The President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference

2012-02-17T17:17:00.004Z

Well at last the snow has caught up with me which made my visit to The Nottingham and Derby District an interesting one! Late trains, lost taxi-drivers and a service cancelled but in between a really good turnout for the morning the Vice President and I led on Collaborative Leadership for Healthy Circuits, an opportunity to celebrate with the folk at Uttoxeter in their re-furbished building, two local radio interviews, one a great deal better than the other not least due to the interviewer and back to where it all began in Swanwick, one of eight churches in my first appointment. Good to see some old faces, better to see plenty of new ones and great to see some young people!!

Young people featured during the next couple of days too as I was privileged to spend 24 hours with 30 of our Younger Ministers at St Katherine’s Retreat Centre in London. So inspired with their commitment, so anxious about some of the issues they raised, so moved by sharing Communion and anointing some with oil for the next stage of their journey.

The Northumbrian Industrial Mission service in Durham Cathedral was another highlight of the year. Chaplains from across the region representing 14 different expressions of chaplaincy were present and including folk from church and work-place the congregation was around 250! Placing different symbols of chaplaincy on the altar and offering them in prayer to God was deeply moving. Great to hear Northumbrian pipes played too – different and better (??) than bagpipes!

On that contentious note I’ll sign off! Forces Chaplains Conference next and then after a few days break a longish visit to Sheffield for which much preparation awaits!

PS Thanks for your prayers for The Retreat. It didn’t quite work as I’d imagined as I kept bumping into people I knew but I fitted in a good walk and for reasons I still can’t fathom was asked to accompany one of our Probationer Ministers to a Valentine’s meal at her church!! Must have been 105^th choice! I’m sure she’d prefer to remain anonymous so here’s a photo of her with our chaperone! I’ll leave you to work out who is who and which is which!!

Blog for February part 1

2012-02-16T20:26:00.008Z

Well, I spoke too soon about the kindness of the weather! My first engagement in February, to the Notts and Derby District, was curtailed by 10 cm of snow that fell overnight halfway through the visit; the Saturday went well, with 98 members of circuit leadership teams attending the morning session which Leo and I led. The focus was the General Secretary’s report to the Conference of 2011 on becoming a discipleship movement shaped for mission. Those present engaged in some serious thinking about possibilities for change. In the afternoon I spent a happy time with some of the families who attend West Bridgford MC. Overnight accommodation was provided by a former TDO colleague and it was good to catch up. Then I returned (having cleared off the snow) for a full cooked breakfast and then morning worship in which the children engaged in bread making and we shared a freshly baked loaf for Communion. Music was provided by a 15 piece ensemble, which is the largest I have seen so far, and all were excellent musicians. Sadly my lunch and afternoon engagement at Ashbourne had to be called off.

Two days later I was privileged to attend a service in Westminster Abbey, where the Church of England and URC were holding a service of reconciliation, healing of memories and mutual commitment. Fortunately the service sheet made up for my very rusty recall on church history of the mid-seventeenth century. It was a very fitting service, and struck me that it would have been impossible, 40 years ago when the URC was formed, to foresee that in 2012 the prayers of penitence would have been led jointly by an Archbishop who was a black man and a woman Moderator of the URC.

Back home and onto Bolton, to visit the Central Mission. This huge building is sought after for concerts due to its excellent acoustics, and the worship area is a fine example of its kind. But overall, such buildings as this present a significant challenge to the local congregation, who must not only deal with ongoing expensive maintenance problems but also seek a vision for the right way forward. The work that is carried out in the lower floor of this Mission is most impressive. Independent charities, as well as church activities, serve some of the most vulnerable members of the community including asylum seekers, refugees, and people with long-term mental health issues. There is a bright and cheerful café serving good food prepared by this latter group., but I was not able to sample it as I already had an invitation to good food at the home of Rev Devadas Matcha and his wife Sarani who provided great hospitality.

The following Sunday I was in another Anglican building, this time the small Parish Church of Ashby St. Mary, the village where we were having a few days holiday with a friend. I preached to a full church of about 50 souls, all of whom were very warmly wrapped up. The choice of hymns which the preacher and organist (both Methodists) had chosen were approved of and sung heartily I’m glad to report.

Against all this, I was contributing to the continuing campaign for minimum unit pricing for alcohol, and articles were in the Methodist Recorder two weeks running. So please forgive me if I insert an appeal to you, the reader, in my blog this week. We think that David Cameron is warming towards this proposal of a minimum retail price of between 40-50p per unit of alcohol, which would save countless tales of injury and illness resulting from alcohol misuse and millions of pounds per annum to the tax payer. You can see more information about the current campaign, Measure for Measure, by following this link: www.jointpublicissues.org.uk/alcohol. If you can, please do write to your MP to show the strength of feeling for this issue. Thank you, it can really make a difference.

Island Hopping

2012-02-03T15:02:00.002Z

Well I’ve been Island Hopping these last two weeks on “trains and boats and planes” and by car too! Good things are happening in Isle of Man Methodism and folk talked with energy, vision and enthusiasm about the future in a way they hadn’t apparently done in quite the same way before. Very impressed indeed with Saturdays turnout to discuss Pastoral Care.

The Shetland Islands was buzzing with Up Helly Aa in the air – a festival commemorating their Viking links and which is now the largest fire/light event in the world. 1000 men (men only!) carrying lighted torches through the streets will live long in the memory – health and safety on the mainland would have had a fit! Good to link this in with Candlemas though! Shetland, like the Isle of Man is beautiful and despite the problems (??) of isolation seem to value their Methodist links very much. Worship was a special highlight in both places as were the number of children, young people and young adults in the congregations. Any preacher who is in either place during the summer and could offer a date for the plan would be enriched as well as being much appreciated.

Notts and Derby later today and then back here to Newcastle for Diamond Jubilee Celebrations of accession to the throne of Queen Elizabeth. Then south once more for 24 hours with some of our younger ministers before the pace drops a little for a few days! Looking forward to preaching at the Northumbria Industrial Mission service in Durham Cathedral on Monday 13^th though!

Blog for January

2012-01-26T22:11:00.006Z

What a blessing to have good weather for January so that it has been possible to fulfil all the engagements.

Like many Methodists, I started the year with a Covenant Service, but not at my home church. I was fortunate to be able participate in the service at Central Hall Westminster, which was wonderful. The newly refurbished organ led the music superbly (well the organist did the work) and the choir blessed us with their singing and the Spirit was truly there. It was a privilege to administer the wine to people who had come from across the world, and who crossed the age spectrum. The refreshments afterwards went on for about two hours! Then Leo and I had a quick tour of the newly opened library in the Epworth Room – just about all the books ever published by the Epworth Press, including – to our surprise- one on cricket!

I was given two nights’ accommodation by a gracious member of the congregation who lived in Pimlico – a name that has fascinated me for years – and I got a taster of what living in London is like. Then on to two days of meetings, before returning home for a day to pack for my visit to Jersey.

David was able to accompany me on this visit, and we arrived at Jersey airport to be met be Graeme Halls, Superintendent Minister and Synod Secretary. What followed could be described as a working holiday: excellent hospitality from Graeme and Elaine, lovely sunny weather, and the right balance of work and relaxation. The programme included an introductory open evening; a session with lay workers; a morning of participative bible study with Local preachers and Worship Leaders (at Bethlehem would you believe); a visit to the Women’s Refuge ,which some local people mistakenly think there couldn’t possibly be a need for, and a cup of tea and photo at Samares which is the most southerly church in the British Methodist Connexion. Inside there hangs a photo that is a gift from the most northerly church – in Haroldswick in Shetland. I’ll check when I go there if they have a photo of Samares.

Add to this a radio interview in which I was questioned about the alcohol campaign for minimum unit pricing. Jersey is aware that there is an alcohol problem on the Island and the States of Jersey (the Government) is wondering what it might put in its proposed alcohol strategy.

A service at Bethesda – possibly the chapel with the most breath-taking view in Methodism – on the Sunday morning was followed by lunch in the hall and a chance to talk about the reshaping of Methodism. A good exchange of views took place. The evening circuit service was very different for all concerned – we actually made bread at the front of the church, and sat café- style. It worked!

It was really good to get a feel for Methodism away from the mainland, under a different jurisdiction. It can be quite easy to feel detached from things, although the flight to London is less than one hour. But the weather is not always permissive to travellers, and then you are stuck.

The flight to London for us was so that we could be present at the Parliamentary Covenant Service. This is held in the chapel of St Mary Undercroft in the Palace of Westminster. All I can say is – stunning. But, even more wonderful, is the little broom cupboard through the back doors of the chapel. Kathleen Richardson showed us this secret place – the cupboard where suffragette Emily Davison (she who later threw herself in front of the King’s horse at Epsom and died) hid on the night of the 1911 Census so that she could put her place of residence as The House of Commons. Tony Benn has arranged for a plaque in her memory to be placed on the inside of the door – thank you Tony.

Back to London again a week later for the Methodist Council, and then to parliament again – this time for an event by Action for Children to publicise the research done into child neglect. This is hugely important work, and fortunately a number of PMs were present including the minister Tim Loughton. At a time when the poorest families are suffering the most under Government budget cuts, it was a timely reminder of how vulnerable many of our children are. Neglect is by far the most common type of child abuse, but often not reported. You can read more about it if you follow this link: http://takeayearon.weebly.com/ You can also sign the petition asking for government action.

Well, that’s it for January – time to prepare for February.

2012-01-18T15:51:00.006Z

An eventful and very fulfilling two weeks - first at Methodist Central Hall Westminster and at Hinde Street for their Covenant Services. Very impressed with numbers of children at the first and 25-40's at the second. Three really good church visits to London (Wesley's Chapel last September). All quite different but each contributing to the wholeness of the Gospel.

Good to catch up with colleagues at Connexional Leaders Forum - missed seeing them as often as usual if not necessarily the meetings! Conference this year will have some important decision to make. Please pray for those preparing and attending.

York and Hull District visit included a day with Supernumeraries (where I was “welcomed” by a former President - see picture!) an excellent meeting with those from smaller churches where a candle was lit (see Stephen Burgess for further illumination), and a gathering with Superintendents, Circuit Stewards and Treasurers attending District Policy Committee to get some tips on how it should be run! Really helpful to have got a feel of how the District operates – so many similarities but significant differences in each place.

Sunday was very special. 200^th anniversary at Kirkbymoorside with challenging questions from children including the youngest Heidi (pictured alongside Gwen – oldest member at 97!) Best question: “If you weren’t a Christian which religion would you follow?” Preached in the afternoon at York Minster where all my Mother’s Anglican DNA came to the fore! Pity reading was about Melchizedek and I only had 10 minutes! Evening at Tadcaster Circuit service – good choir, good food, good welcome, no beer! Then to Parliamentary Covenant service at the Chapel of St Mary Undercroft in the Palace of Westminster. A beautiful setting, large congregation and good opportunity to meet and talk with our Methodist MPs and Peers for a few minutes. Pray for them too!

Home for two days. Washing, preparing, catching up on correspondence, trying to recognise Charlotte and now to Isle of Man, Methodist Council, Holocaust Memorial Service and Shetland before I write again! It will all be special!

2012-01-06T17:08:00.001Z

“I’m busy doing nothing working the whole day through” has come to mind this past fortnight. Where has the Christmas/New Year break gone? Probably as for you in decorating and undecorating our house, collecting a Christmas tree, cooking Christmas dinner, visiting and being visited, wrapping and unwrapping presents and getting my journal up to date, preparing sermons and responding to emails – yes a few of these even on Christmas Day (sad or what?) and in the middle of it all trying to remember the person behind it all! So Christmas services were special – especially using the wonderful service of Holy Communion from MWB – and walking to midnight mass in a local village two miles away under a dark sky and a torch whose batteries gave way half way there was memorable too!

So after a meeting in London I’m back in the north-east before setting off to London again tomorrow. Two Covenant Services at Methodist Central Hall, Westminster and Hinde Street and then CLF at High Leigh. Fun as well as faith-filled I trust!

Happy New Year!

PS Full page article in the Aston Villa programme about Presidency, Prayer and Programme collecting! Mount Everest just as the team plumbs to the depths!

Blog for December

2012-01-04T19:53:00.001Z

I thought December would be a ‘quiet’ month VP-wise and how welcome that would be so that I could get ready for Christmas. However, I had omitted to take alcohol into consideration! Before your intake of breath becomes so sharp that you choke, let me explain; through our excellent media team and our wonderful, ecumenical, Joint Public Issues Team, the Methodist, Baptist and URC Churches are engaged in a joint initiative with the BBC in a campaign for Unit Pricing of alcohol. As I was for ten years the manager of, and a counsellor in, a community alcohol advisory and counselling service I was asked if I would be the principal Methodist spokesperson on behalf of the campaign. I agreed and in consequence had to do some pretty intensive catch up on the research that has led to the initiative before engaging in conversation with more than a dozen breakfast presenters in BBC Local Radio stations. You can imagine how (un)popular a campaign of this sort is in the run up to Christmas – and what stereotypical ideas much of the media has about Methodists and abstinence. It was good fun though and hopefully made a lot of people think.

Less unusual VP activity was to lead worship in two churches, for special reasons. At St. James’ in Woolton I participated in the series of special services they have had for their 200 years’ Anniversary. Talking afterwards to the choir mistress, I discovered that she had connections with the church I was going to the following week – Lidgett Park in Leeds – and had known my aunt and uncle who had been fellow choristers with her! Just another example of the small world that is Methodism. Lidgett Park has special significance for me for family reasons, and I had asked to be invited there so that I could thank them for all they had done for my aunt and uncle as they became more dependent due to age and infirmity.

Other events were all London based, and included a thanksgiving service at Wesley’s Chapel for the Methodist Recorder’s 150 years in publication. This is a remarkable achievement and the challenges facing all newspapers in this digital age are enormous. Returning to the Methodist International Centre for a night’s accommodation, I was invited to the students’ Christmas party. Now it’s a long time since I went to a student Christmas party and wasn’t sure whether I would be up to it, but it turned out to be a very nice Christmas dinner for the (mainly) international students. The tables were beautifully laid with decorations and crackers; the crackers were most probably made in China, but the Chinese and other students had no idea what to do with them, or what the jokes meant! How on earth did this custom arise for us? Anyway, it was great to have conversation with some very interesting people.

The President has already told you about various meetings we were at together, so I’ll leave it there, only to add that it was a great honour to be asked to preach at midnight communion at my own church on Christmas Eve – something I’ve never done before. Then followed a week at home with lots of family visitors, rest, reading a novel and catching up on my sleep. Wonderful! So now it remains to wish you all a blessed New Year and the awareness of God's presence in all our undertakings in 2012.

December

2011-12-22T16:32:00.003Z

London has been the centre of most of my activities since I last blogged! Living so far away from the so called centre of things its helpful to try to combine a whole lot of meetings when I’m in the capital so it was “wall to wall” from morning to night. Highlights included two visits to the House of Lords (I think I could get to like it!!) a site visit to the Olympic Stadium (a lengthy and most inspiring conversation with the Chaplain there and a handshake from Lord Coe!) as well as a visit to Stratford Methodist Church to hear how they are preparing for “the invasion” and learning to see it as a Gospel opportunity, a Carol service at the Queen Victoria Seamen’s Rest in Poplar - an incredibly slow journey (how do people cope with it every day?) but an amazing work and a great service. Proud to be a Methodist there! It was also a real privilege to be at the Fresh Expressions Summit and to hear of the exciting things that are happening all around our Connexion where some folk are connecting with the Gospel and others re-connecting. It was also good (and humbling) to host with Ruth a day for the former Presidents and Vice Presidents and although it got occasionally out of hand (what do you expect with 44 church leaders in the room?) it seems to have been appreciated and Rev Dr Kenneth Greet’s gracious words at the end made it all worthwhile.

Then to Birmingham – the real capital of England – for the centenary service to mark the death of William McGregor, Founder of The Football League and Director of Aston Villa. All the great and the good from Villa were there – it was like heaven! Pity watching the team play at the moment is apparently like the other word beginning with H!

So now I’m in Norfolk and looking forward to something of a rest for a few days but with a certain nervous glance towards an incredibly busy January I suspect I’ll need to carve out some preparation time somewhere along the line!

A very happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year to all my patient readers!

Ethiopia

2011-12-09T16:00:00.005Z

Sitting in Addis Ababa airport (Tuesday night), so barring an overnight flight nearly home! What an exhilarating trip to Ethiopia! At times grueling (six hours walking each way to remote forest communities in high altitude). At times challenging (with no electricity or fresh water for three days - an experience of course which is a way of life for many Ethiopians) but always at every turn a breaking down of more pre-conceptions (see the Methodist Recorder Christmas edition!) Yes a country that has known much poverty and oppression but is so much more than that - the splendor of the countryside, the safety of the towns, the rich history of the Ethiopian people and not least of the church (as The Patriarch reminded us is the oldest church) see Acts 8 vv26 ff. Ethiopia needs many things but not least a more positive press in the west and plenty of tourists to visit Lalibela, source of The Blue Nile and wildlife in abundance - any takers?

I am so grateful to MRDF, to Simeon Mitchell and Charlotte! who looked after me and to MRDF's partner in Ethiopia SUNARMA for the opportunity to visit this amazing country and see the way in which climate change and deforestation has had a devastating effect but also the way in which Small Miracles are taking place as trees are planted, irrigation provided, alternative sources of income developed and those of how food, security and livelihoods are improved.

On my flight out I read of God's promise to his people of a future and a hope and on my return reflect on a people beginning to believe in both again. Please pray for them.

Blog for November

2011-11-28T20:19:00.003Z

I realise that it’s been a month since I contributed to the blog; where has time gone? At the beginning of the month I spent time in the Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury District; a morning with ministers looking at the challenge of doing things differently (a challenge based very much on my trip with MRDF) and then a visit to Meeting Point House in Telford. This is the focal point for Telford Christian Council, which generates and supports a number of ecumenical projects around the Telford area. The building itself is impressive, incorporating a chapel which is used separately by a number of denominations; a café, and a number of offices for voluntary organisations. What a wonderful facility! I spent time with ‘Stay’. Stay exists in order to respond effectively to the accommodation and housing related support needs of vulnerable and homeless young people as a part of the mission of churches in the Borough of Telford & Wrekin. Here is truly love in action. “Lord, when did we see you?”

On from there (through a cloudburst) to spend time with an enthusiastic group of young people whom the church is serving in a different way. 3Generate –the Children and Youth Assembly - was nearly 48 hours of intense activity for about 200 of the under 25s in the Methodist Church. Held at Cleobury Mortimer Pioneer Centre. It gave the opportunity for craft, discussion, worship, fun, and challenge of growing faith and daring physical activity. (I managed to avoid the latter!)

I was, however, asked to give my testimony based on ‘the time I felt like Noah’ (getting there had been a bit like that)! What’s more, I had to give it at 11.30 pm, a time when I am normally fast asleep. And then facilitate a conversation in a small group. Oh to be young again!

What a hugely impressive group of people we have in the OPP scheme. They organised, facilitated, took part themselves, and generally were indispensable to the weekend. This is just what the church needs, and should value and prioritise with resources. I cannot speak too highly of them, nor the Regional Participation Project Managers, nor the staff of the Children and Youth Team based at MCH. Sam Taylor, the Youth President, shows remarkable leadership skills and did a brilliant job. They all deserve our support in whatever way we can give it for what they do to enable the faith life of children and young people.

A very different function was a reception given at the British Academy by Roehampton University, which incorporates Southlands College. All Universities are facing challenging times; Roehampton is taking a number of initiatives to respond to the challenge and grow its share of the student population. I heard some very articulate presentations, though was amazed that it seems to be common for such events to have only 1 dozen chairs available for the most infirm! The rest of us stood for an hour and a half. I must get used to London life.

Since then I have indulged in some non- VP life, including some paid work, an afternoon at Old Trafford (cricket) for Awards by the Princes Trust, in which a friend won in the category in which she had been shortlisted, and a day in Coventry for the Graduation of our ‘Kenyan son’ Linus. Plus three family birthdays. A number of celebrations, much enjoyed.

2011-11-24T16:42:00.005Z

This has been a very special couple of weeks. It began in a tent at the Monument in Newcastle in an hour’s conversation with the protesters. It’s been a long time since I discussed Hans Kung in church! Fascinating conversations and whatever the rights or wrongs I was challenged by the comment that “each of us can make a difference” and the mutual caring/sharing with Brunswick Methodist Church 20 yards away.

The Remembrance Service at The Cenotaph was unforgettable - for the timing, the silence, the dignity and the opportunity to speak to a number of High Commissioners - including from Fiji! The occasion demanded politeness (would I be anything else?) but I did indicate that our Methodist sisters and brothers in Fiji would continue to be the focus of our concern.

It seemed somewhat fitting that I should then spend the next couple of days with the Army Chaplains - it was their turn on a three year rota - and I was mightily impressed! I wonder why we sometimes think Chaplaincy is a soft option? All I can say is if spending seven months with our troops on the front line in Afghanistan caring for the injured and their families and grieving for the dead and the bereaved is a soft option then I don’t know what the hard one is! How much they are valued by the armed services - more than in the church I wonder? Perhaps a clue for the next intercessory prayer time at your local church?

And talking of prayer I led a day for Worship Leaders and Local Preachers in the Manchester and Stockport District last Saturday and thought the prayer pyramid at Cheadle Hulme was wonderful! It’s used before, during and after worship when anyone can come and light a candle. A far cry from my second Circuit where I was accused of being a Papist because I asked a child to carry a candle at the Nine Lessons and Carols Service!! Another good idea to pinch from others? Methodists are good at that!

Now after a weekend in Durham for the new Bishop’s Enthronement and the Advent Carol Service - something else Methodists could do well to “pinch” - its off to Ethiopia with MRDF. I can’t imagine what it will be like but moving and exhausting are two words that come to mind. Please pray for me, Charlotte and Simeon Mitchell (from MRDF) that the visit may be both informative for us and encouraging for others.

I’ll let you know how it went next time.

Retreats - Youth Assembly - Epworth Old Rectory

2011-11-10T17:05:00.007Z

There couldn’t be more of a contrast between a Silent Retreat and Youth Assembly but my journey has taken me from one to the other during this past fortnight. I’m so glad that a retreat (or two!) was strongly recommended as part of my Presidential Year and three days at Launde Abbey in Leicestershire provided a haven for reading, walking, thinking, praying, worshipping, reflecting and sleeping in equal measure and it was an enriching time. Strange to be walking in the beautiful countryside in short sleeves in November though!

Youth Assembly didn’t provide much of the sleeping mentioned above - I thought 5.00am was nearer the time to get up than fall asleep! But it did provide an opportunity to meet and talk to so many children and young people (some around 5^th November bonfire!) and be excited about what God is doing in their lives. The depth of commitment to the way of Christ was palpable and the sharing in worship on the Sunday, especially at Communion, was a profound experience. How our church needs to cherish and encourage these folk and all who mentor them for what gifts and insights they have to share with us if we are open to receive.

I enjoyed my visit to Epworth Old Rectory very much as I hadn’t been there for a number of years since I used to take Confirmation groups. I was particularly interested to learn how mission and spirituality are at the centre of their future plans for re-furbishment and expansion - a living and life-giving history if you like. Yet it is surprising how comparatively few Methodists have been and some have never even heard of it! Anyone for a coach trip?

To London next for the Remembrance Sunday Service at The Cenotaph. A silent part in more ways than one but an honour to be there. The military theme continues next week with two days spent with the Army and its Chaplains on Salisbury Plain. Hope its as warm and dry as it was at Launde Abbey!

October schedule continued

2011-11-06T20:07:00.020Z

October 13^th Birmingham District

A day and a half at home and then down the motorway to Birmingham, to stay as a guest of Bill Anderson, Chair of the Birmingham District, for another long weekend packed with goodies. My bedroom overlooked the lovely manse garden which was surrounded by mature trees which caught the early morning sun and gleamed golden in their autumn glory. Collected by Peter Mills, a fellow synod secretary, I was taken to Quinton Methodist Church for a day with lay workers on ‘Knowing my Place’. We had an interesting time together exploring not only their journey of discipleship but also the varied vital roles they were fulfilling across the district (well two districts as some from W&S were attending). Hopefully an outcome will be that improved methods of communication are found re new initiatives, training and so on.

Saturday brought the excitement of unveiling a mural! What a great event it was, and such a privilege to share in the joy of the members at Stockland Green MC who had completely transformed their church premises (through a lot of commitment and elbow grease under the inspiring leadership of their minister, Nicola Jones) into a bright vibrant worship area and café, plus ancillary rooms. A real ‘tool for the job’ as every church building should be. It’s so lovely when stewards tell you proudly “I’m a steward here and its wonderful!”. The short service at which the President and I were to unveil the mural instructed us to stand on specially constructed boxes (so that we could be seen by all) and ‘unveil the mural with care’ in case pulling off the masking tape which was holding the curtain on resulted in pulling the mural off the wall as well!

Then the crowds gathered from other places for a day on ‘worship’ with a keynote address by Leo which people immediately demanded copies of, then workshops on a variety of facets of worship. Geoff Bond, the Training Officer had skilfully put the day together so that everyone went away enriched by some means or other.

I was then taken by a friend from way back, Revd Anne Smith, to her home in Worcester as I was to preach at St.Andrew’s the next morning. It was great to share in communion the following morning, 12 of us around the bread and wine in a lovely small chapel, and then morning worship in the main sanctuary area up two flights of stairs. A magnificent stained glass window links the 3 floors – the church is integral to a shopping precinct. Then from 12, via 100 to 600 worshippers in the evening, gathered in Hereford Cathedral by warm invitation of the Dean, to celebrate our new hymnal ‘Singing the Faith’. How else could we possibly start than by singing ‘O thou who camest from above’ to the tune ‘Hereford’ (composed by Charles Wesley’s grandson Samuel Sebastian who was organist at Hereford Cathedral 1832-35). Led by a 100-strong choir and a marvellous organist, we took a journey through our history and a look into the future.

The next day we enjoyed lunch and conversation in Stratford with members of ‘supernumerary’ households and it was good to meet up with friends from days gone by. I just wish we could come up with a better term than supernumerary because many of the people so described are an essential part of circuit ministry teams and all of them enrich our church life immensely. Then to Haseley, for a short visit to St Mary’s where a small gem of a chapel holds some of our ancestral history. Susannah Wesley’s father Samuel Annesley was baptised here. He went on to be ordained and eventually became a lecturer at St’ Paul’s Cathedral. Susannah, his youngest daughter, was said to have 24 brothers and sisters!! Thank you to Helen Bell and Pauline Warner for this fascinating insight. Pauline then took us on to Coventry, to Abbey Park MHA where she is Chaplain, and we experienced their harvest festival. This was also my first introduction to a ‘fruit tree’, which was delicious. MHA take the spiritual aspect of life very seriously and here they are designing a ‘pilgrimage room’ where even the housebound may continue their journey with God. It will be open to residents, staff and families of whatever faith or none.

Also in Coventry I was able to meet with Kenyan ‘son’ Linus whilst Leo and Bill went to the Cathedral and caught the end of evensong.

Tuesday 18^th I had a non-VP morning and went to the biannual gathering of Myers-Briggs practitioners in Birmingham which always gives me fresh insights into one of my favourite ‘tools’. Then the main part of the day was spent at the vibrant institution which is the Queen’s Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education, which includes the Selly Oak Centre for Mission Studies. What a wonderful experience! We had conversation with the Anglican Principal David Hewlitt and the Methodist Oversight Tutor Helen Cameron, which made us aware of the very real challenges facing the Foundation. Then I was privileged to lead an hour’s seminar with the international mission students and Leo led a seminar with ministerial formation students. We had some challenging questions to consider, which is only right in such an place. At 5 pm we gathered for worship and students filled the chapel for a moving service of Holy Communion which was a perfect amalgam of Methodist and Anglican practice. This was a fitting way to end what had been a very full, very inspiring time in the Birmingham district. Once again, I am thankful for the very care-full planning of those concerned.

Thursday 20^th October: to London for a celebration of 150 years of the Methodist Recorder. Passport and invitation in hand (for it was to be in the House of Commons) it was good to participate in a reception hosted by Methodist MP Meg Munn. It is truly remarkable that the MR has served the Methodist people for such a long time, and we are all aware of the challenges facing the newspaper industry today. I remained in the London area for the following day’s celebration: a thanksgiving service for the publication of Singing the Faith, held at another historic building, Wesley’s Chapel. Not 1 but 3 accomplished organists accompanied our singing, (sequentially) which as you can imagine, was lusty! I was privileged to be able to present music copies to members of the Music Resources Group, some of whom had given 7 years of their lives to the new hymn collection. We are truly thankful.

Tuesday 25^th: my own district, the World Church meeting, where I gave a presentation of our time in South Africa in August. Happy memories!

Friday 28^th: a train journey to Oxford, to be met by a friend, Eddie Fowler, who shared my teenage years at North Harrow. Lots of reminiscing to do there then! Eddie had invited me to the Witney and Faringdon Circuit and the weekend started well with a buffet supper at Stella Bristow’s, a former VP. It’s always good to compare experiences and always reassuring to know that your prayer card is in constant use. Two workshops followed on the Saturday, at Faringdon MC/URC, where a fellow Meth Soc friend, Dave Headey, is a member . More reminiscing! Then on the Sunday, 2 services at Witney (sadly the Prime Minister did not turn up for either) and during the evening service the joyful admission of a new Local Preacher. It was a lovely weekend, and once again the generous hospitality of the people called Methodist was very much in evidence. Good, also to have David share in the weekend, including the leading of the Saturday Morning workshop. And great to be driven home!

2011-10-28T15:17:00.004+01:00

Enjoying a few days break sandwiched between visits/services in East Anglia. The last two weeks have been non-stop but hugely rewarding including:- an interview on Radio WM, meeting the Chaplain at Villa Park (heaven!), a study day on worship, preaching in my brother’s church at Longbridge, a fantastic service in Hereford Cathedral to celebrate Singing the Faith, meeting staff and students at Queen’s College, two days learning abut the West Norfolk and Ipswich Circuits at close hand, being inspired by risk-taking with worship and buildings in St Ives and Cottenham (Cambridge) respectively, afternoons with Graham Locking our Chaplain to the horse-racing industry at Newmarket and with Briant Smith our Chaplain to The Broads, discovering in Felixstowe what Parish Nursing is and preaching last Sunday in Norwich and at Blakeney where we spent our honeymoon and where they are about to celebrate their 200^th anniversary.

So my retreat next week has come at just the right time and should set me up nicely for Youth Assembly!

Thanks for your continued prayers.

District Visits

2011-10-24T21:02:00.008+01:00

Well, a lot has happened in the past 4 weeks and I haven’t had time to set it down for the blog till now!

On the last day of September I set off for my first proper district visit, to Bolton and Rochdale. The weather was baking hot for 2 visits to MHA homes, Epworth Grange in Bury and Beechville in Bolton. Accompanied by Paul Martin, who had hardly had time to settle in to the post of District Chair, we met up with Revd Keith Albans and Angela Robinson from MHA who escorted us for the day.

It turned out that it was ‘Africa day’ at Epworth Grange and many of the staff were in African dress – if only I’d known I could have worn African dress too! We were served the most delicious African snacks, which the residents also enjoyed, and a wonderful curry lunch. Sadly we couldn’t stay for the drumming workshop that afternoon! The social activities run at the home are impressive. There is something every day to engage the residents. There are also 2 garden areas, including raised beds which the residents are able to work themselves if they wish. Although all the rooms are bright and airy, the room that impressed me most was the hairdressing salon, which was a room fit to be pampered in!

Moving on to Beechville, we joined in a harvest celebration and then witnessed a music therapy session. We saw how effective making music can be for dementia sufferers, and how skilfully George encouraged people to share their story by means of familiar songs. The holistic approach to life in the ‘fourth age’ in both these Homes was evident.

Saturday dawned even hotter – just the weather to discourage people from turning up to an all day workshop. Nevertheless, more than sixty people from across the district arrived to take part in a day to explore their ‘gifts differing’ and think about how they can use them in teams to care for each other and for the life of the church. An important visual aid was a game of Jenga! Aspull Methodists were great hosts for the day.

Sunday was another busy day – first a service at Chorley Old Road, where I was warmly thanked not only with a bouquet but also an Indian garland beautifully made by Mrs Matcha, wife of the minister. Then after a good bowl of homemade soup, off to Leigh, to a church confusingly (to my PA) called Bedford Methodist Church. Here was to be my first official ‘opening’, of the brand new Bedford Methodist Church Community Hall. I cut the red ribbon and unveiled a plaque, and the Head Teacher of the local Methodist School unveiled a plaque for a time capsule that the children had assembled.

A great feast was then laid out, and much conversation filled the time until the evening Circuit service. It was indeed a day of celebration and a fitting end to the visit.

Monday 3^rd October:

Sadly my next duty was tinged with a great deal of regret. A service of thanksgiving was held at the Resourcing Mission Office in Manchester to mark the end of an era, as only three posts will remain there in 2012 following the culmination of the Team Focus process. The chapel was full of people who had come to pay tribute to the staff teams who had worked there over many years, originally in the Property Office.

Scotland

Thursday 6^th October dawned cold and blustery as I made my way to Manchester airport to catch a plane to Edinburgh. Autumn has arrived! It was good to be met by a former colleague and good friend Helen Wareing, spend a little time doing something really normal like walking the dog (shame about the ferocious Jack Russell who terrified said dog) and then to the home of the Letbys (Andrew and I did our MA course work together a few years back) for a delicious meal. Probably sooner or later I shall stop commenting on the delicious meals because they seem to crop up very regularly!

Next morning I met with the Edinburgh and Forth Circuit staff for a tour of their churches, which fortunately took place in a church hall, with a named ‘place’ on the floor on which to place symbolic items. The staff are looking seriously at the kind of resources that each congregation needs to engage in mission. It was a prayerful journey as we held each congregation in turn before God. Then I was whisked off to meet with Lily Twist, (District Chair), Sheilagh Kesting (Ecumenical Officer and former moderator of the Church of Scotland) and David Bradwell (Church and Society Council of the C of S) for a useful conversation on Scotland’s political and social concerns. It’ s good to hear of the close working relationship between many of the churches. By train, then, to Stirling for tea and then a car journey to Paisley for an evening at the Methodist Church looking at ‘Glimpses of God’ with my prayer cards. Home-made cakes too! That was a very full day!

I’m learning quickly that district boundaries in Scotland (the whole country!) are indeed far flung in comparison with England. On Saturday we travelled to Perth for a whole day workshop on the treasure of early Methodism – small groups. ‘Meet, pray , love (where love is an active verb) was the theme, which we explored in groups with great energy – despite the fact that some had travelled four hours or more to be there. What commitment! Methodist churches can be widely separated from each other and the district is working hard on imaginative plans to reorganise for maximum benefit from scarce resources of personnel.

Perth Methodist Church welcomed me for the Sunday morning service, which incorporated Communion taken ‘in the pews’ – a first for me. Then, via Stirling to Glasgow, to be met by Alan Anderson and taken to Shettleston MC for a lively circuit service (all songs from Singing the Faith).

This hectic but fruitful visit had a leisurely end in the Kelvingrove Art Gallery where I enjoyed the works of the’ Glasgow School’ chief among whom was Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Wonderful! And thank you to the three couples who provided me with bed and breakfast (not to mention the other delicious meals.)

2011-10-13T17:12:00.006+01:00

Three and a half weeks away from Newcastle - my longest time away from home so far.

From the Birmingham District where I am at present I head off to East Anglia and after a few days holiday and retreat in the East Midlands, spend time at the Youth Assembly in Kidderminster and end up at the Old Rectory in Epworth! So I’m taking in a good chunk of the Midlands and East of England on this “leg” and looking forward to all the variety very much, although hope there wont be too many letters, emails or unexpected meetings/crises to deal with along the way as I’m not quite sure where I’ll fit them in!

The two Conferences I’ve attended since I last “blogged” were fascinating - so many weird and wonderful exhibitions, protesters and covert conversations with so much adulation for

David Cameron even when he stepped out of the hotel or appeared on video link! But in the light of the present recession I couldn't help but remember what happened after the adulation of Palm Sunday! But it was a good opportunity to meet with members of “the hierarchy” including Eric Pickles and Dominic Grieve the Attorney General and with other Free Church Leaders to talk about a wide range of issues including the Big Society and I was very impressed with the careful listening and genuine engagement that took place.

The Score Conference for Sports Chaplains was marred by the sudden death of one of

the Chaplains attending but it was still a privilege to spend time with our Methodist Chaplains in the horseracing, cricket and football world and to learn about the needs and opportunities that such chaplaincy involves. Please pray for them and the other200 chaplains serving the sports industry. Henry Olonga was our great speaker and hearing him speak about how his faith had led him to protest against the Mugabe regime was a reminder of the continuing need to pray for the people of Zimbabwe and not least the Christians there.

See you next time - hopefully when I’m on “holiday”!

Ventures new

2011-10-05T21:26:00.003+01:00

I’m beginning to realise how much I have never done before. So I have now visited two political party conferences in the space of 9 days, never having been to one previously. It was interesting to compare the Lib-Dem and the Labour party conferences. It was back to Birmingham to attend the Lib-Dem, in the company of other Free Church leaders and under the guidance of Frank Kantor from our amazing Joint Public Issues Team. I sat in on Vince Cable’s speech (‘no sunny uplands’) attended a Q and A forum at lunchtime and was pleased to head Paddy Ashdown as one of the panel, then attended a debate . I was fascinated by their management of the debate – if you wish to speak you have to hand a card in prior to the debate with your name and a précis of the point you wish to make, and then wait to see if you are selected to speak. A few people are allowed to make a minute’s ‘intervention’ which does give some sense of spontaneity, but I thought it lacked some sense of excitement. By contrast, at the Labour Conference, when the presenters have spoken people leap to their feet waving items that distinguish them from others and so we had ‘the man with the green tie’ followed by ‘the woman with the red scarf’ and ’the man with the stripey shirt on the second row’ come to the podium! Great fun! But for both parties there was the sense that they are still trying to come to terms with the move to the other end of the divide between opposition and government.

A day at each conference was spent in a series of conversations with individual politicians, asking them to clarify matters of policy; informing them of our particular concerns for society in our churches; asking them how we can best make our concerns known and assuring them of our prayers for the difficult decisions they have to make.

Both Conferences also gave us the welcome opportunity to share in prayer with the Christian movement in each party, at breakfast and lunchtime meetings which were also open to local Christians. And six in the morning is a good time to get up.

My weekend trips have now started. A Sunday in Leicester, with Oadby in the morning as part of their 80 year anniversary celebrations. Another shared breakfast, this time with their brand new ‘Family Breakfast’ which was an early morning Messy Church. As I was a bit more dressed up than I would normally be for messy church, I stood well back when a budding Jackson Pollock got going. Fortunately the stewards’ dress was washable! The service that followed was a wonderful act of worship in which a number of people were received into membership and about 180 of us shared communion. This ‘feast’ was followed by the best Sunday dinner I have had for many years, and I have to say has set a high benchmark for any other Sunday hosts.

On then to Syston for a very different act of worship which I co-led with a friend of many years, Jo Kay, who is a member there. David joined me and we had a great time.

Through all the changing scenes of life

2011-09-30T11:53:00.006+01:00

What a varied few days - just like Circuit or District ministry! Presiding at the service to mark the retirement of the writer of the church column in The Northern Echo who is also Chairman of The Northern Football League, world domino's champion (or something!) and real ale expert was an exciting challenge - with football people, journalists, church goes and well-wishers among the 150 congregation in Darlington. A real opportunity to talk about the Christ who holds all things together!

Plymouth and Exeter District is a long way from the north-east and seems more scattered so it was good to be in some of the places at the edge (in Bude and Minehead) as well as in Exeter. Two Circuit Inaugurations and one Circuit service. Folk seemed in good heart, the welcome was warm as were the pasties and the cream teas were delicious! Bang goes the pounds I lost during the Great North Run! Then to the Connexional Leaders Forum (+ extras) in Northampton with some really important discussions centered around The Fruitful Field project. If you haven't heard of it already you soon will! It could have got out of hand especially with me chairing but the graciousness and careful listening to one another that I valued at Conference was present again.

But the highlight of the past few days? Probably visiting the Local Worship and Preachers Trust Home at Westerley in Minehead and just being able to chat to the residents there - one just turned

100 and another (only 93!) who preached at a service when I sensed God's call that I should offer to become a Chair of District. Realised again that Pastoral Care is where my heart is - not least because of all I receive from it!

Before you hear from me again I shall hopefully have survived/enjoyed Conservative Party Conference, Score Chaplains Conference, Methodist Council and a trip to Birmingham to begin my 5 day visit! Its all varied but hugely interesting and an enormous privilege. Thanks for your prayers. Last chance to donate to MRDF (Run Fund!). Can we push it up to £5000 - I think so!

PS In the sea at Sunderland yesterday with Charlotte my wife. You'll never see such a picture again! No one swims at Sunderland (even in July) but then its never been so hot before!

Blog Bonus!

2011-09-19T14:50:00.006+01:00

Its a little known fact that Joseph The Hymnographer (9th century) wrote a hymn for the Great North Run! It can be found at No. 977 in the Methodist Hymn Book but for some unaccountable reason was not included in Hymns & Psalms or in Singing the faith! The second verse reads:

The prize, the prize secure!

The athlete nearly fell;

Bare all he could endure,

And bare not always well:

But he may smile at troubles gone

Who sets the victor-garland on.

My experience exactly! Although to be absolutely fair it was not half as bad as I feared and I completed it in 2 hours 55 minutes starting at No. 53509 and ending 34561 (just ahead of a man carrying a fridge but just behind the Tellytubbies!) so I was quite chuffed really! Better still sponsorship for MRDF looks as if it might reach £4000! So thank you for all your greetings, encouragement, prayers and gifts. If you would still like to donate just a reminder that the website is http://www.justgiving.com/lionelosborn

2011-09-15T15:36:00.008+01:00

Well it's been a strange couple of weeks! A case of a tale of one city which I was due to visit three times and only ended up going to twice!

Wesley's Chapel was wonderful - a full church, much life and energy and plenty of young people! To preach from Wesley's pulpit and distribute the elements from Wesley's table with memorials to the saints of Methodism all around me was both awesome and humbling. A very special day!

The New Year service at Methodist Church House provided an opportunity to put faces to names because despite what some may think - and the way some are treated - they are people and they work hard for God to enable the church to function at its best. It would be lovely to think that this year they might receive more encouragement and less brickbats from the people called Methodists!

But visit number three to the TUC never happened because at the very last minute they decided they wanted to go "in house" and guests were to be excluded. This was a great pity as links with the Trade Unions have historically been very important to both sides but hopefully normal service will be resumed next year.

But the two "free" days gave me an opportunity to fulfil a promise I had made to the Methodist Church in Ghana when I was there recently and that was to take a gift and certificate to three former missionaries from the British Methodist church who had signed their autonomy document fifty years ago and who they wished to honour. A doddle I thought they're bound to live in London, Manchester or ...... Newcastle? Not a bit of it - North Yorkshire, Somerset and The Republic of Ireland! So I've been to Settle and to Tullamore so far and hope to get to Weston Super Mare next weekend on my way back from Plymouth and Exeter District. They were long days but I think good visits and impossible of course to quantify in terms of distance or time.

Well The Great North Run approaches! Apprehensive but confident I can at least walk if not run it but a pity the sun has started shining warmly in the North-East at last!!

September is a month for Beginnings

2011-09-12T14:01:00.003+01:00

September 1^st A new connexional year dawned hazily on with a promise of a busy schedule. I was looking forward to the visit that evening to the Symphony Hall in Birmingham, where a celebration service was planned for the inauguration of the new Birmingham Circuit. Leo and I had both been invited, and Leo was born and bred in Birmingham. My links are through one of my daughters, who studied and then practised jewellery there, so I had visited fairly frequently. Also, I greatly enjoy the end products from the local chocolate factory!

Preparing for the service with Leo and Bill Anderson in a room marked ‘dignitaries’, it was a great joy when Irene, an ‘ordinary’ yet extraordinary Methodist member, entered the room and invited the President, Vice-President and Chair of District to pray. She led us without a hint of self-consciousness. It’s that kind of thing that makes me proud to be a Methodist.

The service was wonderful, 2 hours of praise and prayer that included drama, dance, a great deal of singing and a very moving meditation on the city. Leo preached a memorable sermon based on his childhood memories of Birmingham and using a number of incidents to illustrate different facets of the theme ‘The River of Life’.

Prayers in the service faced honestly the challenges to be met as such a large circuit, whose three co-superintendents were inducted that evening. May God prosper the work.

September 2^nd brought a trip to London to welcome the incoming Youth President, Sam Taylor, and the new OPPs (One Programme Participants) and to say farewell and thank you to the outgoing Youth President Christy- Anna Errington and the previous OPPs. I was glad to be able to honour their work with a certificate. There is a real buzz about the One Programme (previously known as the Youth Participation Strategy). it took a while to refine but now seems to be bringing something really good to the church. The outgoing OPPs had grown in experience and maturity through the opportunity given to them, and were sad to finish. We need to cherish this programme.

September 4^th

For the President, the joy of preaching in Wesley’s Chapel. For me, a second circuit inauguration. This time it was my home circuit; the new Dane and Trent Circuit. Without leaving the same town I have been a member in three different circuits in 3 years! Prior to the service we gathered for cake and conversation before an act of worship that drew on the skills of about 60 singers and musicians. I was able to draw on some of my experiences with MRDF in Kenya as I encouraged those present to face the future with faith and determination.

September 7^th

To London again. Fortunately it’s a very good train from Stoke-on-Trent which takes less than 90 minutes. This time it is the connexional team’s New Year service, which is an annual event. It’s good to have the opportunity to meet afterwards and get to know some of those who work behind the scenes in administration, and who rarely get thanked. The service was poignant because it was attended by some of the staff from Manchester who would shortly be leaving the team after many years’ service.

September 8^th

This time the train was going north, to Durham, where I attended a two-day conference about Diaconal Ministry (oops, we were told that was tautology) which was very stimulating and even more so because it was well attended by deacons from other denominations. It was also good because it focused on both research and practice. Even better, it was 5 minutes’ walk to the magnificent cathedral, and I managed to spend a little time there. Strangely enough, I encountered a man who used to be our lodger 30 years ago!

September 9^th involved the longest journey of the month – 5.5 hours on a cross-country train to the south west, to attend the wedding of godson Tom to Annie, and to pray for God’s blessing on the beginning of their married life on the 10^th September.

Greenbelt!

2011-08-31T17:01:00.007+01:00

A wonderful time at Greenbelt - even if only for one day! A pity I didn’t have the chance to read the programme on the way there rather than the way back so that I could have used every available minute and sampled even more “goodies” but as it happened it was really important to be in the Methodist tent and meet so many interesting people including someone from Sunday school days who I hadn’t seen for nearly 50 years!

I was so impressed with Greenbelt where different expressions of faith seemed to be able to live comfortably with each other because the focus was on Christ The King and what it means to live by Kingdom values. A picture of heaven maybe? I am so glad that the Methodist Church has invested time and money into Greenbelt. It seems to me to be so much at the heart of Our Priorities and of Our Discipleship that it would be silly not to!

In Birmingham now. It’s good to be back in the city of my birth to share in the Inauguration of the new Birmingham Circuit in the splendid surroundings of The Symphony Hall and to have a day off in the equally splendid surroundings of the “new” Edgbaston to join in Warwickshire’s march in the County Championship!

Next it’s London - Wesley Chapel on Sunday and the New Year Service at Methodist Church House on Wednesday. Please continue to pray for all who work and minister in London at this difficult time.

PS Update on Great North Run (18^th September) 8 ½ miles in running so far - not sure I’ll manage much further but intent to walk some of it anyway! Keep praying - and giving!!

Kenyan safari with MRDF

2011-08-29T14:39:00.011+01:00

No, not the kind involving lions – safari is Kiswahili for ‘journey’. We travelled from Jo’burg to Nairobi where we met Audrey Skervin from MRDF, with whom we were to visit some projects which MRDF help to fund. We spent a night in the Methodist Guest House and then returned to the airport to take a small plane up country to Kitale, which is near the border with Uganda. I sat next to an Oxfam worker who was going to assess the situation in the refugee camps in the far north; I didn’t envy her role as part of the Emergency Response team. The plane landed and offloaded us at Kitale, and then flew on to Lodwar with a number of others from NGOs. Kitale airport building would almost fit into our lounge and it didn’t take us long to collect our luggage. We were met by Jack Wafula, the director of SMART, a small NGO that has been working in the area for about 6 years. He took us to our lodgings for the next 3 nights – the Mid-Africa Hotel. I felt it would have been at home in a Graham Greene novel, though I was unable to tell whether any political intriguing was taking place! However, our shower and flushing toilet worked perfectly, and we appeared to be the only living creatures in our bedroom so all was fine.

It was to be the base for 3 wonderful days of learning and adventure. SMART had arranged a programme for us of 2 days of visits to self-help groups of farmers in the undeveloped West Pokot region. The Pokot tribe historically were pastoralists, but cattle rustling and drought gradually led to them settling down as farmers, growing mainly maize and beans. The cost of seeds and frequent droughts meant that they rarely had enough to eat and sometimes no food for months on end. Infant mortality from malnutrition was high, though attributed to witch-craft. Some formed self-help groups in an attempt to survive by sharing scarce resources. Then SMART came along and helped them to learn how to grow a wide variety of traditional crops in raised beds; to store food well; to harvest water and to save seeds for the next year. The condition of opting into the scheme was that they would themselves have to teach their neighbours how to do the same. Some of them were also given Value Added training in bookkeeping, marketing and cooking the foods in imaginative ways.

The difference it has made is impressive. No children are thought to have died from malnutrition in the areas served by the scheme. The land looks very fertile in comparison with the semi-arid region around, and the farmers are able to sell excess produce for enough income to send their children to school. They have gained many new skills.

We were made welcome by traditional dancing, being drawn into the dance by invitation and the giving of necklaces. At one farm we were invited in for a midday meal of goat stew, ugali (maize mash) and black nightshade (rather like spinach and very cheap to grow). Once again, we experienced the generous hospitality of people who were living near to the margins. Given that the Daily Nation was announcing that the cost of maize had risen by 84% in 12 months we could see the sense in reintroducing the traditional crops of finger millet and sorghum, which in fact are also more nutritious. The seed companies that persuaded people to almost exclusively plant maize in the 1980s have arguably had a large part to play in the cycle of poverty and hunger.

The safari was made even more entertaining by travelling in a 4x4 pickup truck (we picked a lot of people up and were 14 at one stage. Audrey wasn’t sure what MRDF would think of this.) Despite us speaking only 2 phrases in the local language we had a lot of laughter and a great time together bumping along the murram roads. They were much more enjoyable than the fume filled traffic jams that have almost paralysed life in Nairobi. A fuller account of our trip can be found on the MRDF website.

Nairobi

We flew back to Nairobi on a 29 seater and said farewell to Audrey. Back at the Methodist Guest House we encountered Andy Moffoot, the British Representative to the Kenyan Methodist Conference, due to start the next week. The Guest house is a great place to catch up with people, and we always enjoy staying there. Next, our friends Elijah and Priscilla appeared. It’s only 3 weeks since we said farewell to them in England but it seems much longer. We made plans for the next day (always a triumph of optimism over experience, making plans in Kenya) when we are due to meet with the Presiding Bishop at 10.00 but assume we will be free after about 11.00! He turned out to have much more in store for us, so after meeting members of staff at the Ministries’ Centre and learning about their hopes for raising enough money to complete this ambitious project of supporting the maintenance and outreach of the Church by means of rental from the very prestigious offices they are building, we moved on to the Nairobi campuses of KeMU (Kenyan Methodist University) which was the ambitious vision of a previous Presiding Bishop, Lawi Imathieu. He must surely praise God for the way in which his vision has been realised, for it has sites across Kenya and a good reputation. We were fortunate to hear from the Vice-Chancellor how he has Government permission to start a medical school on the Meru Campus, with Maua Methodist Hospital being used for training medics. The KeMU curriculum brochure shows that all courses are applied subjects – not for Kenya the luxury of pure maths or physics, media or film studies. Agriculture and social policy issues feature heavily, but all students take classes in theology, health studies and personal development. It was good to catch up with John Ataya, whom I first met 24 years ago when he was a student minister at the Methodist Training Institute. He is now deputy Vice-Chancellor; in fact over the week I met a number of people whom I first met in 1987, when I went to Kenya as the enabler with the British Youth Exchange. A fair number of them are Bishops (the Kenyan equivalent of District Chair) or prominent academics. Many of them will have had their schooling at least partially funded by Mission Partners. It was money well spent!

Then for something completely different we were taken to Kariorkor MC where the church, which is set in a very poor area, has a big programme of social outreach. We learnt of the work focussing on the Youth – a popular activity is a competition between the male and female youth in goat-roasting! Andy Moffoot, who accompanied us for the day, was not entirely certain it would cross cultures to his youth group. More seriously, there is an excellent programme of Bible study and small fellowship groups for different ages. MCK has experienced some of the ‘Missing Generation’ challenges that we have, and has in consequence many churches have a separate youth worship on a Sunday, and a full programme of theological and social activities that are age-specific.

The day was brought to a conclusion with afternoon tea at the PB’s home, where we were served by his lively wife Mercy. We carried forward our unrealised plans for the Masai market to Saturday. It had been a very informative day, and we were grateful for the hospitality shown to us.

Karibuni! (welcome all)

The following day we had another full day of visits, but this time to projects which are supported by the Karibuni Trust (long headed up by Rev Bill and Joy Murphy). Rev Julius Kithinji picked us up, and we drove to Tusaidie Watoto nursery school in the giant slum Kibera. We had first visited with Bishop Maureen Jones in 2000 and still have the recordings of the children singing to us. It has grown in complexity since that time, with feeding programmes for older children as well as education for pre-primary school. The social worker Makena visits the homes of the children to assess what needs they have. We were privileged to go into Kibera and spend a little time in two homes. We were accompanied by Eric, a remarkable young man who was in the nursery school in 1998 and has recently started at University having won a scholarship which makes his funding possible. Karibuni still support him by paying his monthly room rental. His parents’ home in Kibera would fit into our kitchen; his mother Elizabeth and father Charles still live there with their four daughters. Charles earns a living by mending watches, but the ubiquitous, and very cheap, mobile phones are putting him out of business – people no longer need watches. We visited another home, where a mother nursed her youngest child. The nursery can only take one child from each family – this mother has eight children and a husband who has spasmodic casual work. Again, the house is poorly built of wood and mud, and reached by a walkway that contains human waste. It is the responsibility of a landlord, to whom rent is paid. There is an illegal electricity supply in Kibera tapped off the nearby grid. Because it is so basic, there are instances of electrocution and fires frequently. Water has to be fetched in plastic containers at 3Ksh a go. (The nursery school uses about 30 a day even though it pays water rates – water pressure is so low that none arrives at their premises.) I looked hopefully for signs of the water stations featured in Christian Aid week in 2009 but there were none in this part of the slum. Yet there is a dignity about many of the people, and a hope that things will one day be better. Certainly, it does seem to have improved slightly since 2000.

Moving on, we also visited the work at Kawangware – the church that pulled down its building to build a school, continuing to worship in a makeshift hall. It serves an area of great poverty, but we were served a delicious lunch of rice and stew which 3 women had prepared for us. By this time we were an hour behind schedule and Julius was anxious. We needed to be back by 4.30 for another meeting with the PB and Julius had a service to lead!

Nevertheless, we made time to call in at Oases Academy, run by Judith (an ex TDO colleague) and her husband Josh. They have just put up new buildings on a bigger plot of land and we wanted to see how things were progressing. Even though it was school holidays, some of the teachers and children had gathered to meet with us, and we were able to give them some stationery. The very clean pit latrine provided a welcome comfort stop too! They have needed to start a feeding programme, for though the drought and famine is most acute in the north of Kenya, there is also hunger in the slums communities. Josh is making up food parcels to distribute. For more info go to www.oasescommunitycentre.com

By this time we had pretty much abandoned our timetable and Julius was

determined that we should visit Embakasi, where the Methodist Church serves a slum fairly near the airport. The trouble is, what should in theory be a 20 minute journey in Nairobi almost al

ways takes an hour. Or more. But Embakasi folks were expecting us – indeed, they had prepared a ‘few snacks’ which would have quite easily fed 3 times our number. After we had eaten, we were shown their new water tank and toilet block, provided with the help of the Karibuni Trust. They are building a new church too, as funds permit. In the most difficult of conditions, we have seen with our own eyes how Methodists are wor

king out their faith. It is very humbling. You can learn more about the work supported by the Karibuni Trust on www.karibuni.org.uk .

We turned up at the PB’s office 30 minutes late for a second scheduled meeting. Also wearing the clothes put on that morning for visiting the poorer parts of the city. My trainers, in which I ran 10K to raise money for MRDF are now red with the soil of West Pokot and further coloured by the walkways in the slums. The PB doesn’t mind – we have been ‘field-workers’ today. And we have been encouraged to learn how the gospel is being lived out by our brothers and sisters in Christ in Kenya. Not only mission alongside the poor, but evangelism in new territories, replacing the fear which arises out of some of the traditional beliefs and practices with the trust and confidence of the Christian life. Kwaheri – we will surely return.

South Africa beyond the Conference

2011-08-25T09:11:00.000+01:00

Young Seth Mokitimi was a goat-herd. His role in life was to ensure the safety of his father’s flock. He grew up to be the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church in Southern Africa (MCSA). That’s the kind of thing that happened when the Methodist Missionary Society provided education to boys who would otherwise never have got out of their village. It must be true, Mandela says so. Now Seth has a brand new Seminary named after him at Pietermaritzburg. Rev. Emmanuel Gabriel was kind enough to take us there. Its design and curriculum are theologically integrated in a most impressive way. Google it and you will see what I mean.

Back in Durban we visited Diakonia, a small charitable advocacy organisation that works for human rights. Its building is peaceful, an oasis in a bustling city. It models the growing of food in a garden sized plot, provides training and awareness-raising in a wide range of social and personal issues, and enables people to tell and hear stories of great courage and sacrifice when under oppression. Though it’s an ecumenical organisation, it’s a natural home for a Methodist. We were glad to learn of its work. Thank you Emmanuel. God is with us.

On from Durban to Johannesburg, where we can’t tell whether it is summer or winter as at night it falls to 0C and by midday it is 24C. We are assured it is winter! Met at the airport by John Mitchley, from MCSA, we are driven to the MCSA office where we are introduced to the staff, and have an informal meeting with the Presiding Bishop Ivan Abrahams. He has just been inducted as the incoming General Secretary of the WMC, a great honour and challenge, especially as his office will be in North Carolina, USA!

Our accommodation for the next 3 nights, The Airport Lodge turns out to be a compound built on a previous farm, and still run by Afrikaaners. Our bungalow is set amongst banana trees and flowering plants so is a big, but pleasant, change from the Blue Waters Hotel. John is our guide for the next few days. His role in MCSA is to oversee the many community projects run by Methodist Churches across Southern Africa. No pressure there then! So, we visited Amcare, built on a former racing stables, (nearby sign is Newmarket!) a huge project which impressed us greatly as each part of it related somehow to the other; for example, those learning catering provided meals not only for others around, but also for weddings and company meetings. So there was not only training but also an income stream enabling sustainability. There was a chapel, converted from a room where the former jockeys used to take a drink to ‘steady their nerves’ to a place filled with the presence of a different Spirit! We were told how their water was supplied from a well quite unexpectedly - one day a man was driving past in his well-drilling vehicle and felt called to stop and offer his help. Another man called in to ask if they had electricity and when told ‘no’ said he would come back to provide lay the very expensive cable they could not afford so long as they had dug the trench ready for it, Miracle stories abound!

Other projects in more outlying areas were more modest in design, but equally if not more demanding on the churches that ran them. Some are fulltime volunteers with no other income. Clinics for HIV testing and counselling, and in some cases the dispensation of Anti-retroviral drugs, were complemented by the provision of home-based care for AIDS sufferers. The target set by funders was often ‘50 clients per carer per month’. Given that most carers travel on foot and may perhaps spend 3 hours in a client’s home, the pressure is incredible. We were pleased to learn of the supervision and support schemes for carers, for many of their clients die, leaving orphans who may themselves be HIV positive. Some of these schemes are run by churches in the poorest areas, and we were also glad to learn of the partnerships between these churches and some very wealthy ones in the affluent suburbs. Thank you to the staff and members at Pimville and the John Wesley Community Centre, for allowing us to interrupt your work and learn about the care you show in the name of Jesus. Not just ‘looking after’, but ‘empowerment’ for people of all ages and backgrounds. Your good schools, training and hospitality for the homeless.

Thank you too, to Revd Vulyelwa, for being our guide when John took us to Soweto. We stood in the huge Catholic Church, Regina Mundi, which was the central gathering place for the young black students who stood up against apartheid. Some bullet holes remain in the ceiling, where armed police broke up a meeting of 5,000. Remembering, as I do, the news coverage of those times, it was very moving to walk on that ground. We moved on to Hector Pieterson Square, where the iconic photo is displayed of the young boy being carried away from the scene where schoolchildren were shot and killed as they demonstrated. On from there to Liliesleaf, the farmhouse where Mandela, Sisulu and others met to plan their strategy, and were eventually arrested. Bizarrely, large reproductions of police photos of ‘The Crime Scene’ look like adverts for Coca-cola.

It was our first time in South Africa and we found it very different to other African countries we have visited. We were no longer the only white people in the room, as we so often are in Kenya; there are white Africans too. There are shopping malls resembling our own, and plenty of eating out places such as Mugg and Bean which seemed to be a favourite. There is still much to be achieved in terms of trust between the different cultures. There is still great poverty in areas very close to affluent areas. And there is apprehension about what will happen when Mandela and Tutu are no longer there as a living reminder of the ideals of a truly integrated and reconciled society.

AFRICA !

2011-08-15T09:23:00.000+01:00

It’s a wonderful opportunity to take my overseas visit so early in my Vice-Presidential year, and even more special to be going to the World Methodist Council and Conference in Durban. Great, too, that David is able to accompany me to share the experience.

So on Sunday evening, 31^st July, we shared a meal with the delegates from the British and Irish Methodist Churches at the Blue Waters Hotel in Durban, and learnt something about the Council, at which we were observers.

Monday morning brought the sunrise over the Indian Ocean beaming into our bedroom - what could have been a better start to our time there? We set out as a ‘walking bus’ to register at the Central Methodist Church and be briefed on procedure. Then we set out to explore Durban, found a sandwich shop, and puzzled the locals by sitting on the grass in the park to eat our sandwiches! Returning for the opening session we took our places in the ‘peanut gallery’ as our newly found friends from the USA called the raised area for observers. (Later that week they brought us some peanuts!) As we didn’t have to be there for all the sessions we took the time to make friends with the delegates from the Nepal MC, caught up with Kenyan friends and generally had conversations with anyone who was willing. I’ll leave any comment on Council business to Leo.

Thursday was the morning that thousands of Methodists converged on the impressive International Convention Centre for the opening of the Conference. It was truly moving. In the opening worship we sang ‘O for a thousand tongues’ with verses in English, isiXhosa, Afrikaans, seSotho, and isiZulu. WOW! That alone was worth the journey. Thus began five tremendous days of worship, Bible study, inspirational addresses, reports, workshops, seminars, visits……. All in the spirit of UBUNTU which translates ‘I am because you are’.

When everything is inspiring, it is difficult to pick out highlights. But I can link some together: for example, being addressed by people who have been humiliated, tortured and imprisoned for what they believe, is truly humbling. That has been the experience of many who spoke to us. They spoke with dignity, and challenge. We wept. The theme Jesus Christ: for the healing of the nations resonated through all the addresses. Archbishop Elias Chacour from Galilee told the most astounding stories from the Jewish/Palestinian struggles. We wept… and laughed, for he had the wonderful ability to weave sorrow and joy into one pattern. An unforgettable experience.

Then, we were blessed with visits to churches in the area, and David and I went as part of a group to two services held in nearby townships. The hospitality was overwhelming, to say nothing of the singing, dancing and enthusiasm for the worship. These churches serve some areas of great poverty, and along with many of the churches in the area offer dedicated service in the community, not least to those suffering as a result of HIV/AIDS. We were again humbled, because they thought it was a great honour to receive visitors from all over the world.

It was a privilege also to take part with many from local churches, and Methodists from all over the world, in the Sunday afternoon parade of witness through the city centre. It was impossible not to think of other marches that were held during the times of struggle against apartheid, when those who walked faced police, guns and beatings. Now we were of many shades of skin colour marching together in witness to Jesus Christ: the healer of the nations. God is good.

The Conference ended on Monday 8^th August; we had made many friends, and celebrated our faith in God and our Wesleyan heritage together. But the African trip will continue…..

Back from my "grand" tour

2011-08-12T17:25:00.007+01:00

Back from my “grand” tour of Africa now - the longest time I shall be away for the whole of my Presidential year!

The World Methodist Council (the bit that does the work) and The World Methodist Conference (the “showcase” event) were a mixture of the frustrating and the exciting. Chairing The British Methodist Conference is a cakewalk compared to chairing Council where different cultures, backgrounds and structures struggle to be understood and where even the English language can mean at least six different things! So trying to sort out the constitution was a bit of a nightmare but we got there in the end! The Conference however was entirely different - so many opportunities to meet the World Methodist family (usually over a meal!) and to hear of all that God is doing - often in places where its really tough to be a Christian. The parade of 84 flags/banners representing the Methodist/Weslyan church throughout the world will live long in the memory as will the Bible studies and worship which came from a different continent each day.

A brief stop over in Cape Town provided an opportunity to visit Robben Island. We arrived in thick mist which expressed something of the desolation of the past. We left as the sun began to break through the clouds. It was to me a sign of hope for the future of South Africa and Ghana and all the countries and churches I have encountered through others in these past days. And so I end with a blessing from and for Africa:

Walk tall, walk well, walk safe, walk free

and may harm never come to thee.

Walk wise, walk good, walk proud, walk true

and may sun always smile on you.

Walk prayer, walk hope, walk faith, walk light

and may peace always guide you right.

Walk joy, walk brave, walk love, walk strong

and may life always give you song.

See you in a couple of weeks before which I’ve much preparation to do for sermons, talks etc!

Variety is the Spice of Life

2011-08-05T09:12:00.000+01:00

What a varied fortnight this has been, starting on Sunday 17^th July with the recording of morning worship at our local church, Biddulph Methodist Church, for BBC Radio Stoke. It’s the third or fourth time we have done this, and our old friend and producer Simon Penfold knows the church well, so does not take long to set up. It’s a joint service between our own congregation and that of Brown Lees Methodist Church, who are worshipping with us monthly in preparation for us becoming one congregation in September when their building closes. Members from both congregations lead the worship, and I preach the sermon. We are perhaps a bit more subdued than we would normally be, conscious that when it is broadcast we will be proclaiming the Gospel to more than 50,000
listeners - an awesome responsibility that we don’t take lightly. But it feels like we have lost some of our informality and responsiveness as a congregation.

Then on Tuesday a trip ‘up to London to visit the Queen’ as the old nursery rhyme goes. The President has told you about this in his post. We also enjoyed the good company of Peter and Doreen Whittaker who were to move house the following day but nevertheless entered into the spirit of the occasion, and enjoyed as much as I did the lovely Palace gardens with some very fragrant roses.

Thursday saw me on the train to London once again, this time to attend the MHA day conference on The Church and an Ageing Society. I was invited to give the opening address on ‘Learning as disciples of Jesus’ and lead a workshop on ‘The
church’s role in caring for the carers’. There were four other workshops to choose from, and Revd Keith Albans gave the final address on ‘Older People in a Mission- Shaped Church. Around 80 people participated, and it was a pleasure to be reminded of the multi-cultural nature of the London District, and the riches that are brought to Methodism. I look forward to seeing at first hand some of the excellent work that MHA is doing as I visit Homes in various districts.

Then we welcomed visitors from New Zealand, cousins whom we haven’t seen for 10 years, and who were thrilled to have followed Conference on the ‘watch again’ facility. No sooner had they gone and we welcomed back our Kenyan visitors, Rev Elijah and Mrs Priscilla Mwirigi, who had been travelling in Scotland for a week. They have had a wonderful four weeks in the UK, catching up on mission partners whom they had known, more than 40 years ago in some cases. Most moving was the reunion with the minister for whom Elijah had been the garden boy, and who enabled him to gain an education. Elijah has himself now been a Methodist minister for nearly 40 years. Elijah and Priscilla returned home to attend the Ph.D ceremony of their eldest son. What proud parents! We will quickly be reunited with them in Nairobi when we visit with MRDF.

Saturday 23rd July: A Frantic Fortnight

2011-08-05T09:11:00.000+01:00

Up at 4.00 am to fly down to Bristol for the closing service at Wesley College. But worth every minute of lost sleep! A deeply moving occasion and the large number of people present was a fitting tribute to all that the college has meant. Thanks be to God.

Wednesday 27th July another early flight, to Accra, Ghana via a meeting with MRDF at Heathrow about my trip to Ethiopia in December! Read papers for the World Methodist Council in South Africa during the flight so when I landed couldn't quite remember where I was!

Methodist Church Ghana is in very good heart and continues to grow. Travelled over 1000 miles in three days mostly to visit Methodist Schools, of which they are justly proud.

I met with the President of Ghana, Deputy Speaker of Parliament and Chief Justice and was on the front page of the national news paper the next day - although they chose to use a picture of one of our group, Rev Jenny Impey (London Chair) instead of me! I wonder why? Clearly the Methodist Church is a big player in the nation's life and this was reflected in Sunday's service at the national football stadium to celebrate 50 years of Methodist autonomy.

This was attended by all of the above plus the leader of the opposition and 15,000 others! The service was relatively short - just less than 4 1/2 hours - and was an interesting mix of Methodist liturgy (MWB and Book of Offices) and modern African worship. Thankfully it was not too hot and it was a great honour to be there. Great thrill to be on the pitch too - the nearest I'll get to scoring a world cup goal!

Visited Cape Coast Castle from which slaves were transported to the West Indies - that is any that survived the brutal treatment whilst waiting to board ship. Hung my head in shame. Who wouldn't?

Overnight flight to Durban where I'm blogging from. I'll report on World Methodist Council next time.

Posted on Behalf of Leo

Durham Miners Gala and more.....

2011-07-22T15:15:00.003+01:00

It’s blog time again and a varied two weeks since I last posted!

The Durham Miners Gala was fascinating with an upturn in interest due in part to other Trade Unions now being invited to attend and march but also because it seemed to be a celebration of by-gone years rather than a place for regret or recrimination (though these were still present). At the Cathedral Service five new banners from the former pit villages of Co Durham were dedicated at a packed service - standing room only! Very moving!

Peter Whittaker’s farewell service in West Yorkshire was a privilege to be a part of and interesting that many of the tributes to Peter mentioned his Pastoral care - which you may have gathered is one of my “pet” themes this year! Interesting too that many of the instances quoted Peter has no recollection of! But that perhaps is how it should be!

Queens Garden Party last Tuesday. Poured with rain most of the time so difficult to see much through umbrellas. Difficult choice between watching out for the Queen and grabbing food from the tea tent. The Vice President and I came to different conclusions about priorities! The Duke of Edinburgh (as well as the Queen) seemed to be a star attraction this year after his recent 90^th birthday!

So thankfulness for the past has been a common thread - which I imagine may be repeated at Wesley College Bristol on Saturday and in the celebrations in Ghana next week as the church there celebrates 50 years of autonomy. Watch this space - although maybe not until I return from The World Methodist Council/Conference in Durban!

The London 10K Run!

2011-07-10T21:28:00.006+01:00

Last Sunday in Southport was a day of inspiring worship as we received and ordained presbyters and deacons into the Methodist Church. Today was a great contrast, but in its own way just as inspiring. Six Methodists running for MRDF joined more than 25,000 runners who were raising money for a wide variety of Charities. It was a warm day and quite a challenge for many of us as we ran/jogged/walked past the historic landmarks of central London. There was a terrific atmosphere and the onlookers cheered everyone, whether they knew them or not. Lots of runners wore fancy dress – I just don’t know how they managed in the heat.

It was in January that I heard myself offering to do the run, to keep our district development enabler Heather company. I’ve never done anything like it before, and wondered what on earth I was letting myself in for, but I printed off some ‘running for beginners’ guidelines and started a schedule of running/walking around Congleton Park in the early mornings. It was a beautiful place to be and a far cry from the crowded streets of London that we experienced today. There were some setbacks, but I set myself the target of getting round in 1 hour 30 minutes, and achieved it today with 5 minutes to spare! It is without doubt the most challenging thing I have set myself to do for a very long time – way out of my comfort zone.

Our MRDF team comprised myself, Heather Staniland, Helen Boardman, Judy Gibbons, Chris Collins and Jane Cowie. We had a great time together, and will hopefully have raised several thousands of pounds for a very worthwhile organisation. Next year…… who knows?

If you would like to donate, here’s the link:

www.justgiving.com/MRDFmethodists

The money will be used for the latest emergency to need relief.

Reflections on The Methodist Conference

2011-07-10T21:22:00.002+01:00

What a great privilege it was to be able to share in the chairing of Conference! I have really appreciated it, and there has been such a wonderful atmosphere for much of the time. We were led so helpfully in worship first thing each business morning, and in Bible Study on Colossians 1 15-20 after lunch each day. Worship and Bible study set a really good tone for the business, and members of Conference responded well with thoughtful contributions to the debates. There was also plenty of humour and we laughed a lot! Ending the day with pastoral conversation and prayer seemed to be helpful to many representatives.

We had some important business to do, and got off to a good start with the General Secretary’s Report which has inspired many of us. You can watch again this and all other reports on the Methodist Conference website www.methodistconference.org.uk

The business was interspersed with hymns and songs both ancient and modern, ably led by our resident worship band. We were introduced to many from ‘Singing the Faith’ which will be published before too long.

We said thank you and farewell to the Assistant Secretary of Conference, Revd. Ken Howcroft, who has been a rock to a succession of Presidents and Vice-Presidents struggling to keep to procedure from time to time! His next appointment is in Rome, and he was presented with a ‘Teach yourself Italian’ manual. (NB - should be easy after New Testament Greek)

Somehow, just when Leo and I were beginning to feel at home, we were singing ‘Captain of Israel’s host’ (our traditional final hymn) and it was all over –until we meet in Plymouth in 2012

Thank you to the many people who worked hard every day to oil the wheels of the Conference machine – especially to those who were up till the early hours of the morning getting our paperwork ready each day.

Now we need to take our decisions back to our circuits and churches for prayer and action!

My First Blog!

2011-07-08T16:07:00.003+01:00

Welcome to The President’s Blog! I have never written a blog before so hope this will be of some interest.

Back in the north-east eating fish and chips on Whitley Bay promenade and hardly believing Conference has happened! Was it really me there? But it was an amazing experience with the Ordination Service at Chester Cathedral probably the highlight and Leo’s Bar probably the lowlight! I was petrified by the thought of chairing Conference but Ken and Gareth were incredibly helpful and the members of Conference were incredibly gracious so got through it okay I think! So impressed by prayerful atmosphere and desire to listen to each other - what a change from a few years ago! Recovery day today before Durham, West Yorkshire and then to Norfolk for a few days holiday.

My already good friend and great colleague Ruth will I’m sure be blogging more often than I do but I will try and keep you in touch with things. First prayer item please - that Charlotte won’t spend too much on clothes for the Queens Garden Party! Secondly and more seriously I’d particularly value your prayers during this year. My itinerary is on the Presidential Prayer Card.

What a wonderful weekend.

2011-07-04T09:20:00.011+01:00

To quote my predecessor it has been an “amazing weekend”. The sun showed its face and there was a real sense of optimism in the air. I want to say a big thank you to everybody who has sent their best wishes and been upholding me and Leo in prayer. We really felt enfolded in your and God’s love. We must congratulate Alison and Eunice on their years of office, they have made a real impression on the church and will be a hard act to follow. We both wish them well and thank them for the work they have done this year. This week the conference will look at many things of importance to the Church and how the people called Methodist respond to a changing world. You will no doubt read about that in other places but please do hold the conference in your prayers.

It was wonderful to share in the weekend with members of my family here in the UK and also some of my adopted family from Kenya. And thank you to everybody who travelled to make the event so uplifting.

Final Week~End

2011-06-27T16:15:00.002+01:00

Travelled north again to spend time in the Malton Circuit. It was good to be able to be with them for the evening of music and to rejoice at the talent available for their celebration. It was also fun to catch up with friends from College days!
We shared in the 200th Anniversary on the Sunday morning, reflecting on the Fruit of the Spirit, and God's desire to grow all that the Spirit offers in us. We gave thanks for all that our forebears had offered in service and witness and committed ourselves again to what God has planned for the future.
Then a celebration meal; a visit I had promised to make while I was in the north; and home to finalise all that is needed for Conference and the new President and Vice President.
Thank you for all your prayers which have sustained us during this year, and for the prayers that are already supporting Leo and Ruth as they too follow God's leading.

Mixed Week~End!

2011-06-23T17:06:00.003+01:00

A very interesting mix of events last week-end. I had originally agreed to go to Shaw for their 200th Anniversary on the Sunday, and then the possibilities snowballed in a great way.
First, on the Saturday, was an exciting visit to The Welcome in Knutsford, where I was much encouraged by all that is being done alongside that community. I met interesting people; discovered at least some of the activities; and shared in their worship. If you are a Conference person, you will find some of their story in the Agenda, which means that if you aren't, you can still find it on line!
Then there was the gathering in memory of the Rev'd John Banks, whom I had the privilege of knowing when I served in the Manchester and Stockport District. We explored some Biblical material together and I enjoyed our discussion about possible interpretations and the importance, or otherwise, of very different approaches and what they might mean.
The next day was my day at Shaw, where we celebrated together with people involved there now, as well as with others who were part of the journey but have since moved on. It was good to meet old friends and new folk, and to rejoice at the record of work and witness while looking ahead at what God might invite us to next.
And finally, on the Monday, I went to Ampleforth to spend just a short time with the Ordinands of the Diaconal Order whom I will have the awesome responsibility of ordaining (and in one case, welcoming) at this year's Conference. The welcome, the sessions I was able to attend, and the worship during my visit, made me sorry that I was not free to share the whole retreat. Please pray for all who will be Received into Full Connexion, and Ordained if not already ordained, this year ~ Diaconal or Presbyteral, known to you by name or not ~ and for all involved in the services.

Irish Conference ~ a PS

2011-06-18T09:39:00.002+01:00

Thank you Eunice as always!
Simply to add a couple of reflections. It was, as she commented, a joy to be part of the Ordination Service, and interesting to note there is only one, with 6 ordinands who therefore have their time of offering testimony at Conference rather than in their Districts or Circuits. It was also good to share in the Commissioning of the Probationers as Conference sent them out. And I wanted to add my thanks to Richard and Diane, and to Margaret and Ronnie who looked after us so well.
Please pray for Gillian Kingston and Ian Henderson as you are praying for Leo and Ruth next month and into the future.

Superintendents Conference 2011

2011-06-17T11:20:00.006+01:00

Early on Tuesday morning 14th June I joined Rev Leo Osborn, Chair of Newcastle District and President designate of the Methodist Conference on the 7.25am train out of Newcastle to Birmingham for the Superintendents Conference 2011 at St John's Hotel, Solihull, Birmingham.

Leo and I joined the conference as over 30 new Superintendents were ending their sessions prior to 110 existing Superintendents joining them for the rest of the conference. A team from the Discipleship and Ministries Cluster had organised an excellent programme of workshops, seminars and worship alongside opportunities to share ideas and insights from each other provided by the very comfortable residential environment of the Hotel.

Over the last year as Vice-President I have observed just how crucial the role of Superintendent is in enabling, equipping and inspiring the work and mission of God to take place.

I believe we are at a crucial time in the life of our church, where words need turning into action, where change is embraced and risks are taken for the sake of the gospel amongst us.
Our Superintendents are a vital part of dreaming, describing, discerning and enabling the delivery of vision in our Circuits that we might truly be the people God calls us to be, life-giving and life-affirming disciples of Jesus.

Please pray for and support
the Superintendents you know as they each serve God by taking up what is a deeply rewarding but often challenging role in our church.

Irish Conference 2011

2011-06-17T09:54:00.014+01:00

Alison and I were warmly received at the 242nd Irish Conference, held in Newtownards, Ireland from 9-12th June. The atmosphere throughout was of generous hospitality and a church engaging with the significant effects of the current economic crisis alongside the remaining challenges of living in a post-conflict community. We heard of many inspiring ways in which the church is relating in its communities bringing a message of hope and peace. A new report on Pioneer Ministries spoke of the intention to create new ways of being church which were relational, missional and intentionally evangelistic.

Here are the British representatives to the Irish Conference alongside Alison and myself.
I invited my colleague Rev Eden Fletcher, Superintendent of the Newcastle Central and East Circuit and Alison invited her friend Mrs Jennie Scutt who was also accompanied by her husband Rev Andrew Scutt.

Here we are with the newly installed Irish President Rev Ian Henderson accompanied by the Irish representatives to the British Conference.

The department of education and youth spoke of their work after giving us an example of a lively and vibrant presentation they have developed for use in schools, particularly amongst children with special needs.

On the Conference Platform -from left to right
Rev Paul Kingston - ex-President
Ms Gillian Kingston - Lay Leader of the Conference (3 year term of office)
Rev Ian Henderson- newly inducted President of Conference
Rev Donald Ker - Secretary of Conference

After the conference concluded with a wonderful Ordination service Eden and I took the opportunity to visit Edgehill College where we received wonderful hospitality from the Rev Richard, Prinicipal of the College and his wife Rev Diane Clutterbuck. We were deeply impressed by the premises and the resources available to the whole church community.
We also called into the East Belfast Mission (on our way to the Airport), having heard about their inspiring work over many years in responding to the needs of their community and engaging significantly in the peace process. We chatted with the Mission staff in their re:fresh cafe about the challenges of the past and the future.

Below is a picture of the building site from which will emerge the incredible new (£21 million) visionary project that will open next year, 'Skainos' from the Greek word meaning tent or dwelling. It will provide accommodation for the work of the East Belfast Mission, bringing together a new sanctuary, cafe, an employability centre, youth and community groups, social housing and a civic square. It speaks boldly as a sign of christian hope and commitment in the midst of the economic downturn by the East Belfast Mission to remain in an area it has served since 1809.

Outcome Day

2011-06-07T17:04:00.002+01:00

After having to take a few days off, two of which I spent being looked after and doing nothing, it felt really good to pick up on the Presidential duties again by joining the Outcome folk for the day in Chelsea. It took as long to get across London as it did to get from Market Harborough to St. Pancras in the first place ~ but it was worth it.
We had drinks together as others arrived, and then began to share some thoughts about just who is at the margins. We agreed that marginalisation is always contextual; that it changes through our lives, and sometimes in the course of one day; that even the most disregarded of us have moments of power ~ some of us more than we choose to acknowledge; and that our desire is to continue to stand alongside all who may be ignored or rejected. We also had some interesting conversation about whether, if God is at the margins, they actually become the centre ~ which was fun.
Lunch was good too! We looked together at a couple of Biblical passages, considering various possible approaches to the Woman at the Well, and considering why Paul compromised in Acts 16. It was good to learn so much from each other and then, in conclusion, I had the honour of serving the members and friends by presiding at an informal service of Holy Communion. Thank you to everyone who made this great day possible, by the organising, the hospitality and your presence.

Isle of Man District Visit

2011-06-06T17:35:00.019+01:00

John and I departed from Newcastle via Manx 2 Airlines to join Rev David Gamble and his wife Liz for our visit to the Isle of Man District. Rev Malcolm Peacock and his wife Sarah had kindly invited us all to stay with him and his family during the weekend of the famous Island TT Races. It is customary (and I confess to not knowing why) for the ex-President and the current Vice-President to visit this District together.

The main event of our stay was the 'Bikers Service' at Sulby Methodist Church, where Malcolm had invited David and I to preach. Many Bikers have been making the annual pilgrimage to the TT Races and this service for several years. It is the first time I have seen an advert for a 'Bikers Service' on 'Mad Sunday' sadly described because it is the day when visitors are renowned for driving rather dangerously around the Island. Many churches on the Island provide hospitality
during the TT Races, including food and accommodation.

Rev David Gamble and I were both rather surprised to be described in the local Island newspaper as nationally renowned speakers!

The couple below attending the Bikers Service were also celebrating
their 2nd Wedding Anniversary.

Watching the TT for the first time was breathtaking, the bikes were doing well over 160 miles per hour and were almost impossible to see but you could always hear them roaring past you.

It is many years since my husband John and I rode around on motorbikes we do however often hire a motorbike on holiday, and thoroughly enjoy riding around in the sunshine (I was always a fair weather biker!).

We had the pleasure of visiting a brilliant youth club held every Friday night at Ramsay Methodist Church, where children with special needs alongside other young people enjoy a meal together, games and dancing.

Regional 'Methodist Women in Britain' Event

2011-06-01T20:50:00.006+01:00

Here I am home in Newcastle with my colleague Rev Eden Fletcher, Superintendent of the Newcastle Central and East Circuit responding to an invitation from the Regional Methodist Women in Britain to attend their Bi-annual conference/retreat. The retreat was at Minsteracres taking the theme of 'Living Stones'.
This was a day out in Newcastle which began at the Sage (wonderful concert venue on the Quayside) with the ladies being greeted by the Mayor of Gateshead. At 11.30 we met the group at Wesley Square on Newcastle's quayside in front of the obelisk which is a monument to Wesley's first visit to Newcastle in 1742.

We joyfully sang, 'O Thou who camest from above' reflected for a few moments on the history of Wesley in Newcastle and prayed together. The ice cream van was very tempting
but sadly no-one indulged!

Joyce Hindmarch led the afternoon worship service at Brunswick, Rev Leo Osborn, Chair of Newcastle District and President designate presided over Holy Communion and I preached. We had a deeply moving signing by Anne Collinson of the hymn 'I the Lord of Sea and Sky' which brought many of us to tears. A wonderful event and a delight to host the Methodist Women in Britain from the Cumbria, Darlington, Newcastle, Scotland and Shetland Districts of our church.

Cliff College Festival

2011-05-30T23:03:00.014+01:00

Arriving at Cliff College for the May Bank holiday Festival brought back wonderful memories of camping here as a teenager and in subsequent years bringing young people from churches we were serving. Sadly Alison was unable to join us at Cliff due to feeling unwell we offered prayers for her as she took some well earned rest. I am deeply grateful for the many ways in which Cliff College has been an important part of many people's faith journeys and equipping for ministry over many generations and continues to respond to that challenge today.

The Festival theme this year was, 'Ask for the Ancient Paths' an all age programme was offered from morning to late at night with vibrant worship, bible studies, seminars and a new Youth 'Pulse' tent.

Why not think about bringing your young people next year?

Speakers this year included Rev Jonathan Edwards, General Secretary of the Baptist Union, Matt Sumerfield, Urban Saints, Joanne Cox, Evangelism & Contemporary Culture Officer for the Methodist Church, Roy Searle, Leader of the Northumbria Community, Dave Newton, Youth for Christ, Krish Kandiah, Evangelical Alliance.

It was a great privilege to preach at the morning celebration with Rev Piers Lane leading worship alongside a band from the student community.

In the afternoon several seminars were an offer I led a session
reflecting on my year as Vice-President other seminar options included-
Unlocking the New Testament -Peter Ensor
Raiding the history of Cliff - Rev Howard Mellor
A King, A Horse and a Poor man - Piers Lane
Effective Learning for Today's Church - Mark Bagnall

The college offers a wide range of courses both full and part-time
Click here to visit the Cliff College website.

Englesea Brook, Mow Cop & Tunstall

2011-05-30T21:16:00.027+01:00

John and I arrived at Englesea Brook Chapel & Museum to begin a special day of remembering the events of 1811 when the camp meetings movements of the Bourneites and the Clowesites came together to form the Primitive Methodist Connexion. Sadly Alison was unable to join us due to feeling unwell, we prayed for her and Dave throughout the day.

Englesea Brook Chapel and Museum

Englesea Brook Chapel and Museum is a place where you can discover the origins of Primitive Methodism in a traditional magic lantern show, explore the values of Victorian people through the collection of religious banners, musical instruments and other artefacts, and hear about some nineteenth century women who defied the boundaries of gender and took to the
pulpit and much more besides.

Chair of District Rev Peter Barber had just completed 120 miles of walking through the Circuits of the Chester and Stoke District. Here he is holding onto Rev Hugh Bourne's rather battered shoe from the museums collection reflecting with sympathy on how he must have felt.

Morning worship in the Chapel with some of the volunteers.

Mow Cop
The birthplace of the Primitive Methodist movement, starting in 1800 with Hugh Bourne from Stoke-on-Trent and William Clowes from Burslem. On 31st May 1807 a large 14 hour camp meeting was held, these camp meetings became a regular feature at Mow Cop and outdoor events have become a feature of Anniversary celebrations.
We arrived at Mow Cop to discover that the outdoor events planned for the afternoon had been re-arranged due to the weather. We gathered inside for a jubilant service and delicious tea afterwards.

We were joined by Radio Stoke who were recording the service for
a special broadcast on the following Sunday.

Monument on the Mow Cop Folly remembering the Camp meeting of 1807. After the service several of us walked up to sing, pray and give thanks for the passion and commitment of the Primitive Methodist tradition.

Outdoor Praise.

Tunstall Methodist Church
It was in Tunstall that the first Primitive Methodist Chapel was built, we arrived to share and celebrate together in a Circuit Service.

Chair of District Rev Peter Barber and the Circuit singing group 'Harmony'.

London ~ another PS!

2011-05-28T15:29:00.002+01:00

Again I record my gratitude to Eunice for being willing to record our visits so promptly. Those who know me will be aware how very grateful I am that she takes so much of the burden for me.

Sunday Morning was the time we went our different ways. I shared with the congregation at Forest Hill in a very special anniversary and circuit service when we were able to fully accredit four new Local Preachers. We had fun with building towers on shaky and firm foundations, and rejoiced before God to hear the testimonies of the new preachers.
It was also a delight and privilege for me to meet with Jeffrey Matthews who designed both the amazing window at the chapel and the Presidential Cross. Some of that story I already knew, but it was good to hear more of it from Jeffery himself.

And then I stayed with the London District while Eunice went home to catch up and prepare for her next visits, and led a three day retreat at Wychcroft. We reflected on crossing places and the gates and stiles on our journeys in particular, as well as laughing and praying together in a variety of ways. The "art table" was popular and revealed just how differently gifted the ministers of the District are! Thank you for organising it for us and for all that we learnt together.

Convocation ~ a PS

2011-05-28T15:19:00.002+01:00

What an amazing gift to be able to be part of the MDO Community for a while. Eunice has already given news of our time at Swanwick, but I want to emphasise how much fun and laughter there was between the serious matters and the necessary work.
I was able to offer a couple of mini-retreats during two of the afternoons as well as sharing in a Bible study and many of the sessions.
It was so good to renew friendships with many of the Deacons i have met and worked with over the years, and to begin to get to know many more. It was also great to experience the power of the Rule of Life, which joins Deacons across the Connexion in such a prayerful way, in spite of how dispersed the community is. They have much to teach the rest of us.
And it was a joy to see for myself how God is at work among the new and student deacons. I look forward to seeing how Methodism will grow and change as they continue to serve God alongside their more experienced colleagues.
Thank you all, and God be with you.

London District Visit

2011-05-25T11:38:00.027+01:00

Alison and I began our visit to the London District by joining the three London Chairs Rev Stuart Jordan, Rev Ermal Kirby, Rev Jenny Impey and the District Council for an evening meal. During the meal we heard about some of the unique challenges in this Global city and listened to presentations from the Probationers Secretary, District Youth Officer and the coordinator of the Ghanaian Fellowship.

South Norwood Methodist Church
On Sunday morning accompanied by Rev Ermal Kirby, I preached at South Norwood Methodist Church where worship was led by my presbyteral friend and colleague Rev Nigel Cowgill, Superintendent Minister of the Croyden Circuit.

Wesley's Chapel - District Celebration

On Sunday evening we journeyed to Wesley's Chapel for a wonderful District celebration and the launch of a new initiative called MEDAL 2012 (Methodists Enabling Disciples As Leaders). Experience in recent years has been that new volunteers and leaders have been slow to emerge. In response to this the London District set up the Lay Leadership Strategy Group which will run a two year programme to find and nurture new leaders.

The MEDAL 2012 twofold task is to
1. Celebrate and support all current lay ministries.
2. Recruit and nurture new leaders.
The evening service was a vibrant celebration of over 600 people with choirs from around the District.

The MEDAL initiative was inspired by the vision of the church in Ephesians 4 v12 'The gifts God gave are to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ'.

Conversation with Circuit Stewards at Westminster Central Hall
On Monday morning Alison and I joined Circuit Stewards and some of their presbyteral colleagues for a conversation on ministry, particularly focusing on the value of presbyteral, diaconal and lay ministry working together sharing their gifts and of course limitations!

After sharing lunch together Alison and I joined the deacons of the London District for a lively conversation on various aspects of ministry.

Visit to the House of Lords
On Monday evening Rev Dr Lord Leslie Griffiths and his wife Margaret invited Alison and Dave, myself and John, Ermal and Jenny to join them for dinner in the House of Lords followed by a tour. What a treat it was to see inside the House of Lords for the first time and glimpse the preparations in Westminster Hall as security checks were being made for the visit of President Barack Obama. We had an unforgettable evening which concluded rather spectacularly with us all on the roof! (I couldn't resist a little dance whilst humming,'Up on the Roof...').

Whitechapel Mission, East London

On Tuesday morning we met Rev Phil Summers, Methodist Minister in Tower Hamlets and a member of my favourite christian drama group Applecart. The day began with a visit to an amazing group of people at Whitechapel Mission who reach out to homeless people 365 days a year. We were deeply impressed by the commitment of staff and volunteers providing food and advice in a caring environment. The mission is dedicated to providing a lifeline to the poor and homeless people of London who struggle each day against hunger, poverty and exclusion.

Isle of Dogs - Island Neighbourhood Project

Amazing people totally committed to building community and improving the lives of men, women and children in the area, based in a shop but reaching out to many different locations.
Their mission is to empower local people, particularly residents of social housing, to come together to help themselves and one another to have more fulfilling lives, to strengthen their voice in the community and secure a better future.

Journeys
This visit was heart wrenching. Journeys is a children's bereavement and loss service greatly needed in Tower Hamlets where sadly many families facing loss also live with issues of domestic violence,parents in prison alongside drug and alcohol addiction. The centre desperately needs more resources for its work (sadly there is a waiting list of children who are struggling to cope with the loss of a parent or close family member).

London Citizens
Over lunch we heard about the work of the London Citizens which seeks to develop the capacity and skills of the members of socially and economically disadvantaged communities in a way that enables local people to help meet their own needs and participate more fully in their communities. As a Methodist Church we engage with them on several levels including supporting work on a National Living wage framework.

Rev Ermal Kirby very kindly escorted John and I during our visit all over London on buses, tubes, car and here on the Thames Link boat-great fun.

Wesley Day celebrations - 24th May 2011
What an experience it was to be in London for the Wesley day celebrations. After joining the congregation of St Paul's for evensong we stood at the North steps under the statue of
Mr Wesley recalling his words and celebrating his life.

At the 'Flame Monument'
Here we are for the second stop on our pilgrimage at the, 'Flame Monument,' the commemorative site to mark the conversion of John Wesley on 1738 pictured here with the Susanna Wesley Sisters from Ghana.

At the Grave of Susanna Wesley in Burnhill Fields.

A wreath was laid at the graveside as the Susanna Wesley Sisters sang to us.

After a service in Wesley's Chapel at quarter to nine in the evening we gathered for the final part of our journey at the grave of John Wesley and were reminded of John Wesley's final words, 'the best of all is God is with us'.

Methodist Diaconal Order -Convocation

2011-05-21T14:20:00.009+01:00

Convocation is the annual gathering of the Methodist Diaconal Order at the Hayes Conference Centre, Deryshire. I was really looking forward to introducing Alison to everyone, Convocation is not easily explained it really is one of those events which has to be experienced to be understood.

Here we are with the Warden (Leader) of the MDO Deacon Sue Culver who has done a great job in facilitating vision and change within the MDO alongside the Leadership Team (Deacons, Karen McBride, Ian Murray, Janet Thomas, Margaret Cox).

As the Methodist Diaconal Order gathered this year there was a sense of deep thankfulness and gratitude as we received news of 13 new students for Sept 2011, adding to the existing 16 in training. The MDO currently has 266 members, including 18 Probationers and 114 retired deacons.

Convocation in session.

Our nine Diaconal Ordinands being presented to Convocation as they go forward to the Southport Conference for ordination.

The General Secretary Rev Dr Martyn Atkins delivering an outstanding bible study on Acts 2 relating it to early Methodism. Martyn also presided at our final service of Holy Communion and participated as Secretary of Conference at our Diaconal Committee.

The MDO's rather stunning creative contribution to the National Handwritten Bible Project

In the MDO we are deeply aware and appreciative of the support we are given by our presbyteral and lay colleagues who enable the Order to flourish and grow in
many and varied ways.
Here presiding at early morning Communion is Rev Jenny Impey (one of the three London Chairs) and also Chair of our Diaconal Probationers Oversight Committee.

Another example of presbyteral support with Rev Paul Wood and Rev Ian Worsfold who contributed to our sessions with their musical talents.

Community building ......great fun!

Dr Andrew Orton is a lecturer at Durham University and is co-ordinating a research Project on 'Good Practice in Diaconal Ministry.' At Convocation we heard some of the highlights of the research and responded to further questions on diaconal practice. A conference exploring
Diaconal Ministry will be held at St John's College, Durham 8-9th Sept 2011 with Dr Paula Gooder and Dr John Collins in attendance.

Ann Morisy author and community theologian joined us, to present two sessions on the, 'Potency of Early Methodism.' Many of us in the MDO have read and valued her books particularly, 'Beyond the Good Samaritan' and 'Bothered and Bewildered'.

Our National Safeguarding Officer Elizabeth Hall came along and updated us on good practice and care of ourselves.

Cornwall ~ Day 4

2011-05-15T17:09:00.005+01:00

Monday started at Truro School. Conversations; a full school assembly ~ where I was able to be the first to make a presentation to the Headmaster; coffee and cake; and a quick visit to the Chapel.

Then a visit to the Cathedral, guided by our very own Canon, and on to have lunch with Supernumeraries, wives and widows. It was good to have plenty of time to discuss as well as eat, and then to conclude with an informal celebration of the Lord's Supper. It was also good to end our visit spending some time with Steve and Laura ~ Thank you.

Cornwall ~ Day 3

2011-05-15T16:48:00.009+01:00

Not my favourite beginning to the day ~ an early (for me, though not for Steve) radio interview. I actually enjoy the interview part, especially among such very friendly people, but at the start of the day!!

Then to Truro Methodist Church, after walking from the Mayor's Parlour to the Memorial and parading with all the colours to a very full church.

After lunch I had the honour of visiting Past Vice-President Pamela Luke with her brother and sister-in-law. We had great conversation, in spite of Pamela not being at all well, and then we shared around the Lord's Table.

The evening service was at Camelford Week St. Mary ~ a new circuit where we enjoyed yet more Cornish hospitality and worshipped together with great joy.

Cornwall ~ Day 2

2011-05-15T16:24:00.008+01:00

The Helston Floral Dance is a remarkable occasion, with an amazing history. I have never been part of an event which involves the entire community, from children and young people to adults dressed very formally, to adults very much more relaxed, including the tea makers and the stall holders, without whom it would be much the poorer!

We were able to watch the mid-day dance from what is still called 'the doctor's house' as they danced through the garden and round the lake. And the hospitality was very generous!

From there we went on to Praa Sands for Andrew and Beverley's beach labyrinth. Even with wind and not many people around, such an event attracts questions and exploration from a number of people, and I certainly enjoyed taking a little time to walk and reflect as well as have the conversations

The final events of the day were a proper cream tea at the manse with Bishop Tim and Angela and Geof, and then after a short time to chat and recover from all the days activities, an evening meal in Megavissey.

Cornwall ~ Day 1

2011-05-15T15:35:00.013+01:00

The day began with St. Petroc's Homeless Project ~ conversations and explorations, covering both history and the future hopes and dreams

Then we moved on to the home of Breadline ~ another part of the St. Petroc's family ~ where we were able to meet some of the other folk involved and discover more of what it means to both work for the project and to feel at home with it as training and life skills and support are offered.
I'm holding a large amount of written information which I eventually found time to read. And it was well worth it.

Then we went on to Newlyn Trinity, where we were shown some exciting new ventures and able to share yet more hopes and dreams, as well as having a great 'team lunch'

The next stop was the Lifeboat. Such a priviledge to meet with the Coxswain/Mechanic and be shown in such detail all the work involved.

And next the St. Just Airport, but not sadly a trip to the Scillies! Instead, we watched the work of the flight control tower ~ vital expertise even at such a small field ~ and then were shown round while there was no flight in the offing. I for one discovered a great deal about small aircraft, though I think my husband simply wanted to take a trip, remembering his glider days of long ago.

The final stop of this day was the cinema club at St. Just. They are showing The King's Speech next time, and with proper ice-cream for the interval, it is no wonder that the room is full once everybody has arrived. What a great and fun way to serve this rural community!

Westminster Central Hall, London

2011-05-11T09:19:00.013+01:00

Visiting the team at Westminster Central Hall is always a pleasure, as city centre colleagues we often meet at gatherings throughout the year of the Methodist City Centre Network (MCCN). The network was established several years ago and provides an opportunity for all those working in city centre locations to share and learn from others working in similar environments.

It was a very special day to be visiting and preaching as it was the farewell service for my diaconal colleague and friend Sister Jane Middleton who retires from this 'phase' of her ministry after serving for twelve years as Deacon on the staff team at Central Hall. It was a privilege to be part of a special day in the life of this community, a day of celebration as we gave thanks for Jane's ministry here and offered prayers as she retires to the rather splendid location of Durham City (I am looking forward to seeing her more often in future).

Morning worship was held in the Great Hall led by Rev Martin Turner, Superintendent Minister and Rev Tony Miles, Team Minister and Media Chaplain. The service began with the choir singing a beautiful rendition of John Rutter's, 'For the beauty of the earth.' Sister Jane had chosen several of the hymns including the 'diaconal hymn' Behold the servant of the Lord'.

After morning worship a farewell dinner was held for Sister Jane, beautiful food was served followed by speeches of thanksgiving for a much loved, respected and valued member of the team.

Sister Jane Middleton responding to the speeches and gifts.

Rev Martin Turner, Superintendent Minister of Central Hall presenting gifts to Sister Jane, after a very moving speech where it was clear how much they have enjoyed working and serving God together as part of the team in this vibrant community.

Sister Jane Middleton and her husband Rev Alan Middleton, an Anglican Minister also retiring this year.

Rev Tony Miles, member of the Central Hall Team and Media Chaplain alongside his wife Francis.

Wesley House, Cambridge

2011-05-09T08:03:00.012+01:00

I have the great privilege of being part of the Wesley Study Centre Community in Durham as a part-time diaconal tutor so it was a real treat to be invited to Wesley House, Cambridge and spend some time with the vibrant college community of tutors, students and families. Joining them for food, worship and a teaching session was a joy as we shared in conversation and laughter together.

Stunning buildings of Wesley House, Cambridge (if you look carefully you can see the college cat!)

College Community enjoying a meal together, students and families.

College Chapel

Bank Holidays!!

2011-05-05T09:40:00.002+01:00

What an interesting Bank Holiday long week-end! Yes, I did manage to see something of The Wedding, but spent most of the day making sure I was fully prepared for Canterbury and Monday.
Canterbury was a great week-end visit, with generous hospitality as always. I was there for the bicentenary of the Methodist Church in the city and we celebrated with our ecumenical and other faiths partners as well as with the Methodist family. The services were full of imaginative and inspiring contributions as we gave thanks for the past, rejoiced in the present, and recognised God's call to move forward into the future. The newly written anthem was impressive - and easy to join in with at the right point. Thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make this event, and the following octave of celebration which I could not share, such a worthwhile occasion. And God bless your future ministry among your communities.
Then Monday was the rally to celebrate 10 years of working for The Living Wage for everyone. It was an amazing event - in our Westminster Central Hall once again - and it was a joy to me to be able to speak for Methodism's commitment to pay justly. There were so many ecumenical partners and other faiths represented, as well as those who claim no faith presumably, that it took me quite a while to find many Methodist colleagues in the crowd. Some of course, I met on the way in! It was also a joy to discover how often Methodists figured in the roll call of Living Wage heroes.
FairPensions was launched, and CFB was part of the process, as of course, was the Joint Public Issues Team. Thanks be to God for so many people who are prepared to work out the commitment we made and enable us to live our faith with integrity.

Spennymoor!

2011-05-02T19:18:00.006+01:00

On Sunday 1st May I went home to Spennymoor, the town 6 miles South of Durham where I grew up and my family and my husbands family still live. It was a pleasure to preach at Trinity Methodist Church for their Anniversary in the morning and at the West Durham Circuit Service on the afternoon led by Rev Michael Pullan and Circuit Superintendent Rev Ann Shepherdson.

In the congregation were some of the people who cared for me and nurtured my faith as a young teenager. Amongst those gathered was one of my infant school teachers who could still remember teaching me to read (I fear it may have been a traumatic memory)! It was a great reminder of the importance of encouraging and nurturing others and the precious gift of the community of faith in all our stories.

Eating tea in the hall, that seemed so much smaller than I remembered was wonderful and provided an opportunity for recalling vivid memories of harvest suppers, youth events, bible studies and our wedding reception which was held here in August 1984.

ECG - Llandudno 2011

2011-05-02T17:37:00.024+01:00

ECG (Equipping, Calling, Going) 2011 in Llandudno was an absolutely inspirational event, with over 1,200 people it is one of the largest national gatherings of Methodist people.

Held over five days it succeeded in creating a safe and sacred space of challenge, encouragement and reflection through an all age programme of worship, bible studies, preaching , seminars, debate's and participation in mission through art, conversation and drama.

This years theme was 'Word into Flesh' and although I was only present for three days it was wonderful to see and hear people experience the reality of God's love in so many ways.

Every morning Rev David and Rev Alison Wilkinson led imaginative and interactive bible studies. On Friday morning Alison travelled down to London and spoke to us 'live' from Westminster Central Hall just before the Royal Wedding!

Brian McLaren - Author, Speaker and Pastor led thought provoking and challenging seminars reflecting on what it means to be a christian today particularly to strip away the symbols and status of public religion and examine our authentic selves before God. The framework for this was based on four seasons of spiritual life based on his book, 'Naked Spirituality (which is brilliant).

Simplicity - Spiritual Awakening

Complexity - Spiritual Strengthening
Perplexity-Spiritual Surviving
Harmony-Spiritual Deepening

Click here to visit Brian McLaren's website

During evening worship Rev Ric Stott painted as an offering of worship and reflection. Ric is an art therapist and one of our Venture FX Pioneer ministers working in Sheffield.

The evening celebrations in the main theatre included vibrant worship, preaching and prayer ministry. Hosted by Rev Antony Clowes, Methodist minister based in the Wirral and Amy Wyatt, Assistant Pastor at Swan Bank Methodist Mission.

Evening Themes and Preachers
Thursday - We see, hear and experience the Voice of God through the Word of God (Mike Rayson)
Friday - We see, hear and experience the Voice of God through the person of Jesus (Eunice Attwood)
Saturday - We see, hear and experience the Voice of God through Witnesses in history (Ashley Cooper)
Sunday - We see, hear and experience the Voice of God through a World of Care (Brian McLaren).

Every evening at 9.45 am a late night debate took place hosted by Rev Simon Sutcliffe (Venture FX Pioneer) alongside other options of late night comedy with Andy Kind, Rob Lacey Theatre Company, Sons of Korah, Quizzes and Karoke!

Next Year ECG will be in Southport from Tuesday 10th-Sunday 15th April 2012.

It really is an excellent event, ideal for everyone but especially 20-40's a great place for families, teenagers and young adults to learn,be challenged and experience God.

Click here to visit the ECG website.

Shetland

2011-04-29T15:29:00.014+01:00

Trains were on time; planes were on time;our delightful host met us on time ~ so we made it to the Baptist Church in Dunrossness to be made very welcome and to share in our first Holy Week service. And then we were taken to the manse where we were staying and unpacked! It was a great way to begin what turned out to be a wonderful visit.

On Wednesday we met with a number of people who would not be able to get to our various services and meetings, and that meant we saw a lot of the main island as well. The crofters are amazing folk full of energy and faith, and it was a priviledge to share something of their history and learn about the old ways as well as how they adapt to the new. We saw one of the many small chapels and talked about how they can best be used, and were able to have a brief walk at Eshaness, before travelling to Scalloway for our second service.

The next day Elizabeth Colley showed us round, exploring near her home in Nesting; taking us to Lunna Kirk, where there are memorials to the Shetland bus and some of the Norwegians who died in that war (a fascinating sideways chapel); and then enabling us to visit the Gonfirth Chapel where it may be possible to do all sorts of exciting work, especially with young people

During the afternoon we had a moving Maundy Thursday Communion with one of our retired ministers and his wife, which he was able to lead in part. It was an honour to share with them. And the evening Maundy service was at St. Magnus Episcopal Church, where we shared in both communion and the stripping of the chapel.

Good Friday morning saw us on St Ninian's Isle ~ after a very windy walk ~ and then visiting Ireland (without leaving Shetland!) It was good to meet with friends at their croft and receive yet more island hospitality

Then it was the ferry to Yell and a reflective service at East Yell chapel ~ and more hospitality.

On Saturday there was space to explore the museum in Lerwick and the town itself ~ and an evening meal of Shetland lamb and countless dishes of delicious vegetables.

Sunday was a series of services; two in Lerwick where the youngsters did amazing things with puppets at the second service after breakfast; one in Culswick, which is an isolated chapel to which people will travel for miles for their events (and their food!); and one at Walls where we had all the media input that I need others to provide! A day of great celebration and enormous fun.

Easter Monday we were back on Yell and visiting at a care home. Helen is 103, and only moved in 2 years ago when crofting, even with family help, became finally too much for her - yet another humbling visit among the saints of God.

Time for a little more tourist-type activities and then we were to go home, but not until we had seen the puffins!

Live Below the Line

2011-04-27T20:17:00.002+01:00

Hello. I promise to offer the joys of the Shetland visit very soon ~ after all, I will not be at the wedding of the year! However, this is just a quickie to let anyone who is interested know that I shall be living on less than £1 per day from May 2nd to 4th. Most people are doing the week, but I did not feel I could impose it on those who are already offering me very generous hospitality. If you want to know more try http://my.livebelowtheline.co.uk/alisontomlin

West Yorkshire District

2011-04-20T23:11:00.037+01:00

My West Yorkshire visit began with an evening meal with Rev Peter and Doreen Whittaker joined by guests from around the District.

Touchstone, Bradford
It was great to visit Touchstone and spend time with Rev Barbara Glasson, discussing the challenges of this unique city and the work here of listening, weaving stories and interfaith dialogue. Touchstone was established in 1989 as a Methodist presence in the city of Bradford. Weaving was once very common in Bradford, known as the 'wool capital of the world'. Today Touchstone is providing a place for the weaving of stories and and a place of listening. Touchstone has its own weaving loom (so does Barbara) here I am being taught by Barbara before visiting Bradford Cathedral.

Meeting Awais, a member of staff working with the surrounding communities, listening to her story was inspirational.

Barbara showed me this incredible building which Touchstone are praying might become their future home, providing more flexible accommodation to resource this incredible work.

Click here to visit the Touchstone website

Wesley Playhouse - Howden Clough Methodist Church
A new way of being church a play area and a cafe! This was amazing to visit, a congregation re-imagining how to engage with their communities in an unusual way. The Playhouse provides a fantastic environment for Messy Church and a monthly service for young families.

Click here to visit the Wesley Playhouse website
An added bonus was the Deacons of the West Yorkshire and Leeds District joining us for lunch.

A Noah's Ark Play Area in Church! -Great Fun!

The day ended enjoying a curry in one of the many Bradford Curry Houses with Rev Barbara Glasson before driving home to Newcastle.

Lancashire District

2011-04-18T21:27:00.059+01:00

Transforming Lives and Communities

Lancashire District of the Methodist Church:
Policy 2010 - 2013

Our Promises
We are the Methodist people of God in Lancashire and in the next
3 years, we are responding to God’s loving challenge as we promise to:

Energise discipleship
Enable leadership
Encourage risk
Employ buildings
Embrace technology
Enrich communities
Engage all

Transforming Lives and Communities is the current policy statement of the Lancashire District. Visiting the Lancashire District was great fun with a past President and a past Vice-President the itinerary was an inspiration and I certainly experienced the reality of the above policy statement.

Click here to visit the Lancashire District website

This is my favourite photo of the Rev Stephen (Chair of District) and his wife Deacon Myrtle Poxon and myself taken when Stephen was President of Conference whilst we were all attending the Irish Conference of 2009.

Palm Sunday Evening at St Annes

Palm Sunday evening at St Anne's for a supper of Lancashire Hotpot and red cabbage during cafe worship led by Rev Michael Hughes as I preached and led discussions.

Palm Sunday Afternoon at Burnley

Stephen and I joined Superintendent Minister Rev Phil Clarke and Rev Garo Kilagi at 2.30pm for an inspirational re-opening of Parkside Methodist Church, Burnley. The Church had made a decision to close but after meeting to pray a new vision emerged with a commitment to re-open and discover new ways of engaging in a very poor and disadvantaged area.
An excellent report on Poverty and Inequality (Paper MC1149) at Methodist Council recently reminded us that John Wesley encouraged members of Methodist societies to work directly alongside the poor and reflected that amongst our poorest communities the church is in significant decline. 'For many, living in poverty and living away from the church are synonymous' the church has often pulled out of poor communities, here was an example of a Circuit making a commitment to stay, here at the beginning of Holy Week a visible sign of death and resurrection.

Palm Sunday Morning at Clitheroe Methodist Church

Palm Sunday morning preaching at Clitheroe Methodist Church, sharing worship with Superintendent Rev Tim Thorpe. The folks here are about to embark on a building redevelopment to connect the worship area with the hall.

Midge Hall Methodist Church

At Midge Hall Methodist Church with Rev Phil Gough, Deacon Helen, Rev Kathleen Wood, Rev Stephen Poxon and the local Mayor celebrating the extension of their premises to enable more community outreach work.

District Biblefresh Event
Click here to visit the Biblefresh website

Folks from around the District met to write their contributions to the Biblefresh initiative 'The Handwritten Bible.' The Lancashire District had been given portions of Chronicles and Romans we heard several excellent biblical inputs on the passages.

Rev Lindsay Pettigrew offered this beautiful response to the question, What does the bible mean to you............?'

Thank goodness for weekly preaching. It makes me study scripture in detail constantly. I always use the set readings because I am glad of the discipline of looking at passages I might not choose to look at otherwise. I enjoy the challenge and discovery of scripture. I find it exhilarating often, disturbing sometimes and assuring always. I know I can plunge myself into it's eternal depths and never find the shallows. It will never run out, never fail. It can respond to my failures, needs, longings.Rich, poetic, beautiful and sometimes to be frank odd and scary at first sight. That's why it is not enough to simply read. Read, study, ponder, relate, employ reason, experience, ask the difficult and blunt questions of it and remember it is not merely a book full of merely sentences and words. It is the living word. It has a life and it's life can impregnate yours with all the meaning and purpose you crave. And Yet, we must take great care not to make an idol of it. It is the living word but it is not God. It is no more or less than a means to, one of the means to find God. And you must find God right where you are. Dish washing, child rearing, commuting, socialising, retiring and wondering how you ever found time to work. That is where God is. In the bit of space you occupy in the world and in your eternity to. Your eternity which has already begun. You can pig out on as much spiritual, biblical food as you like. You will never get fat or too full. You may get a heart burn for Christ and seat at the eternal, inexhaustible banquet.

Read more on Lindsay's imaginative blog -
The secret diaries of an ordained girl

Supper at the Manse

Rev Stephen and Deacon Myrtle Poxon frequently offer generous hospitality at the District Manse, people were invited from across the District to enjoy Myrtles delicious food and share in conversation and much laughter, it was a really joyful evening I wish you could all have been there!

Afternoon Tea with the Morecambe Circuit

A new dawn

This Church closed down but then a new vision emerged to start Messy Church and re-engage with the surrounding community. Rev Peter and Carol Brown are committed to discovering what this church can do differently here.

Lunch at the Rectory in Morecambe

Lunch with Debbie Peatman (Churches Together in Lancs) and her husband reflecting on the challenges of ministry in the deprived area of Morecambe and hearing how local Churches are working together.

World Church Evening

At Poulton Methodist Church a World Church evening focused on the recent visit Alison and I made to Israel/Palestine and the District visit to Sierra Leone where a team of people including several doctors and nurses provided valuable training at a Christian Hospital.

Fulwood Methodist Church

Fulwood Methodist Church has recently been refurbished to create a lounge area and new hall, this stunning piece of art was made by the whole church community and a local artist specialising in ceramics.

An all day event at Fulwood Methodist Church bringing together people from around the District working in social action Projects e.g. Thrift Shops, Homeless Support, Youth Work, Luncheon Clubs. An inspiring day listening to people passionately engaged in working alongside vulnerable people.

Methodist Women

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What an amazing gathering at Swanwick! Such an encouragement to meet with Methodist women of every type and age, all coming to work and pray together during this conference about peace and the way of the cross. I was only able to be there for a morning session, when we explored some of the Biblical texts and sought to listen to those on the margins. There was an open sharing , a willingness to be vulnerable, courage to face truth and pay the price, and always the ability to laugh as well. Thank you for inviting me to be part of this. Thank you for being women of faith and love. Thank you for walking the way of the cross and helping to lead the church onward in Christ's name.