SPRING 2015
Internet site: www.stjamesthegreater.org.uk
Church Office email address: [email protected]
SUNDAY WORSHIP 8.30 am Holy Communion 10.30 am Choral Eucharist
6.30 pm Choral Evensong & Sermon
A CHILDREN'S SUNDAY CLUB
in the Church Hall in school term time starting off in church at 10.30 am
MIDWEEK HOLY COMMUNION
8.15 reverting to 7.15am BST Tuesdays 10.15 am Thursdays
See Calendar for variations and details of services on saints' days
MINISTRY TEAM Vicar
Canon Glynn Richerby BD AKC
St James the Greater Vicarage 216 London Road
Leicester LE2 1NE
0116 254 4113
Associate Non-Stipendiary Priest
Revd Jane Sharp
0116 270 6002
Honorary Associate Priests
Revd David Clark BA Canon Henry Evans MA
0116 255 8988 0116 270 0954
Very Revd Dr Derek Hole Hon LLD Hon DLitt
0116 270 9988
Readers
Mr David Brunning MA Mr Anthony Green BA
0116 241 8742 0776 970 2272
Dr Angela Jagger PhD BA Mr John Raven MA
0116 271 9185 0116 270 7591
Pastoral Assistant Sacristan
Miss Vicky Roe BPhil.Ed MA Mrs Janet Burton
0116 255 2108 0751 035 3097
In this SPRING 2015 issue …
SERVICE TIMES & MINISTRY TEAM ………………………………..….…… 2
THE VICAR on Flying the Flag & The English Spirit ………………………..... 4
PROFILE of Phil Jones – serving the church & cycling for charity ………..…. 6
RICHARD III & Christ the King …...…………………………...………..…… 8
A SMALL WORLD … and back to the big world for Jane Sharp ...............…..10
WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Vicky Johnson to be a Residentiary Canon ..… 11
WOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER – focus on The Bahamas ……...… 12
ANNUAL REVIEW – get registered to vote & be at the AGM …………….12
CALENDAR OF SERVICES & EVENTS ………………………...…….…….. 13
FLIGHT OF ANGELS – the Sixteen with Harry Christophers ......................... 17
BISHOP’S VISIT – Confirmation Service on 7 June ………………………… 17
PROVOCATIVE WORDS on Migration by David Clark …………...…...…. 18
A NEW CHALICE – a gift in memory of Brenda Groves …………..……… 22
BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE brought up to date by Barbara Penrose …….. 23
OBITUARIES Sylvia Seabrook, Ian Stevens and Vivian Edwards ……….….... 24
COMMEMORATIVE FLOWERS ……………...……………….....….….…… 27
WHAT’S ON & WHO’S WHO ……………………...……….. see back cover
Copy for the SUMMER 2015 edition of the Quarterly
should reach the Vicar by Friday, 24 April 2015
YOUR QUARTERLY DISTRIBUTOR IS:
…………………………………………………….. TEL’ ………………...….
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The Vicar writes …
FLYING THE FLAG is something we do at St James the Greater to signify special days in both the Christian calendar and our national life.
Among forthcoming commemorations, expect to see the flag flying on 1 March for St David’s Day, 17 March for St Patrick’s Day and 23 April for St George’s Day. These are both Christian and national celebrations of patron Saints respectively for Wales, Ireland and England. St Andrew, Patron Saint of Scotland, has to wait until 30 November.
It may seem perverse that the flag on our church pole for all of these patronal occasions is
the flag of St George, when the flag of the United Kingdom – the Union Flag – is a combination of
the three different crosses of St Andrew, St Patrick, and St George.
But the official flag of the Church of England is that of England – St George.
It is deeply regrettable that the cross of St George is misappropriated by extreme nationalists and has become a symbol of fear to some ethnic and religious groups. Once, at a time of heightened tensions caused by the English Defence League (EDL), I was taking down the flag when a passing group of teenagers in traditional Muslim dress courteously asked me why our church supports the EDL! Young Muslim children at the school my wife teaches at in Highfields from time to time ask her the same question. This is cause not to abandon the flag but to explain its true significance.
In the course of recovering a proper sense of being English, we need to ensure that we devalue no one else’s identity in the process, but rather delight in what the former Chief Rabbi termed “the dignity of difference”. Political policies that aim to ensure the dignity and safety of all citizens sharing in the life of our nation will be among vital concerns for responsible voters as we approach a General Election on 7 May.
Meanwhile, as well as saints’ days there are major Christian festivals to share with the general public through the flying of the flag – Palm Sunday on 29 March and Easter Day on 5 April. There is a sense in which we keep Holy Week and Easter on behalf of passers by.
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English Spirit The overarching theme of Lent 2015 is to be ‘English Spirituality’. This is something broader than wistful notions of a Christian England – taking into account all that has influenced and shaped the souls of English people. At a time when the Scots, the Welsh and the Irish have a growing sense of who they are, there are calls for the English to become clearer about their own identity. It seems to me that the Church of England should have a leading role in helping to identify a spiritual dimension to what it is to live and move and have our being in England.
I have invited four guests to speak at Evensongs in Lent. They are to address the theme of the English Spirit from their knowledge of music, literature, art and the English spiritual tradition. They are Neil Crutchley, former music critic of the Leicester Mercury (February 22); Richard Gill, a lifelong teacher of literature (March 1), Alan Caine an artist and lecturer at the Richard Attenborough Centre (March 8); and Rosy Fairhurst, a newly arrived Canon at the Cathedral with a keen interest in relating the English spiritual tradition to modern conditions (March 15).
Sunday morning sermons at the 10.30 service will be on the theme ‘Living Spiritually Today’ and be led by our home team of clergy and readers (lay preachers).
Midweek study groups are to take up a Diocesan Lent course based on the significance and implications of the forthcoming re-interment of a King of England, Richard III, in Leicester Cathedral. Five sessions with the overarching theme ‘With Dignity and Honour’ will include Bible study and discussion of the relevance to us of aspects of the life, death, and rediscovery of Richard III in terms of the profoundest issues of our lives.
One group will meet in the Vicarage on Wednesdays 7.00 until 8.00 pm – following Compline sung in Church at 6.30 pm. But as the study material is downloadable from the Diocesan website (Google ‘Diocese of Leicester Lent courses’), members of the congregation may consider inviting each other into their homes to form their own study groupings. Alternatively, individuals unable to commit to a series of meetings may study the material privately – ideally taking the opportunity informally to discuss the themes with whomsoever they encounter in everyday life.
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Profile PHIL JONES’ role as Secretary to the Parochial Church Council (PCC) is most
apparent to the general congregation when he sits alongside the Vicar at the
Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) – which this year follows the morning
service on Sunday, 26 April.
The APCM is hardly a moment of glory for Phil because the Vicar customarily
asks the gathering if the Minutes from the previous meeting “can be taken as
read”. There has been unanimous agreement to this year after year, and so Phil’s
carefully prepared Minutes are filed as he patiently begins to record the current
meeting.
This is an annual demonstration of Phil’s vital but usually hidden service – taking
careful notes of PCC discussions and decisions and preparing Minutes which are
scrutinised by the Standing Committee before other corrections and
amendments are agreed at the ensuing PCC. A thankless task, you might think,
but one which Phil has patiently carried out for 9 years so far.
Phil grew up in Tycoch – a suburb of Swansea – where his commitment to the
Church began. His early ambition was “to be a history teacher and play rugby for
Wales”. His rugby playing came to an end whilst still at school following a scrum
collapse in which he sustained a potentially dangerous neck injury.
History continues to be a great interest to Phil, but soon after starting at the
University of Leicester he switched to politics.
Phil first came to St James’ in 1991 during his first year at university when in
student digs in Victoria Park Road. Following a postgraduate diploma in
diplomatic studies, Phil took a banking job. He was living in a flat in St James’s
Road when he became a regular worshipper at our church in March 1997.
Phil has remained with the banking operation he joined after university,
previously owned by HSBC but more recently acquired by an American financial
services company. Phil has moved around in different roles “mostly to do with
the delivery of projects”. His current title is Marketing Operations Manager.
It was through work that Phil met Amanda – who has a different job though with
the equality of being “at the same grade”. They were married by our Vicar at her
parish church of St Mary’s, Anstey in 2003. They made their home together in
Mountsorrel. This is some distance from St James but, as Phil observes, many of
our congregation come some distance to church so
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that he is not out of the ordinary. “There’s no reason to leave a church where
I’m happy and at home”. With his work place in Regent’s Road, and also having
held a season ticket for the Welford Road Tigers’ Ground “for as long as I’ve
been at St James’s” Phil is well used to the commute from home.
A keen cyclist, Phil sometimes takes the opportunity to travel to work and also
to church by bike. “I notched up over 3,500 miles by bike last year – partly in
training for a sponsored bike ride for charity”. Together with 7 colleagues from
work, Phil cycled 200 miles over two days last May between his company’s
offices in Sheffield, Leicester and London to raise money for Macmillan Cancer
Research. Their aim was to get £7,500 in sponsorship. “We actually raised over
£15,000”. As they are intending to do something similar again this coming May,
nearer the event our church’s weekly leaflet will provide details for the
opportunity to sponsor Phil. “I give up alcohol not only for Lent, but until I’ve
finished the ride.”
Phil takes a regular turn in being a Eucharistic Assistant at both 8.30 and 10.30
Sunday services and is happy to be called on to assist at special evening services.
He also recently became a Sidesman “Which is quite fun, actually”. His welcome
of others people to services is with the remembrance of “the positive welcome I
received at St James’s all those years ago – and also my Mum and Dad on their
regular visits from Wales.” These visits are highly appreciated by his parents
when they are able to get away from their church in Swansea – where Phil’s
father recently became Church Warden. Phil quips: “So it would seem service to
the church is in my genes”.
For holidays, Phil and Amanda enjoy adventurous
foreign travel. This spring they are setting out for
Kerala in the south west region of India on the
Malabar Coast. Leicester, they have found, is a
good place to make the necessary arrangements
for such an exotic destination. “We look forward
to having our experiences broadened by the
culture and scenery of a place not overly
touristy.”
Phil will be back from India in time for the APCM
to resume his duties as Secretary. We are
fortunate to benefit from Phil’s self-effacing
commitment and dedicated service to our church
– a key person among others on whom we have
come to depend for the efficient running of our church.
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King Richard III & Christ the King by Glynn Richerby
HAVE YOU SEEN
Leicester Cathedral
recently? On the
outside there’s
super new
landscaping and a
statue of Richard III
transplanted from
Castle Gardens to connect the Cathedral precincts with the splendid new
Visitor Centre which tells the story of the life, death, and rediscovery of King
Richard. Inside the Cathedral is preparation for the reburial of a king of England
close to a space that is to become known as the Chapel of Christ the King.
Leicester won the legal tug-of-war over the body of the long dead king with the
Plantagenet Alliance – who would have had him reburied in York. The outcome
is a tremendous opportunity for Leicester and our Cathedral. But there’s also a
potential danger of turning the heart of our city and diocese into a theme park.
A chapel dedicated to Christ the King adjacent to the tomb of King Richard III
will need to be a place of paradox if not contradiction.
The very idea of kingship is suspect in our time. At worst, we associate
monarchies with tyranny – as in certain Middle Eastern countries today. At best,
we think of kingship in sentimental terms in our own country as we contemplate
the possibility of King Charles III – maybe succeeded by William V and George
VII.
So what of the notion of Christ the King – is this a matter of sentimentality or
triumphalism – or what else?
In his earthly life, Jesus stood on its head the usual meaning of kingship. Instead
of surrounding himself with the great and the good he consorted with the wrong
sort of people. He offered peace and hope to the wrong sort of people.
Whereas those regarded in polite society as the right sort – respectably religious
and law abiding people – he warned to beware of God’s coming judgement.
At his crucifixion, Jesus is hailed as king at last – but in cruel mockery. Here
comes the royal cup-bearer – only it’s a Roman soldier offering the sour wine
that poor people drank to numb their pain. Here is a royal placard announcing
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his kingship to the world but it is, in fact, contradicted by the method of his
execution – intended to make an example of him for others to fear, not follow.
When, therefore, it might be assumed that Jesus’ kingship was being eliminated
on the cross, a criminal perceives that Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world and
says: “Jesus remember me, when you come into your kingdom”.
And Jesus’ response is a promise: “Today, you shall be with me in Paradise”.
The scope and depth of that promise can transform our lives and give us
ultimate hope. Nothing on our conscience need debar us from taking our place
in the Kingdom of heaven, if only we are penitent and trust Jesus’ promise of a
place prepared for us.
But the Kingdom of God and the Kingship of Christ is not only hope for ultimate
fulfilment beyond this world, important though that is. Forgiveness brings the
kingdom of heaven to earth. God’s future is realised in the present.
Hence Jesus teaches us to pray “thy kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven”.
If the servant kingship of Jesus is the model God shows us, then that is the only
way to bring about the kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven. Any other
way will be merely part of the power struggle that goes on without true
reference to God, with consequences that are all too dreadfully apparent in our
troubled world.
For the kingdoms of this world to become the Kingdom of God, a different kind
of kingship needs to be recognised – that of the defenceless Christ, who absorbs
insult and cruelty and who does good to the undeserving and to those who wish
him evil.
I am intrigued as to how the cathedral – in its new chapel of Christ the King –
will connect the Kingship of Christ with the legacy of Richard III. I’m sure it will
be done well and with integrity – honouring an episode in the history and making
of England whilst also putting forward the claims of Christianity and the making
of disciples in our own land, as in all nations. There are comparisons and
contrasts to draw out. If this catches people’s imaginations and inspires faith, all
well and good. Above all it will be an opportunity to make a case for Christ
being king of kings and lord of lords – in a way that challenges accepted
understandings of the exercise of absolute power.
So, Richard III becoming forever associated with Leicester Cathedral –
opportunity or seduction? It’s a conspicuous example of a predicament for every
Christian, the paradox if not contradiction of being in the world but not of the
world. For as Jesus said, “my kingdom is not of this world”.
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A small world by Jane Sharp
FOR THE last few years we have been going to Banff in Canada for Christmas. It
is a small town in the Rockies west of Calgary. Hope and Andrew ski, I like to
walk and watch the elk, deer, squirrels, birds and coyotes.
The hotel where we stay was opened in 1888 and was one of the first built for
tourists using the Canadian Pacific Railway and over the years has seen many
famous guests such as Marylyn Monroe, King George VI, Queen Elizabeth and of
course the Sharps.
There is always an invitation for guests to
go to the manager’s reception. we
have always declined, but this year we
thought we would go.
We talked to various people and my
fixed smile was tiring when we were
introduced to the big manager Mr
Edward Roe. His British accent helped to
start conversation and we started with
the mutual ‘where are you from’.
There was much surprise when it was
Leicester. On further asking we
discovered not only Leicester but as a
young boy he came to St James! His
brother Charles was in the choir and he
returns to Oadby regularly visiting his
mother – small world!
And back to the big world THE REVEREND JANE SHARP – in addition to continuing as Associate Priest at
St James the Greater – has been appointed Christian Chaplain in the Multi-Faith
Chaplaincy Team to Leicester College.
Leicester College has more than 27,000 students on a wide range of courses
spread over three city-centre campuses.
Jane is encouraged to have high visibility at the College and so tends to wear
her cassock – which is much admired by Muslim students: “I like your dress”.
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Where are they now?
VICKY JOHNSON arrived as a student at
Leicester University in 1993 to read Medical
Biochemistry with Genetics. She stumbled
upon St James as she hurried down London
Road, aiming for the Cathedral one Sunday
morning. Having been sidetracked through the
doors of St James, she didn't leave and
became a regular worshipper, singer,
conductor of the Ladies’ Choir, and Parochial
Church Council member.
After her degree, Vicky stayed on in Leicester to work towards a PhD in
Biochemistry. It was towards the end of her doctorate that Vicky's vocation to
the priesthood was first articulated. Science then took Vicky to Manchester
University to work as a Post-Doctoral Scientist, studying cell division and cancer
cell proliferation, but the call to ordination got stronger and could no longer be
ignored.
Vicky went to train for ministry at Westcott House in Cambridge, which also
took her to Yale Divinity School, USA, Salisbury Cathedral and St Philip's
Interfaith Centre back in Leicester.
A curacy then followed in Sale, Greater Manchester, and for the past four and a
half years Vicky has been Priest in Charge of St Michael's Church in Flixton, a
growing church, where she has been very happy and supported in her ministry
by Percy, a naughty standard poodle of boundless energy, who is well known in
the parish for his various exploits and adventures.
As well as running a parish, Vicky has taught liturgy and preaching to those
training for ministry in the church and has also taught deacons and priests in the
Diocese of Namibia. She contributes to national discussions on mission and
public affairs and regularly lectures and preaches, not surprisingly, on the
compatibility of Science and Religion.
In January, it was announced that Vicky had been appointed as Residentiary
Canon for Congregation and Community, at Ely Cathedral, and she will be
licensed on 25 April. A number of us hope to be there to cheer her on!
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Women’s World Day of Prayer 2015
EVERY YEAR, on the first Friday in
March, Christians – men, women and
children of all denominations – around
the world gather to worship, gaining
solidarity and fulfilment from all using the same order of
service. This year, the Christian women of The Bahamas
have prepared service material on the theme Do you
know what I have done for you?
In Leicester, we are fortunate to belong to a cluster of churches that holds two
services, one in the afternoon and one in the evening, so that no one need be
prevented from joining in by other commitments. The churches take turns in
hosting the services and members of their congregations take part in presenting
them. Often, services are followed by light refreshments.
Services are on Friday 6 March: in the afternoon at 2.00 pm at Stoneygate
Baptist Church; in the evening at 7.30 pm at Clarendon Park
Congregational Church.
REVISION OF THE CHURCH ELECTORAL ROLL
The annual revision of the Electoral Roll will take place between
Sunday, 8 March and Easter Sunday, 5 April.
It is necessary for everyone standing for office at the Annual Parochial Meeting
(APCM) and everyone voting at the APCM to be on the Electoral Roll.
It is desirable for everyone aged 16 or upwards who regularly worships at our
church to be on the Electoral Roll. At present less than a half of those who
qualify have filled in the simple form requesting to be on the Roll.
Electoral Roll forms are available at the back of the church.
THE ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING (APCM)
This opportunity to review our life together and look to the future is
to follow the mid-morning Eucharist on Sunday, 26 April at 11.45.
A report of the finances, the fabric of the church and meetings of the Parochial
Church Council (PCC) – together with reports of organisations – will be
published about a month in advance in readiness to be formally received at the
APCM. There will be elections of two churchwardens, four deputy wardens and
five members of the PCC. One current Church Warden and three Deputy
Churchwardens are seeking re-election.
Nomination forms are available at the back of the church.
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Calendar of Services & Events
MARCH 1 Sunday SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT
08.30 Holy Communion (BCP) Celebrant: Derek Hole
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
Preacher: Anthony Green
in a Lent series on Living spiritually today
18.30 Choral Evensong Speaker: Richard Gill
in a Lent series on the English Spirit – in literature
3 Tuesday 08.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
4 Wednesday 18.30 Compline followed by Study Group at the Vicarage
5 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Jane Sharp
6 Friday Women’s World Day of Prayer Everyone welcome
14.00 at Stoneygate Baptist Church
19.30 at Clarendon Park Congregational Church
8 Sunday THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
Preacher: Angela Jagger
in a Lent series on Living spiritually today
18.30 Choral Evensong Speaker: Alan Caine
in a Lent series on the English Spirit – in art
10 Tuesday 08.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
11 Wednesday 18.30 Compline followed by Study Group at the Vicarage
12 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
13 Friday 19.30 Leicester Theological Society
at St Clement’s Hall, Holy Cross Centre, Wellington Street
Rt Revd Lord Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury
Teresa of Avila and Thomas Merton: two anniversaries
15 Sunday FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT Mothering Sunday
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10.30 All Age Eucharist Celebrant: Jane Sharp
Preacher: Glynn Richerby
18.30 Choral Evensong Speaker: Canon Rosy Fairhurst
in a Lent series on the English Spirit – in spirituality
17 Tuesday 08.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
18 Wednesday 18.30 Compline followed by Study Group at the Vicarage
13
MARCH continued
19 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Jane Sharp
21 Saturday 19.30 City of Leicester Singers’ Concert
22 Sunday FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT Passion Sunday
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: Derek Hole
Preacher: to be confirmed
in a Lent series on Living spiritually today
18.30 Choral Evensong Preacher: Derek Hole
24 Tuesday 08.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
25 Wednesday 18.30 Compline followed by Study Group at the Vicarage
26 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Jane Sharp
19.00 Richard III Concert
28 Saturday 19.30 Concert by the Leicester Bach Choir
N.B.Clocks go forwards!
29 Sunday PALM SUNDAY start of Holy Week
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: David Clark
10.10 Procession from the Church Hall
10.30 Passion Gospel & Eucharist Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
18.30 Choral Evensong Preacher: Glynn Richerby
30 Monday of Holy Week
19.00 Address by The Very Revd Alan Horsley & Compline
31 Tuesday of Holy Week
07.15 Holy Communion
19.00 Address by The Very Revd Alan Horsley & Compline
APRIL
1 Wednesday of Holy Week
19.00 Address by The Very Revd Alan Horsley & Compline
2 Maundy 10.15 Holy Communion from the Reserved Sacrament
Thursday 19.30 Liturgy of the Last Supper Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
followed by Vigil until 22.00
3 Good Friday
11.00 ‘Leicester@theCross’ in Humberstone Gate
14.00 Hour at the Foot of the Cross led by David Clark
19.30 Tenebrae Readings and Music for Good Friday Evening
4 Easter Eve 20.30 Easter Eve Service of Light
14
APRIL continued
5 Sunday EASTER DAY
08.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: David Clark
Preacher: Glynn Richerby
10.45 All Age Worship Preacher: Glynn Richerby
12.00 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
18.30 Festal Evensong Preacher: David Clark
7 Tuesday 07.15 NO SERVICE
9 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: to be confirmed
12 Sunday SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: David Clark
10.30 Eucharist Celebrant & Preacher: Derek Hole
18.30 Evensong Preacher: Angela Jagger
14 Tuesday 07.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
16 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
19 Sunday THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10.30 Eucharist & Dedication of a chalice
Celebrant & Preacher: Glynn Richerby
18.30 Evensong Preacher: Glynn Richerby
21 Tuesday 07.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
19.30 Standing Committee in the Vicarage
23 Thursday St George, Martyr, Patron Saint of England
10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Jane Sharp
25 Saturday 17.30 Installation of Canon Vicky Johnson at Ely Cathedral
26 Sunday FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Derek Hole
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: & Preacher: Glynn Richerby
11.45 Annual Parochial Church Meeting in the Large Hall
18.30 Evensong Preacher: to be confirmed
28 Tuesday 07.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
30 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
MAY
3 Sunday FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
08.30 Holy Communion (BCP) Celebrant: David Clark
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: Jane Sharp
Preacher: Glynn Richerby
18.30 Easter Carol Service
15
MAY continued
5 Tuesday 07.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
19.30 Standing Committee Meeting in the Vicarage
7 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10 Sunday SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
Christian Aid Week begins
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant & Preacher: Glynn Richerby
In anticipation of Ascension Day
18.30 Evensong Preacher: Glynn Richerby
12 Tuesday 07.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
13 Wednesday 19.30 Archdeacon’s Visitation at St Anne’s, Letchworth Road
14 Thursday ASCENSION DAY
10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Jane Sharp
19.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
16 Saturday 13.00 Wedding: Terry-Leigh White & Owen Jones
19.30 SSAFA Concert
17 Sunday SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Jane Sharp
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant: Derek Hole
Preacher: Angela Jagger
18.30 Choral Evensong Preacher: Glynn Richerby
19 Tuesday 08.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
[Parochial Church Council] postponed until 2 June
21 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
24 Sunday PENTECOST
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10.30 All Age Eucharist
Celebrant & Preacher: Glynn Richerby
18.30 Choral Evensong Preacher: Glynn Richerby
26 Tuesday 08.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
28 Thursday 10.15 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
19.30 Concert by The Sixteen with Harry Christophers
31 Sunday TRINITY SUNDAY
08.30 Holy Communion Celebrant: Glynn Richerby
10.30 Sung Eucharist Celebrant & Preacher: Glynn Richerby
18.30 Choral Evensong Preacher: Glynn Richerby
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Diary Dates
The Sixteen – 28 May
THE WORLD famous choral ensemble
with their internationally acclaimed
conductor Harry Christophers are
coming again to St James the
Greater on Thursday, 28 May at
7.30 pm
for the eighth successive year that St
James the Greater has hosted the
Sixteen on their Choral Pilgrimage.
The programme is entitled ‘Flight of Angels’ – including music by Francisco
Guerrero and Alonso Lobo, two Spanish composers of the Renaissance period.
The wonderful sound of The Sixteen singing this very Spanish music will resonate
well around St James the Greater for another memorable concert.
Tickets from £10 to £32 would make super gifts! Application forms are at the
back of the Church or arrange to call at the church office in person on a
weekday 0116 254 4113. Online payment by debit / credit card can be
made www.stjamesthegreater.org.uk
Confirmation – 7 June
THE BISHOP is coming to St James the
Greater to hold a Confirmation Service
on Sunday, 7 June at 10.30 am.
This will be for the Deanery, with
candidates from churches all over the City
but hopefully also for many candidates
from St James – young people and adults –
among those who regularly attend services
at our church but have not yet taken the
step of going forward for Confirmation.
Please let the Vicar know if you wish to
find out what’s involved.
This will be the last time our Bishop holds
a Confirmation before he retires in July.
17
Provocative Words on Migration by David H Clark
Following an unscripted remark at the end of a sermon, our Vicar said, ‘Would you
write an article on Migration for the next Quarterly?’ So I began. Then came the
wonderful and informative Christians Aware Conference on Refugees and Asylum
Seekers at Swanwick (9-11 Jan), which helped me greatly.
YOU WOULD NOT be here were it not for migration. Britain was first
populated by homo erectus crossing from Europe, probably on dry land, before
the seas rose as the glaciers of the Ice Age receded. Of course we’ve been
invaded since rather a lot, by Norsemen, Vikings and Normans. The latest
newcomers have been by courtesy of the free movement of people throughout
Europe, currently being challenged by many Conservatives and others scared by
the rise of UKIP. Our royalty has come from Germany, France . . . Before that,
the British Passport gave to some members of former colonies the right to live
here. In Leicester, many Indian
Ugandans came having been
expelled from Uganda. Others came
from Malawi. More recently
Zimbabweans have arrived, fleeing
from the political oppression under
the autocratic President Mugabe.
Seeking insight from the Old
Testament, in ancient Israel,
borders were fairly porous, and therefore there is no hard-and-fast guidance
about immigration, which is a modern problem, largely created by concerns
about security and crime. But attitudes to incomers have grossly hardened in
recent years, making mockery of the ideal held out in the Judeo-Christian
tradition of accepting the ‘stranger’ and treating them with the same respect
given to all.
The writer of Leviticus gives clear directions for the treatment of aliens –
foreigners or strangers – though each of these words is loaded today. “When an
alien resides with you, you shall not oppress the alien. The alien who resides
with you shall be to you as the citizen among you: you shall love the alien as
yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. You
shall not cheat in measuring length, weight or quantity. You shall have honest
balances, honest weights . . .” (Lev. 19:33-37). This moral law is
18
based on the fact that the Jews had been aliens in Egypt, and that therefore Jews
must treat others as they would have liked to be treated. The verse about giving
honest weight is a reference to cheating shopkeepers, who could exploit a
foreigner because they did not know the rules.
The modern equivalent to this is, in my view, the way in which our government
‘cheats’ the refugee and asylum seeker by giving them lower value benefits, or
denying them benefits completely, as is the case with refugees whose asylum
claim has been rejected. All intending immigrants are now treated with suspicion
and disbelief. This attitude also applies to many of those legitimate visitors and
students. Even musicians coming to give a charity concert have been refused
entry for no good reason and sent back to their country of origin. Intending
immigrants have to prove their case before being admitted. If you have fled from
war or other disruption, you may lack the necessary papers to prove who you
are. This is particularly problematic with children. There is a current outcry
against imprisoning child immigrants. But the damaging effects of imprisoning
adult immigrants are also of deep concern. A shocking injustice here is the
practice of sending back children when they reach the age of eighteen, wrenching
families apart and putting the young adults at risk back in their own, often
unstable, countries.
In 597 BC, the Jews experienced a massive exile. The Babylonians took 10,000 of
the leading citizens into Babylon. Jeremiah wrote a letter to the exiles from
Jerusalem which is recorded in chapter 29 of his book. It includes the famous
words as Jeremiah writes the words God has given him, “Seek the welfare of the
city where I (God) have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf,
for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” This is remarkable in that the exile
is seen as God’s will. Should we not then today see the migration of peoples
possibly as God’s will? And, if so, why do we protest so much against
immigration? Why are so many newspapers and politicians keen to stigmatize the
immigrant, when in the majority of cases, they are victims of war, or oppression,
or poverty?
Christian attitudes resting on the Jewish tradition should
include a default position of welcome. “Do not neglect to
show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have
entertained angels unawares.” (Hebrews 13:2). Some
might say this is only applicable to families and not to
governments. But why?
We are now living during the largest migration of peoples the world has ever
known. There are more refugees in the world now than there were after
19
World War 2. Mark you, there are almost twice as many people in the world
than there were in 1945. Wars and political upheavals have always caused
considerable internal and external displacement of people. In the seventies I was
Chairman of the Norwich Committee for Chilean Refugees fleeing from the
murderous persecution of the brutal dictator Pinochet. Most went to
other bigger cities: we found room for 39. They had an easier time than
refugees today. The fighting in the Middle East has caused enormous distress to
countless people. There are over a million refugees in each of Lebanon and
Jordan. According to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees 51.2
million people were forcibly displaced at the end of 2013, fully 6 million more
than reported in 2012. The global total of refugees, including internally displaced
people (IDP) is 46m, including 26m IDP. There are an estimated 10m stateless
people. With such frightening figures, do we suffer from compassion fatigue? Or
is our country as a whole being taken over by a massive wave of nationalistic
prejudice? I fear the latter, and am ashamed.
The biggest refugee populations under UNHCR care are Afghans, Syrians and
Somalis – together accounting for more than half of the global refugee total.
Pakistan, Iran and Lebanon, meanwhile, hosted more refugees than other
countries. Where are they? The top hosts of refugees are: 1. Pakistan (1.6
million); 2. Islamic Republic of Iran (857,400); 3. Lebanon (856,500); 4 Jordan
(641,900); 5. Turkey (609,900). Where are we in the league table? Germany,
with more space, has accepted 10,000 Syrian refugees: the UK, just 93!
The Italian government decided to end Mare Nostrum (Our Sea), which was its
compassionate policing of Mediterranean waters in search of migrants attempting
to cross into Europe. It has been replaced by Triton, the EU’s more limited
patrols of waters up to 30 miles off the coast. On 30 October 2014, the
Immigration Minister said in the House of Commons that more than 3000
people had already died attempting to cross the Mediterranean in that year.
Mare Nostrum had saved more than 150,000 men, women and children. Baroness
Smith of Basildon in the House of Lords said, ‘Many of them were misled by
unscrupulous criminals. Many others are being trafficked into Europe for slavery
and prostitution’.
What can and what should be done? This is a highly moral issue, and those who
would deal with it as a simple practical one in the UK (“We’re full up, no room
in the Inn,”) are betraying the Christian ethic of hospitality as well as displaying a
lack of in depth understanding of the problem. It is a difficult matter, because
decisions have to be made about resources, accommodation, health and other
services, which we, as tax payers, pay for. I have much
20
sympathy for any government which has to manage these matters, but I am
equally sure that we have (had) a reputation in this country for compassion and
hospitality. For example, 10,000 children, (7,500 Jewish) were permitted to
come to Britain on the Kindertransporte from December 1938 to May 1940.
If we look to the future in this country, immigration in the UK has become the
largest contributor to population growth since 1998. The impact of immigration
is both direct in terms of new arrivals and indirect due to their children born in
the UK. The latest Office of National Statistics’ Principal Projection of population
in 2012 attributed 43% of the projected increase from 2012 to 2037 to new
arrivals and 17% to their children – a total of 60%. These estimates were based
on a net migration assumption of 165,000 a year. Obviously, if net migration
were to be higher, this percentage would also be higher. In 2013, the net inflow
was 212,000 and the annual average of the last ten years (2004 – 2013) has been
about 240,000. (Migration Watch report 2014: The impact of immigration on
population growth.)
These figures have been described as scaremongering and/or feeding
xenophobia. A practical answer may be given that there is still plenty of room in
Britain for refugees. We do not have the highest density of population in the
world: that is reserved to Bangladesh. 5th highest population density is the
Netherlands: we are 15th. (Source: Population density, Wikipedia) The truth is
that we do have the carrying capacity – probably more than many other parts of
the world – to welcome more refugees than the paltry figures we have admitted
to date (21,700 Asylum applications in 2012, of which 60% were refused –
source: Refugee Council). Carrying capacity means having the resources of food,
water, space, environment, work, education and health. We have one of the best
Health Services in the world. We have enormous wealth. We should be
generous with it.
It is worth pointing out that without
immigration, our Health Services and
Care agencies would be in a sorry
state. The contribution of immigrants to
the Health Service is an impressive one.
Also with reference to complaints that
‘too many foreigners are coming here’,
there are almost 300,000 British
nationals living in Spain. Do we hear
complaints from Spain?
The Jewish/Christian tradition poses a challenge to our Government and UKIP
alike.
21
Gift of a Chalice A BEAUTIFUL ‘chalice’ – a
cup for the distribution of
wine used in services of Holy
Communion – has been
generously donated to St
James the Greater by Brian
Groves and his family in
memory of his wife Brenda
who died on 19 June 2013.
The chalice was specially
commissioned from a firm of
superbly skilled silversmiths
in Sheffield to an original
design by David Watts.
The main body of the chalice
is hard gold-plated Britannia
silver. The decoration
underneath the cup, the
handling boss and around the
base is silver. The decoration
features lilies – Brenda’s
favourite flowers
The chalice is to be
dedicated during the Sung
Eucharist on Sunday, 19 April. The inscription on the circular
base plate of the chalice reads:
In memory of Brenda Groves
who was Confirmed in St James the Greater
From her husband Brian Groves
who was a Church Warden here,
her daughter Wendy and son in law Stephen
Edgson
who were married here
and her granddaughter Saffie
Kindly designed by a former Colleague and
Family Friend – David Watt 2014
22
The Book of Remembrance by Barbara Penrose
WHEN THE VICAR asked if anyone would take on recording the names in the
Book of Remembrance, I told him I had done a bit of calligraphy in my time and
also used to write all the certificates we gave out at school and if no-one
volunteered, I'd have a go.
I looked through the book and
marvelled at the beautiful and
varied lettering there and the
various ways in which the
information had been recorded.
I decided to use an Italic hand
which is clear, uncluttered and can
be decorated if necessary.
After consulting the Vicar it was decided to write the full name of each person
with a nickname if used, the date of death and their age. If the person had held a
position such as a church warden, choir member or other, this was to be added
underneath.
The first task was to make a list from back numbers of the Quarterly of the
missing names. Then with great trepidation, I began to record some forty names.
I tried felt pen but went back to a broad oblique italic nib and proper ink. I use
guide lines under the page, pencil out the text, check it for spelling and then go
over it with ink. Blotting follows, then a break before gently erasing the pencil
marks and checking that all is correct.
As I have not been a member of St James
congregation all that long, it has been a lovely
way to meet the church members and be
reminded that “we are surrounded by such a
great a cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12.1).
Our Book of Remembrance is a wonderful
memorial to them all. 23
Obituaries
Sylvia Seabrook
died 14 November 2014 aged 85
Sylvia was a member of the Ladies’
Choir from its beginnings in 1970 until
she moved to Oakham some 10 years
ago, after which she was pleased to be
kept in touch with St James’. She and
her husband Ernie shared a remarkably
happy disposition and their cheerful
presence was very much missed at St
James’ after they moved away.
Born in Leicester in 1929, Sylvia
recalled stories of her childhood with
much fondness and spoke of the fun times she had – especially getting up to
mischief with her younger brother Norman, and playing harmless pranks on their
elder siblings Dennis and Betty. Her parents were very hard working, providing
well for their children during fairly hard times. She grew up feeling loved and
secure.
Sylvia left school at 14 to work in a factory making clothes. She was renowned
for singing as she worked. A passion for singing continued all through her life.
Sylvia married her beloved Ernie, a Londoner, at the age of 23. She recalled
happy times of going to London to stay with his family. They had two children,
David and Jill. Sylvia devoted her time to being a homemaker and loved nothing
more than to care for her family. Eventually along came two granddaughters –
Samantha and Rebecca – who brought great joy to Sylvia and Ernie.
Grandchildren have many happy memories of their grandparents.
Sylvia loved the theatre and went regularly – especially to enjoy seeing her
daughter Jill in amateur musical productions.
Sylvia had a great sense of humour and a ready smile for everyone. She had a
great gift for warm and generous friendship and maintained close contact with
many good friends – including members of our church.
Ernie died in 2011. Sylvia missed him dreadfully. Sylvia too will be deeply missed,
but we take comfort that she is now reunited with the love of her life.
24
Ian Gosling Stevens
died 22 November 2014 aged 81
Being a Mastermind contestant was a highlight of
Ian’s life. He was undoubtedly clever – a member of
Mensa – and interested in knowledge for
knowledge’s sake. Although he knew a great deal
about a great many things, Ian’s passion was in
being a Server – which he was par excellence for the
greater part of his life. For many years he was Head
Server at St Philip’s, Evington but also he delighted in Serving at major events at
the Cathedral and on significant occasions at many churches.
Ian went to Wyggeston School where won the prize in literature in each of his
five years there. He left formal education at the age of 16 so as to financially
support his mother – to whom he was devoted – and his younger brother
Cedric, his father having left them. For many years he worked for the Gas
Board, satisfied to earn his living and serve people in a simple way.
The privilege of service and the opportunity to serve was Ian’s calling. Those he
served were chiefly the clergy. Whoever they were, he would always find
qualities in them to appreciate whilst being clear about his points of difference
with them.
Alongside Ian’s love of church matters and the propensities of its clergy, Ian
loved music – music in worship and music in the whole of life. He was clear that
he was not a musician, but could talk knowledgably about it and attended local
concerts and major music festivals held around the country.
In 2001,when Ian was 68, he appeared on the Chanel 4 quiz show 15 to 1.
Walking home having caught a late train back from London he was mugged,
suffering severe facial injuries and loss of memory. Over time, his memory
mostly recovered, but in other ways he had suddenly become an old man.
Happily, Ian settled to making his home at The Lawns. He was collected by
members of our congregation by car and brought to church – usually both
morning and evening. The people of St James’ became his family.
Ian was a man of faith. He trusted in God’s good providence and trusted in
God’s promises. So he was not afraid of death but rather welcomed and
embraced it as the gateway to resurrection with Christ to eternal life. With
extraordinary aptness he died on St Cecilia’s Day, patron Saint of music.
25
Vivian Byron John Edwards
died 7 January 2015 aged 94
Vivian devoted more than 10 years of his
life to caring for his wife Margaret at
home until his own health prevented him
continuing to do so – after which they
both moved to Devonshire Court, where
Vivian carried on living after Margaret’s
death in 2011. These circumstances
prevented Vivian attending St James’s –
where his son Robert had been in the
choir and where the funerals of both of
his parents and also his wife were held.
But Vivian was always keenly interested in
his church and generous in his financial
support.
Vivian was born in Leicester in the house that also served as his father’s dental
surgery. He went from Stoneygate School to Repton where he excelled at all ball
games and trained as a doctor at Charing Cross Hospital Medical School.
Vivian met Margaret – a surgical ward sister at University College Hospital – and
they married in 1945 just before Vivian sailed for Burma, having been enlisted
into the Royal Army Medical Corps. He was demobilised 1947 when Burma
gained Independence, returning to London where he changed course and began
dental studies at the Royal Dental Hospital, qualifying in 1951. He then moved
back to Leicester to join his father at the Nelson Street dental practice where he
continued to work as a well regarded dentist for a further 32 years.
Vivian joined the Round Table and continued his Masonic commitment at the
Albert Edward Lodge which he had joined in 1947.
His early retirement was a happy time. Vivian and Margaret enjoyed many UK
holidays. They both joined NADFAS and Vivian did archival work at Stanford
Hall near Rugby. His interest in history found an outlet at Burghley House where
he was a respected guide for many years.
Though he became frail, Vivian’s mind remained sharp and he maintained an
active interest in current affairs. Having lived a quietly distinguished life to a great
age, he made a peaceful transition from this world to the next, trusting in God.
26
CommemorativeFlowers MARCH In Lent no flowers, by tradition APRIL 5th Church decorated for Easter
12th Caroline Beardsmore in memory of her father
19th Joyce Paviour in memory of Norman
26th Angela Hefford in memory of her parents Barbara and Gordon Barrett MAY 3rd Diana Jones in memory of her parents & brother
10th Doris Makepeace in memory of John
17th Renée Blackburn in memory of Jeffrey & daughter Susan
24th Janet Felstead in memory of David
31st The Cowley Family
27
What’s on ... SUNDAYS
Sunday Club in school term time 10.30 Large Hall
Contact Mrs Jo Stapleton 39 Craighill Road, Leicester LE2 3FD 270 2001
WEDNESDAYS
SJ2 – Under 14s’ Youth Club 19.15 – 20.45 Undercroft
Leader Mr John Raven 291 London Road, Leicester LE2 3ND 270 7591
THURSDAYS
Coffee Drop-in 10.45 – 11.30 Large Hall
Organiser Mrs Doris Makepeace 7 Bransdale Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 1XU 288 5315
St James’ Singers 19.45 alternate Thursdays Ashman Music Room
Director Mr Michael Rule 99 Ratby Road, Groby, Leicester LE6 0GF 0787 530 5269
Scouts Beaver Scouts 17.30 – 18.30 Cub Scouts 18.30 – 20.00 Scouts 19.30 Undercroft
Leaders Mr Tony & Mrs Alison Hurst 30 Repton Road, Wigston, Leicester LE18 1GB 288 9457
FRIDAYS
Boys’ Choir & Girls’ Choir Practices 18.00 Full Choir Practice 19.30 Ashman Music Room
Director Mr Matthew Haynes 44 Conaglen Road, Aylestone, Leicester LE2 8LD 0788 576 0364
SATURDAYS
Stop-by Project for the homeless 11.00 – 14.00 Undercroft
Coordinator Salma Ravat Contact through Church Office 254 2111
Who’s who … For Ministry Team see inside front cover Churchwardens
Miss Julia Walker 3 Paddock Close, Oadby, Leicester LE2 5GG 271 9347
Mr Michael Bull MBE 15 Dore Road, Leicester, LE5 5HG 220 1581
Deputy Wardens
Dr Tony Bentley Contact through Church Office 254 2111
Mrs Angela Hefford 15 Southernhay Road, Leicester LE2 3TN 270 6060
Ms Barbara Penrose 36 Stoneygate Court, London Road, Leicester LE2 2AJ 270 3666
Mrs Margaret Terry 26 Woodbank Road, Leicester LE2 3YQ 288 3668
Mr Keith Vaughan Stretton Cottage, Great Stretton, Leicester LE2 2FR 259 2524
PCC Secretary
Mr Philip Jones 52 Carisbrooke Road, Mountsorrel, LE12 7BR 237 4894
Church Administrator & Hall Booking Secretary
Mrs Annabel Cowley Church Office, St James Hall, St James Terrace, LE2 1NA 254 2111
Treasurer & Gift Aid Secretary
Mr John Sharp Orchard House, 15 Orchard Lane, Great Glen, LE8 9GJ 259 2758
Chairman, Stewardship Committee
Mrs Pam Spokes 7 The Albany, London Road, Leicester LE2 1RH 270 4710
Director of Music
Mr Matthew Haynes 44 Conaglen Road, Aylestone, Leicester LE2 8LD 0788 576 0364
Organist & Associate Director of Music
Mr Michael Rule 99 Ratby Road, Groby, Leicester LE6 0GF 0787 530 5269
Assistant Organist
Ms Roxanne Summerfield 15 Hall Close, Glen Parva, Leicester LE2 9HZ 277 6277
Head Servers
Mr John & Mrs Angela Finn 4 Colne Close, Oadby, Leicester LE2 4GA 292 9562
Flower Guild Co-ordinator including commemorative flowers
Miss Julia Walker 3 Paddock Close, Oadby, Leicester LE2 5GG 271 9347
Child Protection Officer
Vicky Roe 4 St James’s Terrace, LE2 1NA 255 2108
Vulnerable Adult Officer Contact through Church Office 254 2111