News from the Diocese of Truro

FEBRUARY 2014 30p

Contents:

Doing Church The Same?

New Year Honour For Margaret

Why Should I Care About Deanery Synod Elections?

Lightning Strike On Church Tower

More Than Liturgical Archaeology

Out & about

Have You Ever Thought Of Being A Reader?

Update On Academies

Bookshop Offers Slice Of History

Sunday Plus Courses - Some Feedback

Newbie

Letters To The Editor

On Reading The Lesson - The Final Personal Perspective

Striking Symbolism Of New Cross

Discovering God’s K ingdom

thecoracle

2

Doing Church the same?

As this issue of The Coracle goes to press, preparations will be in full swing for the Bishop’s Den and the culmination of the search for new and effective ways of Christian life and witness … of ‘Doing Church Differently’.

We are constantly – and rightly – reminded that in a rapidly changing world the Church cannot afford to stay still, but must strive to engage with its culture and to “proclaim the Gospel afresh to each generation”. There are those, and I suppose at heart I’m one of them, for whom this is music to the ears. After all, is not God the one who urges his people: “See, I am doing a new thing!” [Isaiah 43:19] and himself “makes all things new” [Revelation 21:5]? Life, by its very nature, involves constant change; and where there is no change, death and decay are inevitable.

Well yes … but is he not also the “God who is enthroned from of old, who does not change” [Psalm 55:19] and is revealed in Jesus who is “the same yesterday, today and forever” [Hebrews 13:8]? And is this not a great part of the attractiveness of faith – that it provides stability and security, an anchor that promises to hold firm in the storms of life?

Temperamentally and theologically we may incline more to one truth or the other, but to set them up in opposition to one another is a false and unhelpful distinction. God is always above and beyond the categories by which we seek to confine him (including, of course, that of gender) and constantly challenges us to step out from behind our assumptions and prejudices to consider and test out insights both old and new.

MY FOCUS of late has tended towards the new. I settle down to write this piece on New Year’s Eve, reflecting on a past year of considerable change in my personal and professional circumstances and wondering what further surprises the New Year may have in store.

I trust that the Bishop’s Den will bring to light some new ideas that will inspire and excite God’s Church to deeper faith and more committed action, but I know that novelty alone will solve nothing unless it is God who is doing the new thing. ‘Doing Church Differently’ will prove simply to be a smokescreen if it is not the Holy Spirit who prompts and guides and equips.

One of the delights of my new(ish) role is to attend a different church most Sundays and to experience a whole variety of wonderful ways of worshipping and witnessing to the Living God – many of them deeply traditional – which have helped to nourish and challenge my faith. So, while the challenge to ‘Do Church Differently’ needs to heard and heeded, perhaps too (some times and in some ways) we need the confidence to carry on and ‘Do Church the Same’.

Archdeacon Bill

3

MARGARET Stevens, voluntary regional organiser for HOST in Cornwall since 1990, was awarded the British Empire Medal for services to international students in the UK in the New Year Honours List.

Margaret’s interest in international students began

when she was a student herself and recurred 25 years ago when her husband was Rector of Illogan, close to the Camborne School of

Mines. She organised social activities for the international students there, and a fortnightly coffee morning for their wives.

Joining HOST in 1990 enabled Margaret to extend her own local hospitality scheme, so that Cornish hosts could welcome international students from UK universities.

“There are about 70 volunteer hosts offering invitations in Cornwall now,” said Margaret, “but over the years there must have been a few hundred. I should think 50 per cent of them first heard of HOST through appeals in The Coracle and parish magazines across the county. It is in large measure through the generosity and commitment of my hosts that I have received this award.”

For further information about HOST, visit www.hostuk.org or call Margaret on 01736 719090

Chartered Surveyors and Historic Building Consultants

New Year Honour for Margaret

IN SPRING 2014, elections will take place at Annual Parochial Church Meetings (APCMs) which will shape the future of the Church of England. Each local church will elect representatives to Deanery Synod, who in turn will elect members of General Synod in autumn 2015 for the period 2015-2020.

The General Synod debates matters of national and international importance, engages with key ethical and social issues, decides new forms of worship, passes legislation affecting the whole of the Church of England, and approves the annual budget for the work of the Church at national level. It is often the shop window through which the nation views the Church and its priorities.

When the legislation enabling women to be bishops did not get through General Synod in 2013, many people felt that the House of Laity had failed to represent the views of the majority of church attenders. If a more broadly representative House of Laity is to be achieved in 2015, the Deanery Synod elections this coming Spring are a vital first step towards that goal. Should this opportunity be missed, it will not come again for another five years.

If you are a member of the Church of England who cares about its future, about its mission in God’s world and the way in which it communicates and lives out the Gospel, please take seriously this opportunity to bring about change by:

ensuring that you are on your church’s Electoral Roll (or you won’t be able to vote at your church’s Annual Meeting);

considering standing for election as a Deanery Synod member; or

encouraging someone else who would represent your church well to stand;

attending your Annual Parochial Church Meeting in Spring 2014;

voting for someone who will work to ensure that the breadth of the Church of England is fully represented at General Synod;

thinking about whether you – or someone you know – might stand for General Synod in 2015.

4

Why should I care about Deanery Synod

elections?

ON TUESDAY 6 December, the tower of St Keyne Church was struck by lightning. Masonry came through two pitches of the North Aisle roof and also took out ridge tiles; the wiring and fuse boxes have been blasted, together with plaster, masonry and glass, throughout the building.

The congregation is working with the community to ensure that the worship, witness and welcome of St Keyne Church will be resumed as soon as possible.

Offers of help to enquiries@lepagearchitects.com or call 01752 849880.

Lightning strike on church tower

Information relating to all of this will shortly be sent to PCCs in their APCM packs.

5

Roger Bush, Dean of Truro, writes…

AS MANY OF US now know, the notion of nine lessons and carols didn’t begin at King’s College, Cambridge, after the First World War, but here in Truro in 1880.

It was this very first service that – after careful research by the Canon Precentor of Truro Cathedral, Canon Perran Gay, and Director of Music, Christopher Gray – was re-constructed and offered as an act of worship in the Cathedral on 17 December.

That this was more than a piece of liturgical archaeology was conclusively shown in the interest that putting on the original Nine Lessons and Carols generated, both locally and nationally. I, for one, in going around Truro, have never heard more interest expressed in a service at the Cathedral!

The service – radically different from the King’s service (devised by Canon Eric Milner-White after the First World War) in many ways – was more theological, more reflective and more intimate than its more famous younger sister.

Whilst some of the readings and music sat a little oddly (only one short reading about the birth of Jesus – the story of the shepherds – and

More than liturgical archaeologysome rather sweet-toothed Victorian hymnody that hasn’t survived the test of time), there was a real unity of purpose behind the service. It wasn’t a cobbled together ‘carol sandwich’, but a fully thought-through liturgical offering that had meaning and significance.

This was more than attested to afterwards when many people said how moving they found the service. In fact, there were hushed tones from the 800 or so members of the congregation, who listened to the readings intently, and followed the musical instructions of Canon Perran to the letter.

The interest shown in the Benson Nine Lessons and Carols by the media, as well as by the ordinary public, attest to the power of the Christmas story to break through the occasional cynicism and materialism we may display at the turn of the year. For the good of all humanity, Christ came at Christmas to show the love of God for all people in every situation, and I am sure that occasions like the Benson re-construction remind us all of the real significance of what we are doing.

Photos: Paul Richards

6

Out & about

Revd Dom Jones writes…

GRAHAM Kendrick’s Rumours of Angels was performed over two nights just before Christmas by the people from the churches and chapels of Mounts Bay. It is a beautiful musical and creates a real sense of wonder and amazement – by exploring the mysteries of the Incarnation, it celebrates a present experience and anticipates a coming kingdom.

The two performances were at Ludgvan Community Centre and at St Hilary Church, and the choir – made up of singers of all ages, from 8 to 80 – was conducted by Paul Roddy.

Over the two nights, just over 100 people enjoyed the musical and the audiences were treated to singing, solos, dancing and even a rap, all accompanied by a live band! And soaring above the audience each night was our very own angel made by the young people of the United Benefice of Mounts Bay, under the expert guidance of Ed Oates.

Revd Annie HenryHolland writes…

‘ALIVE’ after-school club meets every Friday at St Piran’s Hall, Goldsithney, and is run for six to 11-year-olds by Churches Together, Goldsithney Methodists, Perranuthnoe and St Hilary Churches.

Here (see picture) we are lining up to start a race – moving a rice puff from one side of the hall to the other by blowing through a straw! Everyone had to really stick with it to finish the race – and we were learning about how we need stamina and staying power to live a Christian life.

We acted out Bob Hartman’s version of the Parable of the Sower and sang Father Abraham, with all the actions! That song needs stamina to sing all the way through!

Angels over Mounts Bay

Puff-ecting Christian life

7

‘No rehearsal’ nativity play

Experiencing Christmas

David Coltart writes…

ENCOURAGED by the Rural Dean, Dave Elkington, St Endellion stepped out of its comfort zone on Christmas Day and included a ‘No Rehearsal’ nativity play within its Family Communion Service.

Using costumes borrowed from the ‘Open the Book’ team, tinsel halos, plus the ubiquitous tea towels, adults and children from the congregation volunteered to dress up and play the parts of the Nativity Story. Everybody could choose their desired part. It did not

Kathryn Hill writes…

Following on from the successful ‘Experience Harvest’ event in Pelynt Parish Church [The Coracle, Dec 2013 p4], we held a cross-parish, ecumenical ‘Experience Christmas’ event on 3 December in Polruan.

The children from both Polruan and Pelynt were divided into three groups taking turns to enjoy Christmas activities in Polruan School, Polruan Village Hall and St Saviour Church, all of which are conveniently situated within a few minutes’ walk of each other.

Some 125 children and 24 adults experienced the true meaning of Christmas in a way that would not have been possible for any one parish to achieve by themselves and they all had a wonderful time judging by the enthusiastic feedback from both staff and children.

Immediately after the event, Polruan ‘Woman’s Hour’ had its weekly meeting in St Saviour Church and, led by several members who were also on the Experience Christmas team, they too enjoyed ‘Experience Christmas’ that day.

The stations remained in place for a week and a number of children took their parents in to see them. Other members of the community also visited and the Lanteglos Churches Choir, who practise in St Saviour Church, also took time to explore and enjoy the stations.

We are grateful for diocesan funding that enabled us to pay for the buses that transported the Pelynt School children to and from Polruan for this event; and we are hoping to continue with ‘Experience Easter’ later in this term.

matter how many Marys, Josephs, Magi, Shepherds or Angels there were!

The story was told by a narrator and featured ‘Messages from God’ at each crucial part of the story.

The play generated a wonderful atmosphere, wholly appropriate to a Christmas Day Service. The message was simple and direct engrossing the congregation of 200 adults and children.

8

Out & about cont/d

Cross ladies of Helston

and WendronPrimrose Peacock writes…

WHEN last year’s autumn visit to Cornwall by the Archbishop of Canterbury was planned, it was decided to name the Cathedral service, the Festival of the Cross. This was primarily in honour of the Archbishop’s Primatial Cross, carried by his chaplain, which originated as a gift from the people of Cornwall to Archbishop Benson on the occasion of his elevation to Canterbury.

Prior to this event, an invitation was sent out to all parishes in the diocese to prepare and bring a cross of their own design and construction to the Cathedral. Quite a number responded and a variety of artefacts appeared.

One significant ‘corporate’ effort was from the parish of Helston with Wendron in West Cornwall. It had been organised by Revd Jane Bradbury, who is the curate there, and involved ladies from both churches.

Each participant was given a cross-shaped piece of plastic canvas and asked to decorate it. Then the finished pieces were mounted on black fabric in the form of a large cross. They used beads, buttons, small twigs, threads and other ‘notions’. The finished item was both delightful and meaningful.

9

For more information and to book a place at any of these events, contact Epiphany House, Kenwyn, Truro TR1 3DR Tel: 01872 272249 E-mail: epiphanyhouse@keme.co.uk

Epiphany House www.epiphanyhousetruro.co.uk

Colourful comfort from CornwallJean Baker, from White Cross Mission, writes…

FOLLOWING my ‘Can You Knit?’ appeal last year, Canon Pat Robson, Ana (Pat’s adopted Romanian daughter), Tony Rule (White Cross Mission’s treasurer & ‘official’ photographer) and I filled our suitcases with 137 colourful pullovers of all shapes and sizes and set off for Romania to give our young people there a Christmas party.

Having decorated the Christmas tree with gifts from Probus Mothers’ Union, we set to work filling carrier bags (donated by Shahnaz Indian Restaurant in Truro) with the pullovers, felt tip pens, colouring books and toiletries (kindly given by Reeds Pharmacy in Truro). So many presents thanks to the generosity of so many people!

After a visit from Father Christmas, the tables were loaded with pizzas, cakes, and biscuits − which were

attacked and demolished with remarkable speed!

The following afternoon, we drove to Farmhouse No 2 to visit the young people who live there. They were all wearing their new garments – you might even recognise your own handiwork! If not, I promise that all the woollens were distributed to the delighted youngsters in the orphanage and the farmhouses, and thanks to every one of you, they will be warm and comfortable this winter.

The Eucharist is celebrated on Tuesdays at noon.

On the first Tuesday of the month there will be Prayer for Healing.

Morning Prayer is said in the Chapel at 10am from Monday to Friday.

Meditation Groups meet on first Monday of the month 2.30 - 4pm & third Monday of month 7.15 - 9.30pm.

Saturday 8 February

SINGING OUR PRAYERS

10am - 4pm

Practical study day led by Janette Mullet, director of Epiphany House.

£18 to include all refreshments and a light lunch of soup & roll, fruit & cake.

10

Have you ever thought of being a Reader?

A Reader writes…

WOULD YOU make a good Reader?

Have you ever had a sneaking feeling that you have a flair for enhancing the message from the pulpit? Have you got things you want to say, things about God you are dying to share with others?

Do you want to extend the incredible offer of life with Jesus to the people with whom you live, work and worship? Do you feel that God is calling you to ministry in his church – but not to ordination?

So, calling parish priests everywhere. Is there somebody in your parish(es) whom you have an inkling may be being called to this particular ministry?

Readers are a mixed bunch – they are theologians, pastors, chaplains, preachers, teachers, leaders of worship, pioneers – and a whole lot more. They are a fantastic bunch, with many different gifts and skills.

Somebody said recently that to be a Reader is a ‘high calling’ – and indeed

Revd Jane Kneebone, director of Reader training, writes…

Bishop Tim and Archdeacon Audrey with the Readers licensed in 2013.

it is. Readers practise a very special ministry, because they live that ministry out in the workplace, in school, in the place where they live – more outside the church building than in it. They are Christ’s presence in the world in a very particular way.

If you want to know more: talk to your parish priest; download the leaflet, Reader Ministry Explored, from the diocesan website at www.trurodiocese.org.uk/ministry/reader-selection-and-training; and visit the national Reader website at www.readers.cofe.anglican.org

See you in class maybe?

To the question, “When will you go for Ordination?” my reply is: “I won’t!” writes Claire Salzmann, from the Camel-Allen Cluster

For some people, ‘Readership’ is a ‘toe in the water’ of ordained ministry; a ‘stepping stone’ towards priesthood. But Reader ministry, with its definite role, is my place.

It is always a privilege to assist at Holy Communion, to lead Book of Common Prayer services and regular Common Worship; yet it is precisely because there are activities within the Church

11

Experienced providers of CDM support to the Cathedrals at Wells and Exeter and to the PCC’s of over

120 Churches and Chapels since 1995.

Holders of Framework Commission with English Heritage since 1998 and appointed by National Trust on many large and prestigious Projects.

www.hsafetya.co.uk info@hsafetya.co.uk 01208 7344010 Boxwell Park Bodmin PL31 2BB

HEALTH AND SAFETY ASSOCIATES

CDM Co-ordinators

Health & Safety Advisors

Fire Risk Assessments

Intrigued? So was Nicodemus! Claire in action.

that Readers cannot undertake, that we have a greater opportunity to explore N-E-W or ‘Fresh Expressions’ of worship. Occasions when we can think outside of the box.

A key role is to enable others to engage with God within worship and I like to be able to offer alternative ways to do this – when we look at something from a different angle we may glimpse it in a new way, see elements we haven’t noticed before.

Our recent 18-month interregnum gave fellow reader Sue and I many opportunities to draw up ‘special’ services, to introduce new experiences and to offer different ways of doing things. Now we have a priest, we continue together.

My prayer is that folk will give new things a try – what’s to be lost if they are not ‘for you’? An hour? What’s to be gained if they are? Well, who knows? Perhaps an opportunity to meet with God in a different, even closer, way?

It may be a bit risky, but nothing ventured…

12

Update on academies

St Barnabas Church of England Multi-Academy Trust (sponsored by Askel Veur)

St Martin’s C of E Primary School

Braddock C of E Primary School

Millbrook C of E Primary School

St Nicolas C of E Primary School

Quethiock C of E Primary School

St Piran’s Cross Church of England Multi-Academy Trust

Bishop Bronscombe C of E Primary School

Ladock C of E Primary School

Grampound Road C of E Primary School

Grampound with Creed C of E Primary School

Veryan C of E Primary School

Pilgrims’ Way Church of England Multi-Academy Trust (sponsored by Askel Veur)

St Michael’s Church of England Primary School

What the teachers said…

ON 1 DECEMBER last year, three multi-academy trusts opened, providing education for 1,700 pupils, writes diocesan academies officer, Teresa Copping.

The diocese already had one multi-academy trust, ‘The Saints Way’, which opened in December 2012 [The Coracle, January 2013, p8] and two single-academy trusts. These latest 11 schools take the number of Church of England Academies in Cornwall to 18 and further schools are due to convert early in 2014.

The St Barnabas Multi-Academy Trust is another exciting venture for the church schools in the Diocese of Truro. With Askel Veur as the sponsor, we will have the opportunity to grow and develop within the family of the church ensuring we maintain the Christian values that are at the heart of our vision.

“I am looking forward to leading the schools into the next phase of their journey in what is an ever-changing educational environment and we are all excited about the challenges and rewards that face us.

“Our priority is to provide the best educational experience we possibly can for every one of the children in our care. Together, we will stand strong and united!

Julie Simpson, interim executive principal of St Barnabas.

“

”With the support of the Diocese, the Staff, Governors and Parents, we have been working towards this moment now for over a year. I am delighted that we now have the opportunity to provide a sustainable and high quality educational model.

Executive principal, St Piran’s Cross.

““

”

St Michael’s C of E Primary School is looking forward to finally opening as an Academy on Monday. The school will be sponsored by Askel Veur and is seeking to build on its successful Ofsted inspection in November

“To celebrate the opening of the Academy we are holding a children’s tea party, disco and a mass launch of 370 balloons representing each child in the school.

Head teacher at St Michael’s. ”

13

What the teachers said…

Bookshop offers slice of historyJean Hancock writes…

SOME OF YOU may recall the article in The Coracle [April 2011, p12] when we told you of the humble beginnings of our little Christian Bookshop in Westgate Street, Launceston – a converted garden shed!

Well, times have changed and on 15 November 2013 we had a visit from the Archbishop of Canterbury – no less! We knew he was coming, so we made a cake – with one candle as it was almost a year since his appointment – ‘God-incidence’ or what?

Thinking he was probably ‘caked out’, we gave him the option of having some or not; but he said: “I’ll just have a sliver” … and then cut himself a piece. How Cornish is that? What a gracious and Godly man we have been blessed with to lead us!

Not only that, Archbishop Justin accepted a gift of two books, one of which – A Khaki Klad’s Kaleidoscope – was written by Ron Dinner, a founder member of the Aquila Fellowship Trust, the inspiration for our bookshop. It contains stories and poems of his experience in the War; but one poem in particular was very relevant. It was called ‘The Tragic Old Lady of Pantelleria’.

Ron was searching properties in enemy territory and tells how he held off his men and held her trembling hand – definitely one for Remembrance Sunday and definitely another of God’s treasures.

The other book, Fire from Heaven, has two chapters about amazing revivals in Cornwall.

Talking of treasures, we have many in the Christian Bookshop. Do come and browse. But if you live a distance away, we offer an excellent postal service and we now have a website, www.christian-bookshop.org.uk

However, we still do need you to visit us in order to keep the bookshop open and available to all. So do pay us a visit. We look forward to catching up…

Ac rn LandscapesSpecialists in

Beautiful Cornish Garden Makeovers

Visit our website www.acornlandscapescornwall.co.uk for full list of garden servicesCall Julian NOW on 07789 887419 or email jules.leach@hotmail.co.uk

Patios - Fencing - Walls - Clearance

WHEN it was suggested that I attend a Sunday Plus Course, I must confess that (somewhat arrogantly perhaps) I wondered why I would want to do that, as I have been a Local Worship Leader for many years, writes Rosemary Russell.

But it was ‘decreed’ that no one would be re-licensed unless they took the course, so I duly turned up. I am pleased to report that I thought it was excellent and I learnt a great deal. It was structured and ‘in depth’, with a different subject each session.

I think it was to my benefit too that I was the only person on the course from my parish, as it was interesting to learn from people from other churches their way of preparing and delivering the Sunday service.

My only reservation related to the ‘address/talk’ instruction. We were told very clearly what we can and cannot do. Whilst I appreciate there have to be restrictions, I do feel that as fully commissioned Local Worship Leaders we need to be trusted to produce something suitable.

Yet, having said that, I do recommend the course and would urge more people to consider taking it.

THE LATEST Sunday Plus course comprised eight sessions, each of two hours duration, and is a considerably ‘beefed up’ version of the previous one-day course which I had experienced some years previously, writes David Lamond.

The new expanded format proved to be both interesting and rewarding for the dozen or so candidates who attended. A broad spectrum of subjects was up for consideration – such as how to construct a balanced Service of the Word, what prayer is and how to use it in an interesting and creative way; the use of music in worship; and also the new and innovative technology available for use in church.

Particularly interesting were forms of worship not totally familiar to me – Messy Church and Café Church being but two that this dyed-in-the-wool traditionalist admits to approaching with caution! I found several things worthy of closer inspection and this somewhat closed mind of mine began to see possibilities – indeed, I am now the co-ordinator of a café style monthly service which we call Breakfast Church.

I can thoroughly recommend the Sunday Plus course to anyone who is perhaps considering their next step in church life. It is not hard work – although you do have to prepare for each session and do a bit of homework to add to your portfolio – and the relaxed ambience at each session certainly

promotes learning.

Incidentally, it is not a good enough reason for pursuing the course merely to ‘help’ a beleaguered priest out or to assist in keeping the church open; rather a greater sense of purpose is required. We all left the final session believing that we were being considered as valued members of the worship teams in our various parishes and with a very definite place in church life.

14

Sunday Plus Courses - some feedback

15

NEWBIE

Youth Synod Residential

Programme Co-ordinator for AMDELIANE (Eli) Fleming-Gale is the newly appointed programme co-ordinator for Accompanied Ministry Development (AMD).

Eli first came to Cornwall, from London, 11 years ago to study at Falmouth University of Arts as a painter. To complement her creative interests she decided to qualify as a personal trainer and fitness instructor and proceeded to build her business and client base as a private trainer.

“This was a wonderful job,” said Eli. “I was able to build important relationships with individuals who needed guidance on all elements of fitness. I met with a range of clientele, and within weekly sessions helped address various issues including teenage obesity, rehabilitation after injury, competitive event training and working with those with disabilities.”

In 2009, Eli returned to her family home in London where she continued working as a personal trainer and also qualified in teaching

TWENTY-FOUR young people – Anglican and Methodist – met at Treloyhan Manor Hotel, St Ives, from 6 - 8 December, for the annual Youth Synod ‘Residential’, writes Sarah Welply.

The theme of ‘Dig a Little Deeper’ was explored through a series of seminars, workshops and times of worship. The young people were challenged to reflect on their faith, discipleship and theology, and the Sunday Morning Service was constructed and delivered by the young people themselves.

Delegates had opportunities to hear about – and contribute to – countywide activities, and were encouraged to return to their congregations and be a voice for young people in their locality.

There were also times of fun – carol singing at a Christmas tree festival, a ‘murder mystery’ hunt around St Ives, a sand sculpture competition, and an unforgettable evening of Youth Synod does Strictly Come Dancing, in which the different teams were given songs from different decades to interpret in dance!

As one young person said: “It’s really good for making friends and meeting new people.”

Latin dance and Zumba fitness. “For the next four years my weekly routine became a mixture of exercise, dance, fun, and themed fitness parties which I thoroughly enjoyed,” she adds.

At the end of 2012, Eli’s heart led her back to Cornwall where, until recently, she continued to teach evening dance classes and worked for Mi-Grid Ltd (Renewable Energy Specialists) as the PA and project co-ordinator to the managing director.

Eli concludes: “I now look forward to applying myself fully to my new role, through which I hope to build valuable relationships with individuals in order to support and work effectively alongside parishes and clergy as the innovative AMD programme evolves.”

16

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Sir,

Time to be nudged

Why did Jesus make so much use of parables in his teachings? I shall come to that in a moment.

There is no doubt that financial institutions and stock markets around the world have been taken by surprise at the near collapse of capitalism. No one really knows why it happened. Not this time.

O yes; there have been clever theories going back to the 1930s as to possible reasons – but there is no absolute answer.

Perhaps a bit of lateral thinking has crept in; because new studies have indicated that ‘behavioural science’ should be the starting point. By this means it is possible to determine causes. In the past, emphasis has been given to number crunching and things that can be measured. All very black and white in its approach.

New ideas and imagination are needed. In the future, questions will be asked as to how people actually make decisions and behave; as against how they think they decide and behave.

A big difference – and not as easy as you might think. In other words, it will focus on unconscious biases and habits, which are powerful motivators of behaviour. Believe it or not, there is now a government behavioural insights team that has been nicknamed the ‘Nudge Unit’.

A recent experiment was carried out by the Inland Revenue for late income tax payments. Instead of the usual demand stating that your income tax payment was overdue, a letter was sent out indicating that 90 per cent of income tax payments due in the area had already been collected. Anxious not to be seen as deviant, all the remaining late payers paid up!

It struck me that, once again, Christ was way ahead of his time – by some two thousand years.

What are the Parables about and why a parable? We all know the answer to that one − a story told to illustrate some doctrine or moral point. It ‘nudges’ one to think and behave in a particular way. We are ‘nudged’.

The example about tax payments (above) illustrates the need to stand back and stare. Perhaps all of us in the Church should re-examine the ways in which we can be creative.

Recently there was an interesting programme broadcast about Southwark Cathedral. Although [it is situated] in the heart of London, it was felt that many more people could come in to it and browse and talk. Musical concerts did, of course, bring in the numbers and revenue; otherwise, many people – although passing by daily – just did not have the time to dwell and talk.

Fortunately, in Cornwall we do have time to stand and stare and think. The Church is evolving all the time; and now that we have a vibrant new Archbishop of Canterbury and Pope Francis, it is wonderfully strong.

Yours faithfully, A Galapagos Tortoise whose name is Mr Nobody [Name & address supplied]

Sir,

Cross purposes

I read with interest the article in the January issue of The Coracle about the Archbishop’s visit to Truro last November. I noted with particular interest the mention of the Primatial Cross.

The belief that it was the first time it had returned to Cornwall is not correct. As a chorister at St Michael’s, Newquay, in October 1953, I recall the visit of Archbishop Geoffrey Fisher to Evensong for the annual ‘clergy school’, when the Primatial Cross was carried in the procession.

I hope this proves of interest to your readers..

Yours faithfully, David Trevena.

Sir,

No cards, for charity

We at St Euny, Redruth, were delighted to read about the staff at Diocesan House donating money to charity in lieu of sending each other Christmas cards. This has been a custom at St Euny Church for several years now and this year £60 has been raised for the Sunrise Appeal at Treliske Hospital.

Yours faithfully, Margaret Johnson.

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

01566 785440

• Sound Reinforcement

• Induction Hearing Loops

• Video Projection

• Established 1985

• Over 40 Churches, Chapels and a Cathedral installed

• Exceptional after-install service

17

can seem almost a ‘high’. But in my experience ‘the result’ is a matter of indifference. It is a bit like an examination – how I might feel about it immediately afterwards is no gauge of whether or not it was adequately, successfully or properly undertaken.

Having done the revision, the examination is not an achievement, simply a way of recording evidence that, among others beside me, I am on a valid, mainstream track. On finishing the

reading, often I feel drained, sometimes teasy, done for. I feel ‘blank’, exhausted, almost sad, certainly wiped out.

Sometimes I even remember to be grateful, as in Paul’s message: ‘In all things (not for, but in) all things give thanks; pray without ceasing; praise God evermore’. Thanks. In Your presence at this moment. Wow! For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

An experienced reader writes…

IT HAS nothing to do with knowledge or with feeling. All I do is prepare as well and as fully as I can, and then do my best to get out of the way and let [the Spir]it happen.

The reading itself is, for me, a blur. With that felt-in-the-heart bit-of-a-prayer unspoken in my mouth and on my lips, I take a simple breath, and let go. It’s almost like a ‘Terminator’ moment: ‘If you’re listening to this, you are the resurrection’. Nothing else is.

There is no light, no darkness, no book, nothing but the text in my breath. This is where it scares me. This is God, the Word of God. Here, living in my poor, temporary, human mortal breath, is God incarnate. This, at this moment, at this moment given to me to bear the message, the Good News, is the Word, the life, the resurrection.

Were it not for the angels (and, how many of us see them?) beside me I would resile in fear from this task.

After the reading, I do not know if it went well or not. Sometimes, when I am out of sorts, it seems to have gone badly. Other times it

On reading the lesson – the final personal perspective

18

Striking symbolism of new crossTHE Bessell family are a core part of St Michael’s Church, Perranporth, writes Revd Caspar Bush.

But for most of 2013 they have been one short, because their Dad, John (JB to his friends), has been part of the British military presence in Afghanistan. In fact, he has been heading up the massive logistical operation out there.

On 8 December, the church celebrated his safe return with ‘brunch’ in the church hall after the morning service, but not before John had presented a very striking new cross to the church.

I hadn’t seen him at all before the morning service began, and part way through he whispered to me that he had a brass cross that had been made by some of the British Army engineers, that he’d like to present to the church. We agreed he would present it just before the end of the service.

But when John had said brass, I hadn’t twigged what sort of brass he meant. When he brought it forward, I realised straight away it was made of spent brass ammunition cases, brazed together. I felt a brief moment of panic wondering about the symbolism of such a thing. John then spoke to the church about it, including how for him it represented something good coming out of something terrible.

And once I had managed to get my theological brain into gear, I suddenly remembered the reference to something very

similar in the Book of Isaiah: ‘they shall beat their swords into ploughshares, and their spears into pruning hooks’ [Isaiah 2:3-4].

It’s a reference to a longed-for time when wars will cease, and nations will live at peace with each other – a time, of course, that is still as longed for now as it was in biblical times; though something Christians very much believe will come at a time appointed by God, and something we are called to pray for. The verse goes on, ‘nation shall not

lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more’.

How fitting then to make a cross out of the ammunition cases of war – the cross, the ultimate symbol of reconciliation and peace between God and humanity, the symbol of God’s love and forgiveness for a broken world.

We are really grateful to John for this extraordinarily powerful symbol. Do please call in to St Michael’s and have a look at it.

19

Announcements

The content of this publication is believed to be correct at the time

of going to print, but its accuracy is not guaranteed and does not form

part of any offer or contract.

The Revd Simon Adrian Bone at present Assistant Priest of Chacewater with Saint Day and Carharrack; Saint Stithians with Perran-Ar-Worthal and Gwennap; Feock; and Devoran, to be Priest in Charge of, Carharrack, Chacewater with St Day and of Gwennap also to be Assistant Curate to be known as Assistant Priest of Devoran, of Feock, and of St Stithians with Perran-ar-Worthal in the Diocese of Truro. He was licensed by the Bishop of Truro on Thursday 9th January at 8am at Lis Escop.

The Revd Jane Everitt at present Assistant Curate of The United Benefice of Poulton, Carleton and Singleton in the Diocese of Blackburn to be Team Rector of the Parish of Launceston including Tregadillet (LEP) in the Diocese of Truro. She will be licensed by the Bishop of Truro at Launceston on Friday 14th March at 6pm.

The Revd Peter John Knibbs at present Priest-in-Charge of Chacewater with Saint Day and Carharrack; Saint Stithians with Perran-Ar-Worthal and Gwennap; Feock; and Devoran, to be Priest in Charge of Devoran, Feock and of St Stithians with Perran-ar-Worthal also to be Assistant Curate to be known as Assistant Priest of, Carharrack, Chacewater with St Day and of Gwennap in the Diocese of Truro. He was licensed by the Bishop of Truro on Thursday 9th January at 8am at Lis Escop.

Retirements

The Revd Stephen Windsor Leach MA BSc Vicar of St Just-in-Penwith and Sancreed with effect from 31st January 2014.

The Revd Canon Gordon William Smyth BA Vicar of All Saints Highertown and Baldhu and Non-Residentiary Canon of Truro Cathedral with effect from 28th February 2014.

ST ENDELLION CHURCH Sunday 9th February 6pm Evening Worship with Taize chants by candlelight. Sunday 9th March 6pm Evening Worship with Taize chants by candlelight.

TRURO THEOLOGICAL SOCIETY ‘Christian Feminist Theology’ Dr Nicola Slee, The Queen’s Foundation, Birmingham Thursday February 20th Chapter House, Truro Cathedral 7 for 7.30pm Admission £4 (under-18s free, f/t students £2) (THIS LECTURE IS SUPPORTED BY THE MONTGOMERY TRUST)

NEW COURSE Windows Into… First Holy Week & Easter. Suitable as Lent Course. Available from Shelley Porter at shelley.porter@truro.anglican.org

Do you need assistance? Housesitter/Carer For adults, children and pets

Services include decluttering & downsizing Please contact: Margaret Chapman

Tel: 01326 316464 Email: m.chapman@ssesurf.co.uk

Experienced and adaptable to meet your needs Happy to travel anywhere. References available

What’s on

WHOLENESS & HEALING DAY Saturday 22 March Truro Cathedral

Keynote Address by Bishop Chris entitled ‘A TIME TO HEAL’

9.15am for 10am start. Market-place of stalls all day covering different aspects of healing

ministry. Details Revd Canon Marion Barrett on 01726 72679 or at

www.trurodiocese.org.uk/mission/evangelism/wholeness-healing

DOT_BD_A7 Ad Final.indd 1 05/12/2013 13:00

Sunday 23 February 2014 4pm at Mylor Theatre, Truro College

Tickets £5 (includes refreshments) from Hall for Cornwall 01872 262466

Truro/Cornwall Grants advert February 2014 Half-page colour: 96mm x 138mm St LUKE’S COLLEGE FOUNDATION Grants for postgraduate studies in Theology and RE The Trustees invite applications from clergy, ministers, RE teachers and others in the service of the churches and Christian education, for personal grants towards the costs of university-level studies in Theology and RE. The next Round of Awards will be made in June, for grants tenable from September 2014, for candidates who may be starting or continuing their studies next academic year. Completed applications must be received by 1st May 2014 For further information, and to request an Application Pack, please contact:

Dr David Benzie, Director St Luke’s College Foundation 15 St Maryhaye, Tavistock, Devon PL19 8LR

01822 613143 director@st-lukes-foundation.org.uk

www.st-lukes-foundation.org.uk

Location & version: D:\DUsers\David\Sync Folders\St Lukes\Publicity\Cornwall Diocese\B-St Luke's advert - Truro - Feb 2014.docx (0.4)

thecoracleFebruary Dates

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

St Austell, Cornwall PL25 3JL.

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

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

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

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

Last day for copy to Editor 31st January

(for March issue)CTruroCathedral

DIARY DATE

CROSS OF ST PIRAN AWARDS Sunday 9 March

Perranzabuloe Church.Watch for details – website, e-Bulletin & March Coracle.

Cornwall Fairtrade Dayin Truro Cathedral

Saturday 22nd February (10 - 4pm)

Find out more about Fairtrade goods and activities in Cornwall.

meet people who are championing the cause of third world farmers

see wide range of businesses and goods

arts, crafts, fashion, food & drinks, children’s activities

Saturday 1 Noon-2pm. Children’s Messy Table. Free fun for families and children.

Sunday 2 10am. Sunday Eucharist for Feast of Candlemas.

2pm. Education Sunday Service

4pm. Solemn Evensong for Feast of Candlemas.

Saturday 8 7.30pm. Seth Lakeman in Concert. Celebrated folk singer-songwriter and virtuoso fiddler, marks the release of his latest album, Word of Mouth. Tickets £15 - £24.75 from www.gigantic.com

Sunday 9 8pm. Open to Question – an informal opportunity to reflect on issues of Faith with Revd Canon Dr Stephen Dawes in Pearson Room.

Wednesday 12 10am. Friends’ Coffee Morning in Pearson Room (10-Noon).

Friday 14 7.30pm. St Valentines Dinner in Cathedral Restaurant. Choose from special menu (see www.trurocathedral.org.uk). Two-course (£16.95) or three-course (£18.95) Must pre-book functions@trurocathedral.org.uk or 01872 245011.

Saturday 15-22 11-3pm. Half-term fun for children and families with trails and different drop-in craft activities (All free).

Saturday 15 5pm. Full peal attempt.

Sunday 16 After worship. Fairtrade Table. Noon. Sunday Carvery Lunch in Cathedral Restaurant. Must pre-book on 01872 245011.

Monday 17 10-5pm. Tower of Babel Exhibition. Paintings by Rupert Loydell, senior lecturer at Falmouth University, draw on historical and contemporary paintings, as well as stories and myths. (until 1st March).

Thursday 20 2pm. Mothers’ Union Meeting in Pearson Room. Talk by the Rt Revd Chris Goldsmith, Bishop of St Germans.

7 for 7.30pm start. Truro Theological Society Lecture. ‘Introduction to Christian Feminism’ by Professor Nicola Slee (The Queen’s Foundation, Birmingham) £4 on door of Chapter House.

Saturday 22 10-4pm. Cornwall Fairtrade Day (see below).

Sunday 23 2pm. Cornish Welsh Society Service in St Mary’s Aisle. All Welcome.

4pm. Sunday Evensong, incorporating opening of Tower of Babel Exhibition

Wednesday 26 3.30pm. BBC Radio 3 live Evensong with Truro Cathedral Choir. Please be seated by 3.15pm. Free.