St. Laurence's Church

Lighthorne

Church of the Holy Cross

Moreton Morrell

St. George's Church

Newbold Pacey

St. Giles' Church

Chesterton

Letter from Rev. J.  Burrell

Sunday Services

Weekday Eucharists

Rites of Passage

Church Events

Incumbents Report

01926 651279 gjburrell@btinternet.com

Keith & Mary Blackburn

01926 641517

The Rectory, Lighthorne, Warwick, CV35 0AR

Tel: 651279  email: gjburrell@btinternet.com

 Dear Friends,

 "The darling buds of May" are here.  Shakespeare reminds us in one of his sonnets that Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May | And summer's lease hath all too short a date.

 I hope you are feeling a little more optimistic about the summer!  After all, we have had far more than buds already.  We have had cascades of blossom and the bluebells are coming out as I write.  Old friends such as swallows and cuckoos are returning.

 We are privileged to live close to nature.  The rhythm of the seasons is so steady, so predictable. 

 The Church’s seasons also have a rhythm.  We have just celebrated Easter after forty days of Lent.  We are now in a further period of forty days leading up to Ascension Day.  Just ten days later we will be celebrating Pentecost – the gift of God’s Holy Spirit. 

 The rhythms of nature and the Church come as a comfort to us in a world where the unthinkable shocks us all too often.  A collapsing bank, a suicide bomber, a lone gunman – what will happen next?

 It is not that we shouldn’t concern ourselves with the drama of modern life.  We are all caught up in it.  But we can also allow ourselves to be caught up in the wonderful rhythms of nature and the Church.  They are ancient and predictable; and yet each time they bring fresh life, beauty and wonder. 

 May you be greatly blessed this summer.

Your friend and rector,         

     Thursday 13th May                            2:30 pm  Bromson Hill Home

     Every Thursday (Eucharist)                10:00 am  Moreton Morrell

Funerals:          Margery Davis of Bromson Hill and Butlers Marston

                        Florence Hilda Warhurst of Chesterton

Lighthorne Notices

PARISH ADMINISTRATOR

The Parish Administrator for the MidFosse Parishes is in the office from 10am – 1pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays.  For enquiries about baptisms, confirmations, weddings and funerals or any other assistance, please ring Sam Lloyd at 651279. 

Email: midfosseparishes@btinternet.com

John Adams would like to thank the people of Lighthorne for giving so generously to the Myton Hamlet Hospice appeal between 5^th – 15^th March.  Over £350.00 was raised.

Memorial for Sir Adam Butler

 A memorial tablet for the late Sir Adam Butler which will be placed inside St Laurence’s Church, Lighthorne will be dedicated on Sunday 24^th May at the10.30am service.  All are most welcome to attend.  

Lighthorne

 Come and enjoy Cream Teas in St Laurence’s Churchyard in the company of the “Lighthorne Symphony Orchestra” on Saturday 2^nd August at 3pm.

www.lighthorneonline.com

Information about the Four Parishes is now available on line.  Do tell your friends and relatives about it.  Even if they are overseas they can still follow the events in the Four Parishes.  If anyone has ideas as to how we could improve the web page, please be in touch with me.  Another useful website is www.coventry.anglican.org

John Burrell

NEW SCHEDULE FOR PCC AND CHURCHWARDENS’ MEETINGS:

The pattern is:

Churchwardens: 3^rd Sundays in Sept, Nov, Feb, June

PCCs: 4^th Thursdays in Sept, Nov, Feb, June

In addition there will be the Annual Parochial Church Meetings in April.

THE MIDFOSSE PARISHES

 Lighthorne, Chesterton, Newbold Pacey, Moreton Morrell

Highlights of Incumbent’s Reports

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2008/2009

 During this past year the Right Reverend Dr Christopher Cocksworth has become Bishop of Coventry.  We are grateful for all that he brings to the diocese.  He visited the MidFosse Parishes by bicycle just before he was enthroned and has visited the deanery several times since.  Recently I was invited to join a Bishop’s staff meeting to talk about the deanery and to pray together for it. 

 The Fosse Deanery has seen another busy year with triennial inspections and with the setting up of a Parish Share Review Group.  We are delighted that Andy Meehan is serving on this Group which will eventually propose a more equitable system for determining the Parish Share.  The Deanery has appointed a Co-ordinator for children’s work and faith development, Dr Kate Distin.  She has already launched a website (www.fossedeanery.distin.co.uk) and is proving to be a great asset.  There are currently two vacancies in the deanery: priest-in-charge of the Kineton Group and house for duty for the Barford Group.

 In the benefice we have, over the last couple of years, released a number of people for ministry in more distant places – the Revd Rhona Floate, Geoffrey Walker and Adrian and Judy Wilson.  This has left a considerable gap.  But I am pleased to say that new ministries are emerging.  Keith and Mary Blackburn continue as Readers and Gemma North, a Reader from Shotteswell is currently living in the benefice.  We are grateful for her ministry among us.  Also, Richard Woodfin is in his final year of Reader training and Peter Byrd, who with his wife Sue have just joined the benefice, is in his first year of Reader training.  Gillian Jones and at least one other person are exploring Reader ministry.  So we are greatly blessed.

 In addition, I have learnt that there is a possibility of us having a curate in 2010.  Six training incumbents have been identified and we expect five curates to come into the diocese.  So, please keep praying that we may find the right person who is keen to join us in rural ministry.

 Sam Lloyd has started her third year as Parish Administrator.  She has been working one morning a week but this has been doubled (Wednesdays and Thursdays 10am – 1pm) with the additional hours paid by the diocese to assist my responsibilities as rural dean.  She now has an email address: midfosseparishes@btinternet.com

 Last autumn we ran two parallel Alpha courses.  26 people attended the Taster evening.  14 attended the course at the rectory and 10 at Lighthorne Heath.  It was appreciated by all who participated.

 A benefice Vision Day was led by the Revd Barry Jackson in the old Methodist Chapel in Oxhill.  We began to reflect on our story and to explore the way ahead as the Church in this place.  The process continues and we are working on a mission statement.  It is hoped that this will draw us closer together and focus our aims and resources for ministry.

 Representatives from Divine Inspiration addressed a benefice meeting.  They are assisting us in improving the experience of visitors to our churches and churchyards.  They were complimentary about much of what we are doing already and we look forward to working with them in the future.

 For the 5^th consecutive year a group from the benefice attended a Retreat on Holy Island.  This year the group consisted of 8 people representing all four parishes.  The group provided good fellowship and there was space in the programme to walk, read and pray.  Visiting speakers joined us for some of the evenings.  

During Lent we have had a series of Lent lunches with visiting speakers.  Overall, £460 has been raised for the Anglican Hospital in Gaza City.  About 20 people have completed the Lent course entitled “Faith, hope and love” which has been run on Tuesday mornings and evenings.

 The Parish Magazine has maintained a high standard and the aim is to distribute it to every household in the benefice.  A special thanks to Tom Cox who is the editor.

 The young people’s work has continued.  Digging Deeper, Pathfinders and attendance at Venture and Falcon Camps have been impressive.  We are still praying to be able to reintroduce Fish Club at Moreton Morrell School and to strengthen the link with the pupils and the parents.  Grateful thanks to all those who assist with children’s and young people’s ministry.       

 Over the past year there have been 6 baptisms, 5 weddings and 21 funerals. 

 I would like to thank all the churchwardens and other PCC officers and for others involved in such a variety of ministries (organ and music group, taking part in services, cleaning, bell ringing, flower arranging, music, etc).  All your contributions are greatly appreciated.  Increasingly there is a spirit of celebration when we get together.  It is this spirit that is so important as it draws others in.  “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13.35)

Some highlights from the Parishes are:

 Newbold Pacey:

§    The servery in the Southwest corner of the church is now complete.  This makes catering in the church far easier.  There is also a basin with running water in the toilet and a stand pipe in the churchyard.  Many thanks to all those who have helped to complete this project.  

§    There was a very successful flower festival. 

§    The Advent Carol service and Tree of Lights was well supported.

§    The Carol service was a great success. 

§    The Fair Trade and Local Produce shop has continued to meet monthly in the Ashorne Village Hall with Glebe Farm selling local meat and vegetables.  Homemade cakes and greetings cards are also on sale.

 Chesterton:

§      A generator has been installed to provide electricity for heating and lighting and a new CD player and speakers have been installed.

§      The Heritage weekend was attended by over 400 people and about 30 DVDs of the church and community were sold.

§      The Bell project has been launched to refurbish the 3 bells (cast in 1705) so that we will be able to swing-chime them.

§      There is a new carpet in the Chancel.

§      Many other refurbishments have been completed thanks to David Adams who is the Curator.

 Moreton Morrell:

§    Major repairs to the Nave roof are required.  English Heritage are giving us a 75% grant and the Parish Council are giving us two smaller grants this year and next year.  We are hoping that the work will be completed this year.

§    Plans for the John Howard Davis Room are therefore currently on hold.  Revised architects plans have been agreed and we are now applying for a Faculty.  Tom Cox and Janet Oliver are leading this project and we are grateful for them.

§    There was a College Carol service in the church.

§    The school children are having assemblies/service in the church twice a term.  They are also displaying seasonal art work in church.  The school has recently moved from 66^th to 11^th place in the rankings for Warwickshire Primary Schools, based on pupils’ test scores.  

§    There are regular flower arranging workshops.

§    Pathfinders and Digging Deeper continue to serve the needs of the young people.

§    Prime Time has continued to be led by a strong lay team. 

§    There is a new carpet in the nave and chancel.

§    A women’s bible study group meets each fortnight.

 Lighthorne Heath:

§    Evening services have continued every Sunday in the Village Hall.  There is now a rota for leading worship, preaching and practical ministries.

§    A Home group meets weekly.

§    Three young people’s groups for different ages meet weekly. 

§    32 young people attended Venture and Falcon Camps over the summer.

§    There were several Hope ‘08 initiatives, including a community car wash.

§    The Get Together Club meets weekly.

 Lighthorne:

§     There was a very successful Stewardship campaign.

§     The Cricket tournament, Art and Craft weekend and Barn Dance were all well supported.

§     The band of bell ringers continues to ring regularly.  Lighthorne is a favourite venue for visiting bands.

§     There is a new carpet in the North crossing.

§     Lead stolen from the roofs on the North aisle and tower has been replaced. 

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2007/2008

One of the highlights from last year was the Back to Church Sunday project with the theme ‘God at work’.  During several of the services in October and November members of the congregation shared how God had been at work in their lives.  These testimonies were a challenge and an encouragement to us all.  Several new people attended these services and two of them were baptised recently.

 One of those who shared was Sir Adam Butler who died earlier this year.  He had been churchwarden of Lighthorne for over 30years and chair of the churchwardens’ meeting.  He was also Director of the Bell Project which was completed recently.  He is greatly missed.   

 At the end of 2007 the Rt Revd Colin Bennetts, Bishop of Coventry retired.  He was an excellent preacher and gave wonderful care to both the clergy and lay leadership of the diocese.  On the 3^rd March it was announced that the next Bishop of Coventry is to be the Revd Canon Dr Christopher Cocksworth. He has been Principal of Ridley Hall for the last (almost) seven years and a co-leader of the Cambridge Federation of Theological Colleges, which comprises Anglican, Roman Catholic, Orthodox, Methodist and URC Colleges.  He is married to Charlotte and they have five sons. Christopher will be consecrated a Bishop and installed as Bishop of Coventry later in the year.

 During the past year we have said farewell to the Revd Rhona Floate who served her title in this benefice and who is now an incumbent in the Salisbury Diocese.  Adrian and Judy Wilson, who are both Readers, went to France to set up a Retreat house and have just been licensed in the Toulouse Region.  Another Reader, Geoffrey Walker, who has served the benefice for 25 years has recently retired and gone to live in Sutton Coldfield.  We are so grateful for all their ministries and continue to keep them in our prayers.

 The ministry team has shrunk considerably!  Keith, Mary and I are very pleased that Richard Woodfin is training to become a Reader and is already responsible for Morning Prayer twice each month.

 Last May I became Rural Dean of the Fosse Deanery.  Considerable reorganisation has taken place over the last couple of years.  Numbers of stipendiary clergy have been reduced from 11 to 9.  The most recent change has been the merger of Barford, Sherbourne and Wasperton with Charlecote, Hampton Lucy and Loxley.  The Revd David Jessett has been joined by the Revd Alan Wheale (House for Duty priest) and he and his wife will be living in the curate’s house in Moreton Morrell until a suitable house can be found in Hampton Lucy.  As a result of this reorganisation, we are now the smallest benefice in the deanery.

 It has been helpful to continue with the Central Cluster meetings of churchwardens and clergy.  We have been able to share ideas and resources.  Two benefices have appointed parish administrators and were able to consult on this process.  And we have shared again with marriage preparation workshops in Wellesbourne for about 40 couples.

 All members of the PCCs were invited to an Away Day at Claverdon on 12^th May.  It was led by the Venerable Norman Warren, retired archdeacon of Rochester, now living in Stratford.  We had three lively sessions on ‘growing my faith, growing my ministry and growing my outreach’.  This resulted in much discussion and clarification of some practical plans.  It was a very enjoyable day.

 The new system of benefice meetings followed by individual PCC meetings at Moreton Morrell School has continued.  Various adjustments have been made to the timing of the different components and the venues of the PCC meetings.  A questionnaire completed last November thoroughly endorsed this new system and provided some further aims for individual PCCs.

 For the 4^th consecutive year a group from the benefice attended a Retreat on Holy Island.  This year the group consisted of 7 people representing all four parishes.  Next year a group will be going to Holy Island from 2^nd – 6^th March.  Do speak to me if you are interested in going.

 The Lent course on ‘the Lord’s Prayer – praying it, meaning it, living it’ was attended by about 20 people in the morning and evening sessions.  And three Lent lunches provided an opportunity to hear the stories of three local clergy.  One had previously been a ballet dancer, another a head teacher and a third sang some songs.  £374 was raised and it was divided between the Bethlehem School and our Link Diocese of Kaduna.

 The young people’s work has continued.  Digging Deeper, Pathfinders and attendance at Venture and Falcon Camps have been impressive.  But more work is required to reintroduce Fish Club at Moreton Morrell School and to strengthen the link with the pupils and the parents.       

 Over the past year there have been 10 baptisms, 5 weddings and a blessing of a civil marriage and 12 funerals. 

 The MidFosse Parishes magazine has an additional four pages.  The suggested annual donation is £5 for the ten issues.  The format is professional and plenty of advertisers are keen to use it.  It seems to be appreciated by those who receive it.  We are grateful to all those who both produce and distribute it.

We recently bought a laptop and data projector so that we can use power point presentations particularly at the services at Lighthorne Heath, Prime Time and benefice meetings. 

 On Maundy Thursday evening Moreton Hall was severely damaged by fire.  Our hearts go out to the College community and we are grateful no one was injured.  Mike Bailey, the Centre Manager writes: “I am sure the fact that the flag is still flying must be a positive sign that we will be able to do something with the old building which means so much to the college and the village.”

 Some highlights from the Parishes are:

 Moreton Morrell:

• Floods in July damaged the Church but the insurance company was very helpful.  A replacement carpet still needs to be purchased.

• Prime Time has continued to be led by a strong lay team.  Numbers have sometimes been disappointing and we need to strengthen our link with the Primary School.

• An excellent Songs of Praise was organised by Libby Struthers with an organist and three choristers from Bury St Edmunds as well as some local musicians. 

• There was another successful church/school fete, despite the rain.

• Continued close involvement with the school especially with governors and staff.

• Plans for the John Howard Davis Room are progressing.  Architects plans have been agreed and a Faculty application has been submitted.  Tom Cox and Janet Oliver attended a seminar on fundraising and are leading us with this project.  It is a big and exciting project and will need our prayers and support.

 Lighthorne:

• The band of bell ringers is now quite accomplished and rings regularly.  Lighthorne seems to have become a favourite venue for visiting bands.

• The rafters were cleaned professionally.

• Additional pew runners have been purchased and kneelers were repaired by a work party in the village hall.

• The altar frontal box was moved from the North crossing to behind the altar in the side chapel.  This has created space for baptisms and serving refreshments after services.  It has also created space for wheelchairs and pushchairs.

• Two successful events were held: a 6-a-side cricket tournament and cream teas in the churchyard.  Both will be repeated this year.

Lighthorne Heath:

• Evening services have continued every Sunday in the Village Hall. 

• Bishop Colin preached on 23^rd September just before his retirement.

• A Home group meets weekly.

• Three young people’s groups for different ages meet weekly.  Andrew and Sam Craven have moved to the Heath recently and are a great support to Keith and Mary Blackburn.

• About 20 young people continue to attend Venture and Falcon Camps each summer.

• The Get Together Club meets weekly.

 Newbold Pacey:

• The Crib service took place here last year and was a great success.  Marilyn Boardman and Priscilla Cook organised it and about 160 attended.

• The Advent Carol service and Tree of Lights was very well supported.

• The Fair Trade and Local Produce shop has continued to meet monthly in the Ashorne Village Hall and has grown steadily with Glebe Farm attended regularly to sell local meat and vegetables.  Homemade cakes (sold in aid of the church water project) and homemade cards are also on sale.

• The details of the water project have now been agreed upon.  This will provide a stand pipe in the churchyard, running water for a basin in the toilet and running water for a sink and boiling water unit in the South West corner inside the church.  Application for a faculty has been submitted and funds have been raised.

• An impressive health and safety/risk assessment plan has been drawn up, thanks to Krys Pitrecki and she has offered to assist the other parishes in the benefice.

 Chesterton:

• Refurbishments have been completed.

• The open weekend on 7^th / 8^th  July last year was attended by many people in the area and generated a great deal of interest.  We were grateful for external funding that made it possible.

• DVDs about the church, community and wild life have been made by David Adams and are on sale.  They are very professional and continue to sell well.  Photographs are also on sale in the church.

• A project to install a generator to provide electricity for heating, CD player and some lighting is making progress. 

Conclusion:

There are currently three aims for the Diocese: 

1. Inspiring worship

2. Making and empowering disciples

3. Transforming local communities

 Over the past few years we have spent a lot of time discussing and planning worship.  There is both continuity through the benefice and also diversity as each parish develops in an appropriate way.  Perhaps now we need to concentrate on making and empowering disciples.  How could we engage in a deeper way with God’s Word and Spirit?  How could we help people to grow in faith?  St Paul invites us “to be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.”  (Ephesians 3.19)         

 The fruit of this is the transformation of communities.  We are beginning to see it in parts of our benefice. St Paul urges us, “do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”  (Romans 12.2)  How we long to see that transformation in the world.

God is calling us to a new depth of commitment.  Let us celebrate being part of his Church in this place and be ready for all that he has in store for us.  As one of the churchwarden’s of Radford Semele Church that was recently devastated by fire wrote: “We know God has plans for us… there is much to look forward to.” 

The Revd John Burrell

Rector and Rural Dean of Fosse Deanery

Further items for the agenda:

Land Drainage: Churches

PCCs should note that some PCCs in the northern province of York are facing large increases in their water charges. This arises from the fact that the water companies are treating churches as non-domestic premises and installing water meters for charging purposes.

However, in 2000, Ofwat (the water industry regulator) had advised all water companies that "it is inappropriate to charge all non-household customers as if they were businesses. If premises such as churches are charged on the same basis as other non-household users, they can face disproportionately high costs. Such premises should be able to benefit from tariffs which reflect their relatively small demand on the water system".

Please would PCCs notify the DAC Office of any sudden hikes in their water charges and proposals to fit water meters and bear in mind that the fitting of any such meters within the curtilage of the church would, in any case, require a faculty in advance of the works being carried out.

Good News From the Budget – Important Amendment

It was notified just after the budget that the Chancellor had announced that, for the next 3 years from this coming 6th April, charities, which includes PCCs, could continue to claim Gift Aid as if the basic rate of tax were 22%, despite the basic rate being dropped to 20%. We thought that this meant that PCCs could claim tax back on Gift Aided donations at 22/78 of the gift.

However it has now come to our attention that this is incorrect. The procedure will be:

1. For all donations received after 5th April 2008 tax may only be claimed back at the 20% rate – 20/80ths of the amount donated.

2. The Inland Revenue will then make up the amount claimed to the equivalent of the existing rate by adding a supplement to the amount of tax repaid.

One result of this is that all PCCs will have to make claims for donations received up to 5th April at the 22/78 rate and then for donations after that date at the 20/80 rate.

More information can be found at http://www.parishresources.org.uk/giftaid.htm

If you have any query please contact the Diocesan Finance Office.

Thefts from Churches

Ecclesiastical Insurance Company have had over 2,300 claims over the past year amounting to £9 million.  In the previous 20 years claims have been negligible.  Thefts have correlated with the increase in metal prices.  The Parish of Whitwell in Derbyshire have had 14 thefts of lead since last May.  We must be vigilant and also comply with the requirement to use Smart water on all lead and valuables.   

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2006/2007

The ministry team has worked well together leading services and reaching out into the community.  We have continued to try to blur the interface between church and the wider community so that people who come to church for the first time feel welcome and all can celebrate community life.  Jesus said “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.”  (John 10.10)

Last Christmas well over 400 people attended services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and on Easter Day about 160 attended services.  This is very encouraging.  And there are more community events being held both inside and outside the church buildings.    

Over the past year there have been many important developments.  In December the rota of services changed to accommodate Prime Time, a second monthly 10.30am service at Moreton Morrell.  This has proved to be very popular and is being led by a capable lay team. 

At Lighthorne Heath it was felt that it was the right time to start a regular Sunday evening service in the village hall.  It is supported by both young and old.  Because of the needs of these two new services it has been decided to invest in Powerpoint (laptop, projector and screen).

Last summer about 20 young people from the MidFosse Parishes attended Falcon Camps and Ventures (Christian holiday camps).  This year a similar number is expected.  In March the national conference for Falcon Camp leaders was held in Leamington and 50 delegates came to Lighthorne Heath in an initiative called “Making Light Work “. 

Several young people who have attended Ventures are now returning as part of the leadership team.  There is a monthly gathering of the 14+ age group at Digging Deeper.  At Lighthorne and Moreton Morrell Pathfinders (11 – 14s) meet at the 10.30am services and have their own activities in the rectory and Moreton Morrell school respectively.   

The Lent course this year was called “Tough Talk – the hard sayings of Jesus”.  Over 20 participated in either the morning or evening sessions.  There was also a series of Lent lunches which raised £474 for three local charities.

It was the third successive year that a group from the MidFosse Parishes had attended a Retreat in Lindisfarne, Holy Island.  And both John and Rhona were able to visit Jerusalem, thus strengthening the Diocesan link with the Syrian Orthodox Church.

Some highlights of the year in the different parishes were:

°    Moreton Morrell: Progress on a meeting room with facilities at the church – to be named after the late John Davis; welcoming new Head Teacher Kelly Ford; Prime Time.

°    Lighthorne: Dedication of the new peal of 6 bells on 26^th November 2006 by the Bishop of Coventry; training local bell-ringers; various community and fundraising events.

°    Newbold Pacey: Celtic worship services; visit of the choir of the Queen’s College, Oxford; Fairtrade, local produce and coffee shop; Tree of Light, Flower festival and other special events.

°    Chesterton: Refurbishment of the interior of the church; re- leading of the roof; repair and hanging of a hatchment and two panels; completion of DVDs about Chesterton village and Chesterton Church.

As this year comes to an end, we are preparing for a time of change.  The Revd Rhona Floate, who came to the MidFosse Parishes as Assistant Curate almost four years ago, leaves us on 22^nd April.  We are enormously grateful for all that Rhona has brought to our benefice.  Her innovative worship, friendship and humour will be greatly missed. 

Two of our Readers, Adrian and Judy Wilson have also announced that they will be leaving the benefice in the near future.  They feel a calling to establish a retreat house in France.  We are tremendously grateful for their ministry among us – leading worship, a house group and for their warm friendship and pastoral care. 

The Bishop of Coventry, the Rt Revd Colin Bennetts has announced his retirement at the end of the year.  We are grateful for his leadership in the diocese and for his inspired preaching.

Change is not just happening in our benefice and diocese but also in the world at large.  Our faith is in God the Father who made us, God the Son who gives us new life and God the Holy Spirit who empowers and guides us.  May we trust Him more and allow Him to lead us into new ways.  “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.”  (Lamentations 3.22)     

The Revd John Burrell

Rector and Rural Dean of Fosse Deanery

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2003/2004

The MidFosse Parishes – the new name that the joint PCC gave to our benefice last November – has strengthened our corporate identity.  Increasingly we are finding strength, effectiveness and celebration in working together.  At the same time, each parish is able to develop its own distinctive worship, ministry and outreach.  And so my report deals with each of these aspects in turn.

THE MIDFOSSE PARISHES:

 We have been thrilled to welcome a new curate to the benefice - the Revd Rhona Floate.  Before her ordination, Rhona worked in Wellesbourne and lived in Newbold-on-Stour.  She then trained for the ministry at Trinity College, Bristol and was ordained deacon last June.  She lives in Moreton Morrell and has already made a significant contribution to the life of the benefice.  Our prayers are with her as she prepares for ordination to the priesthood on 4^th July this year.

 Last September Keith and Mary Blackburn were admitted as Readers.  They bring a depth of faith and experience into our lives and their outreach, especially in the Lighthorne Heath Community and with their annual visits to the Orchid Ministries in Thailand are both effective and challenging.

 Adrian and Judy Wilson continue with their Reader training and are due to be admitted as Readers in September this year.  We are eagerly awaiting this moment.

 We are grateful to Geoffrey Walker who, after many years service, continues to minister in the benefice. 

 Regular churchwardens’ meetings continue to take place.  I am grateful for the responsibilities they carry and it is a credit to them that our benefice is without debt, our church buildings are in good repair and that we have prize winning churchyards.

 Tom Cox has brought his gifts and enthusiasm to the Parish Magazine.  With a new printer, a new cover soon to be launched and a talented editorial team which includes Janet Oliver and Judy Wilson, the presentation and content of the magazine has improved greatly.

 We have continued to hold two joint PCC meetings each year.  Roger Spiller, the Diocesan Director of Ordinands attended the first one, on May 15^th 2003, to prepare us all for Rhona’s arrival.  We also viewed and discussed a video circulated by the Archbishop of Canterbury entitled “Restoring Hope in our Church”.  One of the messages from the Archbishop of York was: “We need to be more ‘a band of pilgrims on the way’ than a bleak church building with a message ‘Stay out’!”

 We took this message to heart in the second joint PCC meeting on 6^th November 2003.  We discussed the impact that our churchyards and churches have on visitors and commissioned a team to tour each and submit a report.  This has been given to each churchwarden and it is hoped that they will present it to their respective PCC’s.  It contains many encouraging items and some that need to be addressed.

 The children’s work has been strengthened through the past year.  There are dedicated places and instruction for children of various ages during the 10.30am Sunday services at all the churches except Chesterton.  Once a month, at the Lighthorne 10.30am service, Pathfinders meets (10-14year olds).  In addition there are All-age service committees meeting monthly to prepare services, children’s work and plan music for the music group at Lighthorne, Moreton Morrell and Newbold Pacey.  And weekly assemblies are taken at both Lighthorne Heath and Moreton Morrell C of E Primary Schools.  The Fish Club meets at Moreton Morrell School.  Five young people were confirmed last year and another one will be confirmed this year.  And last summer almost 20 young people from the benefice attended Christian camps – Venture or Falcon (CPAS).

 On 6^th September Bishop Colin Bennetts preached at Moreton Morrell just days before he was admitted to hospital for major surgery.  Fortunately he has made a full recovery.  And on 11^th October the Very Revd John Irvine, Dean of Coventry Cathedral was the guest speaker at a breakfast for 25 men held at the Cottage Tavern, Ashorne. 

 ‘Lost for Words’ was the title of the Lent course which was run by Rhona Floate, assisted by Judy Wilson and Philip Lawton.  This was very well attended both in the Ashorne Village Hall in the afternoons after a Lent lunch and also in the Lighthorne Village Hall in the evenings.  Several of the participants would like to continue meeting in a small group.

 On Maundy Thursday a Passover supper was held in the Moreton Morrell Hall. This was arranged by Rhona, Sara Lawton, Hilary Williams and others.  About 50 attended and it was a most moving experience to be celebrating together on that special evening.

 A workshop on public speaking and reading entitled ‘The Voice from the Lectern’ was held at Newbold Pacey.  It was run by a former member of Lighthorne Parish, George Smith, and was great fun as well as being beneficial.  A follow-up workshop is due to take place shortly.

 Newbold Pacey, Moreton Morrell and Lighthorne all held very successful Harvest suppers and Barn dances.  These were events which drew communities together.  In the same way, communities were drawn together by the very successful Moreton Morrell Church and School Fete, the innovative and highly acclaimed Alternative Ashorne Fete and the all inclusive Lighthorne Funday. 

THE INDIVIDUAL PARISHES:

Newbold Pacey:

Last year the PCC undertook to:

• Install a new heating system in the church.  This has been done and is a great success. 

• Adapt the vestry for Junior church.  This has been completed.

•  Present an Alpha course.  This was not done.

This year the PCC agreed to:

• Embark on a stewardship programme which will begin with the joint PCC meeting on 13^th May when a Diocesan stewardship officer will make a presentation.

• Participate in the ‘Lost for Words’ course and subsequent small groups – many attended.

•  To pursue justice, peace and environmental issues – starting with a Rogation Day walk and service on Sunday 23^rd May.

 Chesterton:

Last year the PCC undertook to embark on an ambitious programme of installing electricity and water in the church, to improve the parking, to supply more information about Chesterton for the Parish Magazine and to hold a number of church functions.  In the end, except for the information for the magazine, none of these was achieved.  However, discussion was had and there is now a new resolve to pursue the priorities for this year which include:

• To pursue the development issues (heating, lighting, water, parking) – the next meeting with the DAC Secretary and Diocesan heating adviser will be held on 5^th May.

• To arrange a small group session for bible study, discussion and prayer to discern what God is calling us to do – date to be arranged.

• To look at issues of justice, peace and the environment more deeply in small groups.

Moreton Morrell:

Last year the PCC agreed to:

• Install a new heating system.  This has been done and is very effective.

• Re-plaster the base of the bell tower and refurbish it with carpet and cupboards for a children’s area.  This has been completed.

• Produce a leaflet explaining the current cost of running the church.  This is now on the notice board.

• Develop lay visiting and welcoming newcomers.  The visiting team meets regularly and welcome folders are given out to newcomers in the parish.

• Encourage inclusive, collaborative ministry.  This is ongoing.

This year the PCC has agreed to:

• Attend an Away Day on Saturday 22^nd May at the Mill, Burmington and facilitated by Colin Holtum (Diocesan Research Officer) to listen to what God is calling us to in the future.

• Revisit the mission statement; update the parish plan; communicate both of them more effectively and give serious thought to managing change.  Much of this will begin at the Away Day.

• Participate in the ‘Lost for Words’ course, consider running another course and look again at small groups as to whether more should be introduced.

 Lighthorne:

Last year the PCC agreed to:

• Combine church activities with community activities.  The Funday and the Harvest Supper were very successful.

• Pursue a giving policy (for charities) for the parish.  This has been done.

• Begin a 5 year plan for addressing disability access.  This has begun.

This year the PCC has agreed to:

• Explore how to meet the worshipping needs of the congregation.  A meeting of those on the electoral roll was held in church on 1^st April and some useful thoughts were shared which will be put before the PCC.

• Devise a new system of distributing the welcome folders and review the welcome to services.  Ongoing.

• Devise a better strategy to follow up people after baptisms, weddings and funerals.

A lot is happening in the MidFosse Parishes.  In addition to all that is happening locally we continue to pray for and assist our outreach projects in Thailand, India and South Africa as well as the Diocesan Links with the Anglican Diocese of Kaduna, Nigeria and the Syrian Orthodox Church in Jerusalem and the Holy Land.

As we continue to be rooted in our individual parishes, may we grow together and celebrate our life in the MidFosse Parishes and through our prayers, our action and our gifts give fruit to the world.

Jesus said: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener…You did not choose me, but I chose you an appointed you to go and bear fruit – fruit that will last.” (John 14:1, 16)

The Rev’d John Burrell

April 2004

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2002/2003

As I write this report, our country is engaged in a war in Iraq.  Closer to home, a recent report states that by the year 2020 rural communities will be very different due to less land being farmed and people moving from urban to rural areas in search of security and a better quality of life.  We certainly live in a dangerous and rapidly changing world. 

 What is the role of the church?  Partly it is to carry on as it always has – proclaiming Jesus Christ at the heart of the community – pastoring, teaching, worshipping.  But partly, also, it is to respond and adapt to a changing context.  Fewer people go to church and know the Good News of Jesus; more people than ever are in need of healing, wholeness and a purpose to live for.

 As we pray about and wrestle with these deep issues, it is important that we seek the Lord’s vision for our four parishes, support each other and are open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  

Last September, together with 29 other parishes in the Diocese, we participated in the Springboard initiative (renamed Spotlight in our parishes).  The five services were well attended (congregations of about 80), there were visiting preachers, drama groups and a music group.  By the end, everyone felt uplifted and encouraged by the experience of worshipping together. 

 In addition, a social event was held at Warwickshire College.  233 meals were served and the programme included performances by Roly the Clown and the Warwickshire Schools’ Steel Band.  As an outreach event, it was very effective.

 Some aspects of the Spotlight initiative have continued – the music group, the liturgy, the children’s work.  Perhaps we should plan our next event so that we can continue to build on all that was achieved?

This growth and development has highlighted needs relating to the fabric of the buildings.  At Lighthorne a new toilet, refurbished vestry (with a sink and boiling water unit), children’s corner and Sunday school room (in the belfry) have been created.  At Moreton Morrell some pews have been re-arranged to facilitate fellowship after the services, the vestry has been improved,  the base of the tower is being refurbished as a children’s area and there are plans to upgrade the heating.  At Newbold Pacey the west end of the church has been rearranged to facilitate fellowship after the services, the vestry has been rearranged for Sunday school, a children’s corner has been created and there are plans to upgrade the heating.  At Chesterton there was a unanimous decision by the PCC (Feb ’03) to make a priority of installing better heating, electric lighting, water and improved parking.

 In addition to this, Keith Blackburn has undertaken an accessibility audit of each church.  The churchwardens and PCCs are now prioritising the various suggestions.

In June 2003 Rhona Floate will be joining us as a Curate.  She will be living in Moreton Morrell (5 Chestnut Grove – purchased by the Diocese) but working in all four parishes.  We are delighted at this prospect and she will be a great addition to the ministry team of Geoff Walker (Reader), Keith and Mary Blackburn, Adrian and Judy Wilson (Readers in training) and an increasing number of people involved in leading intercessions, reading lessons and assisting in numerous ways.  We need to keep encouraging the ‘ministry of all believers’.

 Several joint PCC meetings have been held.  Last year we discussed worship in April, the  Spotlight initiative in July, Isobel Chapman the Diocesan Secretary explained the disclosure for the CRB in November.  This year the Diocesan Director of Ordinands, Roger Spiller, will be sharing with us on 15^th May what it means to have a curate.

 On 5^th May 2002 Bishop Colin Bennetts, Bishop of Coventry, preached at a joint service at Lighthorne.  This year he is coming to Moreton Morrell on 7^th September.  Bishop Anthony Priddis, the Bishop of Warwick, was with us last year in Lighthorne to take a Confirmation service for the cluster and this year he will be with us on 22^nd May in Moreton Morrell.  We are indeed grateful for these opportunities of meeting and getting to know our bishops.

On the outreach front much has happened.  An Alpha course in Lighthorne was concluded at the beginning of last year, a Lent course and Lent lunches (supporting the Four Parishes’ Outreach and Diocesan links) have been run successfully last year and this, the Moreton Morrell pastoral visiting team has continued to do good work and welcome packs are being delivered across the four parishes (except Chesterton). The Jesus Video project was carried out successfully in Lighthorne Heath with a third of the 300 households accepting the video and the Parish Magazine has a new look thanks to Tom Cox and the rest of the team (Judy, Janet, Sally – and of course all the deliverers).

The All-Age services continue to grow and meet a need in the community.  Much work goes in to preparing each service and we are grateful to the three committees (Lighthorne, Newbold Pacey and Moreton Morrell) and to the organists and music group.

 Last year over 40 young people went on an excursion to Alton Towers and since then several events have taken place in the parishes.  Our grateful thanks go to Tom and Vandella King and all the other helpers in this important ministry with the young people. 

t is a privilege to live and work in the Four Parishes.  Thank you for all that you do and for your care and support.  As we face the future with all the challenges, let us be rooted in Christ,   committed to each other and open to the new things that the Lord is longing to give us.

 I will leave you with some words from Paul’s letter to the Church in Philippi:

 “Rejoice in the Lord always.  I will say it again: Rejoice!  Let your gentleness be evident to all.  The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Phil 4:4-7)

The Rev’d John Burrell

April 2003

ANNUAL PAROCHIAL CHURCH MEETING 2001/2002

This past year has had its challenges.  The foot and mouth epidemic lasted for many months.    Then came the events of 11^th September.  The repercussions of both are still continuing.  At present, events in the Middle East seem to be spiralling out of control.  

These events have drawn many in the Four Parishes together.  Special prayers were said for the farming community and a book of condolences was sent to the USA.  In addition, the Rev’d Dr Christopher Lamb spoke to us about Islam so that we would have a deeper understanding of the background to these events.

It is important that we continue to be involved in the world.  The Archdeacon of Kaduna, Nigeria and two priests from the Syrian Orthodox Church in Jerusalem spoke to us to give greater insight into the Companioning relationship between our three dioceses.  And involvement with the Four Parishes Outreach has continued steadily with visits to each of the three projects by some members of the parishes.  The Lent lunches raised almost £700.

Within the Four Parishes it has been encouraging to see many positive developments. 

WORSHIP:

• There are four readers in training (Keith and Mary Blackburn, Adrian and Judy Wilson) – soon to join Geoff Walker.  (John Pell-Walpole unfortunately retired due to ill health.)
• Common Worship is now being used for all services. 
• A Family Service committee has been established in Newbold Pacey/Ashorne and it is exciting to see the developments there. 
• Unfortunately Eunice Holder, who has been organist at Lighthorne for many years had to retire due to ill health.  We are grateful to Bernard Wright for becoming the organist at Lighthorne as well as Newbold Pacey and Moreton Morrell.  Jane Rigby leads the music at the 10.30am service at Lighthorne and there is a growing music group playing at all the family services except Chesterton.
• Refreshments are now being served after the 10.30 family service at Chesterton each month.
• Several more people have become involved in different ministries in the parishes – welcoming, reading lessons, administering the chalice, etc.
• Although congregations at 8.30, 9.30 and 6pm have remained small, the congregations at 10.30am have increased significantly:                       

                                                                              2000                                 2001

                                      Lighthorne                           45                                    64

                                      Chesterton                          21                                    28

                                      Newbold Pacey                   24                                    37

                                      Moreton Morrell                   52                                    70

PASTORAL:

• Visiting teams using welcome packs have been established in Newbold Pacey and Moreton Morrell. 
• Several small groups meet regularly and during Lent a special course was run.
• Twelve candidates are being prepared for Confirmation on 15^th May.
• A trip to Alton Towers for young people takes place on 6^th April and it is hoped that a Youth Group will develop from this initiative.

OUTREACH:

• 18 people participated in the Alpha course at Lighthorne. 
• The Blackburns and the rector take assemblies regularly at Lighthorne Heath Primary (Keith is the chair of Governors) and the rector takes assemblies regularly at Moreton Morrell CE Primary with several other parishioners being involved as Governors.
• The rector is honorary chaplain to the Warwickshire College.
• The parish magazine continues to reach the whole community (about 2200 people).  Unfortunately the editor, Liz Blaney has had to resign as she will be leaving the Four Parishes soon.  However, Tom Cox has taken over her responsibilities.
• There is now a web site with information about all the services and other activities in the Four Parishes: www.lighthorneonline.com
• Our parishes are among 30 parishes/groups of parishes in the diocese to be invited to participate in the Springboard initiative in September this year.

CHURCH BUILDINGS AND CHURCHYARDS:

• Many thanks to all those who do so much to maintain these. 
• Moreton Morrell and Newbold Pacey churchyards both won prizes.
• Lighthorne refurbishments will begin in May – toilet, kitchenette, new vestry and flexible area at the west end of the church.
• Moreton Morrell vestry, the front pews and the position of the organ have all been changed. 
• Pew runners have been installed in Lighthorne and Moreton Morrell.
• A children’s corner has been established at Newbold Pacey.
• A proposal to establish electric heating and lighting at Chesterton is being discussed.

There is so much more that one could say.  Bishop Colin Bennetts will be with us for the 10.30 service on Sunday 5^th May at Lighthorne and we hope that a large crowd will gather from the Four Parishes to give thanks to God for all that has happened and to re-commit ourselves to serving the Lord in this place.

 Bishop Colin has invited us to consider having a curate next year.  I will be discussing this with the churchwardens and PCC’s in the next few weeks. 

 The first joint PCC was held last October.  This was most enjoyable and effective and it was agreed to hold them every six months.  It makes sense to draw closer together in God’s work in the Four Parishes.

 On Christmas Eve, Colonel John Little, patron of Holy Cross, Moreton Morrell and member of the Newbold Pacey PCC died.   We shall miss his friendship, wit and loyal service to the church. 

 It is a great privilege to live and work in the Four Parishes.  I would like to thank all those who have done so much for our common life over the past year.  And above all, we give our thanks to the Lord and are filled with both hope and faith for the future. 

 “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever!  Amen.”  (Ephesians 3:20-21)  

The Rev’d John Burrell

 April 2002