APCM 2015 reports - Portsmouth Cathedral

Annual Parochial Church Meeting
Sunday 26 April 2015
Encountering God through transformative worship, challenging discipleship, generous
hospitality and prayerful engagement
CONTENTS
Dean’s Forward
4
Cathedral Council
5
Fabric
5
Canon with responsibility for Liturgy and Music
7
Vergers
7
Music
8
Canon with responsibility for Discipleship, Growth and Community Outreach
10
Education
11
Cathedral Shop
12
TRANSFORMATIVE WORSHIP
Taizé-style night prayer
13
Baptism and Confirmation, Marriages, Funerals and Bereavement
13
Home Communion
14
Ordination Training
14
Bellringers
14
Servers
15
Healing Group
16
PRAYERFUL ENGAGEMENT
Congregational Giving
17
Toddler Group
17
Uniformed Groups
18
Deanery Synod
19
Gunwharf Chaplaincy
19
Hospital Wheelers
20
Intercessions Group
21
Sunyani Partnership Link
22
GENEROUS HOSPITALITY
Holy Dusters
23
Churchwardens
23
Newcomers
24
The Flower Guild
24
Friends of Portsmouth Cathedral
25
Cathedral Guides and Welcomers
25
Handbell Group
26
Holiday Chaplains
26
Craft and Chat Group
26
Parish Lunch Club
26
Research Group
26
Memorial Garden
27
Christmas Fair
27
CHALLENGING DISCIPLESHIP
Becket’s Bunch
28
Messy Cathedral
28
Discipleship Courses
29
Cathedral Staff
30
3
THE DEAN’S FOREWORD
2014 was a busy and successful year in the life of
Portsmouth Cathedral.
The summer saw a series of events in Portsmouth to
mark the seventieth anniversary of D-Day and the
beginning of World War I and the Cathedral took a
leading part in these events. Three live broadcasts in
five days - on BBC News 24, Radio 3 and Radio 4 - was
a major challenge for the whole team. From the service
on Southsea Common to the live Sunday Morning
service on Radio 4 we helped many people to
remember and to worship.
The Government generously announced grants for urgent repairs to Cathedrals in recognition of the
part we are playing in the nation’s commemoration of the First World War and due to the efforts of our
administration team and architect, we secured the largest grant made - £594,000 - for repairs to the
South Transept and our Tower.
The Cathedral Innovation Centre continues to grow and in the three years since its inception has grown
from a local to national and now international, organisation.
Canon Peter Leonard was installed on Easter Day and has already made a significant contribution to our
life and mission. Under his guidance we launched the Cathedral Development Plan in September at the
first of a series of community evenings. Chapter’s implementation of the plan has led to, among other
initiatives, the start of a regular Messy Cathedral; the implementation of an annual theme - this year
‘Political Awareness’ and a series of lectures and other events based around the theme; and the start of
the nationally produced Pilgrim Course. We have also been reviewing our literature and advertising.
Easter also saw the re-introduction of the role of Head Verger and we welcomed Jessica-Louise Hallion
to our team.
In September we said farewell to Canon David Isaac. David had been a Residentiary Canon here for
almost twenty five years and made an unprecedented contribution to the life of the Cathedral and the
Diocese. His wisdom, guidance and perceptive understanding have been a great support to many people.
Dr Anthony Rustell was installed as Residentiary Canon and Head of Mission, Discipleship and Ministry in
November and has quickly settled into his Cathedral and Diocesan roles.
Ann Wilson came to the end of her second three year term as a lay member of Chapter and, following a
spectacular Summer Fair, re-organised the Volunteers Group as an Events Group.
The Revd Alice Wood had been appointed as temporary Education Officer for a twelve month contract
at the beginning of 2014 and at the end of the year, Sarah Page was appointed to this position
permanently.
Among the changes of staff and the new initiatives, the daily and weekly life of the Cathedral has
continued, led and supported by many people. This set of reports gives only a snapshot of the vibrant
life and witness which we share.
The year drew to an end with a remarkable Christmas Day broadcast on BBC Radio 4.
David Brindley
CATHEDRAL COUNCIL
There were a few changes to the membership of the Council most notably the departure of the
Chairman, Major General Martin White, at the end of a four year term of office and Canon David Isaac
on his retirement in September. Councillor Phil Smith, replaced by Councillor Robert New, and Mrs
Samantha Keen both left the Council in the summer. A full list of Council membership through the year
is in the Financial Statements. The committee met three times in the year, twice being chaired by an
acting chairperson elected at the meeting. The Bishop continues to look to appoint a new Chairperson.
In March the Council received the annual accounts and noted the significant amount of time and energy
spent by the Finance & Investment Committee (FIC), staff and auditors to find the right way of illustrating
the Groves’ legacy in the accounts. Following the auditors’ advice the legacy had been included as an
‘expendable endowment’, a long term reserve. It was also noted that our assets were in excess of £5
million. The budget for 2014 was also received. It was noted that the tenants had given notice on the
shop in Folly Lane, Petersfield and that Chapter had agreed to sell this. The committee also noted that
extensive repair works were needed to the Tower and Cupola and that repairs to properties would be
undertaken during the year.
The June meeting focused on the proposed Development Plan following the successful staff Away Day in
February and Chapter Residential in May. Much of the discussion focused on the view that aims and
direction needed to be sharpened. Offers of assistance to progress the ‘Development Plan’ from James
Blott and David Carpenter were usefully taken up enabling the very successful launch of the
Development Plan in September.
In November the positive response, from across the Cathedral Community and beyond, to the
Development Plan and the fact that many of the projects identified were already underway, from Messy
Cathedral and the Pilgrim Course to Political Awareness lectures, was noted. This meeting also received
the 2015 Draft ‘Operational’ and ‘Special Projects Development Plan’ budgets, the latter of which
projected costed aspirations for the five year span of the plan.
Peter Sanders
Clerk to the Council
FABRIC
The Fabric Advisory Committee (FAC) is responsible for advising on and overseeing works to the
Cathedral. It met five times in 2014 under the chairmanship of Mr Deane Clark. Long standing member,
Rolly Thomas resigned in September and we welcomed Dr Karen Fielder of the University of
Portsmouth in November. Much of the committee’s work through the year has been concentrated on
the issue of water ingress to the building affecting the: Tower & Cupola, South Transept, Nave
Clerestory windows and North Cloister windows. More creatively it has considered the continuing
work on the proposed Landscape Development and the proposal for a new Organ Stop.
January saw concern being expressed as to the deteriorating condition of the internal decoration of the
South Transept (Chapel of Healing and Reconciliation). Analysis of plaster and stone samples confirmed
that the wall is heavily saturated with salts. By May in view of the worsening condition of the plaster and
paint it was agreed that larger patches be scraped back to the stonework to assess the matter further.
By September it was clear that stripping off all the plaster and allowing the wall to ‘breathe’ was the way
forward.
March saw great concern over the condition of the Tower and our architect, Simon Ablett, reported
that the essential repair work was urgent. Immediate temporary repairs were effected and work on
preparing a major application began including: repairs to rotten timbers and stonework, replacement of
lead work to the cupola and where necessary the wooden boarding and the fitting of two new large
5
hoppers and drainage pipes to the western elevation to take the water away from the Tower onto the
Nave roof.
By September, application had been made to the FWWCCRF to rectify
the situation in the Tower and the South Transept A grant of £594,783
was announced by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport at
the Cathedral in November. A Photogrammetric Survey of the Tower
stonework was commissioned to inform the history and understanding
of the Tower before work was scheduled. Work on removal of the
plaster and re-pointing of the South Transept began in January 2015 and
is due for completion at the end of April.
The need for the work on the Nave Clerestory and Ambulatory
windows, and the North Cloister windows had been identified in the
Quinquennial Inspection of 2011 and the severe winter of 2013/14 had
deteriorated their condition further. Chapter agreed to their repair and
replacement where necessary. At the same time some remedial repair
and replacement works to the roofing (gutters, cabling etc) was done.
Landscape – Max Askew, our Landscape Architect, presented his ideas
to the committee in March and coordinated the public consultations we
ran in the Spring, which were very useful. 100 people attended the first
consultation and 80 the second, many more than would ordinarily attend
public consultations in the city. CFCE reviewed the project at their
informal visit in May and work on producing a comprehensive HLF bid
with our consultants, Conservation Plus, is ongoing with first stage
application planned for June 2015.
Environment – Meanwhile work on improving our environmental
impact continues. Monitoring of our energy management system on the
Cathedral boiler was undertaken and it is planned to replace this in 2015.
Examination of the possibility of installing a Combined Heat & Power unit which would generate some
electricity via gas powered fuel cells was undertaken. The outcome was to fit a small unit in Cathedral
House in January 2015. It is planned, too, in 2015 to further insulate the North Cloister roof. To assist
in improving our environmental focus Professor Mike Purvis attended the CFCE Environmental
Conference in October and highlighted to the committee the need for project management and timely
maintenance. He also recommended a thermographic survey of the Cathedral be undertaken, which is
being planned.
Organ Chamade – In May Dr Price proposed the implementation of a new Organ Stop. No solo stop
had been included when the organ had been completed and to incorporate one would give the possibility
of dramatic fanfares for major services and celebrations. The committee agreed and Nicholson Organs
and Didier Grassin, specialist organ designer, were approached to prepare design specifications. These
are currently with CFCE for consideration.
Peter Sanders
Chapter Clerk and
Secretary to the FAC
CANON WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR LITURGY AND MUSIC
As expected in last year’s report, my name doesn’t appear
quite so many times in this year’s reports, as Canon
Peter’s most welcome arrival has meant that I have been
able to concentrate much more on delivering our worship
and supporting our music and verging departments to
whom so many thanks.
The incorporation of the occasional offices (baptisms,
weddings, funerals etc) within the traditional Precentor’s
duties has enabled a whole new role to be undertaken by
a Church Commissioners’ Canon (although we do need
to find a snappier title for discipleship, growth and community outreach which I paraphrase as Canon
‘Excitement’) – and how marvellous it is to see all the new developments Canon Peter has introduced.
The Cathedral, thanks to the dedication of so many people, ordained and lay, paid and voluntary, is now
on a very firm platform and is rightly able to promote itself as a centre of excellence for transformative
worship, challenging discipleship, generous hospitality and prayerful engagement. It has been so good to
have been part of the journey.
Michael Tristram
VERGERS
This year has seen a period of great change in the Verging Department as we bade farewell and happy
retirement to David Lee following nearly a lifetime of service to the Church – and then in November to
Adam Bullivant as he prepared to go to the community at Taizé and work as a volunteer there.
We welcomed Jessica Hallion from Christchurch, Oxford in May enabling us to revert to having a Head
Verger (& Floor Manager) and then Malina Wyzykowska as Assistant Verger to replace Adam. Our
thanks also to Wendy Sandham our honorary assistant verger, especially for the work she does in the
Canons’ Vestry with all the robes.
The role of the vergers in our Cathedral community is huge and diverse and we are so grateful to them
for getting to grips with the complications that a busy Cathedral brings. May I also pay tribute to Steve
Hill, our hardworking handyman/cleaner, who has been able to take on more of a maintenance role,
since Jessica’s arrival, but is still needed for a million and one things every day - helped now by our two
part-time cleaners, Tina and Jason, whose work is greatly appreciated.
Michael Tristram
7
MUSIC
2014: War Requiems, Messiah and D-Day70
In 2014 our musicians took part in a number of major commemorations. Two stunning performances of
Britten’s War Requiem for the 100th Anniversary of World War 1, the second to a capacity audience in
Winchester Cathedral; moving tributes to veterans at D-Day70 and a service in the presence of the
Princess Royal; four major BBC broadcasts; and a stunning performance of Messiah with internationallyrenowned soloists in March 2015.
Over the space of eight days in early June we contributed to major D-Day70 events and broadcasts
including BBC Songs of Praise, Radio 3 Choral Evensong, the Drumhead Ceremony (live on BBC News24),
and Radio 4 Sunday Worship. In addition, Radio 3 Choral Evensong was featured on Radio 4’s Pick of the
Week, with Mr Hancock’s organ voluntary a Radio 3 ‘Highlight of the Week’. We sang our recent
commission from Jonathan Dove, ‘The Portsmouth Service’, and Paul Spicer wrote us a dismissal to go
with his Set 2 Responses. We were delighted to receive a huge amount of feedback including these:
Jonathan Dove: What a lovely performance of my
PORTSMOUTH SERVICE! Magnificent singing, with a wonderful
oceanic feeling in places, and some spectacular orchestral
playing on the organ. Thank you for giving it such a splendid
launch into the wider world.
Paul Spicer: Thank you so very much for broadcasting my
Responses and for doing them so beautifully. Lovely shaping and
a real sense of commitment. Thanks too for the exciting finale!
The new dismissal bits worked a treat! All power to your terrific
work there. Please thank the choir for me.
People
Those of us who’ve been around for a while are used to the comings and goings of Choral and Organ
Scholars. Some years they gel as a group, some years they party very hard, most years they sing very
well and most years we are very sad to see them go. Just occasionally a year group manages to do all
those things and excel at them. Adam, Jason, William, Alex, Peter and Chris arrived as the new team in
September 2013 along with 6th Form Organ Scholar William. We bid a sad farewell to William, Alex,
Peter and Chris after a year of superb singing, fantastic solo work, total dedication, unfailing sense of
humour and unstinting team-work. Crossing two academic years as this report does, we bade farewell to
most of the aforementioned last summer and welcomed another excellent set of Choral Scholars in
Tom, Alex, Ryan, Barney and Izaac as well as Callum as Organ Scholar. Callum has been a superb
member of the organist team and has played for numerous services and directed choirs thus far in his
time here. We were delighted that two of our postgraduate counter-tenors Adam and Jason extended
their time with us too. The new scholars made their presence felt with valiant efforts against Chichester
and Guildford in the newly established Southern Cathedrals’ Football Tournament. Won 1, Lost 1.
William Wallace, was the only undergraduate to be auditioned for the Organ Scholarship at Canterbury
Cathedral and it is a testament to his skills and self-effacing but confident manner that he landed that
prestigious post, having passed the Associateship Diploma of the Royal College of Organists (ARCO) in
July. No sooner had he landed in Canterbury, than he auditioned for the Organ Scholarship at
Christchurch, Oxford and starts there in September alongside his studies at the University of Oxford.
We said farewell with all best wishes for the future to the Head Choristers of Cantate – Emily and Lydia
– and thanked them for their hard work over two and seven years respectively. In September, we
welcomed Dorothy and Katherine into the front row and James into the back row.
It was excellent to welcome back William and Thomas from their year with their father’s posting in The
Falklands. We also welcomed back Harry T, and have been pleased to see twelve new boys during 2014:
Sam, Themis, James, Sisi, Sonny, Elliot, Robert, Aimon, Jacob, George, Rafferty and Joss – all of whom are
doing sterling work.
It has been good to see Consort take on more services and to tackle some very demanding music. We
have been pleased to welcome new sopranos Sarah, Katharine, Amanda and Laura.
Auditions were held in November for next year’s Scholars and we were delighted to appoint Matthew
McCullough, Solomon Hayes, Tom Heath, Henry Craig, Tom Motley, David Valsamidis and, as Organ
Scholar, Luke Fitzgerald. We look forward to welcoming them to Portsmouth next September.
Christmas
The Cathedral Choir braved the chill and sang for the Second Sea Lord’s Carol Service aboard HMS
Victory and Cantate sang a thrilling Christmas Carol Concert at HMS Alliance (Submarine Museum) at
the end of term before the Cathedral Choir sped across The Channel to sing in Belgium (report below)
and Consort sang two carol services aboard HMS Warrior – the beginning of a new tradition! All our
choirs were busy over the week leading to Christmas Day and we broadcast at 9am on BBC Radio 4 on
Christmas Day for a special service from both Portsmouth and HMS Protector in The Antarctic.
Tours
In mid-December the Cathedral Choir sang in Antwerp and
Ypres on a tour marking the 1914 Christmas Truce in
Flanders. After travelling on Friday 12 December and a
Saturday morning exploring Antwerp, we sang for an
afternoon concert at the cavernous St Paul’s Church to an
enthusiastic audience. On Sunday we sang at the 10.30am
Mass at the vast Antwerp Cathedral, processing out to
tumultuous applause from the huge congregation. After a
quick picnic lunch we travelled via the Commonwealth War
Graves at Tyne Cot to a small village outside Ypres and
performed to a capacity crowd for a concert and then, after a
restaurant supper, on to The Last Post Ceremony at The
Menin Gate – a moving and humbling occasion. Monday was a time for Christmas shopping, going to the
Cinema or ice-skating before singing Choral Evensong & a concert back in the Cathedral to an invited
audience. All in all this was one of the best foreign tours we have undertaken in recent years with the
poignancy of the places we sang at this time of First World War Remembrances. Videos and photos of
the tour are on YouTube and Facebook.
Fundraising
Congratulations to our scholars and organists who grew facial furniture – for better or for worse – and
raised £1000.32 for Movember and the Portsmouth Cathedral Choirs’ Association (PCCA). A brilliant
result! You can also support the work of our choirs by purchasing our new Choir chocolate bar,
available from the Cathedral Shop.
Cathedral Sing
The Cathedral Sing Up programme continued through the year where primary schools engaged in a
program of inspirational singing, group vocal sessions and an opportunity to gather at the Cathedral at
the end of the school term for a massed concert.
Thanks
My thanks go to Oliver Hancock for his musical dexterity, administrative support and good humour; to
Rachel Richardson for all her expertise with departmental admin and budgets; to Brigid and Jenny for
Concert Management; to Catherine and Celia for all their help with our youngest charges and to Jason
for his sterling work in the Choir Music Library.
David Price
9
CANON WITH RESPONSIBILITY FOR DISCIPLESHIP, GROWTH & COMMUNITY OUTREACH
I am writing this report having just completed a full liturgical
year at the Cathedral, I was installed at Evensong on Easter
Day in 2014. It feels a lot longer, but in a good way! This is I
am sure, due to the fact that the Cathedral is such a busy
place with so much happening.
As I joined the Cathedral, Chapter were in the early stages
of producing a new Development Plan. I volunteered to
pull together the work carried out by Cathedral staff,
Chapter and Cathedral Council and then organise
consultation with the congregation and local community.
The end result of all this work from a number of different groups of people is our Development Plan and
the more detailed Action Plan which, together with the rhythm of prayer and worship, informs the work
we seek to do.
We launched the plan at a very successful community evening held in the autumn 2014 and were
fortunate to be joined by the priest and broadcaster the Revd Tim Daykin who had helped facilitate the
Chapter when considering the Development Plan. We intend to hold these community evenings twice a
year so that we can share with the wider community the work that goes on in and around the Cathedral.
Our second one in the spring saw the launch of our new Cathedral website which has been well
received and presents a contemporary and user-friendly way of communicating what we do and what is
happening here.
As part of our Development Plan we will have an annual theme which will run from Advent each year
and will inform our discipleship course, lectures and other events. With the imminent General Election
the theme for Advent 2014 to Advent 2015 is ‘Political Awareness’ and as you will see from my
Discipleship Report we have held a number of lectures and courses with this in mind. Together with
other Cathedrals and the Cathedral Innovation Centre we are also running a People Inspired event to
get people discussing issues and to raise questions for joint hustings with other churches in Portsmouth
South, to be held at St. John’s Catholic Cathedral.
The Cathedral has continued to be a home to many exhibitions and artists including an Exhibition by
Philip Jackson in celebration of The Rowans Hospice’s 20th Anniversary, a ceramic exhibition by Clay
Station in the City and the regular Portsmouth and Hampshire Art Society exhibition in the summer. It
was during this that we re-gilded Fama prior to her restoration to her correct position on top of the
pulpit. Members of the public were invited to have a go and this proved so popular, together with the
pottery wheel at last year’s Summer Fair, that we hope to have more interactive art in the Cathedral
over the next year.
Future exhibitions include Ecclesia/Synagoga with a video installation and live performances alongside
workshops and ‘Life in all its fullness’ a photographic exhibition by the charity Us. (formerly USPG) in
April and an evening talk by Annie Cattrell on 26 May when ‘Brink’ is reinstalled in the Chapel of Healing
and Reconciliation.
As part of the inner city cluster of Portsmouth Deanery we are part of a project which successfully bid
for money from the Diocese’s Mission Opportunity Fund. Together with the other churches in the
cluster we have appointed and will manage an Older Person’s Advocate to work alongside volunteers
with the elderly and those suffering from dementia to ensure that their spiritual needs are met as well as
their physical and practical ones. We hope that this project will start in June of this year.
At the beginning of January 2015 we held the twentieth joint
Christian Muslim evening at the Cathedral when we were
joined by Michael Yorke who was Provost when the first event
was held. It was a wonderful occasion made even better by the
launching of a video documenting and celebrating the evolving
friendship between the two faith groups. We also spent some
time considering how we might take the relationship forward
possibly working on a joint project for the city. This will be
reflected in the Cathedral’s annual theme for 2015/16 which
will be “Faiths Connected” exploring the ways in which
Christianity and other faiths are linked and can work together.
This is just a flavour of the work I have been involved with and together with the other reports in this
document demonstrate what an impact we have both locally and nationally. We should be rightly proud
of all that we do and achieve, not just because of the positive effect our work has in extending God’s
kingdom but that we do it together as a mixture of ordained and lay people, paid staff and volunteer. I
am grateful for all of the support and help I have received as I have taken up this busy but incredibly
rewarding role and I look forward to more exciting work over the next year!
Peter Leonard
EDUCATION
Last year was one of transition for the way that we offer education for schools and young people at the
Cathedral. We were grateful to Alice Wood who worked with us for a year on a temporary contract to
carry out a review of the work we did and make recommendations for the future. Chapter received her
report towards the end of 2014 and warmly welcomed the recommendations including smaller and more
frequent monthly workshops which reflected the church’s liturgical year.
Chapter decided in light of the report to appoint a permanent
part-time Education Officer and we were delighted to welcome
Sarah Page at the beginning of 2015. Sarah is a qualified teacher
and brings with her valuable experience of education and of
working with young people in a church context.
Highlights of 2014 included several very full and very successful workshops, another great St.
Nicholastide event and two spirituality days with years 9 & 10 of Charter Academy which will be
repeated in 2015.
We have a number of workshops and school visits planned for 2015 and Sarah has adapted our activities
to reflect the new Primary Curriculum. We are particularly well placed to deliver a module on how a
building such as ours has developed with the city over time. We have delivered one of these workshops
already which was very well received by pupils and teachers alike.
Our offer to schools, colleges and universities remains strong and continues to grow and develop. We
are grateful to the many volunteers who make this vital work possible.
Peter Leonard
11
CATHEDRAL SHOP
This report provides an opportunity both to reflect on what happened during 2014 and to look forward
to plans for 2015. The year started badly as, in March, we were saddened by the loss of a valued
member of staff when Sylvia de Lara died and towards the end of the year a former volunteer, Rini Read,
also died. We miss their support and are glad that we have happy memories of them.
Following the introduction of the EPOS system in September 2013, 2014 became a year of consolidation
and extension of skills. Staff learned a new technical language and began to realise how the system
works. They have approached their tasks with interest and enthusiasm, quickly learning to disregard the
days when things go wrong. I am delighted that the objective of improving the levels of accuracy in our
work is being achieved. We can also use the information the system gathers for reports, analyses and
the annual stock audit. With twenty different volunteers working on the till each week we have
achieved levels of confidence and competency in the use of the system that many other Cathedrals and
museums would envy – and some would believe unlikely.
In 2014 we continued to enhance our reputation for having a very good range of cards and gifts and also
decided to concentrate mainly on CDs with a connection with the Cathedral. Since we were selling so
few CDs and DVDs from other Cathedrals, this decision has proved to be beneficial.
Looking ahead to Christmas, we purchased a special jewellery cabinet and invested in new ranges of
jewellery. These additions have been well-received and resulted in additional sales. Overall, however,
we did not have as high a turnover as in 2013, primarily because of the weather in July and August. It
was either a time to soak up the sun on the beach or to stay at home out of the rain! Like the majority
of retailers, we had a poor summer quarter but are pleased to report that the shopping period through
to Christmas was both rewarding and a relief.
Using information gained from the EPOS system (and from counting books!) we knew that it was time to
order a new Guide Book for 2015. We have chosen a different size, shape and format – and it is looking
good. We hope to have it here in April. We will also introduce a Loyalty Card Scheme for all shoppers
that we hope will prove popular and reward regular visitors to the shop. As you can see, there is much
to look forward to in 2015.
Christine Richardson
TRANSFORMATIVE WORSHIP
Since March 2013, it has been my privilege to be responsible for the daily and Sunday worship of
the Cathedral and sharing with colleagues organising special services and events. This was formally
recognised in April with Canon Peter’s arrival in an entirely new role (which incidentally is now being
copied by some other Cathedrals). I am particularly grateful to Carole Wynn for dealing with all the
rotas so efficiently, to Dagmar Wilkinson, Head Server who has now handed over to Alex Clarke,
who we are pleased to welcome in that role, to Churchwardens and their deputies, Sidesmen and
Welcomers and to all who are involved with the smooth running of our daily and Sunday services, not
least the Vergers and the Cathedral Office staff faced with all the printing and oversight of service sheets
and notices. I am particularly grateful to David Price for the very creative partnership we enjoy, to
Oliver Hancock and to all our choirs and musicians. I believe that the 10.30am Eucharist is now well
established and is a service we can be proud of, with all taking part prepared to accept the variety of
offering, whether of position or style, sharing in table fellowship together. In addition to the usual
weekly pattern, and seeking to respond to the many organisations wanting us to host a special service,
may I report on:
TAIZE STYLE NIGHT PRAYER: On the last Sunday of every month at 8pm, there are now usually at least
50 people (and on a couple of occasions 70+) from the wider community for this very special and very
different 40 minutes of spiritual space. As an experiment there have been two occasions in the year
when we made the service Eucharistic and this was well received – although to be confined to once or
twice a year when the diary permits (e.g. when outside events prevent a morning Eucharist such as Great
South Run.) I continue to respond gladly to invitations in the Diocese and ecumenically to support those
congregations introducing this style of worship – and I am very grateful to the Revd Paul Armstead (St
James’, Milton) for taking the services when I am not available, to ensure continuity for what is an
important part of the variety of worship we offer in the Cathedral.
BAPTISM & CONFIRMATION: There were 13 baptisms from the Cathedral community in 2014 and I was
pleased to prepare 5 young people for confirmation at the Easter Liturgy on 19 April 2014.
MARRIAGES: 16 weddings (including that of the Dean’s daughter Rachel) took place in the Cathedral in
2014 (8 in 2013), but only five planned in 2015 - an ‘up and down’ numbers phenomenon repeated in
churches all over the country due to the economic climate. In addition to the Marriage Preparation
Morning in the Cathedral, couples meet with me on their own on average three times plus a wedding
rehearsal as we help them not only prepare for the service but also share all the hopes and expectations
of married life. Thank you to members of the congregation for welcoming our young couples, helping
them through services and inviting them to share in refreshments afterwards. That is a vital part of the
process if we really want younger people to be part of the Cathedral. Thank you also to those Mothers’
Union members who are promoting the Cathedral at wedding fairs. We have also been pleased to
respond to those couples wishing to celebrate and give thanks for significant anniversaries. This is to be
encouraged and invite anyone to explore possibilities with me, either within a Sunday service, or on a
separate occasion such as a small family gathering in St Thomas’s Chapel for a few minutes or on a much
larger scale.
FUNERALS AND BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY: The Cathedral Clergy have been involved in taking 26
funerals (including 12 in the Cathedral) in 2014. Our thanks go to those sidesmen who provide the allimportant sensitive and careful welcome on these difficult occasions. Thanks also to those members of
our congregation who have undertaken training in bereavement counselling. We continue to offer a
follow-up to those families who are local and with whom the Cathedral Clergy have been in touch
concerning a funeral. The natural emotions surrounding bereavement are caused from a much wider
area than just death of a loved-one and would include any loss (job, partnership, status, good health, etc).
Please see notices in the Cathedral how to contact one of the team confidentially if you or someone you
know might value a chat. Finally – it is a loving thing to do for family (and also for those with no close
relatives) to have made clear your wishes regarding your funeral as well as ensuring you have an up to
date Will. A number of people in the congregation have told me their wishes which are safely stored and
I do encourage others to invite me round to have that chat – and then get on with living!
13
TRANSFORMATIVE WORSHIP
HOME COMMUNION: Up to 12 people are being visited either regularly or as requested with Home
Communion by me, by licensed Communion Assistants from our congregation and the Assistant Curate,
Revd Dawn Banting. I have been particularly pleased to recognise this on Sunday morning with the
President giving the Communion sets to the Visitor in what is known as ‘Extended Communion.’ I am
sure there are others not known to us who were faithful members of the Cathedral community in years
gone by, but who through frailty are no longer able to come on Sundays. Please let us know so that we
can be in touch and offer this important ministry.
ORDINATION TRAINING: As the Cathedral and its community becomes increasingly involved in the
support of those preparing for ordination and of those recently ordained, we have been proud to
witness Jane Isaac’s ordination last Petertide and bid her farewell to her title parish at All Saints, Ryde.
We look forward to witnessing Jane’s priesting in the Cathedral at 6pm on Saturday 4th July. We were
also pleased at Petertide to witness Dawn Banting’s ordination as priest and privileged to be present at
her ‘First Eucharist’ the following day. Her membership of the ministry team and especially her pastoral
work are being greatly valued as she continues her training ‘on the job.’ We have been also pleased to
welcome Kitty Price as a valued member of the ministry team following her licensing as Reader in the
Cathedral last October. Edwina Fennemore is now in the second year of her three year non-residential
year course based at Sarum College in Salisbury. We have also been pleased to host short or longer
term placements from Sarum College and other students attending courses further afield. Our initiative
inviting those recently ordained priests in the Portsmouth Diocese to spend the equivalent of a two
week placement with us is now firmly embedded in their post-ordination programme. The aim is for
them to see first-hand the ministry and witness of the Cathedral and recognise the resource it can be to
their own ministries. This is proving infinitely valuable to them and it is still hoped that a similar link may
be made with those recently licensed as Readers in due course. There are members of the congregation
currently considering whether they are being called to authorised ministry within the Church (ordained stipendiary or self-supporting – or reader ministry) and they remain in our prayers during this
discernment process.
Michael Tristram
THE SOCIETY OF CATHEDRAL RINGERS
As in previous years, 2014 was another active year for the Cathedral Ringers with the bells
continuing to be rung for the main Sunday morning service and also additionally for Evensong on
several occasions by both local and visiting bands.
Our Thursday evening practices continue to be very well supported enabling a good repertoire of
advanced methods to be attempted. There were a total of eight successful peal attempts throughout
the year and 12 quarter peals ranging from Grandsire Triples to Surprise Maximus.
After struggling for many years to obtain new recruits, it was pleasing to gain 4 new learners, all of
whom continue to make excellent progress and we made good use of the bell simulator that was
installed a couple of years ago which enables additional practice time. Guided tower tours were
arranged on several occasions including the Summer Fayre, National Heritage Days and Portsmouth
Council 60+ Festivities. There has been adjustment work carried out on several of the bell clappers
which has helped to make the bells easier to strike.
In July, we welcomed The Ancient Society of College Youths, (the oldest ringing society in
existence) to Portsmouth for their Country Meeting and the bells were enjoyed by over 60 members,
including several who had travelled from America, Australia and New Zealand.
The bells were rung half-muffled for Sunday morning service on the 3rd August to commemorate the
centenary of the outbreak of World War I. We rounded off the year with an enjoyable Christmas
dinner at The Bridge Tavern which was attended by 36 ringers and friends.
Ian Carey
Tower Captain
TRANSFORMATIVE WORSHIP
SERVERS
Following the trend of recent years the number of
servers has once again decreased. Although we have also
seen a few new arrivals, we still struggle to cover all
positions at services. However I would like to take this
opportunity to thank all of the servers for their hard
work over the past 12 months.
Once again we have seen a change of head server and I
would like to thank Dagmar and everyone else for
trusting me with this vital role within the Cathedral. I am
very grateful that Dagmar and Nick continue to serve.
This past year has seen many exciting services which normally require a full team of servers. This has
been almost unachievable with the limited amount of servers we have to offer. Everyone has done their
best, however, and stood in where they can and it makes me very happy that the servers we do have are
willing and enjoy what they do.
As the Sunday school continues to grow I am hoping some
of the children will follow Caitlin Jones and join our team.
We have had a lot of young servers throughout the years; I
began altar serving when I was just 9 years old! There is no
minimum age or specific requirements to become a server;
you just need to be tall enough to carry a light. This role
represents an unrivalled opportunity to be at the very heart
of our worship. Servers start as Acolytes (carrying lights)
and usually progress to Crucifer and perhaps Master of
Ceremonies or Thurifer. This process is entirely at the
individual’s own pace – training is provided at regular
intervals and can be arranged on a personal basis if desired. For the serving rota you do not have to be
available each week, and you provide your own availability every quarter from which the rota is
constructed. There is no minimum or maximum age – if you are interested in serving please get in
contact with me. I would be delighted to welcome new servers this coming year.
I look forward to continuing my role as head server and working with everyone this coming year.
Alex Clarke
HEALING GROUP
The Cathedral’s monthly Wednesday Eucharist with a focus on prayer for Wholeness and Healing has
continued throughout the year. The service takes place in St Thomas’s Chapel, and is usually attended
by about twenty people. It provides a quiet opportunity to pray for those who are sick: members of the
congregation, maybe our family members and friends or, perhaps, for ourselves. Following the
intercessions there is opportunity, for any who wish, to receive the laying-on of hands, either for
themselves, or on behalf of a sick friend or relative. Following the tradition of the early church, a brief
prayer is made that God will bring his ‘wholeness and healing' into the person's life and situation. Some
find it helpful to be anointed with oil at this time. Others chose to remain quietly praying in their seats.
The service can be a source of great strength and comfort, especially for those facing long-term
challenges. After the service there is opportunity, for those who have the time, to relax over a simple
lunch in Cathedral House. We are very blessed that this ministry is offered in the Cathedral. Why not
come along one month?
15
TRANSFORMATIVE WORSHIP
The Diocesan event held in the Cathedral on Saturday 18th October (St Luke’s day), around the theme of
Exploring Christian Healing: Foundations and Practice, was very well attended. The keynote address and
workshops provided a good opportunity to think further about what is meant by ‘wholeness and healing’
and the nature and place of Christian healing within the ministry of the church (and perhaps dispel some
misunderstandings). The day ended with a simple service that provided opportunity for any who wished
to receive prayer and anointing. A Sunday evening Healing Service is planned again on St Luke’s Day this
year with an emphasis on valuing and blessing the work of the health care professionals who work in our
city.
A Portsmouth Deanery Group has been established to encourage, share good practice and train those
involved in the healing ministry within their parishes. A five-evening training course is planned for the
autumn entitled ‘Growing a Healing Ministry’ in order to help deanery parishes respond to Christ’s call
to be a channel of care and service in their community.
Marion Syms
PRAYERFUL ENGAGEMENT
CONGREGATIONAL GIVING – The Cathedral community’s generosity continues in its charitable and
missionary giving. £10,904 was raised and given in 2014 from Cathedral services, special collections and
donations - full details available from Rachel Richardson. Beneficiaries include: Bishop’s Lent Appeal
£1,033, Lord Mayor’s Appeal £220 and The Royal Navy and the Royal Marines Charity £382.56. The
Intercessions Group continues to give generously (£250 see separate report) and various amounts were
raised from events such as Coffee Mornings and the Summer Fair (the funds from which were shared
with the EC Roberts Centre). Furthermore these figures do not include the charitable giving enabled by
the Cathedral from funeral retiring collections which are accounted for and shown separately and for
2014 amounted to £3749. In addition, at the end of 2013, Chapter agreed a policy to give £6,000 per
annum for three years from its funds. Last year’s accounts will reflect two years’ giving and show that
£4,000 was sent to the Church Missionary Society, £4,000 in support of our links with Sunyani, £2,000 to
the Beneficial Foundation and £2,000 to the EC Roberts Centre. Not shown in the accounts is the
further giving from our congregation: for example, the food donations throughout the year in support
the EC Roberts Centre and the Asylum Seekers support group; and over Christmas, I took more than
160 wrapped and labelled children’s presents from under our Christmas Tree to The EC Roberts Centre
in support of their work with the most vulnerable families of our City and gave 157 £5 vouchers (nearly
double from last year) for the work of the Churches Homeless Action Group in the City at Christmas.
Finally we mustn’t forget the giving ‘in kind’ as the Cathedral enables and supports, for example, the
Cathedral Innovation Centre and other community projects, using Cathedral House and the Cathedral
to promote their own charities.
Michael Tristram
TODDLER GROUP
This friendly group meets on Wednesday afternoons in St Thomas’s Chapel for a short, informal service
with songs, stories and prayers, followed by playtime in Becket Hall. We have approximately 25
parents/carers and their children who attend regularly and have formed strong friendships within the
group. Our group caters for a wide age-range of children, from newborn babies to older children who
are about to start school. The group provides a safe environment for the children to learn how to play
and interact with others and it also provides a much-needed support for parents and carers. For many of
the children this group is their first introduction to church, so we try to make the group friendly and
welcoming and we always extend an invitation to other Cathedral services and events which we think
the children might enjoy. This year has seen Canon Peter Leonard taking over the leadership of the
group from Canon Michael after 12 years, with The Revd Dawn Banting assisting as needed. This group
would not be possible without the hard work of our volunteers who help set up and clear away the toys
and provide us with endless cups of tea and yummy biscuits! Thank you to all who help make this group
a continued success.
Brigid McGovern
UNIFORMED GROUPS
Becket Hall is in regular midweek use by Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Cubs and Beavers. The following
reports give a flavour of activities of these groups.
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PRAYERFUL ENGAGEMENT
12th Cathedral Guides
We started off the year with patrol work by doing ‘Go For Its’ and completed several activities on
different challenges. We looked at Staying Safe on line through drama and collages. As it was National
Holocaust Day we looked at how the children then felt when they were sent away from home. We
looked at ‘Confidence’ and ‘Equality’.
At the beginning of March some of us planted trees at Hilsea Lines. We did our bit for the environment,
learned about some of the wildlife, and had some fun into the bargain. The girls made pancakes for
Shrove Tuesday, decorated tiles for coasters and made cards for Mothering Sunday. We made Easter
novelties with cream eggs and marzipan. We did some outside activities during the summer term when
the weather allowed finishing with a picnic on the beach.
Our Summer Camp was held at Marwell Activity Centre at the end
of July. We had a great week helped by fantastic weather during
which the girls built and sailed a raft and went kayaking. We went
swimming at a school in Bishops Waltham and did a trail around the
town. A lady came and showed us her job of ‘wound making’ and
made some very gory wounds on the girls. Along with a bit of
tracking, semaphore, scavenging, campfire cooking, singing and wide
games we kept the girls very busy indeed.
Back in Guides in September we gained a lot of new girls from our
Brownies and another pack. We also have 6 Young Leaders between us and have opened a Senior
Section unit in Southsea, meeting every other week here at 7pm.
On weekend 26th – 28th September we went to the biannual Mix and Meet Camp at Lyons Copse,
Shedfield. Having a great weekend with again fantastic weather the girls mixed with 200 boys and girls
completing activities, including Archery, Rifle Shooting, Wood Carving, Fire Lighting, Craft, Open Fire
Cooking and team activities like the Assault Course and Crystal Maze. We also tried out our new
marquee for which we have been raising funds.
We attended the Remembrance Day Service in the Guildhall. Later in November the Guides and
Brownies had a stall in the Castle Road Fair, making Christmas decorations, cakes, bric-a-brac and games,
we raised £110 each. We finished the year with our Pantomime, Snow White for the parents.
Judith Burr (Guide Guider)
Rainbows & Brownies
Last September, we realised that there were not enough spaces in Rainbow units in Portsmouth and so
decided to start the process of opening a new unit. By the end of January we had 12 Rainbows and are
now up to full strength at 18. We have a waiting list and are looking forward to the first of the girls
moving up to Brownies in the next few months.
Our Brownie pack has also been going from strength to strength. This time last year, we were down to
six Brownies, but we now have 20 girls in the pack. We are nearing the limit of the numbers we can
sensibly cope with, but some girls will soon be leaving us to move up to Guides and we know they will
enjoy all the new opportunities available to them.
Over the past few months, the girls have made (amongst other things): a series of Christmas-themed
crafts, including decorating their own baubles; Mother’s Day cards; Easter-themed edible scenes; and a
large painted banner from their own handprints. They have also been learning about safety at home, how
to be kind to others and the importance of working together. The Rainbows have worked together to
agree activities that they completed to earn themselves a badge, while the Brownies have been working
in small groups on numerous activities, including their own badges.
PRAYERFUL ENGAGEMENT
The highlight of last term was the joint ‘Frozen’-themed Brownie Pack Holiday and Rainbow Sleepover.
12 Brownies arrived at Sandy Acres on Friday evening where they enjoyed a scavenger hunt before hot
chocolate and bed. The following morning after breakfast they played games, decorated bags and worked
in teams to complete their assigned chores. When the nine Rainbows arrived after lunch, the Brownies
were fantastic in welcoming them and helping them to get settled. The afternoon consisted of a range of
craft activities in preparation for the “Coronation Dinner”, including making tiaras, Olaf biscuits and giant
snowflakes. The girls changed into their party clothes ready for the feast, and the banquet-style dinner
was a great success. After dinner, everyone changed into pyjamas and snuggled down with their sleeping
bags in the main hall to watch ‘Frozen’ projected on the wall, with a break for hot chocolate in the
middle. As may be expected, sleep was elusive for some with all the excitement, but everyone awoke on
Sunday morning ready for a hearty breakfast and then some more games and crafts before packing up to
head home. All the girls and leaders who were part of the event had a great time, and we hope to be
holding similar events in future, although the large numbers will mean we have to hold events separately.
In the coming year we are looking to organise more events outside our regular meetings, complete a
brand new Challenge badge based around the city and do more joint events with other groups in the
Portsmouth area. As always, our main aim is to help the girls develop life skills, such as team work, selfreliance and independence, and to see them move on with confidence to the next level, both in Guiding
and their wider lives.
DEANERY SYNOD
Deanery Synod has continued to meet and deal with the
routine church administration which is required of it but this
year has also been working on a new Deanery plan. I was
invited to be part of the working group devising this plan
which is considering the way that clergy are deployed in the
Portsmouth Deanery and how we might be more creative
and effective with both lay and ordained gifts and skills. A
first draft plan was approved by Synod and is now being
worked on under the three areas of short, medium and
Canon Bob White, Area Dean
long term work. The Archdeacon of Portsdown is working
alongside the Deanery to produce a plan which will ensure
that resources are used most effectively and that new and exciting ways of sharing the love of God with
those in Portsmouth can be encouraged and developed.
A review was also carried out of the work done by the Deanery Youth Work project and the Deanery
Further Education Chaplaincy project. These have both delivered vital work in schools and colleges
across Portsmouth and Synod is keen for this to continue albeit in a new single project with a new
coordinator – a role currently being advertised. The project is also looking for volunteers to participate
in this exciting and rewarding work. Please do speak to me if this is something you are interested in.
The Deanery Partnership Link with the Diocese of Ho (Ghana) has continued. Visits have been made in
both directions and Canon David Power has taken up the important link role from Canon Tom Kennar
since his move outside the Deanery.
June Purvis, Kitty Price and Sue Ward are St Thomas’s Deanery Synod representatives having been
elected in April for three years. Please contact us if you would like more information.
Peter Leonard
19
PRAYERFUL ENGAGEMENT
GUNWHARF CHAPLAINCY
I imagine that many of us enjoy shopping in the Gunwharf Outlets; but what of the many hundreds of
retail staff working there? Over a number of years several chaplains from different churches have
regularly gone to the shops to meet and listen to the staff. Chaplaincy is sometimes hard to define and
in reality takes on a different form depending upon the context in which the ministry is exercised. I
myself have worked in Ministry of Defence establishments in Portsmouth and Gosport, in ports and on
board merchant ships. I like to describe chaplaincy as ‘lurking with intent’.
Few of us understand the pressures which exist in the retail environment. You will have noticed the
regular changes to the units; this constant churn causes uncertainty and change for the staff. Retail work
also entails long shifts and disruption to family life with staff usually expected to work any five days from
seven but sometimes uncertain as to when those days off will occur, or even if they will be consecutive.
Add to this the constant pressure to perform to targets, (yes, league tables are published showing the
performance of each unit) and these are the ingredients for stress and strain.
Chaplaincy is essentially a listening ministry – not every conversation is deep and meaningful – but it is
valued and valuable. In the same way as the units experience churn so has the team. During the year we
have lost some stalwarts who have brought their knowledge and expertise to the team and we need to
replace them with new life to reinvigorate the team. If this is a ministry which excites you and you feel
that you could give a morning a fortnight to this valuable task, please speak to Canon Peter, who will be
pleased to explain more.
David Stickland
HOSPITAL WHEELERS
We have continued to visit Queen Alexandra Hospital as ‘Wheelers’. On our Sunday in the month
(fourth), we get up and attend the 8.00am Holy Communion service at St. Thomas’s, go home for a
quick breakfast, then off to Queen Alexandra Hospital chapel to meet with the duty chaplain at about
9.45/10.00am to help put out any special requirements e.g. space for a bed patient and also several
wheelchair patients. In some cases they will have family joining them for the service, in many other cases
they are alone and then we become their congregation. Recently we have had several stroke patients
and other people in need, so we support them by turning pages of their order of service and the
readings and hymns.
At 10.00am we, the ‘wheelers’, go off to the wards to collect patients who have expressed a wish to
attend which have been as many as 12+. The numbers of ‘wheelers’ on certain Sundays are not enough
to be able to bring all the patients for the service.
We have found over the many years we have helped, it is a most rewarding, moving and humbling
experience. On certain Sundays there are ‘wheelers’ who cannot wheel, but they greet patients as they
arrive and sit with them to possibly help and support just by being there.
Could you be free one Sunday in the month? - by the way if you cannot make it on your Sunday you can
arrange to swap with others from another week. Brief training is given to support you, and you can try
it out with another ‘wheeler’ before to see if is something you would like to do. If you are interested in
finding out more about this valuable service, call Susan Bishop the Chaplaincy Department on 023 9228
6408 or email susan.bishop@portsmouth.nhs.uk or Alan and Judith Williamson at the Cathedral.
Also as always there is a need for chaplain’s volunteers to visit patients on the wards; this requires a
short training period, half a day per week for 13 weeks and from then on a half day per week visiting a
ward and meeting with patients. Contact as above.
Alan and Judith Williamson
PRAYERFUL ENGAGEMENT
INTERCESSIONS GROUP
My house shall be called a House of Prayer - Luke 19.46
Monday Morning Intercessions Group, 10am in the Chapel of Healing and
Reconciliation (unless another activity is taking place, when just look around for
us or ask the vergers where they have kindly secreted us!)
Week by week approximately 50 prayer requests are to be found placed in the
basket by the Peace Globe or in the Chapel of Healing emanating from all age
groups, nationalities, and walks of life. (These are changed on a monthly rota).
The children’s requests, often illustrated, may be for a pet or ‘please God bring
Daddy home for Christmas’, getting through university days and from young
people of many nationalities, (our ability to translate most European languages is improving but could
anyone help us with Mandarin or Cantonese please?). Continuing along life’s road into adulthood,
concerns over marriage, parenthood, finances, work and housing. Moral and ethical concerns, health,
grief, bereavement and remembrance along with thanksgiving are liable to be in our basket.
The needs are growing and come both from amongst our own Cathedral community, and far beyond,
often from people on the fringes of society and faith. We seek to join them all in praying faithfully for
their requests and thanksgiving. But we are few in number – will you not come and join us as we seek to
pray for one another? A warm welcome awaits you. You may be able to come regularly, only
occasionally (life is like that), or for members who find they are unable to come but aim to stay in touch
with us still, we are thinking of starting an ’at home’ group. Please let us know if this would interest you.
Voluntary donations this year have included £30 each to World Share, Hope Africa, Action against
Hunger and Leprosy Mission: £40 each to Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners and Ethiopiaid and £50
to London City Mission. Our thanks to Dr Isabel Pine for her continued work in researching and updating us regarding those in need.
Wynne Towner
21
PRAYERFUL ENGAGEMENT
SUNYANI PARTNERSHIP LINK
It is an enormous privilege for the life of our Cathedral to be enriched by our link with another part of
the Anglican Church family who are living out their Christian discipleship in a different cultural setting,
where life can be fragile and where people are acutely aware of God’s daily provision and protection.
Our 13-year link with Sunyani is part of IDWAL (the Inter-Diocesan West Africa Link) linking the
Diocese of Portsmouth with the Anglican Church in Ghana.
In October I was privileged to be present in Sunyani for
the weekend of thanksgiving for the first five years of
Bishop Festus’ episcopal ministry and the dedication of
the Bishopscourt accommodation for Bishop Festus.
(Note the Catechists with blue scarfs – some of those whose
training we sponsored in 2010)
Bishopscourt includes a small chapel, dedicated to St
Thomas of Canterbury, and sits alongside the new Clinic,
Credit Union and Women’s Training facilities on the
Penkwase site, the development of which our Cathedral
has been pleased to support. The Training Centre is
staffed by Ghanaian Sisters of the Order of the Holy
Paraclete and aims to provide training in batik dying,
sewing and IT to enable previously disadvantaged young
women to acquire life and business skills.
Whilst in Sunyani, I also had the joy of getting to know the
new Cathedral Dean, Very Revd Timothy Kankam
Dwumfour, and Mary his wife. They are a wise, gentle and
godly couple. Dean Timothy is now in regular
communication telling of Sunyani Cathedral’s support for
the elderly and for those in prison. Like most churches
Sunyani Cathedral and Diocese are busy developing lay
leadership to extend their ministry. To my complete
surprise and amazement I was licenced and installed, at the
Sunday Thanksgiving Service, as the very first Lay Canon for
Sunyani Cathedral. I think this is a sign of their recognition
and value of the link between our two Cathedrals.
Bishop Festus and Archbishop Daniel Sarfo (Primate of the Province of West Africa) are making plans to
visit the UK in October to attend the Centenary Celebrations in Whitby and York Minster of the Order
of the Holy Paraclete. We hope they will find time to visit Portsmouth whilst in the UK.
Please contact marion.syms@btinternet.com if you would like to receive regular email news of our
partners in Sunyani.
Marion Syms (Link Officer)
GENEROUS HOSPITALITY
HOLY DUSTERS
The Holy Dusters meet at 8.15 a.m. every Monday
morning for approximately one and a half hours. Our
aim is to ensure that the Cathedral is kept as clean and
tidy as possible for all the many people who worship
there or take part in many of the other various
activities which take place.
There are currently six of us, Barbara Kendall having
taken her well-earned retirement and hung up her
duster after twenty years of dusting. We each have an
allotted area but move around to cover other areas
should one of us be away. We like to think we are a friendly group and would be very pleased to
welcome anyone who would like to join us. At least twice a year, we go out to lunch in one of the local
hostelries, a chance to have more time to chat. As well as this, once a month after our cleaning session,
Jessica, the Head Verger, makes us coffee which is a good opportunity for us to voice any concerns or
queries we may have and, indeed, for her to make any comments too.
Although we bring our own cleaning equipment, two vacuum cleaners (Henrys) are provided and the use
of a lock up cupboard means we have space to store items if required.
There is a shared sense of satisfaction from all of us in what we do as well as being part of the Cathedral
community. We hope to continue for some time yet.
Sally Farnfield
CHURCHWARDENS
Much interest and excitement has been generated during the year by the announcement and
implementation of the new Cathedral Development Plan. Wardens and sidesmen are becoming
increasingly aware of the need to adapt to new styles of service, engagement with the congregation,
particularly new members and children, and promotion of sharply focussed Cathedral mission and values.
Associated tasks which are being addressed include coping with various seating arrangements, welcoming
and encouraging the congregation to take part in events. Newly written guidelines for sidesmen and
Deputies reflect changing duties and these will be updated as the plan is refined. We are so grateful to
Deputies and sidesmen for their ability to cope with instructions, sometimes delivered at very short
notice.
Our current complement of volunteers comprises five Deputies and 28 sidesmen covering regular
Sunday services. John Hopkinson (Hoppy) has resigned after many years of service and we miss his
cheerful contributions. Also much missed is Dione Holding who died just before Christmas. Marian
Pottinger, Marian Wendon, Frances Kay, Sheila Blackwell and Ann Wilson are welcomed as new
members of the team. The annual Sidesmen’s Meeting was held in June and was attended by 24 people
including the Dean and Canons Michael and Peter. Some topics considered concerned sidesmen’s
punctuality, assistance of children at informal services, arrangements for collection and Eucharist at
services and responsibilities of Jessica, our new Head Verger.
As churchwardens we are in attendance at meetings of the Chapter and represent the views of the
congregation and volunteers. Such feedback is always welcomed by Chapter members. Finally, we thank
our Deputies and sidesmen for their outstanding commitment and support during a challenging year.
We thank the clergy for much improved internal communications. The continuing guidance and support
of the staff and Carole Wynn’s assistance with rotas is very much appreciated.
Sue Ward and Mike Purvis
23
GENEROUS HOSPITALITY
NEWCOMERS
We held a very successful Newcomers meeting in May, where we met many new members from the
Electoral Roll, a wedding couple, and other people new to the congregation; it was held at the Deanery
by kind permission of the Dean.
Looking back since dear Peggy Dunn’s time and over past years there were up to three meetings a year
to welcome all people interested in knowing more about what the Cathedral has on offer as well as the
services. Things are changing; there are plans afoot to have some meetings that will maybe suit different
people’s needs.
Also there is the new Welcome Card that is be found around the church and at the north and south
doors. So if there are people who you think would be interested in finding out more about any of the
activities on offer, please do encourage them to complete one of the cards and hand them back to
sidesmen, welcomers or any member of staff.
Alan and Judith Williamson
THE FLOWER GUILD
The Flower Guild team have done our best during the year to create
arrangements appropriate for the liturgical year. We had great fun
making an arrangement for Harvest Festival from fruit and vegetables.
We wanted to show how beautiful fruit and vegetables are and to
give thanks for the earth's harvest. None of the produce was wasted
as most was made into a delicious soup – and you cannot do that
with flowers! At Christmas we had the privilege of creating
arrangements for the wedding of Dean David and Gill's daughter,
Rachel.
We are urgently in need of more arrangers. Could this be you?
Later in the year we will be holding a 'taster' open morning which we
hope will attract people who might be interested in flower arranging
but do not think they can arrange. We will be demonstrating small
arrangements and giving an opportunity to try.
Flower arranging is not difficult and can be achieved with practice.
We give much support and encouragement and you will be surprised
and pleased at your achievement.
If arranging is not for you why not come and help with garlands at Easter and Christmas? All are
welcome for these festivals. Arranging flowers in the Cathedral is an enjoyable and rewarding way to
spend a morning. Come and join us.
Rosemary Fairfax
GENEROUS HOSPITALITY
FRIENDS OF PORTSMOUTH CATHEDRAL
2014 was another successful year for the Friends although membership numbers are still declining.
However, we have recently had two new members join the Council and have started major initiatives to
recruit new Friends and communicate more effectively with the members.
Sadly we had to cancel the annual outing, on this occasion to Wells Cathedral, because of lack of support
but are confident that the 2015 outing to St George’s Windsor will be very popular. Successful events
during the year included the Annual General Meeting following morning Eucharist and ending with a very
convivial lunch, a coffee morning organised by the Needlecraft Group and the Friends administered the
Ride and Stride event in September in support of the Hampshire and the Islands Historic Churches
Trust. Members received a copy of the Friends’ Yearbook, a Christmas newsletter and sponsored a
popular Christmas card that was sold through the Cathedral Bookshop.
In the last year money has been given to the Cathedral to pay for the production of a DVD to promote
the work of the Education Department. The Friends also continue to fund the running of the popular
Children’s Workshops held throughout the year. In 2015, the Friends Council has agreed to provide an
outside Notice Board for the Lombard Street corner and is investigating the purchase of additional choir
stalls to match those in place in the Quire.
Membership of the Friends is open to all who wish to support the Cathedral by their prayers and their
interest in its life and ministry. For further information about the Friends or details of membership
please contact friends@portsmouthCathedral.org.uk or the Membership Secretary, Liz Snowball on
023 9289 2963.
Andrew Slater
CATHEDRAL GUIDES AND WELCOMERS
This year has been full of interest and some surprises for all of us.
We welcomed Canon Peter Leonard who has taken responsibility for our Guild.
In June we marked the 75th Anniversary of D-Day when we organised an Exhibition of the Normandy
Landings. The Exhibition included a full size working Cartoon of the D-Day and Normandy Fellowship
windowl. In August we mounted an Exhibition of a large number of interesting items to mark the
Centenary Anniversary of the First World War. The following month in September we marked the
National Heritage Weekend when visitors were able to view the Tangier Plate and Marriage Certificate
among many other exhibits. Tours of the South West and Bell Towers which were a popular feature of
the Heritage Weekend. In October we saw the start of Training Sessions for seven new volunteers and
then amazingly another four people volunteered to become Guides. These volunteers began training in
February and were joined by several members of Staff who wished to take part in the complete Course.
During the year we have welcomed numerous visitors from many Countries. We enjoyed welcoming a
number of Schools, including a large Junior School from Hong Kong.
Many thanks to each of the Guides who give so much to our Cathedral and especially to John Friars our
Training Officer and Carole Wynn our Secretary.
Pat Abbott
25
GENEROUS HOSPITALITY
HANDBELL GROUP
The year was disrupted by the need for the bells to be repaired. They have now been refurbished by
Whitechapel Foundry and if you would be interested in joining the group which will meet on Mondays
9.30-10.30am please contact Barbara Sykes.
Barbara Sykes
HOLIDAY CHAPLAINS
Our thanks to the loyal band of retired clergy, readers and Sisters of Bethany who offer additional
welcome, support and guidance to our visitors April-September.
Michael Tristram
CRAFT AND CHAT GROUP
The Needlecraft Group became the Craft and Chat Group in the summer. Join us now even if you have
no particular craft or a craft that I am sure we would like to see and learn. Anyone who cannot get to
the group too often or would like to do something at home or just come and chat, this can introduce us
all to new activities. In addition to our meetings on the first Thursday in the month we continue to hold
Coffee Mornings regularly throughout the year and hope that you will join us.
Barbara Sykes
PARISH LUNCH CLUB
The Lunch Club continues to provide an excellent two course lunch with tea or coffee to follow every
Tuesday in Cathedral House. All for £4.00 which is made possible only because all the labour is entirely
voluntary. There are four teams, so that in general each team cooks once a month with the usual break
at Christmas, Easter and the month of August.
Most of the members are local though some people come from other parishes across the City. Any
profit left provides for an extra special lunch at Christmas and for a summer outing, often to some
beautiful venue such as the New Forest for a cream tea.
Do come some Tuesday and discover what you are missing!
Joan Eddings
RESEARCH GROUP
The Research Group has met seven times in the past twelve months. Coloured booklets have been
produced on:
Royalty and St Thomas’s Church
Jean de Gisors
The D-Day and Ramsay Windows
The Estonian Memorial
Other booklets in the pipeline are:
The Tree of Life Frontal
The Fonts (and Adam de Moleyns)
The Organs
I would like to thank the members of the Group: Mags Lovett, Mike Jackson, Wendy Pascall, Pat Valler,
Diana Villar and Margaret Wilson. Also Di Villar for her hospitality, Chris Lovett for his technical
expertise and photography, and Christine Richardson for her encouragement, advice and marketing
abilities.
John Friars
GENEROUS HOSPITALITY
MEMORIAL GARDEN
There have been changes in the ranks of the gardening
fraternity in the last year. Sadly Gordon, whose expert
handling of the Flymo kept our lawns properly trimmed,
died and is much missed. We have fond memories of a
very quiet man of many parts whose ashes are in the
garden.
A less traumatic change is that John (Hoppy) Hopkinson
has decided to step down as leader of the group and now
takes on the role of Gnome Emeritus, which involves him
in a public relations role with any visitor who chances to
come into the garden on a Tuesday morning. He also offers advice to anyone who will listen. We are not
without a leader however and Don has been promoted to this exalted role. Chris and Alan continue to
be the backbone of our team - Chris knows a lot of Latin words for the plants and Alan seems to have
an endless supply of highly technical gardening equipment. As is the way of the world our newest,
youngest, fittest and very willing recruit, Andy, gets all the jobs that the rest of us can dump on him. We
have stand easy “up spirits” provided by Andrea and Terry to whom we are most grateful. They supply
us with coffee, Yorkshire fruit cake, Wensleydale cheese and, when the wind blows chilly, a touch of
brandy. They also keep an eye on the plot, water it in times of drought and chase away the foxes.
As we head into spring Mother Nature has turned up trumps once
again with a display of snowdrops which were a little unexpected
since they had been dormant for a year or two and we had
forgotten they were there. Miniature daffodils and cyclamen are
braving the cold and the newly pruned roses are looking good for a
fine display this year.
The Calendar which Chris produced for this year with photographs
of the garden is a good testament to the variety to be found in the
garden throughout the seasons.
Many of our plants are gifts from the congregation in the shape of,
bulbs, shrubs and seedlings etc., and we are very grateful for all
contributions. We would be most remiss if we omitted to thank
the Cathedral ‘sewers’ (!) of the Craft and Chat group, whose
efforts provide cash for the sowers and tillers of the soil.
The Lord graciously smiles on our labours and in the meantime the Adam team is very grateful for the
opportunity to tend your garden and we look forward to a fecund gardening year.
Don Valler
CHRISTMAS FAIR 2014
Once again we had a very successful Christmas Fair in November raising a marvellous £5,118 gross
income for the Cathedral and participating groups – a little down on the last three years due to a
continuing decline in attendance. Many thanks are due to all the stallholders and everyone involved for
giving so generously of their time, money, gifts and saleable items to achieve such a splendid result. Date
for the Diary: next Christmas Fair: Saturday 21 November 2015
Michael Tristram
27
CHALLENGING DISCIPLESHIP
BECKET’S BUNCH (SUNDAY SCHOOL)
This year saw the Sunday School re-branded as Becket’s Bunch (a name chosen by the children.) The old
“School Room” had a makeover as well, and is now a bright, colourful, welcoming space (known as the
Bishop Kenneth Room.).
We continue to meet regularly and provide an important service to the younger members of our
congregation, however, there are significant challenges to address. The most basic of these is staffing, as
we are currently down to a “skeleton crew” and consequently have had to cut down to approximately
two meetings a month during the 10.30am Eucharist. We would be able to provide a much better, more
consistent service if we had a few more volunteer leaders who could help organise activities for the
children.
One difficulty is that the group can vary wildly in size and age-range, so coming up with workable
activities, and a framework, or a structure to follow is proving challenging. We have investigated
different options for this (for example, Godly Play, a narrative based plan) and will continue to do so –
but finding something that will work for everyone, all the time, is proving difficult. Among the group at
the moment there is a feeling that older children are not being served particularly well. Older children
do participate as readers in the “informal” services, but could perhaps benefit from some other
activity/learning/discussion opportunities that are not currently available in regular Becket’s Bunch
sessions with the younger children. More staffing and volunteers is probably the answer to being able
to provide new opportunities in this area. Any interested parties please contact Canon Peter or Brigid
in the offices!
Brigid McGovern
MESSY CATHEDRAL
Messy Cathedral began on Saturday 20 September 2014. Our aim was, and continues to be, reaching
out to children and adults both in the parish and the wider community through creativity, celebration
and generous hospitality, focussing on family unity with parent/carers working together with their
children to create, share and learn.
We have advertised with a banner, with local schools who have
allowed bookmarks with dates and information to be added to
the children’s book bags, word of mouth, as well as promotion at
Toddler Group, Facebook and during relevant services i.e. the
Crib Service. We have featured in the Pompey Chimes and
articles have been written by Fiona Alsop.
The atmosphere is deliberately relaxed and informal with the
Nave providing a natural gathering place for the craft whilst
allowing space for children to play and room for worship and
refreshments.
There is a set theme for each session with related craft, worship
and story. We have gained inspiration from the Messy Church
books and website whilst adapting some themes and craft to suit.
Messy Cathedral runs on a monthly basis, depending on
availability from 2-4pm on a Saturday afternoon which appears to
work well with the families and other Cathedral services and activities. Current attendance is averaging
60 which includes adults and children.
CHALLENGING DISCIPLESHIP
We have a group of willing volunteers who assist with craft activities and refreshments. An afternoon
tea is provided for the families to share after worship, which provides a time of fellowship and
interaction.
Overall, Messy Cathedral has been a success with encouraging feedback from families and volunteers.
Many of the families are happy to linger over tea and refreshments and appear to be very relaxed and at
home in the Cathedral.
Future dates for Messy Cathedral are: Saturday 9 May 2015, Saturday 13 June 2015, Saturday 11 July
2015, Saturday 26 September, Saturday 17 October, Saturday 28 November and Saturday 12 December.
Dates for 2016 will be booked shortly.
Dawn Banting
DISCIPLESHIP COURSES
In the autumn of 2014 we began the first module of the Pilgrim Course, an innovative programme for
both those new to Christian Faith and those who wanted to revisit some of the basics. It follows a
pattern of contemplation and discussion and was very much enjoyed by those 25 who attended on either
a Tuesday afternoon or Thursday evening. We completed both module one “Turning to Christ” and
module two “The Lord’s Prayer” before Christmas.
In January we moved to a six week course called Soul Spark which encouraged us to try different ways of
praying and listening to God as a means of developing our Spirituality. As is the case with a course like
this some weeks were better for some people than for others but overall we felt that we had learnt new
ways to engage with God and deepen our prayer lives.
In line with our annual theme of “Political Awareness” in the run up to the General Election we held two
Advent Lectures entitled “Politics of Hope” and this was followed up in Lent with a series of four
lectures called “A Faith Based Manifesto?” Speakers have included Owen Jones, Guardian Columnist and
political campaigner, David Carpenter from the University of Portsmouth, Francis Davies from the
Cathedral Innovation Centre and University of Birmingham and speakers from the three main parties’
Christian fellowships. These have proved valuable in stimulating our thinking and conversations.
We are grateful to David Carpenter for following these lectures up with six weekly sessions on political
philosophy in the run up to the General Election.
Peter Leonard
29
CATHEDRAL STAFF
Chapter Clerk
Peter Sanders 023 9289 2961 or ext 227
Dean’s Personal Assistant
Elizabeth Snowball 023 9289 2963 or ext 220
Finance and Cathedral Diary Officer
Secretary (Liturgy and Music)
Rachel Richardson 023 9289 2965 or ext 235
Shop Manager
Christine Richardson
Administrative Assistants ext 239
Brigid McGovern & Jason Stanbridge-Howard
Organist and Master of the Choristers
David Price ext 228
Sub-Organist
Oliver Hancock
Choir Matrons
Catherine O’Leary and Celia Veal
CathedralSing Administrator
Adrian Green
Education Officer
Sarah Page 023 9289 2968 or ext 221
Head Verger
Jessica-Louise Hallion
023 9289 2969 or ext 230
Assistant Verger
Malina Wyzykowska
Handyman and Cleaner
Steve Hill
Cleaners
Tina Cartright and Jason Elsey
The Cathedral Church of St Thomas of Canterbury
As at April 2015
The Dean
The Very Revd David Brindley
Residentiary Canons
The Revd Canon Michael Tristram
The Revd Canon Nick Ralph
The Revd Canon Peter Leonard
The Revd Canon Dr Anthony Rustell
Assistant Curate
The Revd Dawn Banting
Reader
Kitty Price
Lay Members of Chapter
Caroline Speller (Chair of FIC)
Hilary Spurgeon
Jeremy Barrett
Fiona Alsop
Chapter Clerk
Peter Sanders
Honorary Canons
The Revd Canon John Draper
The Revd Canon David Power
The Venerable Ian Wheatley Royal Navy
The Revd Canon Simon Sayers
The Revd Canon Bob White
The Revd Canon Gill Hill
The Revd Canon Robin Coutts
The Revd Canon Karina Green
The Revd Canon Graham Morris
Lay Canons
Brian Hargreaves
Hugh Mason
David Lisseter
Sue Rodgers
Michael Oakley
Debbie Sutton
Lucy Docherty
David Bennison
Stuart Forster
Mike Purvis - Churchwarden
Susan Ward - Churchwarden
Honorary Chaplains
The Revd Andrew Burtt
The Revd Mike Clarke
The Revd Dr Jenny Gaffin
The Revd Ned Kelly Royal Navy
The Revd Dr Ruth Tuschling
31
The Cathedral Office, Cathedral House,
63-68 St Thomas’s Street, Old Portsmouth, PO1 2HA
023 9282 3300 info@portsmouthCathedral.org.uk
www.portsmouthCathedral.org.uk