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Est. 1856 Price 60p/80c ing mainstreamed into the Church and there has been a degree of culture change towards more open discussion of diversity issues. The report goes on to say that every parish and diocese in Ireland, every reader of the Church of Ireland Gazette, every clergy person and every attendee at the General Synod over the past three years will have an awareness of the Hard Gospel brand and the issues it has highlighted. It is also noted how the project developed a series of high quality resources and disseminated these throughout the Church of Ireland. The project initiated discussion and dialogue with seven groups, the report indicates. The groups were: Orange Order leadership, Royal Black Preceptory leadership, Masonic leadership, Changing Attitude Ireland, GAA leadership, Irish Travellers Movement board members, and Afghan hunger strikers. To these achievements are added the foundations that the HGP has laid for the future development of addressing its priorities by the Church of Ireland, developing a series of new collaborations and partnerships with other Churches, organisations and agencies on relevant issues and initiatives, and a series of demonstration projects addressing key strategic issues in relation to the legacy of conflict and a changing, more multicultural Ireland. While the Macaulay Associates independent evaluation report refers to the foundations for future work in the Church of Ireland, it also highlights difficulties relating to organisational change in the Church of Ireland: The Continued on back page
n independent evaluation of the Church of Irelands 2005-2008 Hard Gospel Project (HGP), which dealt with addressing issues of sectarianism and difference, has identified the achievements and challenges of the project. The report, by external evaluators Macaulay Associates, notes that the HGP developed a wide range of activities over its three-year timeframe. In fact, it is reported that more than 7,500 people participated directly in HGP activities. The report also indicates how awareness raising was one of the projects major achievements: The project provided a range of opportunities at all levels to address issues of difference, community conflict and sectarianism. Discussion of Hard Gospel issues has become normative within the Church of Ireland. The issues and approaches of the Hard Gospel are becom-
he Church of Ireland Evangelical Fellowship (CIEF) has formally sent greetings to the emerging Anglican Church in North America (ACNA), a new Church which groups traditional Anglicans who have been unable to remain within the US Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Canada due to liberal trends, in particular over sexuality issues. Significantly, the letter
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Editorial
Gazette
The Church of Ireland
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n his foreword to the independent evaluation of the Hard Gospel Project (HGP) produced by Macaulay Associates, the Archbishop of Armagh not only indicates that the HGP initiated important projects that significantly changed the awareness of and attitudes towards issues of difference within the Church of Ireland, but also points to the challenge which has now been presented to the Church of Ireland in the findings of the independent evaluation. Archbishop Harper writes that the challenge to the Church of Ireland now is to sustain the momentum of commitment to change and to internalise the lessons learned from the project so that they become systemically incorporated in the life stream of the Church. That is truly a tall order, and the Archbishop is right to emphasize that the newly-formed Implementation Group cannot approach its task without very widespread commitment to the Hard Gospel goals throughout the Church of Ireland. The HGP has made a difference in that it has influenced attitudes to issues of sectarianism and difference across
the Church of Ireland, but now comes the challenge of turning attitudes into actions. It is true, as the independent evaluation states, that organisational change in the Church of Ireland is a slow process, but it is possible. What is required to achieve it is clear commitment to the change itself and a certain forbearance with the system. The Macaulay Associates report draws attention to what it describes as a notable level of press and media coverage of the HGPs work. At the Gazette, we have been glad to act as a medium of communication for the HGP over its three-year life and our issue of 6th March last carried a special Review supplement devoted to the projects work. There is no doubt that communication is fundamentally what mission is all about; the HGP certainly went out of its way to communicate effectively, thereby letting a wide audience know that the Church of Ireland is indeed a Church on a mission, trying to respond with Christian vision to the contemporary context of life in Ireland. In fact, so many of the big issues facing society today are no less than Hard Gospel issues.
Liturgical Notes
Revised Common Lectionary
14th JUNE THE FIRST SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY; PROPER 6 Liturgical colour: Green Notes will be given on the semi-continuous choice of Old Testament readings. The first reading is 1 Samuel 15: 34 - 16: 13 and introduces readings from the David cycle. This tells of his choice and anointing by Samuel. Psalm 20 points to the victory of Gods anointed king. The second readings for the next few Sundays will all be from 2 Corinthians. Today 5: 6-17 (There seems no good reason for the RCLs omission of verses 11-13. They help set the context and all can easily be fitted in). This proclaims Pauls great conviction that in Christ we are a new creation. The Gospel reading, Mark 4: 26-34, is the parable of the mustard seed. ANGLICAN CYCLE OF PRAYER Pray for the Diocese of Ondo (Nigeria). The bishop is George L. Lasebikan. 21st JUNE THE SECOND SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY; PROPER 7 Liturgical colour: Green White on Wednesday 24th (Birth of St John the Baptist) Notes are only given on the semi-continuous choice of Old Testament readings. The first reading is 1 Samuel 17: (1a, 4-11, 19-23) 32-49. Although fairly long, this account of the victory of David over Goliath surely ought to be read in full once in three years! Psalm 9: 9-20 celebrates Gods faithfulness. Although the BCP version begins with a clause consequential on the previous verse, there is not an error. There is a possible alternative which tells of David playing the lyre for Saul which could be read if time is of the essence. The second reading is a very personal testimony to his obedience to Christ from Paul - 2 Corinthians 6: 1-13. The Gospel reading, Mark 4: 35-41, is an account of Jesus stilling the storm on the sea of Galilee. ANGLICAN CYCLE OF PRAYER Pray for the Diocese of Oturkpo (Nigeria). David Bello is the bishop.
J. A. B. M.
Home News
The girls from St Pauls, Lisburn, who received their Queens Awards are pictured with their captain and GB officials (back row, from left) Alison Stevenson (captain), Rachel Hanna, Ashlea Thompson, Lisa Carson and Jenna Strain (front row, from left) Morva Brown (GBNI President), Lynda Bryans and Marbeth Coulter (GBNI Vice-President).
Some of the participants at the Eco Awareness seminar in the Leighlinbridge Community Centre, Co. Carlow. he Bishop of Cashel and Ossory, the Rt Revd Michael Burrows, recently opened an Eco Awareness information seminar in the Leighlinbridge Community Centre, Co. Carlow. Bishop Burrows; the vicar of Kilkenny, the Revd Elaine Murray; and Marianne Young comprise the Diocesan Environment Committee; Ms Young was unable to attend the seminar due to a family bereavement in Australia. A number of speakers addressed a range of environmental issues. The Dean of Leighlin, the Very Revd Gordon Wynne, spoke on Our Christian Responsibility to the Global Effects of Climate Change and made the point that the three most important things underpinning the balance of the world were the
our girls from St Pauls parish, Lisburn, Diocese of Connor, were among 81 from across Northern Ireland to be honoured by the Girls Brigade (GB) with the Queens Award, at a ceremony held recently in the Braid Centre, Ballymena, Co. Antrim. The Queens Awards, which are internationally recognised and the highest attainable in GB circles, were presented by the GB Patron, Lynda Bryans. Addressing the audience and girls during the ceremony, Ms Bryans commended the girls for their hard work and dedication, describing them as real achievers and a credit to the Girls Brigade.
She added: This is the pinnacle of two to three years of hard work. What you have achieved shows that you have so many attributes and skills that employers are looking for. You have commitment, staying power, leadership skills, dedication all your exam. results will get you as far as the interview; your Queens Award shows that in life you have so much more than that to offer. To gain the Queens Award, the girls had to complete a two-year period of work which included community service, two initiative tests, service within the GB, a written test paper on GB knowledge and a final interview with GBNI officials.
environment, ecumenism and fair trade. Jonathan Fitzpatrick, from A-Rated Retrofitting, listed many things that could be done to improve the energy rating in homes. Richard Sherlock, from Daikin, spoke on the theme of Understanding alternative energy systems and cost effectiveness. The fourth speaker was Lorcan Scott, from Wildlife Ireland, who gave a talk on Wildlife and Fauna Awareness in our Church Environs. A wide range of stands promoting environmental and charity concerns were at the seminar and some of their representatives had the opportunity to address those present and to take part in a question and answer session following the main talks.
f you have any news which you think would be of interest to the Church of Ireland at large, please send it to the Gazette, typewritten or by email. Colour pictures only, prints or by email (high resolution). Publication cannot be guaranteed. Contact details, see page 2. Thank you!
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peaking to students of the Dublin Institute of Technology at the invitation of two of the Institutes chaplains, the Revd Neal Phair (Church of Ireland) and Fr Pdraig Gleeson (Roman Catholic), John Lonergan, the Governor of Mountjoy Prison, Dublin, said: If you are to remember one thing in life, you should remember that a few moments of madness can ruin someones life. He went on to apply this to different prisoners whom he had encountered in his years working in the prison service. He pointed out that people ended up in Mountjoy Prison for a wide range of offences, ranging from robbery to murder; however, he added that once they mentioned they had been in Mountjoy, they were all regarded as the same. Speaking on the sub-
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John Lonergan ject, The Need for Social Inclusion, Mr Lonergan talked about the history and work of the prison itself. Following the talk, there was a question and answer session for students and staff which gave those present an opportunity to ask questions on certain judical and socioeconomic topics and gave Mr Lonergan the chance to comment on different problems relating to Mountjoy Prison.
sub-committee of the Church of Irelands Liturgical Advisory Committee has produced a green paper on the subject of liturgical space which was presented to and adopted by the General Synod which met in Armagh last month. Following the General Synod, the Ven. Ricky Rountree said: It is now five years since the publication of the Book of Common Prayer (2004). The positive reaction of the General Synod to this green paper indicates that it is now the right time to think critically about how we use the liturgical space in our churches. It is also quite apparent that clear guidelines about what are appropriate adap-
Some of the choristers of St Annes Cathedral, Belfast, who were presented with their RSCM Bronze and Silver Awards. he choristers of St Annes Cathedral, Belfast, have recently become the first recipients of the Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) Bronze and Silver Awards, the first awards of their kind in Northern Ireland. The Director of Music in St Annes, Philip Stopford, said: I am delighted to see the choristers adorned in smart,
shiny medals. The Royal School of Church Music Awards cover the full range of talents and commitments of church musicians. Examinations in solo performance, repertoire, hymn singing, sight-reading and liturgical knowledge are all part of this prestigious qualification. Many congratulations to each chorister.
Roy Mooney (2nd right) receives a presentation on behalf of the select vestry and parishioners of All Saints parish, Newtowncunningham, Co. Donegal, Diocese of Raphoe, to mark his 50th anniversary as secretary of the select vestry. Looking on are (from left) Paul Bryan, outgoing peoples churchwarden; Jim Devenney; Terence West, peoples churchwarden; and the rector, Canon David Crooks.
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the bestseller, The Purpose Driven Life) as having the hand of God on his songwriting and worship leading [and whose music] is a great gift to the Body of Christ. The music at SM will be led by 4 Kornerz, 29th Chapter, 6 Star Hotel and, of course, the man with no big numbers in his name (he just sings them), Foy Vance, who is back on mainstage and also in Rehab, which is how the new twenty-somethings venue at Madness is branded, with its own programme stream, comfortable seats and spectacular line-up of speakers, artists and conversation. If that all seems just a little bit too cerebral, then watch out for the Zorbing, the Lazerquest, the Blokarts, the Climbing Wall, the basketball competition or caged football tournament and participants might well offer their own efforts in SMs Got Talent. A special 35 ticket is available this year for those who will not be camping on site. (For further information, visit: www.summermadness. co.uk)
Co. Wicklow church marks 175 years with opening of new parish rooms
The Revd William Bennett (left) at the opening of the new parish rooms in Calary church. Looking on are Archdeacon Ricky Rountree (centre) and Archbishop John Neill (right). By Garrett Casey he small Co. Wicklow parish church of Calary, Diocese of Glendalough, recently celebrated its 175th anniversary with a special service which also saw the blessing and dedication of new parish rooms adjoining the church. The service was presided over by the Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd John Neill, and the rector of Newcastle, Newtownmountkennedy and Calary, the Revd William Bennett. Despite the churchs
ffirming Catholicism (Ireland) - ACI - which seeks to uphold the integrity of the Church of Ireland as a Catholic and Reformed Church, affirming Catholic faith and order within the Church of Ireland, has recently published the latest two in its series of occasional papers. In Preparation for Priestly Life, Canon John Mann, rector of St Johns, Malone, Belfast, Diocese of Connor, argues that there is a relationship between the concept and practice of priestliness and the new contemporary vision for collaborative ministry and professional styles of Christian leadership. He accepts that, within this understanding, the nature, role and office of the ordained priest is evolving. Celebrating the Oxford
out-of-the-way location, a number of notable people have had associations with it over its 175-year history, including a former rector, the Revd John Nelson Darby, who went on to found the Plymouth Brethren; George Nutell who successfully lobbied the British Government for the commutation of the death sentence on United Irelander, William Smith OBrien, in 1848; Hilda Bisset, who was the first woman to qualify from the Irish Veterinary College in 1927; and Dame Ruth King who founded the British Youth Orchestra.
The Revd Chris Carson, rector of Kilmegan (Dundrum) and Maghera, Diocese of Dromore (right), and Edward Sterling jnr are pictured beside a plaque which was recently dedicated in Kilmegan church in memory of Brian Sterling who was for a number of years a diocesan reader in the parishes. Mr Sterling was once a member of a team which smuggled Bibles into China on three occasions and was committed to the work of the Divine Healing Ministry in Belfast Cathedral under Brother David Jardine.
World News
he newly-elected Lutheran Bishop of Stockholm says that being a lesbian means she wants to stand alongside people who feel powerless. I know what it is to be called into question, Eva Brunne said in an article on the website of the Church of Sweden (www.svenskakyrk an.se) after her 26th May election. I am in the lucky situation that I have power and I can use it for the benefit of those who have no power, said Bishop-elect Brunne, currently Dean of Stockholm. She is the first Church of Sweden bishop to live in a registered homosexual partnership, the Uppsalaheadquartered Church said, and is believed to be the first openly lesbian bishop in the world. Bishop-elect Brunne, who is 55 years old, lives with a priest, the Revd Gunilla Lindn, in a partnership that has received a Church blessing. They have a three-yearold son. She succeeds Bishop Caroline Krook, who is to retire in November. The Church of Ireland is in
Bishop-elect Eva Brunne communion with the Church of Sweden. Lutheran Churches throughout the world hold different views about sexuality matters. The Church of Sweden, which offers a special blessing for same-sex couples, has faced criticism from some other Lutheran Churches, particularly those in African countries. In 2005, leaders of the Lutheran World Federation (LWF) removed Kenyan Bishop Walter Obare Omwanza as an advisor to its main governing body, the LWF Council, after he consecrated a bishop from a breakaway Lutheran grouping in Sweden, opposed to women priests and same-sex marriage. [ENI]
he third AnglicanLutheran International Commission (ALIC) held its fourth meeting in Lilleskog, Sweden, between 20th and 27th May, under the leadership of the Most Revd Fred Hiltz, Primate of Canada, and of the Revd Dr Cameron Harder, Lutheran Theological Seminary, Saskatoon, Canada, acting as Lutheran co-chair in the absence of Bishop Thomas Nyiw, Cameroon, who was unable to attend. Sweden was chosen as the venue for this meeting in order to allow what the commission described as sustained engagement and deepening theological reflection on the theme of diakonia, which has been emerging as the central theme on which this commission wants to make its contribution. A communiqu stated: The life of the Christian Church has diaconal character, this commission believes. Using a diaconal lens has allowed the commission to examine issues of ecclesiology and ministry from fresh perspectives. Diakonia and koinonia (communion) are two faces of the same reality, two sides
Archbishop Fred Hiltz of the same coin on which Gods image is stamped. The commission believes that a renewed and full understanding of diakonia will strengthen the mission and unity of the Church at every level. God is now calling Anglicans and Lutherans to find concrete diaconal expressions for the growing communion between them. The inseparable relationship of diakonia and communion is integral to the Church in every context, but it is expressed in particular ways in each place. As part of its mandate, the commission received regional reports, which reflect a diversity of contexts, needs, and responses. [ACNS]
ore than two million television viewers in Europe and beyond joined a congregation of 1,200 people at Genevas St Pierre Cathedral to honour the 500th anniversary of the birth of the Protestant Reformer, Jean Calvin. We give thanks to God for the incredible ways that his legacy is giving life and hope to communities all around our world, said the Revd Clifton Kirkpatrick, President of the World Alliance of Reformed Churches (WARC), at the opening of the 31st May service. Calvin preached at St
World News
Youth stewards at the Kirchentag may other acts of worship throughout the Kirchentags duration. There was a profound sense of common, Christian purpose at the Kirchentag, music and singing never being far away, and the theme - Gods words to Adam: Where are you? (Genesis 3: 9) - opened up many different lines of reflection. Because there is such a vast audience, politicians like to make appearances and, indeed, I was invited to a reception hosted by the liberal FDP; the party leader himself, Guido Westerwelle, was there and gave a suitably encouraging address. His PR man hovered observantly, file under arm, and there was a photocall. Yes, European elections were looming, but Herr Westerwelles appreciation of the Churchs role in society did indeed come across as very genuine. I also attended an official, international reception hosted by the Bremen Chamber of Commerce, where officials welcomed the Kirchentag to their city, particularly noting its international dimension. Other events that I attended were remarkable in their own ways. For example, on a stage erected on the green outside Bremens central station, with several hundred people sitting around listening, a discussion took place on the subject of ecumenism - interspersed with music and songs by a Christian rock band. The discussion, relayed by loudspeakers and on a large screen, succeeded in both recognising ecumenical realities and keeping peoples interest. Then again, at 3.00pm on a sunny afternoon, one of the local theatres was packed, gallery included, for a very serious three-hour session on education. The topic is
clearly a hot one in Germany because of charges of litism in the educational system. It is felt that there is not sufficient investment in the less academic schools, leaving them, as one speaker put it, like educational ghettoes. There are also structural problems relating to justice in the educational system for migrants and poorer families. The debate will continue in Germany, but where it will lead remains unclear. At another event, former Finnish President and Nobel peace Prize winner, Martti Ahtisaari, who has been involved in numerous peace processes across the globe including Northern Ireland spoke about freedom itself. While he observed that religion and politics are interrelated and that one must not take over the other, he said they had at least one thing in common, freedom being of fundamental importance for the welfare of both. Mr Ahtisaari remarked on the spotlights shining on him as he gave his address in the huge auditorium: they reminded him, he said, of how very often people can see the politicians, but politicians cannot see the people! What struck me most about him was not only his eminence as a world figure, but his genuineness and relative simplicity of expression. Much more could be said about the recent Kirchentag days in Bremen, but suffice it here for me further to record my personal thanks to the Church of Ireland for nominating me as the official guest invited by the German Protestant Church, and my gratitude to the Kirchentag organisers for their hospitality and kindness.
(Students names in the captions are followed by the parishes and dioceses in which they will serve following ordination.)
ver the past few months, some people have suggested that there will be a return to Church and to people seeking ordination, as though such a move would shield them from the problems of the world. For those who do follow their calling to ordained ministry, it is not an easy option, with all the demands that are placed upon a priest. During the production of the As-I-Am DVD, it was refreshing to listen to the stories of people who had followed their calling, to
hear why they felt this was what God wanted them to do. Someone who watched the DVD a few weeks ago commented that listening to the stories made them
want to stop where they were and go back to the beginning of their own particular story. It is a wonderful privilege to be an ordained priest in the Church of God and to share in the lives of, and be supported by, so many people. Those in training, those about to be ordained and those already many years into ordained ministry value the prayers of the wider Church all year round. Katharine Poulton Central Director of Ordinands
Ordination Prayer
God our Father, Lord of all the world, we thank you that through your Son you have called us into the fellowship of your universal Church. Hear our prayer for your faithful people that in their vocation and ministry they may be instruments of your love, and give to these your servants now to be ordained the needful gifts of grace; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
Stipendiary ministry ordinands. Back row, from left: Victor Fitzpatrick (St Anns and St Stephens with St Marks, Dawson Street, Dublin), Johnny McLoughlin (St Marks, Armagh), Mike Dornan (St Malachis, Hillsborough, Down), Alan Irwin (Ballymena, Connor), David McDonnell (Christ Church Cathedral group of parishes, Dublin), Colin Welsh (Jordanstown, Connor) and Robert Ferris (St Columbas, Knock, Down). Front row, from left: Simon Genoe (Lisburn Cathedral, Connor), Alison Calvin (Killeshandra, Derrylane and Killegar, Kilmore), Tracey McRoberts (St Thomas, Belfast, Connor), Ruth West (Christ Church Cathedral Waterford group of parishes, Waterford), Patrick Burke (Douglas Union, Cork) and Ruth Elmes (St Brigids, Stillorgan, and All Saints, Blackrock, Dublin). (Photo: Nigel Gillis Photography)
Ordinands in training
YEAR 1 Arthur Burns (Derry and Raphoe) Yvonne Ginnelly (Dublin and Glendalough) Melissa Jeffers (Connor) Tony Murphy (Cork) Martin OConnor (Dublin and Glendalough) YEAR 2 Paul Arbuthnot (Dublin and Glendalough) Paul Bogle (Dublin and Glendalough) Lorraine Capper (Clogher) Peter Ferguson (Armagh) noel Gordon (Down and Dromore) Brian Howe (Connor) Trevor Kelly (Connor) Jason Kernohan (Connor) Jack Kinkead (Dublin and Glendalough) Brian Lacey (Connor) Terence Lilburn (Dublin and Glendalough) Vicki Lynch (Limerick and Killaloe) Alex Purser (Cashel and Ossory) Ken Rue (Dublin and Glendalough) elizabeth Stevenson (Armagh) Martha Waller (Dublin and Glendalough) Helen Oxley (Cashel and Ossory) Lynne Gibson (Connor) FOUNDATION COURSE 2008-2009 2009-2010 38 people 23 people
Completion of the foundation course does not mean automatic selection for training for ordained ministry.
Non-stipendiary ministry ordinands. Back row, from left: Andrea Wills, Helen Oxley, Christine ODowd Smyth, Amelia McWilliams, Anne Skuce, Lucy Green, Suzanne Harris, Elizabeth Cairns and Judi McGaffin. Front row, from left: Ivan Dungan, Adrian Moran, William Anderson, Niall Stratford, Mark Lennox, Adrian Halligan and Graham Nevin. (Photo: Nigel Gillis Photography)
Insight
ing your memories in a book or journal, and visiting a place of worship or any place that allows for reflection. There is much on which to reflect. There is no single date in the calendar year which is not the anniversary of the death of at least one person in relation to the conflict. So, whilst 21st June has a particular relevance for certain families - in particular this year as the date corresponds with Fathers Day - this Day of Private Reflection is about something much wider in relation to our society and its past. A member of HTR who lost her son in the conflict said: We must think about how things might have been had the present peace process come about sooner. Many lives could have been saved, including that of my own son who was only 18. Others make the point that
the pain of the past will not just go away - indeed, it can resurface at times of violence or political tension. For me, remembrance is both crucial - and as a former soldier particularly - is unavoidable, another HTR member said, but if we only remember, we will live in the past. We need to reflect on our memories, to think about whether the attitudes and actions linked to them contribute to healing and a better future for all. Careful consideration was given to choosing a date for a Day of Private Reflection. It was felt that 21st June, the summer solstice and the longest day of the year, was a symbolically important day. The hours of light and dark could be seen as a symbol of the hope and pain in our society. It is a day which represents a pause in the cycle of nature, a moment to reflect. In planning the Day, HTR
sought a wide range of opinions, and has received positive responses from various organisations and individuals. When the Day was launched in June 2007, HTR received support from people and groups in Northern Ireland, Great Britain, the Republic of Ireland and internationally. Since its launch, the Day has been independently evaluated. Feedback has been positive and it was determined that it would be beneficial to continue holding the Day. It is hoped that support will grow and that the Day of Reflection will continue to be an inclusive and positive event that emphasises a commitment to a peaceful society. HTR Director, Kate Turner, said: Extensive consultation with individuals and groups indicated that the Day needed to be as inclusive and comprehensive as possible, to be able to respond to those affected by the conflict. HTRs vision is of a day that is positive and inclusive, that reaches out to all and that unites rather than divides. For these reasons we hope that people will take part in the Day of Private Reflection on Sunday 21st June. (More information on the Day of Reflection can be accessed on www.dayofref lection.com. This includes information about the day, resources and endorsements. Additional information can be found by logging on to www.healingthroughremembering.org or by calling 028 9023 8844.) Sean Coll is a Board member of Healing Through Remembering and the Chair of its Day of Reflection Sub Group.
Soap
ummer suns may have been glowing, but in the Prescott rectory, the atmosphere was glacial. Anthony and Annabel continued to live separate lives under the one roof and had hardly exchanged a word, civil or uncivil, for over seven weeks. Though the bruising on Annabels face had long cleared up, the emotional bruising was still very tender and she was still smarting - inside - from the pain of his fist. And she would get even with him; there could be nothing surer; the time and the occasion would be of her choosing. Staff meetings were now coffee-less. At first, Anthony had made the excuse that Annabel still felt under the weather from her virus, and after that, coffee ceased to appear. Anthonys curate, Shaun Barrett, had agreed to join the Cathedral staff with Jeremiah Brown at the end of June, so there was less and less to discuss at staff meetings. Indeed, Shaun and Nigel Ashurst, the NSM, were often leaving the rectory 15 minutes after they had arrived. Anthonys manner was getting more and more brusque - if that were possible - and there was no smalltalk whatsoever. Nigel knew that Anthony was annoyed about Shauns defection, as he called it, and that the Archdeacon deeply resented that the bishop had suggested the move for Shaun. What he could not explain was Anthonys frostiness towards him personally. Annabel had taken to calling in to Nigels for
By Ted Woods
coffee and chat whenever she was passing - which was becoming more frequent - and when Nigel broached the change of demeanour in Anthony, and shed fix Nigel with her beguiling eyes for a moment, before averting her gaze. Nigel enjoyed their chats. Although he
she would get even with him; there could be nothing surer; the time and the occasion would be of her choosing
she just passed it off as strain from overwork. With Shaun leaving and with Priscilla delegating more and more work to him, hes run off his feet. I hardly ever see him myself - not that that worries me one little bit. Hes completely wrapped up in his work and always has been. If only Id known
had quite a number of acquaintances, he hadnt, as yet, made any real friends and old friends from before his navy days had either moved away or moved on. Not that he was lonely or bored, what with tennis, naval research and his work in St Saviours, but he enjoyed the free
and easy conversations with Annabel. He realised that it wasnt just her good looks that had made them an item at school. And Annabel was enjoying herself too: not just Nigels company, but also the fact that Anthony might often see her car parked in the Ashurst driveway and know she was there. And she knew his imagination would be working overtime - and that he could do nothing about it. She enjoyed the knowledge of his inner torment. But she also knew that she shouldnt rush things with Nigel. He was only two years widowed and from his conversations, she knew that his had been a happy marriage, even if his in-laws were too overwhelming. It was to get away from their claustrophobic presence and to be himself that he had moved back to Ireland. But Annabel had plans for the future and she would lay the ground carefully. She was determined that she would have more than just revenge. In the meantime, Nigel was enjoying her company. Annabel was always dressed immaculately and she could see Nigel cast an admiring glance her way. And now and again, while talking, she would lay her hand on his arm. He never flinched: in her mind, a good sign, surely. Much as Annabel would have liked it, there was no possibility of going out to a restaurant for a meal or an outing to the theatre: that would certainly get tongues wagging - and frighten Nigel off. Softly, softly, catchee monkey was her mantra - for the moment.
By the Book
Edward Vaughan
Christophobia a new form of persecution?
So, in late 2008 and early 2009, a Roman Catholic bishop from Australia, an Anglican archbishop from Britain, an article in the Daily Mail newspaper, a quote from a former British government minister, a series of articles in the Church of Ireland Gazette and an article in Time magazine either documented the emergence of Christophobia or directly used the term to describe events. A new word had entered our language to describe a new reality. Do we need a new word? What is wrong with the word that would normally be used - that is, persecution? Apparently, the distinctive nature of Christophobia is that it is political in form and acts in the guise of freedom and tolerance. It is also distinctive from the persecution with which the people of God are historically familiar because much of it comes from within the Church itself. In a situation that is distinctive word had entered our language from New Testament times, in some cases, to describe a new reality it is the leaders of the Church of Christ who are leading the charge liberalism in Australia. He argued against the truth of the Gospel. that there was a one-sidedness Some Christian writers have sugabout discrimination and vilificagested that for the Church in the tion. Opposition to same-sex marWest, the 1st century and the 21st riage is a form of homophobia, and century will increasingly look simitherefore bad; but Christianophobic lar. As we move into Christophobic blacklisting and intimidation is times, those passages of the New passed over in silence. Testament that once seemed so forPell references a Time magazine eign - the ones that teach on perarticle entitled What happens if secution - suddenly seem relevant youre on Gay Rights Enemies List to us. (Saturday 15th November 2008). The Apostle Peter writes: Dear Individuals and businesses supportfriends, do not be surprised at the ing the overturn of Proposition 8, the painful trial you are suffering, as gay marriage statute in California, though something strange were haphave been targeted and vilified by pening to you. But rejoice that you homosexual activists. The Time artiparticipate in the sufferings of Christ cle alleged that African Americans, If you are insulted because of the 70% of whom supported the overname of Christ, you are blessed, for turn of Proposition 8, have become the Spirit of glory and of God rests a special target. on you. (1 Peter 4: 12-14). doing things like praying for other people. The writer quoted the former British government minister, Ann Widdecombe, who was reported in the Daily Mail as saying: There is now daily evidence of Christianophobia in this country Archbishop John Sentamu was also quoted in the letter as saying that in Britain the freedom of diversity seemed to belong to almost everyone but those who had faith in Christ. At the same time, my attention was captured when I read the address given by the Australian Roman Catholic Archbishop George Pell to the Oxford University Newman Society (Varieties of Intolerance, 6th March 2009). Pell was speaking in England, but he described the emergence of an intolerant secular
ts not often that you see a new word enter the English language before your very eyes. Perhaps you would not expect the august journal that you are currently reading to be at the vanguard of developments in etymology. Yet that is what happened earlier in the year. I was struck when I came across a word that I had rarely seen in print before. The word is Christophobic (or the somewhat less euphonic Christianophobic). I was greatly surprised when I saw the word used and the concept described in a number of divergent contexts in a short space of time, one of them being the Gazette. Avid Gazette readers will be able to cast their minds back to a report entitled English Christian care home loses funding over gay rights. (Gazette, 23rd January 2009, page 16). The article explained that Brighton and Hove A new City Council had withdrawn funding to the home because the home declined to ask its geriatric residents every three months about their sexual orientation, to use homosexual imagery in its promotional literature and to show a presentation on gay rights to staff. Irish Senator David Norris responded in a letter deprecating this inappropriate, insensitive and bullying attitude. (Gazette, 6th February 2009, Letters, page 8). The good Senator followed this up by writing to and negotiating directly with the Council - and managed to restore the grant to the elderly folk. This situation prompted a Gazette reader to respond in a letter entitled Christian consciousness today (Letters, 27th February 2009, page 7) which instanced a number of other situations in Britain where Christians had run foul of the authorities by
Musings
Alison Rooke
Bully off
was hosting a Gatsby the Spalding plastic bag which party and was searching had contained my maroon for something to wear. My hockey bag, bought in the sixth form class had inveigled Athletic Stores in Belfast more me into this and it seemed to years ago than I care to reveal. me that an inordinate amount It is strange how ones mind of time had gone into discuscan be transposed by so trivial sion about outfits in those last an item - all the longings and few school days, when we really dreams and disappointments ought to have been focusing on of childhood evoked in an assessment objectives and the instant. like. (The boys, I may add, were For some unknown reaeven more animated than the son, it had been fashionable girls in their preparations.) for a while for the girls in our Anyway, it was the day of the school to carry their school event: everything was ready; books around in hockey bags. house festooned in gold and I suspect we were not meant silver balloons; and I was to do it, but, naturally, everywondering what Archbishop one did. For a long time, I had Richard Robinson would be desperately wanted a hockey thinking about it all. What was I going to put on with this flapper dress? Youre always twelve in your Then I had an inspiration: my mothers fox fur - ancient and totally incorrect, of course, but bag, but had had to make do ideal to evoke the atmosphere without one. Children are and glamour of the 1920s. cruel and the girls in my class Yes, there it was at the back were no exception; daughters of the wardrobe, a relic from of wealthy Belfast businessthe last murder mystery, and I men, many were privileged in delved into the blue plastic bag. their upbringing and lifestyle. I shook it out from a second There was a lot of talk about inner plastic bag and its smell the number of telephones in conjured up memories of parthe house and cocktail parties. ents dressed up to go out, my As the daughter of a Church mother in a blue dress and red of Ireland curate, I could not lipstick. compete. But what had really grabbed One day, my mother brought my attention in that moment me home a present. She knew was not the fur itself, but that how much I had wanted it and second plastic bag from which she was pleased because she it emerged. Unmistakeable; I knew how pleased I would be. was back in the first form at In my excitement, I pulled it grammar school - for this was out from the bag, the Spalding
plastic bag, and I can still recall the disappointment. It was the cheaper version of the hockey bag, the one without the front pockets. I didnt want this one; I needed the one with the pockets - but my mother was so delighted I was wandering round a provincial town the other day and I was looking a mess. I knew I was looking a mess: no makeup, hair windswept, scruffy clothes. An elegantly-dressed woman approached me and I immediately recognised her as the prettiest, trend-setter from our first form class: the one who always looked right; the one who had the best gear; who flirted easily with the boys; and who was popular and great fun. head Here she was, all these years later, warm and charming, full of chat about past and present. And here I was, feeling twelve years old again, with all its awkwardness and inadequacy. Do we ever really move on, I wonder? Youre always twelve in your head, they say, and maybe they are right. Well, the Gatsby party was a success; my students looked wonderful and I trust as much effort is going into their revision now, as the day of the examination approaches. Meanwhile, I have made a mental note to myself: Always, always remember to put your lipstick on before you go out; you never know who youll meet.
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News Extra
n a further statement to the Gazette on the Governments cutting of funding to Protestant schools in the Republic, Fine Gael Senator John Paul Phelan has said that the decision amounts to an attack on education itself. He said: We have to endure homilies from the Taoiseach and others on the smart economy, while they make cuts that will substantially impact on the range and quality of education that excellent schools, such as Kilkenny College, in my own county provide. As subject choice falls, class sizes will rise and special needs help will disappear. This is rank hypocrisy. It will permanently disadvantage a tranche of students who are now in school and are the butt of this short-sighted policy. Senator Phelan also said the cut was discriminatory, adding: It is nonsense on stilts to compare the Church of Ireland schools to other fee paying schools. Every other minister of education since the foundation of the state has understood this. The Church of Ireland community is widely dispersed throughout the country and only a small part outside of Dublin can access Church schools in their own locality. He said the issue was about recognising the constitutional rights of the Protestant com-
which allowed for adaptation and change to meet the challenges of a constantly changing environment. (God and Science is available for 2 plus postage from c.kenny142@btinternet.com, but the supply is limited.)
APPOinTmEnT
The Revd Roger Cooke, Rector of Musselburgh, Diocese of Edinburgh, to be Rector of Coleraine, Diocese of Connor.
Senator Phelan munity to educate its children in schools that reflect its ethos. He commented: The great bulk of the children attending schools need to be subsidised. They could not otherwise go to a Church of Ireland school. The minister can prevaricate all he likes, the practical outcome of these cuts will be to deny many parents their right in law to educate their children in a school of their faith. The Senator said that, having squandered billions, the Government was trying to slash and burn its way to recovery, adding: All it will do in fact is inflict long-term harm on the education of children, when we know that education will be vital in our recovery. To add insult to injury, this petty act demonstrates that this administration has no understanding of what it means to create a pluralist Ireland. Or worse, they just dont care. (Earlier Gazette report, 22nd May)
RETiREmEnT
The Ven. Richard E. Dadswell, Rector of the Ballisodare Group of Parishes, Diocese of Achonry, and Archdeacon of Killala and Achonry; 6th August 2009.