Holy Tractor! PLEASE NOTE: Copy deadline for the March issue of Rochester Link is 14 February 2014 at 4pm. Copy to

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1 Holy Tractor! See page 6 February 2014 Talent and Passion Businessman Roger Black MBE uses his experience as a world class athlete to inform the motivational speeches he delivers to captains of industry. In his 1998 autobiography, How long s the course? he said, I am very interested in what makes one person fulfil their potential and another one not And today, it is this interest which drives his business. Asking a rhetorical question, he said, Why do some athletes with similar talent enjoy a long career and others come and go? Psychological strength comes from different places. If you look at Kriss Akabusi my training partner for years you could say he was fostered and had few academic qualifications, so sport was his route and his motivation was clear. I was from a very different background, but my drive was as strong as his. Why is that? Whilst some of us may have gym memberships and actually use them, we will never win an Olympic medal! Are elite athletes really like entrepreneurs and business leaders, or is there something that sets them apart? Roger said, Top performing athletes have a respect for their talent and don t take it for granted, a passion for their sport, they are clear about their goals (and seek the best possible help to achieve them) and they aspire to excellence in their performance; then they just get on with it! The most important two are to be blessed with talent and have a passion for it. It s about commitment. I made that choice; I had to decide between university and athletics. I wanted to win an Olympic medal. It s easy to translate wanting to win into a working environment, but it still doesn t work for everyone; otherwise all businesses would excel. Roger describes fellow athlete Michael Johnson as disciplined and dedicated, but is it realistic to assume that leaders in the workplace really understand what that means? Roger said, Some people understand dedication and discipline and some don t. My business partner Steve Backley and I use sport as a metaphor. There is one major difference between sport and business. In my sporting career, I knew the day, date and time I was going to be judged. In business, there are opportunities to turn it around business is just not that brutal. Sometimes in business someone else can deliver for you in sport, you have to deliver for yourself. When I speak to business leaders, they take what they need from my talk. Sometimes they have stopped thinking about their goals and their visions. We help them re-focus. An accomplished guitarist, Roger admits his music is a massive part of me and he also enjoys games of strategy like chess, poker and backgammon. Strategic thinking is part of what he describes as a type of intelligence. Roger readily admits to sometimes over-analysing his performances. He said, I think sometimes being too bright can be a disadvantage because it leads to over-analysis. We can all do that. When you are ready, you need to hand over to your subconscious; to the simplicity of it. For me in the end, it was just 400 metres. Once you have the timing and you are on form, you just have to run! Successful business people are often described as driven and in his autobiography, Roger said, My greatest strength is my ability to focus, to be cool under pressure But is this an inherent talent or something we can learn? He explained, You can learn to be focussed and to put things into perspective most people have the capacity to learn and we can all improve. Successful people often appear calm under pressure, but is this genuine? Roger continued, I m sure most people are faking it and flapping under the surface. The main thing is that Leaders need to be authentic and have a clear vision of where they are going. Then people will follow them, but there are no guarantees. To excel in any field, an individual needs dedication, but does Roger feel he made sacrifices to reach his goals? He explained, It s what I wanted to do and at the time it didn t feel like I made sacrifices. In retrospect, a whole part of my emotional intelligence was taken away from me. I have failed relationships behind me but it s important to realise nobody made me do it. It s what I was passionate about. I knew I was good, I had a dream and I was lucky; I was born with the gift to run. That is wonderful. Not many people get that! After Roger won his Olympic medals in 1996 he described himself as complete. He said, There was nothing left for me to do. I was peaceful it was a kind of utopia. It couldn t have gone any better and I was pleased; I had delivered. When you have those what now? Moments you have to sit back, reflect and re-set your goals. You can t just settle down there are too many other people wanting to take you out! Goal setting is very important. Addressing a conference for education leaders, Roger can empathise as a professional and as a parent. He said, There is no doubt education has become a competition. I think it s important to recognise that every parent s opinion is shaped by their own experiences and you have to respect that. A pressurised education is a terrible thing. My wife and I believe that our children need to discover what they are passionate about. We owe it to our children not to put them under pressure to achieve. Schools are so focussed on A*s at A level. To expect every child to love the academic side of school is ridiculous. As an employer now, I am not interested in what people managed at O and A level. I want to know about the person. I m interested in what they achieved in their gap year and what they do in their spare time. If school doesn t prepare young people properly, then we are doing them a disservice. In his autobiography, Roger says, It s easy to get to the top, and hard to stay there but he qualified this in discussion. He said, If you are blessed with a lot of talent and you Roger Black MBE are healthy, then you can excel. But I m not comparing sport and business in that way. I m really talking about behaviour. It s true for adults and children; it s all about being happy to go the extra mile. It s about the passion, the drive and the clarity of vision. A boy chorister, Roger attended church regularly and never really felt engaged with what was being said. Throughout his autobiography, he constantly behaves with Christian values, displaying love, tolerance and forgiveness. Describing himself as, a Christian but not a practising Christian he said, My parents went to church and I do go with my wife and children sometimes. Maybe it s something I haven t thought about for a while. I like to think we act in a Christian way and these are reasonable values for our children to be brought up with. If you would like to hear Roger Black speak at the Diocesan Leadership event on 7 March, please Teresa Spearink: Teresa.spearink@rochester.anglican.org If you would like to book Roger Black MBE as a motivational speaker for your event, please visit his website: or visit PLEASE NOTE: Copy deadline for the March issue of Rochester Link is 14 February 2014 at 4pm. Copy to linknews@rochester.anglican.org

2 2 ochester Link The Bishop of Tonbridge s Diary The Rt Rev Dr Brian Castle February February Feb 1030 Preach and Preside Rochester Cathedral 3 Feb 1400 Overseas Links Committee meeting, Bishop s Lodge, Sevenoaks 4 Feb 0900 Celebrate Candlemas Eucharist St Paulinus C of E School, Crayford 5 Feb 0930 Bishop s Staff Meeting, Bishopscourt, Rochester 6 Feb 1000 Poverty and Hope Meeting, Bishop s Lodge, Sevenoaks 7-8 Feb Bishop s Council Residential, St Katharine s Foundations Limehouse, London 9-16 Feb Deanery Visit to Beckenham 16 Feb 1600 Beckenham Deanery Confirmation St Mary, Shortlands 19 Feb 0900 Attend Meeting at Burrswood Hospital CONTACT US News and letters to the Editor: linknews@rochester.anglican.org Telephone: OCHESTER Link ADVERTISEMENTS Proclaiming the word & work of God glenda@cornerstonevision.com Copy for The Link needs to be typed and submitted by please. Images must be submitted as either a TIFF or a JPEG file of 300dpi. (Set your digital camera to the highest quality setting and we will try to do the rest for you.) What s on February 2014 Saturday 8 MEOPHAM Understanding and using Ubuntu to transform the world we co-create Conference at St John s Church Meopham from 10am-12pm. Please mjhenwood@ btinternet.com to confirm your attendance. Tickets only. Individuals 5.00 or Pairs 2.50 each! Sunday 16 BROMLEY Free concert by Pierpaolo Finaldi (Baritone) and Marco Giordano (Piano) in St Mary s Church, College Road, BR1 3QG. This free classical recital starts at 3pm. and is followed by tea and cakes. For more information call Saturday 22 BROMLEY Concert by London Myriad Ensemble in St Mary s Church, College Road, BR1 3QG. The concert starts at 7.30 p.m. and admission is 6 on the door. For more information call Lunchtime Recitals at St Luke s Church, Eardley Road. Sevenoaks. Every Wednesday at 12.30pm Admission free. Lasting 30 minutes. Refreshments from 12 noon FEBRUARY 5 Jackie Sanjana & John Parker, Horns and Mark Welling, Bassoon 12 Pupils from Granville School 19 Helen Parsons - Clarinette, Bernard Pulham - Piano 26 Ingrid Cusido Piano March 2014 Saturday 1 TUNBRIDGE WELLS at King Charles the Martyr Church at 7.30 pm. Concert by Temenos Chamber Choir with The English Cornett and Sackbut Ensemble. Polychoral masterpieces by Schütz, Schein and Bach. Tickets ( 6 students) from Hall s Bookshop, Tunbridge Wells, or Sevenoaks Bookshop, or phone www. temenos-chamberchoir.org.uk. WATERINGBURY An Evening with East Peckham Silver Band at the Church of St John the Baptist, Tonbridge Road, Wateringbury at 7.30pm. This friendly thriving Silver Band formed in 1895 can boast the title of the oldest surviving village band in Kent. It will play toe tapping music for the entire family to enjoy. Raffle proceeds will be donated to The Children s Liver Disease Foundation, a charity which supported a family who are members of the band and the church. Tickets: 10. Accompanied school children & students: 3 Available on: or from Wateringbury Post Office. Day of Prayer for Africa At St Peter s Church, Aylesford, on March 8th from 10 am to 4 pm. There will be a light lunch at the church for anyone who would like to join us, from 1.15pm. The day is divided into quarterof-an-hour sections so that it will be easy for people to drop in at any time. We will be hearing from organisations working in Africa; there will be more information on the church website nearer the time (www. aylesford-church.org.uk) We look forward to having you with us. Experience Easter in Tonbridge parish March 2014 will see hundreds of children and families experiencing the Easter story at St Peter & St Paul, Tonbridge. Local schools, Guides, Brownies and Cubs, young people s groups and toddler groups have already signed up to join the Experience Easter trail, moving around 5-6 stations inside and (hopefully) outside the church. Each station has a story teller, props, a hands-on activity and chance to think about the feelings and theme of that aspect of the story worship and excitement, confusion, loneliness, forgiveness etc. Using Gloucester Diocese s material which was a great starting point for Experience Christmas in 2012, the team want every visitor to find a new meaning in some part of the story. Booking is essential for these weekday tours. The stations will open to the public on Saturday 29 March as part of an Extravaganza, with additional activities at the station, and chance to share a hobby, craft or play large-scale Wii with members of the church family. We are hoping local artists and musicians will extend the range of things to do. Our regular Extravaganza visitors will know to expect refreshments and BBQ. All welcome to stations and Extravaganza on Saturday 29 March from 10am 2pm. Group tours of the stations with story tellers March by arrangement

3 ochester Link 3 Unlikely excitement By the Ven Dr Paul Wright Please don t let the next sentence put you off the rest of this article! I was reading a General Synod report and I came across a reference to GS1895. Thanks for not giving up on me! I am really excited by this document. It is actually looking at what it means to be Church: mission, growth, renewal, making new disciplines all sorts of stuff. But it is also very realistic about what can and can t be done, honest but challenging all rolled into one. If you get a chance to read it, please do. It is only 18 sides of A4 and can be found on the Church of England website. One of the things that really caught my eye was reference to some new teaching material that is available in published form called Pilgrim rather a good word that because we are supposed to be a pilgrim Church and we are supposed to be people on the move. The idea is to provide a course for those on or about to start their Christian journey. This material can be used for individuals as well as in Home Groups, House Groups, part of a Lent course, etc. Its aim is to help people who go to church regularly to be more comfortable and assured in their own faith so they can share it with others and this is how you do it! Christianity is not a private enterprise, it s a very public one. However I know for some people it can be really difficult to have the confidence to share what is an important part of their lives. There are various elements to the course; not all of these have been published yet. The Pilgrim course is described as: a journey to the heart of God and to a living, personal relationship with Jesus Christ within the household of His Church. That is a quote from the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, so it doesn t get more serious or more important than that. This is a project developed by the Church of England, which is not to say that Alpha and other nurturing programmes haven t been fantastic, but this is the Church of England finally getting to grips itself with some good stuff. It should certainly appeal to a wide spectrum of folk. Of the two booklets that have been published so far, one is on the Lord s Prayer and the other is called Turning to Christ which is just picking up the questions that come out of the Baptism Rite. This could be a good tool for those who help prepare people for baptism and it might help you think about your own journey from baptism until now. Both booklets are well laid out. I m not getting any commission all I can do is encourage you to check them out! 3 Feb 1400 Diocesan Finance Committee 4 Feb 1000 Diocesan Staff Conference Aylesford 1930 Institution of the Rev Elaine Cranmer, Holy Trinity, South Chatham 5 Feb Bishop s Staff Meeting 7-8 Feb 1000 Bishop s Council Residential meeting - London 8 Feb 1500 Bluewater Wedding Fair 9 Feb 1000 Lay Ministry training course weekend - Aylesford 1830 Confirmation: North Bromley Group St Mary, Bromley Feb General Synod - London Church Legacy: A lasting gift to your church The Church of England has launched its new Church Legacy website uk which offers quick and easy access to essential information for individuals considering leaving a gift in their Will to their local church. The website provides further information on leaving a legacy, example wording for your Will, and information for solicitors and for PCCs. Church Legacy also shares parish stories where a legacy gift has helped transform a church s future. Legacies are a fundamental part of stewardship and our Christian giving; leaving a gift in your Will is one of the most valuable and lasting ways you can give thanks to God for the gifts of your life and lifetime. Legacies are a hugely valuable source of income to our parish churches, contributing 44.8 million to parish income in 2011, that s almost 3,000 per parish church per year! The new Church Legacy website provides Bishop James diary - February information to individuals making their wills, solicitors acting on behalf of their clients, churches looking to encourage legacy giving in their parish and Christians wishing to find out more. The website also helps to communicate how gifts in Wills are a lifeline for many of our churches, and enable them to grow their church s ministry to young people, refurbish the kitchen, set up a support group for the community or preserve their historic church bells. Legacy gifts to local churches achieve so much for so many people. If you would like to find out more about how a gift in your Will could make a difference, please contact Eleanor Gill on or eleanor.gill@churchofengland.org Legacies are life driven; they re only activated by death. When remembering gifts generously left, we give thanks and recall the story of the individual s life and commitment to their church. Eleanor Gill, Legacy and Funding Officer, Archbishops Council 13 Feb 1000 House of Bishops London Society launch Tower of London 14 Feb 1300 Church, Law & State Reception - London 18 Feb 1000 Kent Police Chaplains meeting 19 Feb 0830 London Church Leaders Southwark 20 Feb 1000 Kent Workplace Mission Trustees - Bishopscourt 22 Feb All day Installation of new Bishop of Durham Durham Cathedral 23 Feb 1800 Confirmation Holy Trinity, Bromley Common 25 Feb 1130 Housing Justice Board - London

4 4 ochester Link ad diocesan full page ree2014.ai 1 07/01/ :42:41 Advertising Feature New Real Easter Egg range Special Edition RRP 9.99 Introduced in 2010, The Real Easter Egg is the only Fairtrade Easter Egg with a copy of the Easter story in each box. There is also a donation to Traidcraft Exchange for every sale of the 150g egg. C M Y CM MY The Real Easter Egg campaign aims to establish giving a Real Easter Egg as a tradition. The supermarkets still don t stock enough, so last year more than120,000 were sent through the post directly to churches and individuals. To date more than 450,000 eggs have been bought by churches and more than 120,000 has been donated to charity. Sharing Box (20 eggs & stories) Original RRP 3.99 This year The Real Easter Egg has three versions-details below. 25 g The Original Real Easter Egg has had a complete re-design and now includes a 24 page Easter story book and a pack of milk chocolate Chunky Buttons in the box. Join the 2014 campaign The Special Edition Real Easter Egg is made of Belgian milk chocolate. It comes with an olive wood holding cross from the Holyland and an orange milk chocolate bar. Last year many congregations found a champion who promoted the Real Easter Egg, put sign-up lists in church, took money and placed a direct order with The Meaningful Chocolate Company. The Sharing box is designed for services, assemblies and events. With 20 Christ is Risen foiled 6cm midi-milk chocolate eggs and 20 Easter story booklets. To download resources, register for offers or to find out more visit ww w.realeasteregg.co.uk You can buy from Traidcraft, and selected independent shops. CY CMY Special Edition RRP 9.99 FREE DELIVERY Sharing (20 eggs & stories) Order by 24th February K How to buy Pay online l b by card - The simplest way to pay is through our online shop at Payment by cheque - Complete the form below and return to: The Meaningful Chocolate Company, 584 Knutsford Road, Warrington, WA4 1JE. Cheques payable to The Meaningful Chocolate Company Ltd. Delivery address: NEW DESIGNS Out of the 80 m million milli illion on chocolate chocola chocolat h l t Easter E t E Eggs sold ld de each acch y year, ear, T The he Real Easter Egg is the only one with the Easter story tory to ory in n the e box. Original RRP 3.99 Choose from three versions Original Real Easter Egg -new design (150g RRP 3.99) 3 crosses on the box, comes with Mark s Resurrection text in lid, 24 page Easter storybook, milk chocolate egg, pack of our Chunky Buttons 25g and donation to Traidcraft Exchange. Special Edition Real Easter Egg (280g RRP 9.99) Celtic crosses with gold finish on the box, comes with a Holy Land Olive wood holding cross, extra thick milk chocolate egg and Meaningful milk Chocolate orange bar. Sharing Box (400g - 20 eggs at 20g each RRP 19.99) Title: First name: Tel. No. (daytime) Quantity Original-Real Easter Egg ( 3.99 each must be ordered in multiples of 6) Special Edition-Real Easter Egg Sharing box- Real Easter Egg 9.99 per egg per box of 20 midi-eggs Postage & Packaging *order by 24th February for free postage on orders over 45 Designed for services, assemblies and events, comes with 20 Christ is Risen foiled 6cm midi-milk chocolate eggs and 20 copies of the Easter story - 8 page booklet. Order now at Surname: free* or 4.95 Grand Total Visit us on Facebook Total

5 ochester Link 5 St Mary, Shrewton, Wilts ~ in tune with tradition ~ Ronald Emett fine furniture ronald@emett.co.uk CHURCH PEWS UNCOMFORTABLE? WHY NOT TRY SAFEFOAM S TOP QUALITY UPHOLSTERED FOAM PEW CUSHIONS? Safefoam, Green Lane, Riley Green, Hoghton, Preston PR5 0SN Freephone Free Sample Pack of foam & fabrics sent by first class mail When phoning please quote RL0214 Christian affordable rental accommodation in Devon The Fairfield Trust is a registered charity (Charity Number: ) which owns two large houses in Torquay. They have recently been converted into modern flats to accommodate those who have worked or do work and given their lives to or for Christian organisations and, as a result, have been unable to buy a home in this country. The Trust is a non-profit making charity. The unfurnished, self-contained flats have bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and sitting room. All have access to large communal gardens with views of the sea in Torbay, laundry facilities and car parking or garage. There are also a few flats for residents family and friends to visit. Full details of the history and aim of the Trust, its founder and the accommodation available can be found at: Our Pinterest Account Pinterest is where you go to discover new things and collect stuff you love. You will see that the Diocese of Rochester now has an active Pinterest account (look for the red and white logo at the bottom of the homepage at: anglican.org) We have 2 pin boards at the moment. One featuring some of our churches and one we hope to populate with wedding images. These can be of brides and grooms, bridesmaids and best men, or cakes, champagne and flowers. We don t mind, but we would love you to encourage couples who marry at your church to share a couple of their favourite photos with us, so that we can add them to our Pinterest board. All they need to do is their images to: katerina.gerhardt@rochester.anglican.org We would like your help Please spread the word. When you have a couple marrying at your church, please ask them to share their images with us. Your parish in the Rochester Link newspaper - 3 easy steps. People do like to see their parish or their vicar in the Rochester Link, celebrating the good news and sharing it with the rest of the Diocese. We know that there are plenty of good news stories around the Diocese that never make it to our offices, which is a shame. By sharing our stories, we can inspire and motivate others. We want to help you share your good news. Just follow these easy steps and you should be seeing your parish in print soon! 1. Check the copy deadline on the front page of Link. Submit your story before this date. 2. Send your story and a good quality image together in one to linknews@rochester.anglican.org 3. Check the diocesan website for copy writing and photography guidance at: -> Communications -> Guidance -> Photography Tips TAX RETURNS ACCOUNTS BOOKKEEPING VAT PAYROLL Friendly, ethical and efficient service at a reasonable price. Get in touch today with no obligation and we will be happy to talk about how we can help you Contact Trevor or Sharon on or info@trbtaxandpayroll.co.uk On Fire Mission Annual Conference th - 9 th May High Leigh Conference Centre Blessed & Broken - Transforming power of the Holy Spirit Guest Speakers Charles Whitehead Director of Premier Christian Radio and the Christian Healing Mission Dr Russ Parker Director of Acorn Christian Healing Foundation for further information ON FIRE MISSION through Word and Sacrament Birchwood House Rest Home Residential Home for the Elderly Respite care & short stay available A beautifully refurbished Georgian manor house, set in 6 acres of glorious Kent countryside, within easy reach of Tonbridge and Tunbridge Wells. All rooms have en-suite facilities & nurse call system. Lift to all floors. Excellent home cooking, with special diets catered for. Hairdressing, chiropody, library and mobile shop. Monthly in-house Holy Communion and links to the local church. Stockland Green Road, Speldhurst, Kent TN3 0TU Telephone: Langton ( ) 3559

6 6 ochester Link Holy Tractor! By the Rev Canon David Kitley It began with one of God s coincidences. I had just been appointed Bishop s Adviser for Overseas Links when I went to visit the one school in my parish, only to discover that the headteacher, Mr Mike Piercy, had been born in Tanzania. He was immediately interested to know more of our diocesan links with Tanzania, and was keen to form some sort of link with his school the New Beacon Boys preparatory School, Sevenoaks. Each year the school has major fundraising activities for a chosen charity. In 2012 they heard of food shortages in the Diocese of Kondoa and initially offered to give them the proceeds of their harvest collection. But Bishop Given had a greater vision. What was needed, he said, was a tractor that could plough the land. His people are subsistence farmers who till the soil with nothing more than a hoe, which could only produce a small harvest. But a tractor could do far more to alleviate famine, which occurs all too often when the rains fail. When that happens, people can get to the stage of having only one meal each day, and then as things get worse, a meal every other day. Bishop Given himself had known such starvation as a child. Could New Beacon School raise the necessary funds for a tractor - 13,500? The challenge was put to them in October 2012, when Bishop Given spent three weeks in England and visited the school. Parents, boys, teachers, responded with gusto! Sponsored events of all kinds followed: non-uniform days; collections at chapel services; every child (4 to 13 years) doing something on the new allweather pitch from keepy uppies (keeping a ball in the air as long as possible), a relay marathon and hockey skills, to sit-ups and press-ups. A painting of a tractor was kept (flat) in the front hall and covered in coins piggy banks emptied! By the time Bishop Given returned to England in November 2013 the school had gathered 12,000, an immense achievement! There was still sponsor money to come in; Diocese of Rochester Clergy in Estonia By the Rev David Green In January a delegation of Rochester clergy visited the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church to visit link churches and attend their annual clergy conference. Being January, temperatures mostly stayed between minus 20 and minus 10. We had to wrap up warm to handle the biting cold! Sitting at a crossroads of sorts in Northern Europe, Estonians are an interesting mix of Baltic, Germanic and Russian influences and their Church hints at some of our shared Protestant history while being quite distinct and very much of its own people. As part of our visit, we visited their Diocesan Office. On the wall is a memorial to clergy killed during World War II but it s dated Our guide said, For you the war ended in For us it took much longer. One could argue that their war didn t end until the late eighties and the final withdrawal of the Soviet army when Estonia gained its independence. It is only in the last twenty years that much Church property, confiscated by the Soviets, has been returned. Only in the last two decades have they been able to begin rebuilding, and that applies not just to the stones of their beautiful places of worship. They serve a nation seeking its own sense of identity after several centuries of being a strategic pawn in the wars of others. The Church, too, has questions to consider: They will shortly choose a new Archbishop; they have decisions to consider about structure and governance; relationships with the Lutheran world, Anglican, Catholic and Orthodox neighbours are being explored; and they must find new ways to reach their younger generations. The Church may have outlasted the Soviets, but the impact of that history is still felt. Many clergy have become entrepreneurs, seeking sources of funding to renovate churches neglected by the Soviet era. There s no English Heritage or Church Commissioners to help here. For fifty years, the Church was often prevented from working with children. Those children are now adults and often see little point in letting their children attend church. There are missing generations in some churches. The Cross of Jesus is a powerful image for them in what it means to suffer but to overcome. Their past is not easy but they would not want you to weep. This is no sob story. They are not looking to us to be a kindly uncle who fixes them and sets them on a prosperous path. would it be possible, he asked, to have the balance by December? That is when the rains normally begin and when the tractor would make its most useful contribution. Again the school responded wonderfully, the result being as you can see from the photograph. This is a holy tractor! It was consecrated by Bishop Given, who sent the photograph on Christmas Day. By 9 January it had farmed 102 hectares of land and had already earned the Diocese 300 a princely sum! The journey they must take has similarities to our own but the causal reasons are very different. You sense that the Lord is calling them to rediscover themselves as they rediscover Him afresh. If we are to help, it should only be to encourage and cheer them on their way. They carry their past with great dignity. There is great determination to make their Profound, inexpressible thanks are owed to boys, parents and staff at New Beacon School, Sevenoaks! More pictures of the tractor feature on the first page of their school website. Once upon a time there was a man with a vision. He met a man with some money. The man with the money got the vision. The man with the vision got the money... journey as the road opens up before them. Denied freedom by the Soviets for so long, we shouldn t be surprised that they now value their freedom to make their own journey without outside influence. To interfere in that, however well-intentioned, would be to diminish one of the gifts from God that they now prize highest of all. Jõhvi Church of St. Michael (Mihkli Kirik)

7 ochester Link 7 Silent Witness By Bishop Brian Castle Generosity was the word used to sum up three Rochester clergy s experience of visiting their link parishes in Harare. The Revs Judy Henning (Vicar of Rainham), Anne Jablonski (Vicar of St Peter and St Paul, Bromley) and the Rev Canon Liz Walker (Vicar of Platt) spent time visiting their link parishes of Tafara, Highfield and Budiriro, all high density township parishes around Harare itself. The cramped conditions, inconsistent water supply and intermittent electricity paled into insignificance beside the warmth of welcome, joy of the congregation and the depth of commitment to their faith, shown in one church by their ten days of prayer and fasting and attending evening prayer meetings in their hundreds. But, in addition to gaining an enormous amount from their link parishes, Judy, Anne and Liz were contributing something quite unique to Harare. Every year Harare joins with its neighbouring Diocese of Manicaland for an annual clergy silent retreat which all clergy of both dioceses are required to attend. This year the retreat was held in the beautiful setting of Peterhouse School, Marondera, which is forty miles east of Harare. This is the first time in a number of years that they have gathered in Peterhouse without fear of interruption by former Bishop of Harare Nolbert Kunonga: when they last met here in 2012, they were forced to leave by the state police. Judy, Anne and Liz joined the retreat which I conducted. The unique contribution of the three Rochester priests was their presence: This is the first time that women priests have ever attended because the Church of the Province of Central Africa (in which Harare is located) does not permit the ordination of women. This is a hot issue for the Province which, at its November synod, voted against a motion, proposed by the Bishop of Harare on behalf of his Diocese, that those dioceses which wished to ordain women should be allowed to do so. The laity voted in favour of the motion but the bishops and clergy voted against it. Simply by being at the retreat and in the parishes, Liz, Anne and Judy provided those who met them with examples of priests who were prayerful, joyful and full of character. On the last Sunday of our visit, I accompanied Bishop Chad of Harare in the consecration of a new church in the high density area of Chitungwiza, on the outskirts of Harare. I was delighted to be able to share with him in the confirmation of sixty-four candidates. We began the service by walking around the outside of the church, praying for God s blessing on this new site and new venture. We then entered the church which rocked with the songs and praises of around one thousand people. The service, which began at 8 am and finished at noon, and after which the whole congregation was fed in the Church grounds, was a reminder of the new beginning upon which the Diocese was embarking after being forced out of their churches and church properties for five years. Even though they have been back for a year, there is still much reconstruction to be done and a discernment about future directions. A new church with newly-confirmed members was saying that, as the prophets kept reminding the people of Israel as they returned from exile, Exploring Diocesan Links By Mike Fawcett Exploring the possibility of a link with one of our partner dioceses begins with a chat, prayer, and perhaps a visit, before any decisions are made. The chat might be with the Rev Canon David Kitley, Partner Diocese Advisor to our bishops, or me, and it would likely involve meeting with others who enjoy a link with Estonia, Harare, Kondoa or Mpwapwa. There are four Partnership Diocese groups that meet regularly to discuss planned visits and generally to share what is happening. Their link may be church to church, school to school or community to community, and they would love to pass on something of their knowledge and passion for the country, the diocese and the people with whom they are linked Planning a visit is made easier by the shared experience of those who have gone before and, as Co-ordinator, I would work closely with you to ensure that all the necessary arrangements are made - from flights and accommodation, to in-country transport and the planning of any rest and reflection time. It would be a shame to travel to any of our partner dioceses and not to see something of the attractions of their respective countries. The most important things to share are about the people you will meet and be linked with. I can speak with greater authority about Kondoa and Mpwapwa, having had the so, too, God wanted the Anglicans of Harare to be ready and alert for the new thing he wanted them to do. It is a real blessing for us in Rochester to walk alongside Harare on their important journey and to discern what the Spirit is saying through their example to us. pleasure of spending many weeks in Tanzania, but David and others speak in the same way about Estonia and Harare. The people you will meet and form lasting friendships with will be warm and welcoming and the most gracious and generous hosts. They will share with you the delights and challenges of a life very different to ours. You will walk beside our brothers and sisters in Christ, as they will with you. It will be life changing.

8 8 ochester Link WALTHAMSTOW HALL S e v e n o a k s K e n t Open Morning Thursday 20th March am - 12 noon FOOD FOR LENTEN THOUGHT JOURNEY TO THE EMPTY TOMB Paula Gooder Paula Gooder uses her extensive knowledge of New Testament life, language and culture to offer startling insights into the first Easter, from Palm Sunday to the empty tomb Canterbury Press A SEASON FOR THE SPIRIT Martin L. Smith A spiritual classic, taking you on a 40 day pilgrimage of prayer through Lent. Daily readings focus on compassion, self- knowledge, wholeness and reconciliation Canterbury Press Thriving girls day school in Sevenoaks. Produces quietly confident young women with a can do attitude and an adventurous spirit. The strong academic results are a happy by-product of all this. Top flight Science teaching Particularly strong History department Wonderful Art and Textiles rooms Sport popular Lots of plays every year Girls get involved in everything Plenty of debate, discussion and interaction from early on - Work in a team with teachers. The Good Schools Guide, September 2012 REFLECTIONS FOR LENT 2014 Ian Adams, Christopher Cocksworth, John Pritchard, Angela Tilby A special Lent edition of this popular series, combining the structure of the Common Worship Lectionary with the inspiration of daily Bible notes Church House Publishing 3.99 PILGRIM: A COURSE FOR THE CHRISTIAN JOURNEY These two six-part courses explore the Commandments and the Beatitudes, covering issues such as reverence, rest and the Christian vision for the world. The Beatitudes The Commandments Church House Publishing Within walking distance of Sevenoaks station. Mini-bus services from Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, West Malling and Oxted. Now accepting enquiries and applications for September 2015 & 2016 entry at 11+, 13+ and 16+. Please contact registar@walthamstowhall.kent.sch.uk for more information. To order: tel , orders@norwichbooksandmusic.co.uk or visit / ALSO AVAILABLE FROM YOUR LOCAL CHRISTIAN BOOKSHOP

9 Rule breaker The Paddock Wood Deanery Players have raised around 2,500 for the Hospice in the Weald through their stage production of The Rule Breaker and its predecessor Bible Bites but this time, the Rev Mandy Carr (Vicar of Lamberhurst and Matfield) felt inspired to write a screen play and produce a film of The Rule Breaker which she hopes will also raise money for this Hospice. The Rule Breaker follows top barrister Matthias prosecuting the accused Jesus of Nazareth. The twist comes when Matthias agrees to interview Jesus with the counsel for the defence; enter the young lawyer Gabriel. Is this the open and shut case it appears to be or is what appears to be the end of the matter really just the beginning? Mandy said, This was a collaborative process. It s great because it show-cases local talent; the acting, filming and lighting all welcomed contributions from keen volunteers. This was definitely a community project. It s astonishing to produce something like this without a budget! Veteran film-maker David Dore ( ) agreed to film the project and Mandy set about writing link scenes, recruiting more actors and scouting for locations. David said, When I was told there would be monologues to camera, which were taken from the original stage production, I panicked! There was a risk that these cameos where the actor spoke directly to the audience would be very static. It s a technique that has been used by Alan Bennett in the successful Talking Heads series and again in Lovejoy with Ian McShane. I was wrong this works! Writing, producing and directing a film is a new departure for Mandy who described it as variously fascinating, laborious and amazing. Mandy added, Often there is a view that Jesus was meek and mild, but that s not the picture we get from the Bible. The Rule Breaker puts the story of Jesus in a modern context and highlights how his message challenged The Rev Mandy Carr the authorities of the day. We hope to raise money for The Hospice in the Weald through DVD sales and feel that the film would also be a great resource for schools, churches and community groups. The film should be available to stream from from February Judd Boys to represent Rochester at the Cranmer Awards Omkaar Divekar and Joe Kleinschmidt will be representing Rochester Diocese at the national final of the Cranmer Awards in London on 6 March. The final, which will attract competitors from all over England, will be held at St Matthew s Church, Great Peter Street. The competition, in which young people from 11 to 18 years of age recite from the Book of Common Prayer, is organised by the Prayer Book Society and heats are run by the diocesan branches. won by pupils from Judd. Omkaar Divekar, winning the junior section for the third year running, gave a sensitive reading of Gospel for the Sunday after Christmas followed by the Magnificat. Newcomer to the competition, Joe Kleinschmidt chose the Collect and the dramatic Epistle for The Conversion of Saint Paul. Mrs Crawford praised the contestants for the clarity and sincerity of their readings. As well as cash prizes for the winners, the top three in each group were given a Real Advent Calendar and for all there were certificates and Prayer Book Society novelty rubbers in the form of a book inscribed For undoing those things which we ought not to have done. ochester Link The Christian Bookshop THINKING OF USING THE INTERNET? for all your church supplies or contact us at Sevenoaks Road, Pratt s Bottom, Orpington, Kent. BR6 7SQ Telephone FREE SPECIALIST CATALOGUE AVAILABLE NATIONAL FRUIT SPECIALISTS Over 300 apple varieties on M26 (8ft) and many on M27 (4ft)Patio Trees, Upright Cordons, Family Trees of Cherry, Plum, Apple, Pear, Peach and so much more! Prices held from 2010 & generous discounts DEACONS NURSERY Godshill, Isle of Wight PO38 3HW (24hrs) Tel: Fax: info@deaconsnurseryfruits.co.uk or visit our website 10% 9 off till 28/02/14 with code spring 10 Metalsmith Conscientous and reliable, Ian Marshall provides new work and maintenance for a number of churches. To join his list of satisfied custuomers call: or EWTN CATHOLIC TV IS NOW ON SKY EPG 589 Radio is on EPG 0147 Live TV at total cost for equipment and installation With no monthly costs For information & free monthly programme call GLOBAL CATHOLIC NETWORK The Fellowship of Meditation We practise and teach Christian contemplative meditation at residential and day courses at our centre in Dorchester and at other retreat centres in the UK. a Christian-based organisation We use meditative sentences to still the mind, to focus our attention on God, and to serve as channels through which the power of the Spirit can enter our hearts. Our members also gather in local groups. For further details please contact: The Secretary, The Fellowship of Meditation 8 Prince of Wales Road, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1PW. Tel: (01305) E: fellowship.meditation@virgin.net W: UK Reg Charity No: The Rochester heat had previously been held as part of the Bromley Festival but, when the venue moved out of the Diocese, Mr Robert Masters, Headmaster of Judd, generously offered the school for this year s heat. The heat judge, Mrs Shirley Crawford, put the competitors from the Judd and Bennett Memorial schools at their ease, telling them that she would be sitting at the side so that they could ignore her and just speak to their audience. Archdeacon Clive Mansell presented the prizes and spoke to the young people about the power and influence of the Prayer Book. He began by holding up his own well used copy. This year both junior and senior sections were

10 10 ochester Link Advertising Feature Visit the campus, meet students and staff Wycliffe Hall Open Day Saturday 8th March Booking is essential at ST. MARY S CONVENT WANTAGE St Mary s Convent offers a variety of facilities and flexible accommodation for Group Quiet Days and Group Retreats. Also, Conference facilities and private stays. Theological Library may be available on request. For further details please contact: St Mary s Convent, Wantage, Oxfordshire, OX12 9DJ Tel: guestwing@csmv.co.uk For further information please contact admissions@wycliffe.ox.ac.uk Equipping future leaders for Christian Ministry Registered charity A Permanent Private Hall of the University of Oxford A Lent course that will restore your heart for mission Our Lent study course for 2014 draws inspiration from the church in Myanmar Our Lent study guide for 2014 A heart for mission will help churches rediscover their passion for mission. The five-week guide looks at church growth, putting faith into action, caring for the environment, working for justice, and nurturing new believers. It also draws inspiration from Myanmar, where the church is reaching out to communities in word and deed with the help of people like health workers Naw Law La and Naw Bwe Hser (pictured). This is a chance to be transformed by re-discovering the role that mission plays at the heart of our faith. Order FREE Lent resources today: A heart for mission 32-page Lent study course 40 days of mission daily meditations for Lent Lent collection boxes and collection envelopes To order, call , info@weareus.org.uk or visit Us. The new name for USPG We are Us. We are a Christian charity working in partnership with local Anglican churches around the world. Together, we work with local communities to improve health, put children in school, tackle discrimination, give a voice to women, nurture leaders, and much more.

11 ochester Link 11 Praying the way Bromley & Bexley Bromley Deanery Bromley, Christ Church Thanks for many people visiting over Christmas and outreach events planned for spring. Erith Deanery Belvedere, St Augustine Give thanks for funds following our Lighting Appeal. Orpington Deanery Cray, St Barnabas Planning of our Mission Week in April. Sidcup Deanery Lamorbey, Holy Trinity Introduction of new evening services. Sidcup, St John Development of parochial expertise to help sufferers from addictions Rochester Cobham Deanery Cobham with Luddesdowne Vision for 2014; St Valentine s Dinner on 14; people to lead children s ministry and sung worship. Meopham with Nurstead Prayer for interregnum and discernment of the one, whom God has already called to this post. Fawkham and Hartley Pray for charities, especially Sure Start, who support families who have had funding cuts. Dartford Deanery Give thanks for the ministry of the Rev Richard Arding as Area Dean and welcome and pray for the Rev Kenneth Clark as he takes over the role, that he will be strengthened and enabled. That the right venue will be decided for Swanley Foodbank and enthusiastic and energetic volunteers. For the winter night shelter for the homeless in Dartford and for the plans for a home for the homeless. Gillingham Deanery Gillingham, St Augustine For our young people s work and for reorganisation and financial challenges. Gillingham, St Luke Thanks for large numbers attending Christmas services and pray for pastoral contacts made during Advent and Christmas. Rainham Pray for our link parish in Tafara, recently visited by the Rev Judy Henning. Gillingham, Holy Trinity Pray for the Rev Ann Richardson, our newly-appointed Parish Priest as we prepare to welcome her. Gravesend Deanery Gravesend, St Mary, and Perry Street both in interregna. Give thanks for Week of Prayer for Christian Unity; for all suffering from winter storms and those who help them; preparations for Lent. Tonbridge Sevenoaks Deanery Sevenoaks, St Luke Pray for the development of lifelong learning programme and our new work with teenagers. Sevenoaks, St Nicholas 2 Tearfund Sunday including special Tearfund Lunch. 16 and 23 Toolbox Seminars and workshops on a variety of topics in place of Evening Service. Weald For ministry team during Vicar s sabbatical. 21 Change a Nation Ugandan evening. Intercession during February Shoreham Deanery LIghtham For Messy Church and church toddler group. Otford For our new Reader and for re-ordering project. Platt For healing ministry in main morning service. Shoreham For permission to install modern facilities in church. Tonbridge Deanery Hever, Four Elms and Mark Beech For development of parent and toddler group; Café Church; thanks for new Head Teacher for Hever School. Tunbridge Wells Deanery Rusthall For all businesses in and around Rusthall Tunbridge Wells, St Luke For Christ s light to shine into the hearts of people who find difficulty coping with Winter. Tunbridge Wells, St Mark 1 PCC Away Morning Prayer topics for March should be sent to Lorna Kahan by 3 February. lorna.kahan@hotmail.co.uk 26 Wallis Close, Wilmington, Dartford, DA2 7BE. 1 Feb Bickley, St George 2 Feb Presentation of Christ: that the light of Christ may shine for all the nations. Bromley Deanery: Katrina Barnes (Area Dean); Richard Latteman (Lay Chair) 3 Feb Biggin Hill, St Mark 4 Feb Diocesan Staff: Staff conference today. Institution of Elaine Cranmer at South Chatham, Holy Trinity 5 Feb Bromley Common, Holy Trinity: the new Group Ministry for the 3 Bromley Common parishes 6 Feb Bromley Common, St Augustine Bromley Common, St Luke 7 Feb Bishop s Council: Residential meeting today & tomorrow for wisdom and vision for God s mission across the Diocese 8 Feb Wedding Fairs: Our presence at Bluewater this weekend 9 Feb 4 before Lent: Those in training for Licensed Lay Ministry 10 Feb The General Synod meeting this week in London 11 Fe Bromley, Christ Church 12 Feb Bromley, St Andrew Bromley, St Peter and St Paul 13 Feb Bromley, St John 14 Feb Bromley, St Mark 15 Feb Bromley, St Mary 16 Feb 3 before Lent: The retired clergy and clergy widows/widowers Bromley & Sheppards College 17 Feb Bromley, St Peter and St Paul 18 Feb Police Chaplains: Meeting of Kent Police chaplains today 19 Feb London Church Leaders: Denominational leaders meet today 20 Feb Kent Workplace Mission: Trustees vision day today 21 Feb Chislehurst, St Nicholas 22 Feb Chislehurst, Christ Church 23 Feb 2 before Lent: All those preparing courses and other initiatives for Lent 24 Feb Chislehurst, The Annunciation 25 Feb Hayes, St Mary the Virgin 26 Feb Church finances: All those concerned with the stewardship of parish and diocesan finances 27 Feb Keston Parish 28 Feb Diocesan Secretary: Geoff Marsh in his new role St Mary the Virgin, St Mary s Platt, Sevenoaks, Kent ORGANIST and CHOIR LEADER or ORGANIST We are seeking an organist, or an Organist and Choir Leader, to continue and to develop the music at our church. St Mary s is a welcoming and active village church which offers a range of different services. We seek to offer a high standard of music across a variety of musical styles within our worship. There is a robed choir, RSCM affiliated, and a moderately large pipe organ considered to be one of the best village church organs in Kent. Ideally, we would like to find an Organist/ Choir Leader who not only offers excellent musicianship but who takes pleasure in enhancing the spirituality of our services. Salary based on RSCM + generous fees and professional development support. Further details from Mrs Val Butler, Church Administrator, revliz.walker@btinternet.com Web: WESTWOOD CHRISTIAN CENTRE West Yorkshire Spectacular views over the Colne Valley Tastefully converted Grade 2 listed building Five well-appointed, peaceful, self-catering flats Large hall with sleepover accommodation for groups For more details see Tel westwoodcc@tiscali.co.uk Westwood Christian Centre, Westwood Edge Road, Nr Golcar, Huddersfield HD7 4JY Charity No DEVON HOLIDAYS PAIGNTON Attractive sea front apartments with wonderful sea views. Close to beach, cliff walks, old harbour, shops and parking. One flat available year round. Excellent value holidays. Visit website Contact owner Simon Carswell Dartmouth Devon Delightful ground floor flat with glorious views across river Dart. Sleeps 4: double ensuite, twin with bathroom, all mod cons. Tel: To advertise in the Rochester Link call Glenda on ISRAEL Acclaimed Bible Tours with Chris Hill, international Bible Teacher and leader of over 90 tours. C L Ministries ( ) E: clministries@btinternet.com Travel Insurance Arranged for Rochester Link readers BANK INSURANCE STOPPED? - CALL US FOR A QUOTE Our insurance has a customer 24-hour helpline, full medical cover with most pre-existing medical conditions accepted and, most importantly, an air ambulance get you home service. FREE EXISTING MEDICAL CONDITIONS SCREENING SERVICE AVAILABLE Annual (max. age 85) and single (no max. age) cover for UK, Europe and worldwide holidays UK BASED Conditions apply Please call for details ~ Authorised & regulated by the FCA ASHBOURNE DERBYSHIRE Ideal for Peak District Chatsworth, Alton Towers Comfortable Cottage Sleeps 4 Short breaks. All year SHERBORNE Short breaks in Dorset Elegant, spacious, 2 bed, apartment in listed building close to Abbey Church. Open all year. 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12 12 ochester Link Medway Credit Union All credit unions are financial co-operatives. They encourage thrift and provide access to affordable credit to all who live or work in their Common Bond. The members own the Credit Union. Around 7 million people in the UK cannot access basic financial services. Credit unions offer an ethical and safe means of saving as well as borrowing at rates of interest which are regulated by law. They are not for profit or just for poor people. They are regulated financial businesses which must become sustainable and not dependent on public funding/ handouts. A good socio/economic spread of members is essential. Neither is a credit union an alternative to a Pay Day lender, a term currently beloved of the national media. This description both undervalues and undermines credit unions. You must be a member and saving in order to borrow. A major objective of all credit unions is to get services to people before they turn to high interest lenders of any kind. The savings (or shares as they are referred to) drive the business and are used only for lending. Savings also provide a feeling of security something many members have not experienced before and which gives them a greater sense of control over their finances. A turning point for the Credit Union was reached this year. The Legislative Reform Order enacted in 2012 enabled us to extend our Common Bond to be Medway-wide and, with the prompting of local Councillor Vince Maple, Medway Council embarked on a period of consultation on the lack of access to affordable credit and especially the proliferation of Pay Day lenders on our High Streets which hold the highest concentration in the UK hence the media interest. Arising from this, it was agreed to enable the Credit Union to move to a more visible location in the Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham. This is right beside the central bus station, reinforcing our aim to be accessible as well as friendly. We moved in at the end of July. Credit unions exist in over 100 countries College pastors in Orpington By the Rev Canon Penny Avann I m an atheist so what s a college pastor? was the challenge thrown out to the team a week or two ago. I have my karma, don t believe in no Jesus, was followed by a call to a friend who had joined the team chatting outside the college, What about you, you don t believe in this fairy story rubbish do you? The reply surprised the students, though not the team, who knew the friend well, Yes I do, I am a born-again Christian! College Pastors is a new venture for the Ascension Trust, who initiated the Street Pastor project a decade or so ago. The Orpington team is pioneering the way for other colleges to hopefully follow suit. Now in its third year, the team grew out of a vision from the Rev Ray Bell who now heads up Unity Church, a joint venture between the Anglicans and New Frontiers. He saw how the valuable work done by the Street Pastor team could be used in college as well. The current team of ten College Pastors (plus four who work on the Bromley campus) work on the three busiest days in college mostly over the lunch-time and into the afternoon. On one of the days three of the team run a Faith and Friendship group something which began in the first term of operation at the request of the students. Over the three years the work of the team has evolved from street patrols (large numbers of loud and exuberant students erupting onto the streets of Orpington could be a little scary for the residents), to now spending more time in college, working alongside the student support team, befriending lonely students, listening to the joys and woes of student life, praying with students when invited to do so, and generally being a calming influence out on the streets when needed (which these days is not very often). Some of the team are trained counsellors and have been invited to support the work of the college counsellors; others are youth workers and they will be helping with the college s enrichment programme; and all the team find their knowledge and expertise is used in unexpected ways, which in the last few months has included helping with study skills, assisting a mature student with an assignment on academies, to helping to run a college football team. rich and poor. With credit a fact of life here and increasing financial difficulties for some, the need for our services is great. Un-manageable debt is a modern scourge. What Medway Credit Union needs is 1) continuing growth (members) and 2) more help. Recently, the Archbishop of Canterbury has spoken of the need for volunteers with expertise/experience to come forward. Could you help us? Set up meetings for your local community? We would provide a speaker. A Time is also spent with the student support staff and some of the tutors being a listening ear when the pressures are tough. It was good to welcome Bishop James at the college when he made his deanery visitation in November. A group of sixty students and staff grilled him on a whole local contact point with a volunteer to run it. All offers are welcome. Join us if you live or work in Medway. It will take a long time to get a national credit union authorised for the Clergy. Become a Medway member and find out what it is all about. We look forward to hearing from you. Opening times Wednesday to Saturday 10.30am to 3pm Phone: or Caroline. swift@medwaycreditunion.co.uk range of topics, from gay marriage to Shar ia law. His masterful handling of each topic and the humility with which he handled the students was much appreciated and showed the willingness of the Christian Church to listen and learn, and yet make a difference. A vision which is shared by the whole CP team.