not
having heard the Good News of God's love for God's creation - one beggar
telling another where to find bread.
We were privileged to have another speaker at the conference, the Revd Dr
Malcolm Guite. Malcolm is a song-writer, poet-priest and Chaplain of
Girton College. Throughout the conference he read poems that he had
written that were inspired by the church's year, the sayings of Jesus, the
parables and much more. In the light of Bishop Philip's call to action, I
would like to share with you this poem of Malcolm's:
First and
last
The first shall be last, the last the
first.
You make rich havoc of our sense of place,
As every strain of status is reversed.
With one swift look of love, your sacred face
Outfaces us. Disgrace is met with grace,
And blessings fall on those we call accursed.
Strive as they might, the swift don't win
the race,
But still the cup is full for those who
thirst.
What is this, then, we say to one another,
Planning careers and doling status out,
Ranging ourselves and others on the ladder,
With fanfares for the climber with the
clout?
Best drop our trumpets, still our banging
drums
And listen for your welcome, when it
comes.
Graham Osborne
Church Notes - August 2018
Notes
from the Belfry August 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
please click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
Design & Building Works
As some of you will have noticed, work in the church has now started.
The Parker Organ has been dismantled, removed to a position in the choir
where it has been encased in timber to protect it from mechanical damage
and dust ingress whilst the enabling and major works are in progress. This
work started on 3rd July and will last approximately two weeks to
completion.
As described last month we have an arch deacon's licence to carry out the
enabling works which involves test pits in the nave of the church.
The ground penetrating radar indicated some areas of disturbed ground at a
depth which we will have to excavate to put in the underfloor heating and
the new stone floor, and this must be investigated in the presence of an
archaeologist. Plus we need to determine the foundations of the church
both inside and outside in the location of the toilet annexe. The enabling
work was scheduled to commence mid July and if all goes to schedule will
be complete later this month. We have been allowed to temporally remove up
to five pews from the church so that we can move other pews around to
facilitate the digging of the test pits.
Faculty 1
The main Faculty which will cover the entirety of the project with the
exception of the Tower Rooms is being prepared. All the necessary
documents and drawings have been approved by the DAC and the notification
of petition will be posted in due course.
The architect has prepared documents and these form the request for
tenders from interested contractors. By the time you read this, these
should have been available for our scrutiny and approval. This will lead
to a process of contractor selection which will hopefully allow the start
on the major works in the church by late September/early October subject
to funding.
Funding
Grant Funding We continue to look for further sources of funding
for toilets and kitchen.
Sponsored Abseil It was great to have so much community involvement
in the Sponsored Abseil. We are truly appreciative of the thirty six
people who dared to abseil down the church tower as well as all the people
who worked behind the scenes to make the day so enjoyable.
We are hoping that the event will raise something in the region of
£10,000.
The Project Team
Mother's Union
Thanks to Myfanwy, our speaker from Leatherhead Start, who showed
us a DVD of the inside of the home which has been decorated and looks
brilliant and gave a talk on how things are run these days. Most
interesting.
1st August Please note THERE WILL BE NO MEETING ON THIS DATE - have a good
Summer break.
9th August Thursday 11am/3pm Summer Party including meet the candidates at
Normandy Village Hall. This will be a fun day with lots to do especially
for children.
5th September Gail Partridge will be giving a talk on one of her many
trips. Gail is always very interesting and a pleasure to listen to. We
will be holding a bring and buy stall.
Please do come to any of our meetings: they begin at 2.30pm, and
everyone is more than welcome.
Date for your diaries: 10/12 October Autumn Retreat - East Molesey.
Further details to follow.
Jane Summerfield
Abseilers triumph!
A lot of them said that their knees were like jelly when they touched the
ground. Most of them said that the hardest bit was getting their leg over
the parapet, and all of them looked thrilled (and relieved) to have done
it!
36 brave abseilers climbed the spiral steps inside the 67 foot tower of
the parish church on Saturday 30th June, and lowered themselves down the
outside in aid of the Making History Project.
The abseilers included both residents, churchgoers, and others who work in
the town. Chairman of Mole Valley District Council, Raj Haque, also took
part. Patrick Gardner, the estate agents, were well represented, together
with the landlords of the Edmund Tylney, the Duke's Head,
and the Plough. Ed Vanson of Surrey Hills Community Radio, and the
Community Relations Manager at W.A.Truelove & Son also gave up their
time to participate.
Quite a few of those taking part were averse to heights and admitted that
it took a great effort to climb over the narrow gap and start their
descent.
At the time of going to press not all the money has been collected in, but
it is hoped that £10,000 will be raised for the Making History
Project. No-one is likely to exceed the individual total raised by Jill
Goodchild, who achieved over £2,200. "I have had some very generous
sponsors," said Jill, who was the oldest abseiler taking part.
The whole event was organised by Ian and Beverley Stonehouse, along with
Holly Barton and a host of volunteers - a real community effort!
[add image]
Sue Roberts was one of the older members of the congregation to conquer
the tower
[add image]
Suzi Ezzard was one of those who conquered their fear of heights
[add image]
Hedley Kay focussing on getting his technique right
Alison Wright
OUR LOCAL FOODBANK NEEDS:
Meat pies, tinned fruit, tinned vegetables, powdered milk, shampoo,
shaving gel/foam, tinned meat, washing up liquid, ketchup, brown sauce,
tinned spaghetti, tinned fish, jam/honey.
July 2018
The Assistant Curate writes ...
TIPPING POINT?
Have you been wondering whether western civilisation is on the brink of
collapse?
If so, you're in good company. According to a recent article in New
Scientist magazine "scientists, historians and politicians alike are
warning that... [current] cycles of inequality and resource use are
heading for a tipping point that in many past civilisations precipitated
political unrest, war and collapse".
The article describes the role that extreme inequality played in the
decline of previous civilisations, before quoting a recent report (from
Credit Suisse, no less) that the world's richest 1% now owns more than 50%
of the world's wealth. It also describes how a mathematician, Safa
Motesharrei, has modelled the ruinous impact on a civilisation when
extreme inequality coincides with the rapid depletion of natural
resources. If his model proves accurate, it could be time for us all to
head for the hills.
Others argue that the death knell has been sounded for western
civilisation many times before. Maybe, just maybe, the startling pace of
technological innovation will bail us out of our present predicaments, and
normal progress can be resumed.
And yet, even if our civilisation manages to muddle through somehow,
western Christians must surely ask themselves searching questions in light
of the challenges our society faces: Have we become seduced by an
over-confidence in the onward march of progress? How would our faith cope
with an abrupt shift into reverse gear? How robust is our belief that God,
not progress, is the ultimate source of hope (Romans 15:13), and that
Christ, not the complex configuration of an advanced society, holds all
things together (Colossians 1:17)?
Whether for individuals or an entire civilisation, the threat of losing
what is familiar, secure, and seemingly indestructible can unmask
Christian faith to be little more than naive optimism. It also opens up
wonderful opportunities for faith to become rooted in something, or
someone, far more robust and real.
And even if our civilisation really is under unbearable strain, we take
comfort from the fact that Jesus didn't shy away from tough talk to his
disciples about tough times ahead (Matthew 24). He instilled in them,
through his life, death, and resurrection, a love and a hope that changed
the world even as their own world crumbled around them.
Following their example, and trusting the same Lord, we too can stand in
the face of an uncertain future ... and not flinch.
Grace and peace to you.
Ian Stonehouse
Church Notes - July 2018
Notes
from the Belfry July 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
please click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
Design & Building Works
Stage 1: Since the last report we have received a temporary special
licence from the Chancellor to carry out the exploratory works outlined
last month, with the exception of those relating to the Parker organ.
The Chancellor insisted that the movement and storage of the Parker organ
must be the subject of a Faculty. The documents for the Faculty were
submitted on 11th July and we await the Chancellor's decision. The plan is
to dismantle the organ and then re-erect it on the lower chancel step
behind the arch, so that it can be protected from mechanical and dust
damage whilst the main work is carried out. Work will not start in the
church until the organ is protected.
Stage 2: The papers, which will allow us to submit the Faculty for
the main construction contract, are being sent to us for completion in the
near future.
The specifications for the works are now prepared and the tender documents
are in preparation. Tenders could be issued to prospective contractors by
mid July.
Project Update Meeting
At the time of writing the project update meeting in June had not yet
occurred. We will share any notable discussions in next month's update.
Funding
Grant Funding
The focus this month has been on preparing a detailed submission to
Garfield Weston for it's 60th Anniversary Fund, which unusually is
targeted at capital projects. Competition will inevitably be enormous, but
we hope the work our church undertakes to keep our community connected
will be recognised with a grant toward the costs of building the toilet
annexe and/or kitchen.
Open Garden
Visitors enjoyed a leisurely Sunday afternoon admiring a beautiful Fetcham
garden on 10th June. Thanks to the hosts, cake-makers, raffle prize
donors, and visitors over £1,000 was raised to be shared between our Making
History project and the Teazle Wood Trust.
Fundraising Lunch
Our thanks go to Suki and Graham for hosting a fundraising lunch for on
17th June (see church newsletter for amount raised).
We would encourage readers to run their own small fundraising event for
family and friends over the summer. A simple BBQ, picnic or lunch help to
spread the word and add to our fundraising efforts.
Sponsored Abseil
At the time of going to press £2,263 had already been raised online via
BTDonate!
You can look forward to a full update in next month's magazine. However,
our thanks go to all the volunteers who made the day possible and the
abseilers for their amazing fundraising efforts.
Other Promotional Events
You may have seen members of the fundraising team and the PCC out and
about promoting the Making History project and encouraging people
to our various summer fundraising events. This included Ashstead Village
Day and the charity cart in Leatherhead Swan Centre. If you could offer an
hour or two to help on the charity cart on 7th July, 4th August or 1st
September please speak to Chris Evans or Beverley Stonehouse.
You are warmly invited to a "Hedley Kay and friends...." musical
evening in Leatherhead Parish Church Hall on Friday 20th July 2018.
Doors open at 7pm.
Tickets are £15 which will include a delicious two-course supper after
which you will be entertained with songs and music of different genres and
eras.
All proceeds from the evening will go to the Making History Project"which
will prepare our ancient church (already in existence for almost 1000
years) for the next 1000 years by providing facilities for services and
activities for the whole population of Leatherhead and beyond for their
benefit, comfort and enjoyment!
Tickets are available from the Parish Office (L362544) or from Martin Cole
and Hedley.
You are invited to spend a summer evening
in the historic setting of Leatherhead Parish church (St Mary & St
Nicholas)
Take a guided tour of the Church -
past, present and future -Enjoy a rare opportunity to ascend the Bell
Tower
Delight in panoramic views of
Leatherhead and the beautiful Surrey Hills
Mingle with local residents over a
glass of Pimm's and a bowl of strawberries
7pm - 9.30pm Friday 6th July 2018
& Wednesday 11th July 2018
All local residents and invited guests
are welcome. RSVP to reserve your tour of the Bell Tower as places are
limited
Mother's Union
Somehow wires got crossed and our Speaker from Besom didn't arrive, but
I'm glad to say all the things you brought to go into six washing up bowls
have been collected by a Besom volunteer.
So a big thank you to the 11 members that contributed.
On 4th July we are looking forward to having someone from "Leatherhead
Start" who will bring a short DVD.
We will also have a raffle.
All are welcome to our meetings which begin at 2.30pm in the Parish Church
Hall. Tea is always on the menu.
Jane Summerfield
GDPR - please be ready to respond
We are checking with those who hold personal information related to
activities in our church life to ensure compliance with the General Data
Protection Regulation. We will also be providing a Privacy Policy and
seeking consent about how we may contact you. Our approach is based on the
Diocesan Guidelines. The purpose of all this is to ensure the information
you have provided in various ways to enable the smooth and effective
running of the parish is properly and securely held: that the what and why
about your information is explained and that your rights are made clear to
you. If you have any questions please contact Frank Haslam L379341.
Christian Aid Week 2018
Thank you to the many who returned a Christian Aid donation in an envelope
provided at the start of Christian Aid Week. In total £344 has been sent
to Christian Aid. This increases to £414 when those of you who Gift Aided
are factored in. If you still have an envelope and wish to contribute,
please send it directly to the Christian Aid address on it.
Frank Haslam, Christian Aid
Poppy Appeal
Church Members have always supported the work of the Royal British Legion
by way of the Poppy Appeal.
We would like to give a BIG THANK YOU to all of you.
I am writing to inform our readers that after 36 years Derrick and I will
be giving up after the 2018 appeal. If there is anyone who would be
interested in taking on this role or would like to find out more then
please phone Derrick or myself. Derrick is prepared to continue helping
with the wreaths.
Jane Summerfield
Leatherhead Youth Project - a success we should celebrate
An idea was raised in 1997 by Claire Gannon, the Churches Together in
Leatherhead (CTiL) Youth Worker. She recognised that there was a need for
somewhere, drug and alcohol free, where the young people of Leatherhead
could meet, interact and grow in a safe environment with a Christian
ethos.
The first meeting of CTiL and Mole Valley District Council to discuss
setting up what was to become a drop-in youth cafe eventually took place
in 2000. A series of meetings followed which culminated in the Charitable
Company "Leatherhead Youth Project Ltd" being set up in July 2002, with
four member organisations: three Churches in Leatherhead (the Parish
Church, the United Reformed Church, and the Methodist Church), with the
fourth member being Mole Valley District Council.
Finding suitable premises was a real problem and after a couple of false
starts, where landlords refused permission to set up the drop-in centre on
their premises, a proposal for using All Saints Hall was drafted in May
2003 and presented to the PCC for St Mary & St Nicholas Church. The
proposals were accepted and the necessary agreements & licences etc.
put in place by July 2004.
Much work was done to create a space which would be welcoming to young
people, a youth cafe manager, Andy Gill, employed, and BFree was
officially opened for business in April 2005, on Grand National Saturday.
Initial up take by young people was patchy and behaviour a real challenge.
Andy battled on, setting boundaries and enforcing the rules of BFree,
and eventually behaviour began to improve as the young people learned to
appreciate what was being provided. Additional activities outside BFree
were introduced, including trips to London, to football matches, and
cycling around Norbury Park.
It was soon obvious that additional staff were required and over the
thirteen years that LYP has been operating it has been blessed to have had
some amazing outstanding youth workers to look after our young people.
Their deep Christian beliefs shine through as they are always willing to
go the extra distance to provide care, mentoring, and support to help the
young people along that difficult path into adult life. Many of these
young people arrive at BFree with low self-esteem, even lower
self-confidence, and little in the way of expectations for their adult
life. The care and support delivered by the youth workers helps to build
self-esteem and confidence and to help the young people plan out a path to
a level of achievement beyond their expectations.
It became clear however, that there were some young people who needed even
more help to get them fit for a work. A plan was hatched to set up a
coffee shop staffed by apprentices who would be trained in food
preparation and hygiene and serving customers. Additional space was needed
for the coffee shop and the PCC agreed that LYP could take over the
remaining area of All Saints Church to set up and run a Social Enterprise.
The Social Enterprise was launched in May 2014 and All Saints Coffee Shop
was opened to the public in October 2014. Since then, with fantastic
support from local businesses, All Saints has trained a number of
apprentices who have successfully gone on to be gainfully employed, using
the skills and work ethic given to them by the All Saints and LYP teams.
LYP and All Saints have been recognised in Surrey, the South East, and
further afield as being shining examples of how youth work should be
delivered. This recognition has included awards from the High Sheriff of
Surrey, The Leatherhead Chamber of Commerce, and Surrey Youth Showcase,
culminating in LYP receiving a royal visit to BFree, in February 2017,
from his Royal Highness Prince Edward. This was wonderful recognition of
the hard work put in by many people for nearly twenty years, to establish
and run a hugely successful and highly regarded youth charity.
However, from a personal perspective, having been Chairman of LYP from
initially establishing the charitable company, through until March this
year, the greatest satisfaction I have received is watching the progress
made by the young people. To see how they grow and develop, exceeding
their own expectations and, in a number of cases, also coming to know and
love Jesus Christ. While LYP was set up by three Churches and run with a
Christian ethos, this is not forced upon the young people.
LYP uses a continuum to slowly and carefully introduce the young people to
faith, firstly through conversation and experience, then as their appetite
increases through alpha type courses and cell groups. This gentle approach
has seen success which can be highlighted by the numbers of young people
who, having passed through BFree now come back, freely giving up their
time, to volunteer as young leaders.
Everyone in the Leatherhead Churches should be extremely proud of what
they have helped to develop in LYP and the great youth work which is being
delivered. We should all give our wholehearted support to LYP and All
Saints, keeping them in our prayers, drinking the great coffee, eating the
fantastic cakes and contributing financially, when we can, to ensure the
good work is continued.
Doug Waters, Chairman LYP 2002 - 2018
Remembrance of Dennis (1926-2018) and Daphne Burfoot (1928-2018) -
see via see via Remembrance
pages
June 2018
The Children & Families Worker writes ...
The Leader - Parish magazine, June 2018
Children and Families Development Worker - what a title! I have been
trying to work out what this actually means for our church family for the
past 13 months, and it is not the simplest of roles. Starting firstly with
the bump last April who has now become a joyous one-year-old, then meeting
families in and around Leatherhead who decided to either keep returning to
church or begin attending because of our provision, proved to be the
easiest part! For the coming year, however, the vision is to develop this
into a sustainable and resourced ministry for families here; quite a big
job. I feel like Gideon - the smallest and youngest member of the tribe,
being asked by God to do something wholly above and beyond what he is
capable of, but God works through him to bring about change for good.
Let's hope so!
How should we develop the slowly growing ministry here? How can we help
families feel more welcome? Where are the families coming from? What do
they need or want from a church community? There are lots of questions to
be asked.
Something else I feel like this about at the moment - pregnancy! Graham
shared this joyful news of mine and Ben's on Sunday a few weeks ago,
describing that I'm not only growing the ministry with other people's
children anymore, I'm also growing my own! It has made me think from a new
perspective, though: how can we adapt and grow what we are doing here in
order to become more welcoming and beneficial for families in Leatherhead?
The growth of a child in the womb is such an extraordinary honour. I've
found that I have been emotionally yoyoing between hope and fear all the
way through this first trimester, and I know friends who have had
experiences on both ends of the positive/negative spectrum; I pray for
those of you who have too.
Children are so important to God, and there are so many passages and
people in the Bible whose time in the womb and actions as children had a
real impact on their ministry as they grew up. Samuel, David, John the
Baptist, and Jesus to name a few, all had significant moments and times as
children which put them in great stead for how they worked for God as they
grew up.
Olly and Helen Goldenberg, in their book Jesus, your baby and you,
reflect that: "God has made His plans already and is sending babies into
the world who will grow up to enact and fulfil those plans. Only God knows
the future before it happens. Only He knows the end from the beginning and
He is giving us our children as part of our heritage in His service.
They go on to mention Deuteronomy chapter 6, verses 4-9:
"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God
with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.
These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress
them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you
walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as
symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the
door frames of your houses and on your gates."
In his book Unlocking the Bible David Pawson describes this
chapter as: "The covenant law is expounded and expanded. We are told the
purpose for the law: it is so that love can be communicated from one
generation to the next."
What a privilege for me to be able to have the care of this little person
for a time. What a privilege for us as a church family to be called to
share God's story with the next generation. May we all be bold enough to
share our story with the next generation so that the wisdom of and
relationship with our God gets shared and experienced until He comes back.
Holly Barton
Church Notes - June 2018
Notes
from the Belfry June 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
please click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
When we kicked off the Making History project, we were told by so
many people, who had undertaken church re-ordering/building projects, that
the process from start to finish would be a long and slow one. So many
organisations to consult, permissions to be obtained, contracts to be
signed and, of course, funds to be secured. We have at times been
discouraged by the speed of our progress, but we continue on this journey
firm in the knowledge that the end result will have been worth the wait.
Project Update Meeting
Join us on Sunday 24th June immediately after the morning service for a
look at all that's been going on behind the scenes over the last year,
where we are at now and what you can expect in the coming months. To give
people plenty of time to talk about what they have heard, this will be
followed by lunch in the Parish Church Hall. Please sign up so we can
cater for everyone. We would like people to donate what you would have
spent on Sunday lunch to the Making History project.
Design & Building Works
All of the design work is now complete for the Making History
project.
We are in the final stages of incorporating our minor comments to the
design. The Tender documents are being prepared and five contractors have
submitted statements of interest to provide a quotation for the work.
The work will be undertaken in three stages.
Stage 1: This is a contract for enabling works which will involve:
- Dismantling, storing and protecting the Parker Organ;
- Some excavation within the church to allow archaeologists to examine
areas where the ground penetrating radar revealed that there may be
human remains at a depth where floor works could disturb the graves;
- Exploratory work on the concrete slab where the Parker organ now
stands to allow us to build the disabled access ramps;
- An Archaeological examination of the ground outside the South wall
where the toilet block will be built.
This work will be carried out under special licence, which is currently
with the Chancellor for his approval.
Stage 2: The implementation project will then be divided into two
phases and will require two Faculties (The Church of England's legal
planning approval to carry out the work).
Faculty one will be for the construction and modification of everything
with the exception of the tower rooms and the swept staircase required for
access. The tower work will be the subject of Faculty two. We are awaiting
the Faculty application forms for Faculty one from the Diocesan Advisory
Committee (DAC).
We have the full support from the DAC for our approach and for all the
work proposed.
Funding
Grant Funding
There are several heritage grant applications still on hold until a
Faculty is obtained (a requirement for many funders), but a couple have
been submitted for consideration.
Wates Grant
We have some great news! We have secured a generous grant from Wates to
assist in telling our heritage story better. Fleritage presentation
options will be researched and selected in order to attract a diverse
range of new audiences.
Leatherhead Residents' Association Race Night
The evening was really enjoyable thanks to volunteers, sponsors and
participants who helped to raise £582.40 toward our building project.
Sponsored Abseil
On 30th June there will be a sponsored abseil down the church tower. If
you want to take part please visit the web site to find out more. We are
hoping that not only will this raise funds but provide another
opportunity to publicise the project. Please drop by with family and
friends during the day to support those abseiling. Refreshments will be
available.
Strawberries & Pimm's on a Summer Evening
Another opportunity to invite people to enjoy a relaxed evening looking
around the church. The bell ringers will be offering guided tours up the
church tower on two evenings to be publicised. For those who can manage
the 97 steps, there are great views of the town from the roof! (Places
limited so sign up soon)
An Evening with Hedlev Kay & Friends
Local musician Hedley Kay will be playing at the Parish Church Hall on
Saturday 21st July. Tickets include delicious two course supper. All
proceeds will go to the Making History Project.
The Project Team
May 2018
Epsom & Ewell Foodbank has now fed over 13,000 people!
Where did it all start? We launched in October 2012. The foodbank was
set up and run by a small number of volunteers from local churches with
some agency support. At that time people doubted whether Epsom and Ewell
even needed a foodbank, let alone the 5 centres we currently run. And
yet in the 5 1/2 years since our beginning we've expanded from food and
essentials to furniture, cooking classes, counselling, and energy
services. We even have an app. We're part of the Trussell Trust, the
largest network of foodbanks in the country. We run under their guidance
and supervision, www.trusselltrust.org
The Epsom & Ewell Foodbank sprang from good intentions. Seeing the
impact of the Kingston foodbank, we ran an "exploring the idea" meeting
with the Trussell Trust that attracted 70+ local people. Once we got the
OK, everything started coming together. As word spread about the
foodbank, food and toiletry donations started rolling in. We were given
spaces in Ruxley Church and Epsom Methodist Church to store our food and
serve clients, spaces which we still use today. As the number of clients
referred to us grew, we expanded, setting up centres in Leatherhead,
Tadworth, and Banstead.
Since then, the foodbank has grown not only in its services, but in its
ability to function. As the years pass our ability to work and give the
best possible service to our clients has become so much better - to the
point where volunteers can see a difference between the foodbank of now,
and the foodbank of even just two years ago.
As well as our five centres we have started running other projects and
services to help people who need support to move out of food poverty. In
every centre, clients have access to:
• Benefit advice
• Counselling
• Our Energy Bank project
• The "Eat Well, Spend Less" cooking course
• Furniture Bank
• A large selection of groups and charities that can
supply extra support
• Support
All of our services are given with the hope that one day people won't
need us. Not all of these are handled in the centres, but clients can
get information and apply as needed. Our projects are meant to give
clients the support they need to become more independent, more
economically viable, and live stable, comfortable lives that some of us
often take for granted. Maybe one day the foodbank will close!
This might not happen any time soon, but every person helped brings us
a little bit closer to that goal.
It's a system built on filling the gaps - the gaps in our own way of
working, the gaps in the services we provide, and the gaps left by
benefit issues, government cuts, sanctions, zero hour contractors, high
costs of living; the list goes on and on.
Epsom & Ewell foodbank is many things but one of its key attributes
is its volunteers. It is the product of its amazing team of volunteers.
We generate about 200+ hours of volunteering each week. It's a way of
working that has allowed us to grow, and will allow us to keep growing,
until we're no longer needed.
It took us 1,572 days to feed 10,000 mouths, our prayer is the next
10,000 takes longer!
Thank you to so many of you that have supported us over the years,
whether with food, hours, likes or donations, it has all been gratefully
received.
Epsom & Ewell Foodbank 0208 786 8221 email foodbank@generation.org.uk
https://epsomewell.foodbank.org.uk/about/about-our-foodbank/
Church Notes - May 2018
Notes
from the Belfry May 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
including a report on the Quiz on 10th May please click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
With our monthly update for May publication being written
so early after Easter there is little to report. Revd Graham Osborne and
Project Manager, John Andrews, attended a meeting with the Diocesan
Advisory Committee shortly after the Easter break. The DAC has requested
some further information and drawings before we can complete the necessary
forms for a Faculty for the Project Works.
At the time of writing we are also still waiting to hear from the
Chancellor regarding the enabling works (test pits, etc).
The funding team met to review progress and develop plans for an intensive
summer fundraising programme.
April 2018
The Rector writes ...
IN THIS EASTER SEASON
In this Easter season, a time of renewal and new life, I am reminded
that it is eight years ago that our congregation undertook a process to
discern what God was calling us to be and to do in this place at this
time.
The Vision we discerned - "growing disciples of Jesus Christ" -
continues to guide all that we are doing. Our Key Areas of Mission have
been refined periodically, most recently to align with four of the
twelve goals set out in the Diocesan Mission Strategy - Making
Disciples, Growing Youth & Children's Ministry, Cultivating
Community Partnerships and Improving Church Buildings. Ian, Holly and I
recently attended a course put on by the Diocese - "Leading Your Church
into Growth" and we are continuing to reflect on how to apply it to our
parish.
Strategy and plans are vital, however ... the fundamental bedrock of any
church is individual discipleship - how we respond to the awesome Easter
story.
I have always had a soft spot for Simon Peter, the impetuous,
tempestuous Galilean fisherman whom Jesus chose to be the rock on which
he would build His church. That we are called to be disciples of Jesus
Christ seems to me to be the cornerstone as we anticipate - and expect -
that He is building His church here in Leatherhead.
As we celebrate this Easter season, and continue to discern God's call
to us as His church in this place at this time, we could do worse than
reflect on our own responses to the questions that Jesus posed to Peter
in the gospel narratives:
When Andrew first brought Simon to Jesus, he instantly named him
"Peter", the rock (John 1.35-45) - What do you want? He asked.
At Caesarea Philippi, Jesus asked Who do you say that I am? and
Peter responded "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God"
(Matthew 16.10-20). The watery end to Peter's attempt to walk on water
(Matthew 14.28-40) posed the question Why did you doubt?
Remembering the events of that first Holy Week, we recall the
footwashing at the Last Supper (John 13.1-17) - Do you understand?,
Peter's threefold betrayal (John 18.15-27) - You aren't one of his
disciples, are you?, the empty tomb (John 20.1-10) - The
unasked question - where is Jesus?, the threefold forgiveness and
restoration at the BBQ on the beach (John 21.1-17) - Do you love me?,
ending up with Peter's threefold visionof unclean food and the visit of
the servants of Cornelius the centurion (Acts 10.9-23) - Why have
you come?
The events of that first Easter are, potentially, so life-changing that
we would do well to refresh our memories of them and think them through
thoroughly. If you have travelled through Passiontide, Holy Week and
Easter with us, you will have re-heard the story once more.
Given the accounts of 1st Century historians like Josephus, it would be
hard to argue that an itinerant preacher, teacher and healer from
Nazareth called Jesus, son of Joseph and Mary, never existed. Nor that
he fell foul of the Roman authorities in Jerusalem and was arrested,
tried and sentenced to death by crucifixion - a sentence that was
carried out with ruthless Roman efficiency.
The crucial hinge-point for Christians is the Resurrection. I would
encourage you to review for yourselves what could have happened in that
tomb - body-snatchers? grave-robbers? disciples determined to prove
their Master right? authorities bent on making sure that this was really
the end? or the awesome power of God raising a man to a new form of
life? As we have been reflecting in our Lent Groups, only the
Resurrection gives the cross meaning.
As a Christian church we are called "to proclaim the gospel afresh in
each generation". This is our generation. This is our church. This is
our gospel. Please join me in proclaiming the Good News of God's love
for us, His creation.
Happy Easter
Graham Osborne
Church Notes - April 2018
Notes
from the Belfry April 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
please click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
We have good news to report this month! Planning permission, subject to
conditions, has been granted by Mole Valley District Council.
The Diocesan Advisory Committee has recommended that the enabling works
(test pits, etc) go ahead and has put forward an interim order to the
Chancellor for approval. The full project plans are also with the
Chancellor for consideration. We hope a faculty notice will follow
shortly and all being well we plan to go out to tender after Easter.
Our fundraising efforts continue with work on grant applications and
fundraising activities by community supporters. We very much value our
local partnerships that promote community spirit and move us closer to
our fundraising target.
The Friends held their Annual Quiz last month and Leatherhead Residents
Association is putting on a Race Night this month. Tickets priced at £10
include dinner. Please purchase in advance from Barton's Book Shop.
Proceeds will be split between our Making History project and
the Actors Benevolent Fund and a plaque outside the Leatherhead Theatre.
Collect: FREE funds for us every time you shop online with - John Lewis
- amazon - ebay - Booking.com
https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/leatherheadparish
Children and Families 2017-2018
Unfortunately, only part of this article appeared in March - here it is,
complete)
Well, what a year this has been! When I first arrived, there was a
12-year-old and a baby growing in a mummy's tummy and now we have over
ten children from six families who see our church as their own.
How amazing God is!
What has happened this past year? I wanted to write and let you all know
what's been going on in the children and families' ministry at church,
as an insight into where God is leading us as church, as well as how
we're connecting with people in our community of Leatherhead.
One of the first and most welcoming places I was asked to visit was Baby
and Toddler group, run by Janine and Jackie in the Parish Church Hall
every Wednesday morning in term time. This is a group where lots of
parents come, mostly mums still, but also grannies, granddads, and
childminders with the children in their care. They see this as a really
positive group, and so I was welcomed in as a part of this quickly and
generously. Janine asked me to be a sort of chaplain, if people wanted
to chat, and so that is mainly what I do on a Wednesday morning, as well
as leading the story reading and singing when needed.
Monday morning is taken up with the staff meeting with the Rector and
Curate, discussing and evaluating the past week as well as planning and
praying into the following one. We are working well together as a team,
which is very fulfilling for me. Often on Monday afternoons I shall plan
the coming Sunday morning's activities, which is trickier to organise
now that there are regularly more than five children back there in the
tower! It's a real treat though, and I am grateful to Di and Freya who
are on team, but if you could pray for more people willing to help that
would be very useful in growing this ministry to our families.
Late afternoon/after school is a good meeting time for teachers, so that
is when I would visit Leatherhead Trinity or St Michael's. Both links
have been really positive, with me joining Graham, Ian, Lynda and Hannah
in our weekly Thursday morning assemblies at Leatherhead Trinity. We
take it in turns to go in to teach Bible stories and, for me, lead them
in developing their song repertoire. Monthly assemblies for St Michael's
are based on their school's "values".
During the rest of the week I am usually preparing one of these
activities, visiting families that have either already had or are going
to have their children christened at the church; planning for the next
church season e.g. Easter; connecting with other children's workers in
the diocese, and asking God in prayer for His guidance for this
ministry.
Other activities that I am involved with monthly are "Messy Church" and
"Craftanoon". "Messy Church" is run by Hannah and me as a Covenanting
Churches' ministry every third Thursday of the month and is a relatively
popular two-hour session hosted by the Methodist church. They have the
resources there for us to cook for the families, as well as different
rooms for our range of craft tables. It starts with crafts, then a story
or talk, songs and prayer, before sitting down to eat together. The aim
would be to be able to feed the adults as well, so please do pray for us
being able to do that soon.
"Craftanoon" is an initiative run by Kelly (diocese) and Emma as the
manager of the Leatherhead Trinity Children's Centre, on the last
Wednesday of every month. It is accessible to all families, and again
holds crafts, and then the families eat together before going home.
Both activities take a lot of preparing but it's worth it to be able to
enable families to spend quality time together.
Last year Hannah and I ran Holiday Club in August, again as a
Covenanting Churches' ministry, where 58 children came Monday to Friday
to be in age-related teams, led by an adult leader. We explored the life
of Daniel from the Bible, engaging in games, crafts, healthy
competition, and prayer. It was an excellent week and we intend to run
another one this year during the week 13th August. Please do pray for
this extraordinary way to link with families in the area, as well as all
the planning that's involved.
"Summer Lunch Club" was another summer activity, over lunch on the
Mondays of August. This targeted some families who appreciated some
company and food together during the summer holidays. Kelly (Diocese)
and Emma (Manager of Trinity Children's Centre) and I prepared some
games and activities to play and do during the couple of hours, as well
as preparing yummy picnic food for us to eat wherever we were. We're
aiming to run this again, learning from last year, so prayers for this
to meet the need of the families who come would be really appreciated.
We also ran our "Bright and Light party" which was another roaring
success! B@titude and I planned and executed a really fun, engaging,
craft-filled time, with delicious food and some dancing. It really is
great to see what can happen when we link up and have people willing to
volunteer their time to serve others.
So, all in all it's been a busy year! Please do pray for the continuing
growth of the children and families' ministry, as well as volunteering
your time and talent for it if you feel able. I am enjoying being here
and want to be able to create a sustainable ministry; this can only
happen through willing hands and feet of the body of Christ. Thank you!
Holly Barton
Deanery Synod Report 7.2.18
A Deanery Synod meeting was held at St. Lawrence Effingham on Wednesday
7th February 2018. The topic for discussion was "Engaging with Housing".
There are significant housing developments taking place within the
Deanery at Effingham (Howard of Effingham Development), and on the
Wisley Airfield which affects some parishes in the Deanery. The question
was posed: what is the Christian response to new Housing Development?
Neil McDonald, previously involved as a Civil Servant with housing
development, now currently consulting on Housing Development, and also
Church Warden at St. Nicholas Great Bookham, led our discussions giving
a very detailed (with graphs) explanation as to how the crisis in
housing had developed. He encouraged those present to discuss in small
groups around some of the issues.
In the second part of the evening with the help of David King (chair of
Effingham Residents Association) and Revd Hugh Grear, Vicar of Ockham,
we considered the two developments highlighted for our area.
Again we broke into small groups and considered the implications of
these large housing developments in our area - and some of the reactions
we should have as Christians and citizens.
In the final section of the topic Neil McDonald brought us back to
consider the implication of housing development from a Christian
perspective. No complete answers on this but much to think about.
Deanery News:
- Cobham parish is still in vacancy - but
it is hoped to interview in March.
- Deanery Synod Secretaries - Anne and
Richard Milton-Worssell wish to retire as Deanery Secretary in June
- a job description has already gone out. If anybody is interested
in the post or knows someone in their church who is, please contact
either Alan Jenkins, Area Dean, or Bill King, Deanery Lay Chair.
- Diocesan Synod - future elections. Bill
alerted the Synod to the forthcoming Diocesan Synod election in the
Autumn - it is time to consider who might be a good person from our
Deanery for this.
- Mark Cheverton, Deanery Treasurer,
talked about the website he is setting up for the Deanery - also a
forum to get people to get together to talk about it.
- Deanery Action plan - Jenny Smith is to
work together with reps, looking for a link from each parish
regarding their youth work in preparation for our next meeting in
June.
- Next Synod Meetings will be on
Wednesday June 13th at Oxshott and will be on the Deanery and
children and youth. The following meeting will be on October 10th at
Great Bookham.
Donald Yeates
Celia Beatrice Hamilton 30/10/1921 - 11/2/2018 - see via Remembrance
pages
March 2018
One of our Licensed Lay Ministers writes ...
LIFE NOW
The four of us, our friend Graham, our guide Abdo, Roger and I, stood in
awe in Egypt in front of the massive fallen statue of Rameses II. Roger
was moved to recite Percy Bysshe Shelley's famous poem Ozymandias:
I met a traveller from an antique
land
Who said: Two vast and trunkless legs of stone
Stand in the desert. Near them on the sand,
Half sunk, a shatter'd visage lies, whose frown And wrinkled lip
and sneer of cold command Tell that its sculptor well those passions
read Which yet survive, stamp'd on these lifeless things,
The hand that mock'd them and the heart that fed.
And on the pedestal these words appear:
"My name is Ozymandias, king of kings:
Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
Nothing beside remains: round the decay
Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare,
The lone and level sands stretch far away.
When Roger had finished, none of us wanted to break the spell as we
contemplated how the mighty are fallen.
This 26 metre granite statue of the pharaoh in front of the Rameseum,
the Temple he had built to himself, was supposed to stand for eternity.
Indeed, so massive was it that it must have been a very severe
earthquake to have toppled it. All that now remains still standing are
his massive legs. The upper part of his body and his head lie in the
sand at his feet.
So preoccupied were the ancient Egyptians both with attaining
immortality and ensuring they reached the after-life that all their
energies went into erecting gigantic statues designed to last for ever,
constructing massive pyramids, and carving out tombs. These they filled
with actual processions, beds, chairs, jewellery, and food. Along the
walls of the entry tunnels, and the tombs themselves, were carved
depictions of all they would need with them in the Underworld, endless
processions of people bringing grain, meat, flowers and fruit cover the
walls. The tombs were also gloriously painted and, though 4,000 years
old, often looked as fresh as if they had been painted yesterday.
Those of the "nobles" were of especial interest because whereas the
scenes in the royal tombs were very stylised depictions of offerings to
the gods, the "commoner's" tombs depicted everyday life, grain being
harvested, winnowed and ground, animals being butchered, birds and
fishes being caught; all to supply the needs of the dead person in the
Afterlife. In fact so preoccupied were they with life after death that
this life held no importance for them.
It was beyond imagining the man hours it must have taken to extract
granite from the region of Aswan, transport it many miles and then carve
it into massive statues, and to hack tombs out of the limestone hills
and decorate them so beautifully and elaborately. But they must have
thought it worthwhile if it meant they would be resurrected after death,
to be born again, they believed, into their original bodies. Thus
mummification was also vital, at the end of which they performed the
"opening of the mouth" ceremony so that the dead person's spirit could
re-enter the body.
Christianity came very early to Egypt, brought by Mark the Evangelist in
the 1st Century. And many of the myths and beliefs of the Ancient
Egyptians became fused, synchronized into this new faith. Some of the
early Christians even practised mummification! A few of them became
solitaries, going far out into the desert to lead a life of extreme
hardship and prayer, and even building the world's very first
monasteries. But I was saddened that they seemed to adopt the indigenous
belief that it was only by suffering in this life that they could be
spared torment in the next. Like the ancient Egyptians they believed
that this life had no value and was simply a preparation for eternity to
come. So they lived in extreme poverty with little to eat and in
scratchy tunics (or sometimes with nothing to wear), in rudimentary
caves, spending all their energy and time in preparing for the next
life.
We too are in a season of preparation, for we are in the wilderness days
of Lent. And on 1st April we too will be celebrating the life that is
beyond this life demonstrated by the Resurrection of Jesus on Easter
morning. But Jesus was not resurrected into the Underworld; he was
resurrected into this one. The Kingdom of God is both realized, and to
come. The message of both the Incarnation and the Resurrection are
clear...God so loved THE WORLD, this world, not some mysterious "other",
that "He became 'flesh' and dwelt among us". Or as I prefer "he has
become flesh and dwells among us". The story may be over 2,000 years
old, but it would be meaningless if it wasn't a present reality. Jesus
the Christ is risen. The sacred, the divine, is infused within his
creation, and God saw that "it was very good". Life is God given and to
be celebrated and enjoyed, not shunned, endured or denied.
It is in "all flesh" that we see and meet God. Alleluia!
Gail Partridge
Church Notes - March 2018
Notes
from the Belfry March 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish
Church, especially Quiz Supper Evening on March 10th, please
click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
Can you believe that it's exactly one year since the project team first
presented the Making History project to the congregation, members of the
Electoral Roll and Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church. While the plans
have evolved slightly our objectives remain the same:
• To reclaim our medieval church;
• To tell our heritage story better;
• To create buildings fit for the 21st century.
These objectives underpin a deep desire to see a restored building that
enables our church family and continuing ministry in the community of
Leatherhead to thrive.
So, it's inevitably frustrating to report (at the time of writing)
little movement since last month's update - we are still waiting for a
Faculty from the Diocese and a planning decision from Mole Valley
District Council. Please pray that positive decisions come back soon.
Fundraising
Several members of the PCC and amazing volunteers are planning new
fundraising activities in the next few months, so look out for publicity
and invite friends to join you at these events. The more people who know
about our project the better.
As always, we are truly appreciative of the Friends of Leatherhead
Parish Church, who continue to raise funds for the on-going maintenance
of the church and churchyard. The two musical evenings with Pip Burley
raised a staggering £4,500 and we're now looking forward to their annual
quiz night on Saturday 10th March.
1000 Memorable Moments
As part of the Making History project we are beginning to ask people to
share stories associated with the church through word, photo, or even
video. We plan to produce '1000 Memorable Moments' of people connected
with the church past and present and put on an exhibition to celebrate
the completion of the Making History project. More information about how
to get involved in next month's magazine, but start thinking about what
interesting and touching stories you might contribute.
Finally, there's an old saying that goes "good things come to those who
wait" - so we remain excited and hope you do too.
The Project Team
Mothers' Union
Thank you to all the members who helped by baking or bringing food
for our Birthday meeting which was enjoyed by all, especially our
visiting Branches.
7th March will be our AGM: after the business we will have time to chat
and have refreshments. We will be holding a raffle at the meeting.
4th April Beverley Stonehouse is hoping to come along and give a talk of
her choice.
14th April is the Lady Day Service at Guildford Cathedral - cannot wait
to see the improvements. At this Service all Branches are invited and
able to carry their Banners. Further details will appear in the April
magazine.
You are welcome to join us at any of our Meetings.
Jane Summerfield
Woodlands School Visit
It was great to see a convoy of wheelchairs heading into church one
afternoon last month. Pupils, teachers and support staff from Woodlands
School came to visit the church as part of their school project on
faith.
Once everyone had navigated their way over the small step in the porch
(surprising how difficult that was for the heavier wheelchairs) and had
a quick recap of what they had been doing in class, everyone split up to
explore the church (although they couldn't get up the chancel steps).
It was fascinating to accompany the pupils, who have either severe
learning difficulties, very complex needs, or autism, and discover what
each one liked most during their visit:
• C really smiled at the communion wine and liked
looking at the Bible;
• T liked flicking through the hymn book and singing
the song "Our God is a great big God";
• S liked looking at the stained glass windows which
were reminiscent of the craft stained glass crosses made at school;
• J also focussed on the windows;
• R loved taking the numbers in and out of the hymn
board;
• C also liked playing with the hymn board and feeling
the wax candles;
• R liked the smell of communion wine and sat by the
Bibles and looked at them.
The skilled staff helped each young person to get something special from
their visit. We look forward to welcoming them again. After our building
project is completed we will also be able to provide them better access
too!
Beverley Stonehouse, Holly Barton
Children and Families 2017-2018 - see full version of this report
in April
2018 PARISH ELECTORAL ROLL UPDATE
Our Annual Parochial Church Meeting this year is on 18th April. Any
revisions to our Parish Electoral Roll have to be published by about 4th
April. If you think you are not on our Roll but want to be, or for
whatever reason wish to be removed, or your details have changed please
contact me or visit the parish office, from where you can also obtain a
copy of the Electoral Roll Application Form. Alternatively if you are
able to, you can print it off from http://www.parishchurch.leatherheadweb.orq.uk/ER-application-form-LHD-2014.pdf
Frank Haslam, Electoral Roll Officer L379341
"Night and Day...You are the One..."
Once again on 31st January doors closed on a "Full House" at the Parish
Church Hall for the second of Pip Burley's explorations of the "Golden
Age of Song".
This time Cole Porter and George Gershwin were "in the spotlight". What
a contrast with their contemporaries, Irving Berlin and Jerome Kern,
although all four had things in common: two of the four had Russo-Jewish
ancestry and the lives of two were marred by tragedy or circumstance.
Two died relatively young.
Their influence on popular music and in particular on the Musical during
the interwar and immediate post-war era was, however, incalculable, each
in turn being required by changes in society and public taste to
continuously adapt their compositions and style.
As during "Part One" in November Pip Burley captivated his audience with
a combination of video and audio clips and masterful demonstration on
the Grand Piano of the technical innovations in each of the four
composers' musical output.
The Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church would like to express their
gratitude to Pip for his generosity with his time and his donation of
all the proceeds from the sale of his books and CDs. Thanks too to all
who attended one or both of the evening performances for your support of
FLPC Fundraising. As a result a magnificent total of £4,500 was raised
to assist with the Friends' commitment to the maintenance of our
beautiful Church.
John and Jackie Hampton
Easter Flowers
We shall be decorating the church with spring flowers from 10.30am
on Saturday 31st March. Anyone wishing to help will be most welcome.
Donations towards the cost of the lilies will be most appreciated.
Valerie Jones
Burns Night 2018
Friday 26th January heralded our Annual Burns Night Festivities. A good
crowd clapped in The Haggis on its silvered platter: Nicky proudly
bearing the dish with due reverence.
John once again recited Burns' famous "Address to a Haggis" brilliantly
and, although many words were unknown to me, most guests seem to laugh
in the right places! We toasted the haggis with a wee dram o' whiskey.
I did enjoy the traditional meal, the company and the ambience. Many
thanks to the large number of you who prepared and cooked the veggies
etc, as well as those who helped on the night.
We had an entertaining musical interlude between courses, helping Alan
Fleming with the choruses of 2 old favourites - and Richard Price
accompanied us on the piano for "Loch Lomond".
David Primrose called the dances. There were many enthusiastic
participants and, for those of us who weren't up to swirling and
twirling, it was fun watching.
Auld Lang Syne brought most of us on to the dance-floor which made a
fitting ending to an enjoyable evening which, incidentally, raised
nearly £1,000 towards our Making History fundraising.
Di Gale
CHRISTIAN AID WEEK 13-19 May 2018
We are applying to hold a collection at Leatherhead Station on the
morning of Tuesday 15th May. We may also be able to do envelope
collections in some roads. If you can help please let me know as soon as
possible. We know the need all too well. Let's do something.
Frank Haslam, Christian Aid L379341
February 2018
Church Notes - February 2018
Notes
from the Belfry February 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish
Church, especially Quiz Supper Evening on March 10th, please
click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
It can't have escaped people's notice that building work has yet to
begin in the church. Although we had hoped to start in January 2018 we
are still in discussions with the Diocese regarding the Faculty and are
awaiting a planning decision from Mole Valley District Council.
Without these permissions we haven't been able to move forward with
the majority of our grant applications, as they are often a required
condition of any approach for funding. Of course, this is frustrating,
especially since the funding priorities of many foundations have
recently changed in line with new funding criteria from the National
Lottery.
Fundraising
The fundraising team is therefore working hard to revise applications
in line with the new requirements, so as soon as we have Faculty and
planning permission we are ready to submit funding applications that
include a community activity plan to support our proposed capital
expenditure. We are talking to several local charities about how we
might work together, but if you know of others that might be
interested in a joint programme, please ask them to get in touch with
Chris Evans or Beverley Stonehouse.
That being said we have almost reached 60% of our total fundraising
target. So, while cracking on with various fundraising efforts, the
PCC has agreed that the project should be phased, prioritising the
replacement of the floor, entrances, heating & audio/visual
systems.
Tender Documentation
The Architect has therefore been instructed to proceed with tender
documents for the complete project and the PCC will agree the further
scope of works depending on the available funding once the tender
information is available. This is subject to the completion of
enabling works. It is unclear at present whether the Diocese will
allow us to undertake those investigations prior to a full faculty
being granted. If this is the case the commencement of work may be
further delayed.
Pews For Sale/Flaostone Dedications:
If you are interested please contact John Andrews (01372 373083).
Finally, if you are part of a community group or local business
please suggest that they participate in a fundraising activity in
order to dedicate a flagstone and be included in the Community Roll of
Honour.
The Project Team
Mothers' Union
7th February is our Annual Birthday Party where we invite other Branches
to join us. We will be holding a bring & buy stall. The money raised
will go to "Make a Mothers' Day" - if you feel like joining us you are
more than welcome, or if you would like to contribute to this project it
would be very much appreciated.
7th March again an Annual Event, this time our AGM.
Our meetings begin at 2.30pm in the Parish Church Hall.
Best wishes, Jane Summerfield
Remembrance Sunday 2017
We should like to thank everyone who attended the Church Service on
Remembrance Sunday. The grand total of the collection was £325.
Again, many thanks.
Derrick and Jane Summerfield
It's Quiz Time - Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
Sat 10 Mar 7pm for 7.30pm start Parish Church Hall - booking
form
The BBC to increase coverage of religion
The BBC has recently pledged to "raise our game" on religion by
increasing the portrayal of all faiths in mainstream shows.
The corporation said it would "enhance" the representation of religion
on TV and radio dramas and documentaries. It said it would also create a
new global religious affairs team, headed by a religion editor, in BBC
News. The BBC will also keep Thought For The Day on Radio 4's Today
programme.
The corporation recently published the conclusions of a review into its
coverage of religion and ethics, and Director General Tony Hall said
audiences of all faiths and none have said they want to learn more about
those topics.
"They recognise that, if we truly want to make sense of the world, we
need to understand the systems of belief that underpin it," he said. He
added that he wants the corporation "to do more about Christianity and
other beliefs as well."
The plans include:
There will be more about non-Christian festivals like Diwali, Passover,
Rosh Hashanah, Ramadan and Eid on mainstream programmes like The One
Show, The Chris Evans Breakfast Show and Newsround.
There will be landmark programmes to "explore religion in all its
forms", including a major TV series about the world's sacred sites, a
Radio 4 series on morality in the 21st Century, and a Radio 2 initiative
to encourage young people to discuss issues about peace.
2019 will be "A Year of Beliefs", with programmes looking at how people
make big decisions and where they get their moral values from.
There will be more "people-led stories that have warmth and depth", such
as observing vicars working in local communities.
There will be tie-ins with music and comedy, and more digital-first
video and social media content.
The role of the religious affairs correspondent - currently Martin
Bashir -will be upgraded to religion editor, leading BBC News's new
global religious affairs team. BBC News will also broaden the range of
interviewees and contributors to represent a wider range of opinions and
practices.
Time for Tea
Friday 2 April 2.30pm till 4pm. Come for Tea and Company to Leatherhead
Methodist Church.
EVERYONE WELCOME!
Church Notes - January 2018
Notes
from the Belfry January 2018
For the latest news from the Friends of Leatherhead Parish Church
especially The Golden Age of Song on Jan 31 please click on The
Friends
Building Project Update
With the design work well in hand, last month saw a renewed focus on
fundraising.
Fundraising
Fundraising Workshop: We were delighted to welcome a fundraising
consultant to help us hone our donor fundraising strategy. The project
team, reinforced by new volunteers (drawn from the PCC and others, who
have stepped forward to help with fundraising) spent a day looking at
how we could accelerate our income generation.
A follow-up meeting took place where it was agreed to sharpen our
focus on four areas: Local Community (Martin Farrell) Trusts &
Charities (Chris Evans), Major Donors (Martin Cole), Corporate Donors
(MF/CE/MC), with all areas supported by Anne Thomson, Veronica Kay,
Sue Roberts, Linda Hauxwell and Beverley Stonehouse.
Pews For Sale/Flagstone Dedications: If you are interested
please contact John Andrews (L373083)
Planning Application
The Conversation Officer from Mole Valley District Council made a site
visit at the beginning of December. Queries about the submitted
drawings regarding external lighting and signage were discussed with
the architect and members of the project team. Our planning
application is progressing and we anticipate a decision during
January.
Survey Reports
The ground penetrating radar tests revealed 18 points of interest in
the nave of the church. This does not necessarily mean 18 burial sites
merely that there are 18 points of ground disturbance. Further
investigation is required to see if this will affect the floor
groundworks. Therefore, it is likely that archaeologists will need to
be on site for the groundwork investigations some time in the New
Year.
Project Review
The project was reviewed at the November PCC meeting. After further
deliberation and prayer the most appropriate way forward will be
determined at the next PCC meeting (24.1.18).
The Project Team
Leatherhead Morning W.l.
I feel sad to be writing this, as it signifies the closing of
Leatherhead W.l.
It has not been an easy decision as it marks the end of many years of
its existence. Due to falling numbers, and increased costs, it is not
practical to continue. Our last meeting, on 23rd November, finalised
the way it should go. Jill Elliott and Rosemary Horton, W.I. advisers,
attended the meeting, and gave us their valuable input.
Thanks were given to our President, Mrs Hazel Richmond-Coggan, and
Secretary, Mrs Betty Tunstill. Betty was a founder member, and
president for many years.
Our W.l. was unique, as meetings were in the morning, where most of
the other groups are in the afternoon or evening. It will be very much
missed, and there is always a possibility that it may be started up
again in the future.
We had our Christmas lunch at the beginning of December, and,
hopefully, we shall keep in touch with each other, as many friendships
have been formed.
Hazel Brown
Exciting Changes at LYP
Leatherhead Youth Project (LYP) and the Community Foundation for
Surrey announce an exciting development for both organisations.
With Joe Crome moving on from LYP to take on a new role as the
Director of Philanthropy at the Community Foundation Oli Bell will
step in as interim manager at LYP.
Oli has over ten years' experience in youth work. Previously working
with young offenders in Plymouth, Oli has seen LYP go from strength to
strength and is currently the Senior Youth Worker for the Bookham
Youth Project, a new initiative started by LYP.
Following the relational model of youth work developed by LYP we have
set up a variety of programmes for young people in Bookham and the
surrounding area.
LYP, now in its 13th year, is providing more services than ever
before and offers greater support for young people across the
district. LYP is also considered a centre of excellence for youth work
across the county.
LYP will continue to provide the same excellent youth work under
Oli's management. He will be leading the team in an interim position
while a recruitment process is undertaken.
LYP and the Community Foundation for Surrey have enjoyed a special
relationship for many years, with the Community Foundation for Surrey
supporting LYP to provide excellent youth work in Leatherhead,
Bookham, and across Mole Valley.
Joe will be greatly missed at LYP, but Oli and the team wish him all
the best at Community Foundation for Surrey and look forward to an
even greater relationship between the two organisations.
Leatherhead Community Association
Everyone at the Leatherhead Community Association would like to wish
your readers all the very best for 2018, and to tell them about some
of the events that are being organised for the next four months.
EMINentlv Interesting! - "Mad Tracy from Margate" is the title of the
first lecture in the new series of Art/History lectures, and this can
only be about Tracey Emin. Come to the Letherhead Institute in January
2018, just the place to come in out of the cold, ancyearn more about a
fascinating and controversial lady in the first lecture on 17 January.
There are four more to follow on subjects of "Suburbia", Zoffany,
German Expressionism before 1914, and a fairly unknown Danish artist.
For bookworms looking for a cosv corner - Did you know that there is
a library of some 1500 books and over 350 DVDs that is free and open
on weekday mornings with a resident Librarian present on Fridays.
Added to which there is a warm stove, comfortable chairs, and coffee
is always available. New titles are constantly being added.
Listen in comfort to Tea and Talks once a month on Fridays with
topics on Edwardian England, "Can't pay, won't pay", Octavia Hill -
one of the founders of the National Trust, and the 60s and 70s pop
scene in Leatherhead. Or if you prefer music, the recorded music
afternoons are on every 3rd Wednesday, starting on the 17 January with
"New Beginnings", followed by "Winter Warmers", "March", and "Music in
action".
To whet vour 2018 appetite even more - From January Yoga, Bridge,
Table Tennis, Snooker, and Scrabble will be taking place weekly as
usual, and once a month there is Book Club.
Just visiting! Our visits start on 6 February to the recently opened
Postal Museum, followed in March to the Watts Gallery in Surrey, and
then in April to Dover Castle.
Wellies mav be needed! - For the more energetic, (and hale and
hardy), the full and varied programme of walks, both short and long,
start again in February and Peter Humphreys is happy to give you all
the details - L378347.
Please don't forget that rooms can be hired for "one off" functions
or for regular classes, an art class has been running weekly for over
ten years. It costs only £5 a year to become a member but non-members
are welcome at a very low cost. If you would like to have all the
information as to what is arranged by the LCA please call into the
Institute, last building on the left at the top of the High Street,
and pick up the newest newsletter or try the website
www.leatherheadca.org.uk.
Sarah, the administrator, is always very happy to help on L360508, or
email LCA2ATbtconnect.com.
Frances Presley
THE ARTS SOCIETY LEATHERHEAD Arts Society illustrated talk: Pots
& Frocks - the world of Grayson Perry
Leatherhead Parish Church Hall, KT22 8BD Wednesday 10th January, 19:15
to 21:00
Widely known for his appearances dressed as his feminine alter ego,
Claire, Grayson Perry RA is now a core part of the art establishment.
A Turner Prize winner and one of Britain's best known contemporary
artists, he gave the brilliant BBC Reith Lecture about the art market
in 2013. His works of ceramics, textiles, tapestries and prints are
highly sought after. Often controversial, he is able to tackle
difficult subjects in a poignant yet witty way. This talk will examine
Grayson Perry's work, his exciting and thought-provoking exhibitions,
and we'll look at the character inside the flamboyant frocks.
The society welcomes visitors for £5 at the door, but please make
initial contact via email to infoATtheartssocietyleatherhead.org.uk or
telephone John Andrews on L373083
The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity
This year the Week
of Prayer for Christian Unity runs from the 18th to the 25th
January [calendar].
The theme of the Week comes from the Churches of the Caribbean, and
addresses some of the problems of the people there but also worldwide.
