The magazine of the parish church of St Nicholas, Brighton
Spring 2010 £1.50 (minimum donation)
St Nicholas’ Church youth group, Christmas 2009
Pope ‘clarifies Anglicanism’ 2
LENT: meaning and readings 4–6
Reflections on Wychcroft 8
Fr Robert’s final Churches Together report 8
Lunchtime concerts 13
Biodiversity Year 14
Gardening top 5 tips� 14
St Nicholas’ bones recalled 16
Shrove Tuesday for kids� 18
Face to Faith: Clive Gardner 21
2
Several people have asked me what the Pope’s
offer to join the Roman Catholic Church really
means. Perhaps these personal thoughts may
help to clarify the situation as I see it.
A new structure within the Roman Catholic
Church which enables former Anglicans
to preserve elements of their own tradition
and forms of worship, I believe, can only
strengthen the identity of the Church of
England. The institution of a structure for
Anglicans to join the Roman Catholic Church,
announced in October, could be seen as
a generous and genuine attempt to widen
the circle of Catholic acceptance to include
Anglicans who are at odds with their own
Church. As we have already seen in the
press, there will be some Anglicans who will
be able to accept this invitation very readily
because they already embrace the essential
of Catholic doctrinal and moral teaching, and
may even be quite regular in their current
use of Catholic liturgical forms of prayer and
worship. Others will find it very difficult to
make such a step even if they are able to
meet the quite stringent conditions which the
Pope has articulated as needing to be met by
Anglicans wishing to ‘cross the Tiber’.
Perhaps the Pope’s approach has helped us
to understand more clearly what it means to
be Anglicans.
Father Robert writes
Pope’s intervention ‘clarifies Anglicanism’
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To describe Anglicanism as Catholic and
Reformed is hardly to say something
highly original. Indeed it can sound rather
hackneyed in these days when both/
and rather than either/or is at the heart of
conventional wisdom. Being Catholic and
Reformed is what it means to be Anglican;
but we do have to be clear what ‘and’ means
in this particular case.
It does not mean that Anglicanism can
contain those who call themselves Catholic
but are not open to the promptings and
principles of the Protestant Reformation.
The Holy Father knows that and so I believe
that he is saying: ‘here is a Church which
is Catholic in that kind of way, here we are,
come and join us and we will amend the
requirements a little so as to make things a
bit easier for you to join us and us to accept
you’. As I say a genuine and generous offer
which some may wish to embrace. But
neither can Anglicanism contain those who
subscribe to the Protestant Reformation and
reject the traditions of Catholic Christianity
altogether. There are Churches which
emerged from the Reformation precisely to
express such a position and they are easy
to join so long as one can subscribe to their
confessional formulae.
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So Anglicanism, as I see it, cannot entertain
a Catholic enclave hermetically sealed
against the essentials of Protestantism; nor a
Protestant enclave which rejects Catholicism
root and branch.
To be an Anglican is to affirm what is Catholic
and Reformed in our patrimony. The ‘and’
does not entail discreet groups who are one
or the other.’ It entails all Anglicans being
both – not necessarily in equal measure –
some will be more Catholic than Reformed
and some more Reformed than Catholic.
Both ingredients are necessary if Anglicanism
is to thrive in the face of exclusivist and
fundamentalist tendencies.
I guess that is why I am an affirming catholic
and an affirming protestant which is also
why I seem to have ended up as a confirmed
liberal!
I believe this is important:
Firstly because those of a Catholic tendency
and a Protestant tendency need each
other. The inherited riches of the undivided
Church need to be informed by the insights
of reformed Christianity, especially when it
comes to ensuring that our faith can indeed
be proclaimed afresh in each generation. As
the Jesuit Hans Waldenfels has put it, the
future Church must experience itself not only
as mater and magistra (mother and teacher – to
use the phrase of Pope John XXlll), but even
more as a disciple who learns from others. By
affirming Catholicism and Protestantism we are
opening ourselves up to learn from others – and
that goes to the heart of what Anglicans mean
by discipleship.’
Secondly, in a world of disasters, divisions and
dislocations we must learn how to do difference
differently. Instead of drowning out one tune
with another, or trying to achieve artificial
harmonies, we may need to learn to hear two
tunes at once, and discover something which
transcends what either can communicate on its
own.’
The third, and most important, is for us to
affirm both Catholicism and Protestantism
matters because it is that capacity for inclusion
and compassion, dialogue and civilised
disagreement which will enable Anglicanism to
forswear drawing ever more extended circles
of sin, and to draw ever more charitable circles
of acceptance which will err on the side of
generosity and thereby err on the side of God’s
grace which loves us as we are – and loves us
too much to leave us that way.
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LentThe word Lent comes from an old Middle English word ‘Lente’ which means ‘Springtime’. It is the period of forty days preceding Easter. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday (17 February this year) and ends on Easter Day.
Why is Lent importantLent gives us an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of the Easter story. It is a special time when many Christians make an effort tot eat simply, to pray and read the Bible more and to think very seriously about their lives in the light of Jesus’ teaching.
Ash Wednesday (17 February)The first day of Lent (except in the Orthodox Church). In a special service, the palm crosses left from the previous year’s Palm Sunday service are burnt and the ashes are used to make the sign of the Cross on the worshippers’ foreheads. Ashes are a symbol of penitence and sorrow for sin. The Christian marked with ashes in this way shows his or her wish to observe Lent seriously.
This year Ash Wednesday is on the 17 February. There will be the Imposition of Ashes at both the 10.30am Eucharist and the 8.00pm Sung Eucharist at St Nicholas’. Like Good Friday, many Christians observe Ash Wednesday, as a day of both fasting and abstinence. Some people try to give up something.
Also during Lent there will be home study groups, this year focusing on When I Survey…Christ’s cross and ours.
We have used the York courses before and this Lent the When I survey….Christ’s cross and ours brings these leading Christian thinkers into your 2010 Lent Group.
Dr David Hope (Archbishop of York from 1995-2005) introduces the course. General Sir Richard Dannatt – Chief of the General Staff and professional Head of the British Army until his retirement in August 2009. The Reverend John Bell – sacred music specialist from the Iona community and an ordained minister of the Church of Scotland. The Reverend Dr Colin Morris (preacher at St Nicholas’ last year) former President of the Methodist Conference and Head of Religious Broadcasting at the BBC, Colin provides the Closing Reflection at the end of each session. Dr Christina Baxter CBE – Principal of St John’s Theological College, Nottingham and Lay Chair of the General Synod of the Church of England.
When I Survey… The death of Christ is a dominant and dramatic theme in the New Testament. So it’s not surprising that, over the centuries, the Cross has become the symbol of the Christian faith. But Christians do not honour a dead hero; we worship a Living Lord.
According to the Bible, the death of Jesus is not the end of a track – it’s the gateway into life. His crucifixion gives rise to many key themes and you’ll explore some of these in this course including: the place of silence in our noisy world; despair and hope; a suffering world; the challenge of livings as disciples when Christianity is no longer mainstream….
5 sessions1. Darkness at Noon 2. Into Great Silence 3. The Child on the Cross 4. Outside a City Wall 5. Touching the Rock
The course booklet As in other years, the course booklet, written this year by theologian and author Reverend Dr John Pridmore, includes questions aimed at stimulating lively group discussion.
By the time you read this you will find all the groups listed on the board at the back of the church, so have a look to see where they meet, what day of the week, the leaders and hosts etc. Please don’t delay your decision too long or you may find the group you want has filled up. The only cost, apart from everyone bringing something for a simple shared meal, is a contribution of up to £2.00 each towards the York course material. Many people have found the easy social setting and the ‘bring and share’ meal has led to new friendships forming. House groups are an important part of life at St Nicholas’. Please feel free to contact Fr Robert or Churchwarden Joan or the group leaders if you want more information.
In addition, you might prefer to make a special point of coming to one of the other weekly services or, if you prefer to work on your own, get hold of a good spiritual book. See the list of suggested reading below. St Nicholas’ Library is there for your convenience too; please feel free to browse. Whatever you might choose, I hope your search will be rewarding. Remember, God has already found us and wants to make himself known. For our part, if we want to continue on the road, we simply have to find the time and space to listen.
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Suggested reading for Lent
points and uses the same reflection format. The meaning and significance of the resurrection how it was first communicated and how it is communicated to us today, are explored by piecing together these sayings of Jesus.
The Favourable Time: The CAFOD/Christian Aid Lent Book 2010The season of Lent is a privileged time of the year. It offers us the opportunity to stand back from our daily activities and cares, and to ask:
‘Where are they all leading?’, ‘What is the purpose of them all?’ Every year in the Christian Aid/CAFOD Lent Book, six writers invite us to dedicate some time each day to listening to the Lord speaking to us through the readings of the day, so that we might draw closer to God through prayer and contemplation, and through the renewal of our lives.
The Gospel in the Willows: Forty Meditations Inspired by The Wind in the WillowsLeslie J Francis £5.95 This beautiful book, which may be used as a daily devotional through Lent or any other period of the year,
reopens Kenneth Grahame’s classic children’s novel The Wind in the Willows for a new audience. Combining a daily reading from the literary classic with a gospel passage, a short meditation by Leslie Francis and a prayer, The Gospel in the Willows takes us on a journey through the Christian life, exploring themes such as The Call, Shaking the Dust, Finding Acceptance, Divided Loyalties, Real Repentance, Facing Temptation, The Lost Son and Accepting Release. The much-loved characters of Mole, Rat and Toad become the perfect allegory for the grand adventure of faith, from our terrifying first steps into and beyond the riverbank, to the challenges, temptations and triumphs that await us as we journey into the world,with Jesus by our side.
Walking with Jesus through Lent and Easter: A ‘Visual Pilgrimage’ for Families and ChurchesMurray McBride £11.99 This is designed to help adults and children to prepare for Easter together by entering a ‘visual
Our Sound is Our Wound: Contemplative Listening to a Noisy WorldLucy Winkett £9.99Our lives are lived against the backdrop of an internal and external soundscape. The sounds, noises
and music with which we are surrounded in modern life have spiritual implications. There is also a soundtrack within us that plays constantly through memory, dreams, anxiety or thought. What are these soundscapes, and how do we listen for the voice of God within them. How too do we find our own voice? These questions bring together the previous academic interest (history, sociology) and the present, practical life (public ritual, music, public speaking) of an author who is sensitive to the cadences of modern life, and reflects on this through the prism of Scripture and the tradition.
A Bit Like Jesus Robin Gill £6.99Not even the most dedicated follower of Jesus is really just like him. So what is it to be even a little like Jesus? The kingdom of God is central to Jesus’ message and, from
the stories about Jesus and the stories he told, we can discover the values that rule in the kingdom, and whether those values are ours. A Bit Like Jesus is written for busy people on this journey of discovery. While focusing particularly on the healing stories and parables of Jesus, Robin Gill offers a short meditative piece for every day (except Sunday) during the six weeks of Lent. At the end of each meditation, there are readings from the Psalms and the Qur’an for reflection. Robin Gill is Michael Ramsey Professor of Modern Theology at the University of Kent and Honorary Canon of Canterbury Cathedral, as well as parish priest of two villages in Kent. In the past he has held professorships at Edinburgh and Newcastle.
The Things He Said: The Story of the First Easter DayStephen Cotrell £6.99The follow-up to the author’s highly successful The Things He Carried, this book takes the post-resurrection sayings of Jesus as starting- continued…
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Suggested reading for Lent continued
pilgrimage’ - a spiritual exploration through Lent that culminates with the celebration of Easter. Each creative and thought-provoking reflection invites adults and children to share the journey at their own level by making a special time in the day to reflect on the Easter story. As we prayerfully join Jesus on a spiritual journey, we may pause a while and consider not only the choices set before Jesus but the choices that we make in life. The material is ideal for families and church-based children’s groups. The seven weekly themes each unpack different aspects of Jesus’ ministry, starting with the call to follow him and focusing on key aspects of this teaching, including miracles, parables and mission. Each theme helpfully provides five days’ worth of material until Holy Week is reached, whereupon there is a reflection for each of these special days concluding with Easter Day itself. Each daily reflection is accompanied by a photocopiable illustration, designed to draw participants deeper into the Lenten journey as they colour in this part of the story. Each illustration then
Poetry corner
Beautiful dreamer
Stephen Foster
Beautiful dreamer, wake unto me, Starlight and dewdrops are waiting for thee;Sounds of the rude world heard in the day,Lull’d by the moonlight have all pass’d away!
Beautiful dreamer, queen of my song,List while I woo thee with soft melody;Gone are the cares of life’s busy throng.
Beautiful dreamer, awake unto me!Beautiful dreamer, awake unto me!
Beautiful dreamer, out on the sea,Mermaids are chaunting the wild lorelie;Over the streamlet vapors are borne,Waiting to fade at the bright coming morn.
Beautiful dreamer, beam on my heart, E’en as the morn on the streamlet and sea;Then will all clouds of sorrow depart,
Beautiful dreamer, awake unto me!
builds into a storyboard frieze that can be hung on the wall or unfolded on the floor, where the gospel story gradually unfolds in a memorable visual drama. Walking with Jesus though Lent and Easter was written when Murray McBride left parish ministry to become a full-time minister in the Royal Army Chaplains Department. The daily reflections are based on the experiences of his first twelve months in the army while on operational tour in Iraq. During this time, Murray felt strongly that his experience in some way echoed the adventure and uncertainty of the first disciples as they left the security of home and responded to the life-changing call to follow Jesus on a journey of faith. Murray McBride worked as an evangelist with the Church Army for over ten years before being ordained. He then worked in parish ministry in Lincolnshire and Cumbria before becoming a chaplain with the Royal Army Chaplains Department and has served on operations both in Iraq and Afghanistan. His published books include Walking with Jesus through Advent and Christmas and Living Church.
A February Rose
My love, she likes a red, red roseOf deep magenta hue,A gift for Valentine that showsThat someone’s love is true.
But think on this, my bonnie lass,As you admire the bloom – That flower’s been forced on under glassYou ought to wait till June!
The Bargain
Sir Philip Sidney
My true love hath my heart, and I have his,By just exchange one for another given:I hold his dear, and mine he cannot miss,There never was a better bargain driven:My true love hath my heart, and I have his.
His heart in me keeps him and me in one,My heart in him his thoughts and senses guides:He loves my heart, for once it was his own,I cherish his because in me it bides:My true love hath my heart, and I have his.
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CHURCH FLOWERS APPRECIATIONDespite the inclement weather at the time, the flower arrangers under the guiding eye of Gaye Harris still managed to decorate the church beautifully for Christmas, and I am grateful to them for their hard work under adverse conditions – thank you. Fr Robert
PHOTOGRAPHIC COmPETITIONThe snow over the past month may have caused us all a bit of inconvenience but nobody could deny that the snowy scenes around Brighton and in particular around St Nicholas’ Church have been especially beautiful. Have you been out and about with your camera taking in the snowy scenery? If you have taken some interesting shots of the wintery scenes around St Nicholas’ Church and the Parish, why not have a bit of fun and enter our photographic competition? Send or hand your entries to me, Ros Addison, by Sunday 14th March. The pictures will be judged by professional photographer and member of St Nicholas, Pete Jones, Father Robert and me. The winner will be announced at the Easter Sunday service and a suitable prize presented!
NATIONAL NEST BOX WEEK 14 – 21 FEBRUARY
Spring is coming soon, and your garden birds will need homes in which to lay their eggs. You could help them by providing a next box. Go to: www.bto/nnbw/index.htm for a great range of ideas on what birds consider to be ‘desirable’ residences.
EASTER CARdS
Order your Easter cards through St Nicholas Parish Office! Matthew Andrews’ colour photograph of the depiction of Christ carrying his cross – a window in St Nicholas’ Church – is now on sale. Contact: Lynn Rashid (Administrator) on 0774 619 8026
GOOd STEWARdSHIP Please consider placing your monetary gift in the yellow envelope in your seat and completing the details. We can then reclaim the tax. Thank you. Also if you feel called to help with the running of St Nicholas’, which includes such things as flower arranging, serving, reading in church, standing as a Synod Representative or PCC Trustee, leading intercessions, leading a discussion group, providing a welcome at the church door as a steward, teas/coffees, etc, etc, etc. Please do speak with Fr Robert, in the first instance, and he will point you in the right direction.
ST NICHOLAS AWAY GIvINGSt Nicholas’ Give-as-you-go- scheme
Please do support the charities you have chosen (see page 9). On the third Sunday of the month there is plate at the door for your donations. Thank you.
dONATIONS BOARd AT THE BACK OF THE CHURCHLetters of thanks from charities are posted on this board for members of the congregation to read and to remind you their work. Your continued prayers are asked for the charities we support.
NoticesThe Parish Office Mon�Tue�Thur�Fri:�9am–12noon�Wed�11.30am�–�2.00pm
Administrator�Lynn�Rashid��Telephone�0774�619�8026�Email�[email protected]
HENRy�BRUCE�PHoToGRAPHy
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Wychcroft Parish Weekend
Reflections…
Revd Jessica Aidley
Being new to the congregation at St Nick’s, I thought it would be a good idea to join the group for the weekend retreat at Wychcroft, so that I would get to know some people, and share something with them. I was right, it was the perfect thing to do, starting with conversations in the car on the way up, and the fact that we sat with different people (as far as possible) at every meal. Wychcroft is perfect for such weekends because it has a large central hall where there are endless cups of tea and coffee on offer, plus delicious cakes and biscuits (even wine some of the time). Everyone congregates in there or in the main room which opens off it. Unlike most venues, it isn’t easy to get lost and the views from the bedrooms are beautiful.
The retreat itself was also very good, and we spent a mixture of time all together and in smaller groups. In the latter we really listened to each other - which was so different from the quick exchanges we can normally have, and often very moving. It was such a privilege to be there. There was more time for sharing during our walks in the rain, and time for laughter in the ‘concert’ on the Saturday evening, when various members of the group kept us amused in a variety of ways! The theme for the weekend was about our journeys, and what new thing God might be calling us to now, and how we can commit to it. As a newly arrived assistant priest making the decision to be with you all, the timing of this was perfect for me. As well as convincing me that I have made the right decision - you are a truly welcoming People of God! - I am really grateful to all those people who planned it and to Father Philip who led it.
Joan Rayment
About 30 people from St Nick’s arrived at Wychcroft on a cold Friday afternoon last November. The house in the middle of the country side was warm and welcoming with Chris, the leader at Wychcroft, greeting us with tea and home-made cakes! We all found our warm bedrooms with comfy beds and duvets, and lovely views from our windows. A little later we gathered for supper.
Chris and his team cook the most delicious meals which are served in a light and airy dining room. These delicious meals, with time to talk and enjoy each others company, are an important part of our Wychcroft weekend.
The theme of the weekend was Finding Me, Finding God, Finding Life – led by the Rev. Philip Bourne. Philip led our thoughts on this subject; helping us to consider our lives and where we are today! His ministry helped us think quite deeply about our lives with God. In the group discussions, many of us found ourselves sharing honestly and openly with each other.
The Eucharist on Sunday in the Wychcroft Chapel was lovely and meaningful as we experienced a special oneness from ‘living together’ for the weekend!
Finally we enjoyed a good Sunday lunch with thanks and cheers to Chris and his team. And making sure we have the date booked to come again!
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Bonnie Tshuma
Wychcroft
Wychcroft? What a name!!!!
No one would ever think well about it
Wychcroft? What a place!!!!
So near, yet so far away.
We’re living in a troubled time
Troubled minds and troubled signs
Troubled homes with troubled loans
Our spirits are just dried up bones
We need somewhere that we can go
To lift us from this spiritual low
To talk to someone in the know
We need a place where we can go
Jesus often made the case
For finding his own quiet place
A place where he could go and pray
He found Wychcroft for us
Wychcroft is a place to call our own
Away from TV, crowds and phones
A place to water our dry bones
Wychcroft is a place to call our own
Wychcroft is a quiet place just out of sight
There for us all day or night
To think about what’s wrong and right
Wychcroft is a quiet place just out of sight
Wychcroft is a quiet place to bow our heads
To say the things that need be said
A place where the Bible is well-read
Wychcroft is a quiet place to bow our heads
Wychcroft is a quiet place to heal our spirit
Anytime that we are near it
Where we can pray and God can hear it
Wychcroft is a quiet place to heal our spirit
It needn’t be in time or space
This thing you call your quiet place
Just something that you can embrace
Where you and God can interface.
Give as you go….January 2010The Clock Tower Sanctuary
www.theclocktowersanctuary.org.uk
The Clock Tower Sanctuary has been operating since November 1997. In this time it has been able to help over 1200 young people who have made thousands of contact visits over this period.
It is a voluntary organisation registered as a Charity, and is Christian in inspiration and supported both spiritually and financially by Churches in Brighton and Hove.
The Clock Tower Sanctuary is committed to the empowerment of socially disadvantaged and often excluded young people and to Equal opportunities for all its service users. It respects the uniqueness of an individual and believes that warmth and support from one person to another can achieve positive change.
Through its commitment to self-empowerment, it believes that given support and encouragement to take responsibility for themselves and their actions, it can help its service users overcome their problems and live fulfilled and fruitful lives.
Other charities for 2010The other charities that we will be supporting this year are: Emmaus, Sussex Beacon, St Paul’s CE Primary School, ActionAid, Medicins sans Frontieres, Brighthelm Drop In Centre, Corporation of the sons of the clergy, St Patrick’s shelter, Chichester Diocesan Family Support, Brighton and Hove Bereavement Support, USPG.
More details about the charities will be outlined in the Easter issue of Directions.
10
Churches Together in Central Brighton and Kemp TownChairman’s�Report,�5�January�2010�at�Brighthelm�URC
We come to another Churches Together annual meeting, and reflecting on the past year I feel that we have much to be thankful for. It has been a privilege and honour to serve as chairman of Churches Together in Central Brighton and Kemp Town for the last three and a half years. During that time we have tried to ensure the work of CTiCBKT continues and prospers.
When I arrived in Brighton I am reported to have said that I want ours to be a shared ministry and indeed that is what I continue to believe and work towards and I have been blessed in the support I have received from each of you and especially my other elected colleagues; Rev Cynthia Park, Tina Kimmitt (Treasurer) and Jonathan Ockenden (Secretary).
There have been many occasions to rejoice in during the year; a main event has been the Good Friday procession of witness in the city. A number of people have told me that they feel this is one of the best things we do and I am grateful to all who help make it happen. In 2009, we rejoiced in the new banners and logo and are grateful to all who contributed to their creation.
The Lent Lunches hosted at St John the Baptist with worship lead by member churches was very successful as were the Saturday Lent lunches at St Nicholas’. Christian Aid and Cafod were supported through this. In June we welcomed Fr Gareth Jones as a speaker introducing the work of Street Pastors and the proposal of setting up and supporting a Street Pastors Project around St Paul’s and the Old Town. In November we welcomed the Reverend Jessica Aidley, who enlightened us on Julian Spirituality and the value of contemplative
prayer. Ecumenical Julian groups are meeting at both St Nicholas’ and St Mary’s.
Another highlight was the united service for World Aids day at Brighthelm URC. Though, I was involved in all the preparations it was with great sadness that I was unable to be present at the service due to my having been admitted to hospital. I would like to quote from someone who said, ‘The evening had a delightful feel to it and was successful on so many levels; I can’t even begin to list them. However, the deep sense of spirituality was particularly present, and the feedback I received from many people was a testament to this.’
Sadly, due to the awful weather just before Christmas our evening of Carol singing around the city had to be cancelled; though I am grateful to those faithful few who still braved the inclement weather and struggled to the top of the hill to sing! Thank you.
We have sought to promote churches’ various activities through our information table and news and information sharing at each meeting.
Financially we are stable.
Over recent years we have continued to welcome our links with various new church groups and as an Enabling Group we are willing to help any activity that increases shared worship and prayer, dialogue, service and evangelism, and we want to help achieve expressions of our common faith, the sharing of resources, and a united witness to the people of the city. All who share this goal are welcome at CTICB&KT. Though I do think we definitely need more help to enable us to do this better in the future; we look to the Lord and the Annual Meeting to provide the necessary resources for the coming year.
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God’s glory that comes through when we are united in God’s love.
It is love that, when given away freely, draws us into a community, uniting us as one. This is the love that makes us a serving community united in one accord and mission. This love is what shines through each of us as God’s children. Can you imagine how bright the beacon of that love is when we are all shining together – beaming with love through our actions – one in mission?
This is the unity Jesus prays for. This is God glorified in Revelation. This is the unity that celebrates the diversity of all creation. As one body in Christ may we always give thanks for all the gifts that we have been given and rejoice that we are called to use them in service and witness to Christ in the church and community. May we be prepared to preach the gospel with the gentleness of our Lord, to live our lives passionately and intentionally transformed by the Holy Spirit to carry out our ministry fully; remembering that we would do that not so much by what we say but by who we are.
That is my prayer tonight and may it be yours too. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you as your chairman for nearly four years and may God continue to bless us all.
Robert ChavnerChairman, Churches Together in Central Brighton and Kemp Town 2006 - 2010
As I prepare to stand down after three and a half years as Chairman I collect my thoughts around a question, which continues to be asked is ‘What does it mean to be united?’
I believe that the unity that enlarges the kingdom of God is not meant to be a unity that makes us all the same. Unity is not meant to impose the ‘melting-pot’ mentality that destroys cultural, theological, and social distinctions. Rather, the unity of God’s kingdom celebrates the diversity of God’s creation.
The unity of the Gospel requires us to live into the diversity of God’s creation. It requires us to be reconciled with love and compassion to a higher purpose – one that results in unity.
The Christmas message invites us into unity coming from being with God just as God is with us. This awareness of God in our lives and in all of creation, though understood in many ways by different cultures and religions, has one unifying product: shalom. Shalom has to do with the restoration of all creation to right relationship with God.
God’s unity comes from relating to one another inclusively, affirming each person’s expression of God in them and God with them. It is God’s call and prayer for us all to unite in mission – to release those imprisoned by poverty; lack of education; gender inequality; environmental injustices; and lack of adequate health care.
As we approach the Week of Prayer, we are reminded that the prayer that Jesus prays in the Gospel of John is one of unity and witness to the love of God in the world: ‘Righteous Father, the world does not know you, but I know you; and they know that you have sent me. I made your name known to them, and I will make it known, so that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.’ It is
Churches Together in Central Brighton and Kemp TownChairman’s�Report,�5�January�2010�at�Brighthelm�URC
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The beautiful ancient setting of St Nicholas’ Church with its flexible space is an ideal venue for all occasions. If you would like to be considered for an evening concert or a lunchtime recital at St Nicholas’, please contact the Parish Office 0774 619 8026.
Dates for your diaryPlease�keep�these�dates�free�and�join�us!
Beat the Winter Blues Saturday 30 January, 7.30pm, £10 – includes dinner, entertainment and super raffle
CmPCA Winter Social eventSaturday 13 February – Get romantic with Anthony Hawgood and friends For info and tickets: email [email protected] or 07816 403099
Somerville College Choir Concert at St Nicholas’ Church‘Orfeo ed Euridice’ Saturday 13 March at 7.30pm
Evening Concert of Sanskrit Chants at St Nicholas’ ChurchSaturday 20 March
Soul of the City Choir Coffee Concert at St Nicholas’ Church Saturday 10 April at 11.30am
The Annual Family Parish Weekend at Knowles Tooth 201014 – 16 May Details from Fr Robert or Maddy Morton-Smyth
St Nicholas’ Julian GroupContemplative meditation influenced by Mother Julian of Norwich
Just be yourself – in the silenceUnite in prayer with other ChristiansLearn to let go and let goInvite others to joinAdore the Living CreatorNow
Join this contemplative prayer group in the church on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month at 1.00pm. All welcome, of whatever denomination or none. More information from the Revd Jessica Aidley ([email protected] 01273 723298)
A Night at the Opera! Saturday May 22nd By popular request, our opera singing friends who appeared at St Nicholas’ in 2009 have agreed to return to sing for us again. Do not miss it. Watch this space or further details from the Social Committee.
Annual Parish Weekend at Wychcroft 2010The Annual Parish Weekend in 2010 will be 22 – 24 October. Please make a note of these dates in your dairy now!
REGULAR EvENTSSt Nicholas’ Nippers – every Tuesday in term timeSt Nicholas’ Youth Club – every Wednesday in term timeThe Julian Group – first and third Thursdays of the month – see belowChoir Practice (including Junior Choir) – Thursday eveningsFive Rhythms – Every Wednesday at 8.00pmTrance Dance – once a month
Affirming CatholicismInspiration and hope in the Anglican Communion, Chichester Diocese. All Welcome
April 17 Chichester Cathedral: Diocesan Day Conference at George Bell House 10:30am-3:30pm – to include Mass and a play reading. To book contact David Thunder on 01444-417103 or [email protected]. £5:00. Please bring lunch/drinks or buy from the Cloisters Café at the Cathedral.
24 April - with 11.00am Eucharist. Speaker: Sr Frances Dominica ASSP “Swimming Against the Tide”
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Music�at�the�heart��of�the�city
Lunchtime�recitals�at�St�Nicholas’
Every Wednesday at 12.30pm-1pm.A minimum donation of £2.00 towards recital expenses is appreciated Refreshments will be served, but bring your own sandwiches
FEBRUARY 3 Jacquie Currie Mezzo Soprano 10 Norman Armstrong Baritone 17 Sue Mileham Soprano 24 Stephen Carroll Turner Piano
mARCH 3 Patrick Avery / Riko Tanaka Classical
Guitar / Voice 10 Janet Ormerod and Fiona Baines
Mezzo Soprano / Soprano 17 Geoffrey James Bass Baritone / Piano 24 Marion Adler Soprano 31 Michele Roszak and Robert Chavner
Mezzo Soprano / Countertenor Stabat Mater (Pergolesi)
APRIL 7 Stefan Holmstrom Bass 14 James Shenton and Glen Capra
Violin / Piano 21 David Jenner Classical Guitar 28 Ambrose Page Piano
From the registers
Baptisms We welcome into the family of the Church…10 January Albert Edward Hepburne
Scott
SINGINGMore skill = more enjoyment!!
Professional (ex Covent Garden, WNO etc) offers expert tuition
to all ages, all voices.
NICK RABSON-COMMON01273 730727
St Nicholas’ Youth GroupStnicker’s, the Youth Club of St Nicholas’ Church, meets at 6pm every Wednesday, in term time. Come and join in with our great games, activities and treats, including: • Ping-Pong Foozeball • Board Games • Arts and Crafts • Tuck-Shop.
For 2010 we are planning a sponsored all night sleep over in church to raise money for St Nick’s and a Disco Party, which will feature 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes for the Winner of the Disco Dancing Competition!
All children, from all schools and any denomination, are welcome from age 8 years and older, younger children welcome too when accompanied by an adult. Mum and Dads, please come and take part.
Contact the Stnicker’s Youth Club Leader with any questions at: [email protected] or look on the church website, under Groups and Activities.
Friends of St Nicholas’
QUESTION What is the one occasion in March that I must be at?
ANSWER The Friends of St Nick’s Quiz Evening
Sat 27 March is the time to pit your wits (or pick someone else’s brains) against the local intelligentsia. Make up a team or take pot luck.
Drinks at 7pm (first glass of wine only £1) French Onion Soup at 7.30pm. Crudités to munch during the evening on the tables.
Unquestionably brilliant value at only £10. Tickets available from Lynn in the parish office or Sharon and Richard on Sundays.
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Green Spaces
Bishop and mayor plant trees for tree o’clock dayFive new trees were planted in the green spaces surrounding St Nicholas’ Church between 11.00 and 12.00 on December 5.
The first of the trees, a mulberry, was planted in the Churchyard by the Mayor of Brighton and Hove, Cllr Ann Norman, together with Cllr Pete West, the Bishop of St Germans, the Rt Reverend Royden Screech and parish priest, Father Robert Chavner, plus a bit of help from local children!
The planting was organised by the St Nicholas Green Spaces Association (SNGSA) as part of the BBC Breathing Spaces Tree o’Clock project, which aimed to set a world record of new trees planted nationwide in the space of one hour.
As the tree planting event took place on the Feast Day of St Nicholas, some of the children were dressed as characters associated with the legends of St Nicholas who was not only the original Santa Claus, but also the patron saint of fishermen.
The other trees planted on the day were an ash (also in the Churchyard), a flowering cherry, a crab apple tree and a maple (planted in the Rest Garden). Four of the trees were paid for with money raised at the Summer Fete held at the church in June, and one was donated by the Castle School of English on Dyke Road.
Biodiversity Year2010 has been designated the “International Year of Biodiversity” and a number of organisations, including Brighton Council, RSPB, Sussex Wildlife Trust and Natural England are putting together a ‘Big Nature’ programme. This series of events and awareness-raising schemes is an ideal way for local people to get to know more about the wild birds, flora and fauna that inhabit our three green spaces.
Each month is themed, starting with birds in February, and continuing throughout the year with blooming (ie planting), blossom, bees, bugs, butterflies, beaches, bats, bulbs, biodiversity and berries. In fact, anything you can think of to do with nature and beginning with B!
SNGSA will be planning at least one event during the year, so watch this space! “This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone in the community to get involved”, says Lizzie Deane, SNGSA’s biodiversity co-ordinator. “I’d love to hear from anyone in the parish who would like to know more, or take part.”
The event/s will be featured on the Big Nature website and promoted by the Council and the other partners, which should hopefully add to their success.
Anyone who is interested can e-mail Lizzie at [email protected], or drop a note into the church. You can also find out more at www.countdown2010.net/year-biodiversity or www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/index.cfm?request=b1157084
HENRy�BRUCE�PHoToGRAPHy
HENRy�BRUCE�PHoToGRAPHy
Lizzie Deane
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At Stanmer we have learnt a lesson this winter.
As I travelled to work on the train early on Wednesday morning leaving Brighton, the weather was cold but we had escaped the heavy snow that was forecast. As my train sidled through Moulescoomb it was like entering Narnia. Suddenly everything was white. As I arrived at Falmer station so did the snow, in blizzards. As I struggled up the park I realised we had been hit hard and ploughed through deep snow. Whenever we have bad weather I am always slightly cautious entering the nursery as the glasshouses are vulnerable. In the early 80s the parks department lost many glasshouses to the hurricane, literally getting swept off their feet.
Entering the gates I saw what I had been dreading. Standing since 1953 our Hartley Botanic glasshouse had collapsed with the weight snow. We had used this house to sell our plant collections. The new seasons shrub potting had just been completed and was all labelled and ready to go.
Like a sinking ship the glasshouse spent all day groaning and steadily collapsing further into its current state. Fenced off and awaiting quotes for demolition, it is a sorry sight.
We have learnt how vulnerable the glasshouses are to snow, although we were unlucky this time as the snow fell heavily overnight, an appropriate safe working measure will be worked out to limit the damage next time. We are now aware that the south coast is still vulnerable to heavy snowfall and we will be prepared in the future.
For those of you who have small polytunnels or glasshouses on your allotment sites or in your garden, as the snow comes down brush it off to avoid build up but please do it in a safe manner not entering the structure until the weight is lifted.
Stanmer will be re-open again once we have sorted a new retail area and maybe even a new glasshouse. This has put us back a few weeks so we must strive on to prepare for the new season ahead.
Gardening Sarah Carlisle (Sarah runs Stanmer nursery)
Winter�garden�of�the�monthThames Barrier Park, SilvertownThis park is in London, in the docklands, so in no way handy to visit but if you are up that way it is a must. It is unusual as it is a new park built in 2000. It is a fantastic example of modern municipal landscaping. The park is particularly good on a crisp winters day. There is a huge block of planting that only uses blue flowers, divided by lengthy waves of yew hedging emulating the Thames Flood Barrier which lay beside. The park boasts a phenomenal collection of evergreen trees. There is loads of space for the kids run around and a modern pavilion to shelter. www.thamesbarrierpark.org.uk
Top 5 Tips1 Cover rhubarb with a pot to force sweeter stems
earlier.
2 Now the snow has melted get up to those allotments, turn over beds and dig in compost or manure to give it time to breakdown.
3 Prune apple and pear trees, cut out damaged, crossing or crowded wood cut just above a node; aim for a cup shape from the branches.
4 Still time to plant bare root roses, hedging and trees. These will not be available for long, soon the only choice will be containerised which is more expensive.
5 Buy your seed potatoes. These will start appearing in the shops. Infinity do a good organic choice. Place them in full light on trays to ‘Chit’. www.nvsuk.org.uk/growing_show_vegetables_1/chitting-sprouting-potatoes.php (National Vegetable Society website for more detail on chitting). The seed potatoes can go in mid to late March.
Locally look out for Snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis) poking through the soil. Masses of them have been planted in the verges of the Lewes Road. These are a scented, large flowered variety ‘Bertram Anderson’.
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A request by Turkey for the return of St Nicholas’ bones from their current resting place in Italy would be ‘terribly hypocritical’, the founder of the St Nicholas Society, Canon Jim Rosenthal, has said.
Canon Rosenthal, NSM of All Hallows by the Tower, London, has visited Demre in turkey four times. Demre was formerly the Greek city of Myra, where St Nicholas was born and became Bishop in the third century.
Canon Roshenthal said that the town is ‘one huge disappointment’ for pilgrims because of the commercialisation of St Nicholas, and he has called for the Byzantine church to be reopened for worship before there are any moves to return the bones from Bari, in Italy, where they were taken by Italian sailors in the 11th century.
‘I was there just a few months ago, and wasn’t allowed to celebrate Mass in the church, although I went ahead anyway, but risked being incarcerated. They want to build a museum for the relics, but we don’t want them in a museum but in a church. It’s got so commercial there.’
Canon Rosenthal also said that it was particularly galling when a bronze statue of St Nicholas in Demre, donated by the city of Moscow, had been taken down and replaced by a plaster-of-Paris effigy of Santa Claus. This has been replaced in turn by another statue of St Nicholas, after omplaints, but this figure is ‘quite disappointing’ compared with the original, Canon Rosenthal said.
The Turkish Government is said to be considering making a request to Rome for the return of the bones, and a prominent archaeologist in Demre has suggested that the saint asked
during his lifetime, to be buried in his home town.
Canon Rosenthal believes that the fact that relics of St Nicholas in the Antalya Museum, near Demre, have been deemed fake could be the motivation behind the possible overtures to Italy. But after he attended the annual celebration of St Nicholas in Bari, he said that it would be ‘foolish to think the Italians are about to let these bones live somewhere else’.
The English speaking St Nicholas Society was founded in the year 2000, and aims to increase interest and appreciation of St Nicholas, and calls for Christmas to remain a day of Christian celebration.
Turkey may claim St Nicholas’ relics
An image of St Nicholas at an orthodox church
The Friends’ Christmas Fair12 December
That’s candy floss Fr Robert is eating, and a beard Fr Christmas is wearing (we think)
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Womens World Day Of PrayerLet�everything�that�has�breath�praise�God
Although WWDP is chiefly associated with a service held on the first Friday of March in each year, written by a specially chosen country and celebrated in 170 countries, it is nevertheless a worldwide prayer movement which encourages people to pray fall the year round. I hope that through our website you, too, will be encouraged to join us as we pray for our world, with a special focus on women and their needs.
IN THE BEGINNINGThe origins of Women’s World Day of Prayer date back to the 19th century when Christian women in the USA and Canada initiated a variety of cooperative activities in support of women’s involvement in mission, at home and abroad. These activities centred around the following areas:
Concern for women and children – in spite of strong opposition from all-male mission boards, from 1861 onwards women founded numerous and effective women’s boards, from 1861 onwards women founded numerous and effective women’s boards for foreign and home missions, whereby they could work directly with and for women and children
ANdThe role of prayer in mission work – since 1812 women had encouraged one another to engage in personal prayer and lead communal prayer within their mission auxiliaries and associations. This emphasis on prayer led to annual days and week of prayers within individual denominations.
WOmEN’S WORLd dAY OF PRAYER IN THE BRITISH ISLESIt was 1928, at an international missionary conference in Jerusalem, that Scotswoman Grace Forgan first learned of the world day of prayer and brought the news to these islands. The first services were held: 1930 in Scotland 1932 in England 1933 in Wales 1934 in Ireland
The Second World War was a time of great growth – drawing women together in prayer and fellowship.
In 1941 the WWDP office in London was bombed and all property and records destroyed. There was no loss of life and minutes recovered from members enabled the bare bones of the first 9 years to be preserved.
Often the planning committee in London met in an air-raid shelter but every year Orders of Service were produced and supplied to the rest of the country.
It was not until the reforms of the Second Vatican Council that Roman Catholic women were able to take a full part in the day of prayer and in 1967 the day was celebrated at a special service in Westminster Cathedral, by invitation of Cardinal Heenan.
In 1969 the World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations encouraged Roman Catholic women worldwide to participate in WWDP and to make this possible WUCWU moved their own Day of Prayer from march to May.
In 1982 the service was prepared by the women of Ireland, both north and south. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland there are now over 3000 branches holding 5000 services every year. Last year 275,000 copies of the Order of Service were printed.
It is from such roots as these that WWDP has taken its present shape –
A worldwide ecumenical movement of Informed prayer and Prayerful action.
This year the Women’s World Day of Prayer is on Friday, March 5th.
The service in Brighton will be held at Chapel Royal at 7.30pm.
The service has been prepared by the women of Cameroon.
Kids Corner
Shrove TuesdayShrove Tuesday is the day before Lent starts: the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. It’s a day of penitence, to clean the soul, and a day of celebration as the last chance to feast before Lent begins.
Shrove Tuesday is sometimes called Pancake Day after the fried batter recipe traditionally eaten on this day. But there’s more to Shrove Tuesday than pigging out on pancakes or taking part in a public pancake race. The pancakes themselves are part of an ancient custom with deeply religious roots.
Shrove Tuesday celebrationsShrove Tuesday is a day of celebration as well as penitence, because it’s the last day before Lent.
Lent is a time of abstinence, of giving things up. So Shrove Tuesday is the last chance to indulge yourself, and to use up the foods that aren’t allowed in Lent.
Giving up foods: but not wasting themDuring Lent there are many foods that some Christians - historically and today - would not eat: foods such as meat and fish, fats, eggs, and milky foods. So that no food was wasted, families would have a feast on the shriving Tuesday, and eat up all the foods that wouldn’t last the forty days of Lent without going off. The need to eat up the fats gave rise
to the French name Mardi Gras (‘fat Tuesday’). Pancakes became associated with Shrove Tuesday as they were a dish that could use up all the eggs, fats and milk in the house with just the addition of flour.
The origin of pancake racingPancake races are thought to have begun in 1445. A woman had lost track of the time on Shrove Tuesday, and was busy cooking pancakes in her kitchen.
Suddenly she heard the church bell ringing to call the faithful to church for confession. The woman raced out of her house and ran all the way to church; still holding her frying pan and wearing her apron.
Going for gold in the pancake OlympicsOne of the most famous pancake races is held at Olney in Buckinghamshire over a 415 yard course. The rules are strict; contestants have to toss their pancake at both the start and the finish, as well as wearing an apron and a scarf. The race is followed by a church service.
Since 1950 Olney has competed with Liberal in Kansas, which holds an identical race, to see which town can produce the fastest competitor. After the 2000 race, Liberal was leading with 26 wins to Olney’s 24.SoURCE�BBC.Co.Uk
18
19www.ActivityVillage.co.uk - Keeping Kids Busy
Pancake Day Word Find
How many times can you find the word pancake?
20
February flavours
Orange and passion fruit salad with cardamom syrupServes 4-5
5 large oranges75g golden caster sugar5 cardamom pods, lightly crushed5-6 passion fruits, halved1-2 tbsp lemon juice1-2 tbsp orange blossom water
Thinly pare the zest of 1 orange using a potato peeler. Cut the strips into thin shreds, place in a sieve and pour a kettleful of boiling water over them. Leave to drain.
Place the caster sugar in a small pan with 4 tablespoons of water and the crushed cardamom pods, heat slowly until the sugar melts, then let it boil for 2-3 minutes. Scoop the passion fruit pulp into the syrup with the strips of orange zest and stir well to break up the passion fruits. Allow the mixture to cool. Add some lemon juice to taste.
Peel all the oranges, removing all the white pith and cut into thin slices. Arrrange them on a deep plate and spoon the syrup over. Chill until ready to serve, then sprinkle with the orange flower water.
Claudia Roden’s Orange CakeServes 12 or more
2 oranges 6 eggs250g sugar2 tbsp orange blossom water1 tsp baking powder250g blanched almonds, coarsely ground
Wash the oranges and boil them whole for 1½ hours or until very soft
Beat the eggs with the sugar. Add the orange blossom water, baking powder and almonds and mix well
Cut open the oranges, remove the seeds, and puree in a food processor
Mix thoroughly with the egg and almond mixture and pour into a 23cm oiled cake tin dusted with flour.
Bake in a pre-heated 190°/gas 5 oven for an hour before turning out.
Ros Addison
Just�when�you�think�the�weather�can’t�get�any�greyer�or�the�long�nights�any�colder,�along�come�oranges�at�the�peak�of�their�form�to�give�us�all�a�much-needed�shot�of�warm,�vibrant�colour�and�taste.�oranges�are�at�their�best�in�January�and�February.
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What brought you to St Nicholas’ Church?I moved into my flat near the Palace Pier and started going to my local Anglican church (St Mary’s, Upper Rock Gardens). Then they said it was going to close so I spent a couple of months trying out other churches within walking distance. St Nick’s won because of its friendliness.
What is your earliest memory?Visiting primary school on an “introduce-new-kids-to-the-school-so-that-when-they-have-to-come-for-their-first-day-they-won’t-be-terrified” day. It was all very big and scary.
When were you happiest?In my last year as Vicar of Cumnor (near Oxford). I was enjoying the job, but pleased that I had made the decision to ‘come out’ as a gay man a few months later.
What is your greatest fear?Dying with half the music left inside me.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?Learning to control how I respond in any and every situation, rather than letting events control me. I’m still learning that one.
What do you think is the best thing about your local community?The fact that you can walk down St James’ Street wearing what you like, and no one gives you a second glance. Actually, that’s not quite true. On the odd occasion I’ve walked down there wearing a dinner suit, I’ve been on the receiving end of some really aggressive looks.
Who has been the biggest influence in your life?A The Clash B CS Lewis C A friend I’ve had since I was a teenager. He makes being good seem attractive.
Have you always been a Christian and how important is your faith to you?I became a Christian when I was eleven. Jesus is everything to me: my joy, my love, my deepest desire.
What was your most embarrassing moment?When I was a Vicar we had a new bishop. He had a service and there were refreshments afterwards. I had arrived on my motorbike so was wearing my black leather biker jacket, my black leather biker jeans, my black leather biker boots, and holding my black leather biker gloves and my black biker helmet. He came up to me and said “So, do you ride a motorbike then?” I said, “No, I just have a fetish for leather.” He said “Oh,” and walked off. Without smiling.
To whom would you most like to say sorry and why?To my Mum (now deceased). I was too hard on her when I was a younger man.
What is the best job you’ve done?Vicar of Cumnor. I loved the variety of people I met and especially what the children could teach me. Once I did an assembly and told the story of elephant and monkey who lived in the jungle. They were good friends, but each secretly wanted to be like the other. So elephant tried to peal bananas, but just squashed them, and monkey tried to knock trees over with his head but just got very bad headaches. So their mutual friend lion got them together and told them not to be so silly, as they were both wonderful and both special the way they were. A nice story and the kids seemed to like it. As they were leaving though, one came up to me. “Thank you for the story, Clive“ she said. “I really liked it. But don’t forget, you’re special too.”
What do you like most about St Nicholas’ Church?The fantastic people, the great hymns, the moving liturgy. Oh, and the fact that we have wine after more services than any other church I’ve ever been to.
Face to Faith: interviews to encourage the pilgrimage of faith
Clive Gardner
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Highly recommended by well known chefs Rick Stein and Antony Worrall Thomson.
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CHURCH CHOIR St Nicholas’ Singers: rehearsals are held in church on Thursday evenings at 7.30pm. New singers always needed – soprano, alto, tenor and bass. We sing each Sunday at the 10.30am Parish Eucharist and on other special occasions too. Come and be part of this dedicated team – it’s fun and we always seek to enjoy ourselves. Contact Nicholas Warden 07711 322946
ContactsvicarFr Robert Chavner TSSFSt Nicholas’ Vicarage8 Prestonville Road, Brighton, BN1 3TL01273 709045Fr Robert Chavner is available for help at all times. He is happy to visit parishioners at their hospital beds or at home, and will be grateful to be advised of any need. Please note that whenever possible he will keep Friday as his ‘free’ day.Hon assistant priestsRevd Canon Richard Buck 01273 710155Fr Andrew Henderson 01273 327829Fr Robert Easton (Chaplain, Brighton College) 07793 417431Revd Jessica Aidley07807 080652ChurchwardensJoan Rayment 01273 672526Veronica Thomason 01273 205004deputy churchwardensMichael Fisher 01273 729139Alan Beckenhem 01273 818512vergerMatthew Suter 07878 928684The Parish OfficeMon, Tue, Thur, Fri: 9am–12 noonWed 11.30am – 2.00pmLynn Rashid 0774 619 [email protected] of musicNicholas Warden 07711 322946
St Nicholas’ Parish Church, Dyke Road, Brighton
Sunday worship 8.00am Holy Eucharist 10.30am Parish Eucharist
with Junior Church and Creche 6.00pm Evening Worship as announced
Weekday worshipWednesday 10.30am Holy EucharistSaints and Holy Days as announcedMorning Prayer is said every weekday in church at 8.30am (Saturday 9am)
The Ancient Mother Church of Brighton Website: www.stnicholasbrighton.org.uk
The laying on of hands for healing is offered at the Parish Eucharist on the first Sunday of each month and at the Eucharist on the first Wednesday of each month
Holy Baptism, Banns of Marriage, Weddings and Funeral Services should be arranged with the Vicar
Sacrament of Reconciliation and Counselling – confessions can be heard after any Eucharist or by arrangement with the clergy
OrganistJonathan Leigh 07904 658083Church bookingsParish Administrator: 0774 619 [email protected] Together in Central Brighton and Kemp TownChairman: Rev David ColemanReps: Tina Kimmitt, Jonathan Ockenden, Louise SchweitzerServersHeather Wilkin (adults) 207394 Amanda Ogilvie (children) 709385BellsMarion Huang 01273 728343Practice night Mon 7.45–9.15 pm 2nd and 4th at St Nicholas’ 1st, 3rd and 5th at St Peter’sChurch flowersGaye Harris 01273 203418Junior churchPeggy Guggenheim 01273 841723 Anne Cross 01273 737652Joanne Morrell 01273 242836Stnickers Youth GroupNicoletta Warden 07901 851703St Nicholas’ NippersJoan Rayment 01273 672526SafeguardingNigel Nash 01273 689765Friends of St NicholasRichard Hall 01273 775393 [email protected] Roll officerSharon Baxter 01273 778750
PCCMatthew Burrows, Angi Drew, Margaret Funnell, Lucy Grout, Andrew Lamb, Rebecca Morgan, Maddy Morton-Smyth, Stephen Tucker, Julie Watson, Kevin WestgatePCC SecretaryAnna Golawski 01273 738534PCC TreasurerJulian Laing 01273 731969PCC Sub-Committee ChairsFabric: Robert MintonFinance: Mike JacksonSocial: Roberta Woodhouse (secretary)Home and Overseas Giving: Terry PotterChurch Bookings Management Committee: Julie Watsondeanery Synod representativesCheryl Brown, Michael Fisher,Nigel NashGift Aid SecretaryJennifer Westwood 01273 723015WebsiteKarim Hyatt 07985 991199 [email protected] (parish newsletter)Editor: Ros Addison 01273 778152 [email protected]
Articles for the next edition of Directions to reach the editor by Sun 14 March for publication on Sun 28 March
