two things

I have been busy dealing with a migraine and writing an essay over the last 48hrs. Not a happy combination but 'thems the shakes'. I have managed to get a draft of the essay despite the headache and am now in a position to say that I have written all my Trinity college essays and only have an nasty exam to go.

So, just two pieces of action that you might like to engage with. The first is a Avaaz petition to the UN. I received this email from three people today and rather than sending it on I will print it here and you can take whatever action you feel appropriate:

I'm sure you've heard about the world food crisis in the news. Some 100 million people from the continent of Africa are likely to die of starvation if nothing is done. The UN have responded in part but more is needed. You can read a report here

If you want to sign a petition which will be given to G8, UN, and EU
leaders, then click this link.

This video is a Food crisis appeal from Sierra Leone foreign minister




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The other is a pop related link. You can vote for your Most Musical City by choosing your favourite from the ten nominated cities on the Take it Away website. I voted for Liverpool (of course).

A just peace on Israel's 60th anniversary

I got this through my Ekklesia mailing today and I would be interested to know what you think? If you are church leader could you sign up for this?

The Declaration
We, the undersigned, church leaders and representatives of our different denominations and organisations, join together on the 60th anniversary of the Israeli state to offer a contribution to that which makes for peace.

We recognise that today, millions of Israelis and Jews around the world will joyfully mark the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the state of Israel (Yom Ha'atzmaut). For many, this landmark powerfully symbolises the Jewish people’s ability to defy the power of hatred so destructively embodied in the Nazi Holocaust. Additionally, it is an opportunity to celebrate the wealth of cultural, economic and scientific achievements of Israeli society, in all its vitality and diversity.

We also recognise that this same day, millions of Palestinians living inside Israel, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and the worldwide diaspora, will mourn 60 years since over 700,000 of them were uprooted from their homes and forbidden from returning, while more than 400 villages were destroyed (al-Nakba). For them, this day is not just about the remembrance of a past catastrophic dispossession, dispersal, and loss; it is also a reminder that their struggle for self-determination and restitution is ongoing.

To hold both of these responses together in balanced tension is not easy. But it is vital if a peaceful way forward is to be forged, and is central to the Biblical call to “seek peace and pursue it” (Ps. 34:14). We acknowledge with sorrow that for the last 60 years, while extending empathy and support to the Israeli narrative of independence and struggle, many of us in the church worldwide have denied the same solidarity to the Palestinians, deaf to their cries of pain and distress.
To acknowledge and respect these dual histories is not, by itself, sufficient, but does offer a paradigm for building a peaceful future. Many lives have been lost, and there has been much suffering. The weak are exploited by the strong, while fear and bitterness stunt the imagination and cripple the capacity for forgiveness.

We therefore urge all those working for peace and justice in Israel/Palestine to consider that any lasting solution must be built on the foundation of justice, which is rooted in the very character of God. After all, it is justice that “will produce lasting peace and security” (Isaiah 32:17). Let us commit ourselves in prophetic word and practical deed to a courageous settlement whose details will honour both peoples’ shared love for the land, and protect the individual and collective rights of Jews and Palestinians in the Holy Land.
“Everyone will sit under their own vine and under their own fig tree, and no one will make them afraid” (Micah 4:4)


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Ekklesia write:
"Ask your church or organisations to join Desmond Tutu, Walter Brueggemann, Ekklesia, bishops and many others in signing the joint declaration by Christian Leaders on Israel's 60th Anniversary, calling for a just peace."

If you want more information or want to sign up go to Joint declaration by Christian Leaders on Israel’s 60th Anniversary.

weekend

Having a rubbish weekend last time it is only fair that this one was a blinder. Friday night I polished off a bottle of white wine that was sitting about and watched some bits and bobs of catch-up tv. Not that there's much to catch-up at the moment - I am enjoying the medieval stuff on BBC4 but a lot of it is very ponderous and poncy, some of it good and much of it less informative than it pretends to be. Anyway, I caught up and crashed out - I was very very tired (it has been a bit of a week).

Saturday was great - we had Liz H's baby shower at ours. I am not sure that it was a conventional baby shower as it was more like a relaxing tea party in the garden with scones, tea, cucumber sandwiches and more cake than can be imagined - pictures to follow! It was lovely having people round, chilling out, telling stories and having a laugh. can't believe that come August both Liz and Elise will have small babies! Wow. What an amazing thing that is!

We are still eating cake today...I had some for breakfast (is that wrong, especially on a Sunday!?). A baptism at church - which was lovely. Actually the whole service was cracking. St Peter's is really coming alive for me again - I can't analyse that at the moment so I will have to get back to it at some point. Anyway, we went to the Wheelers for lunch which was a real treat. Fab food including a very nice pudding (chocolate fudge cake with raspberries - yum yum) a great tour of their new house - which is pretty impressive - on 3 levels including 3 toilets and a chapel! What more could you ask for? They have kindly lent us their roof box for Andrew and Julian's wedding so we will be able to get the tent in the car - phew!

After Eva went to bed Mark and I watched the first series of Gavin and Stacey and ate a rather appropriate omelette (cheese and ham). Perfect end to a lovely weekend.

- I have just realised that this is a rather food driven post (hey ho)!

there's a big mouse working at the anglican cathedral Liverpool

...and it's name is Claire



Be afraid, be very afraid.

world turned upside down

Last night Mark, Bob, Sue and I went to see Billy Bragg. Reminded that I met Bob and Sue at a Billy Bragg gig 13 years ago - a benefit to safe the Picket, Liverpool (seems like we've been trying to save the Picket ever since!)... and that at another Billy Bragg gig in the same year I also re-met Mark. So, Billy Bragg has been an important catalyst in the making of our friendships. Anyway, we've all got a bit older and I am not sure how much wiser but we definitely still share the same desire to see the world turned upside down. Perhaps each of us has our own (different) reasons for sharing such a vision but it remains a significant topic of our conversations and a business of our endeavors. In my case I remain convinced that poverty and injustice prevent people from hearing the good news of the kingdom of God and that as the people of God we have an obligation to fight injustice at every level wherever we encounter it. This week we have been meditating on The Jesus Manifesto - a vision of the world changed forever (Matthew 5; Acts 17:1-9). Jesus' vision for the world turned upside down was one of the meek and the poor being inheritors and the the peacemakers being called children of God. The first will be last and the last will be first.

Anyway, I post this clip of Billy Bragg - his "World Turned Upside Down". A story of what happens when the dispossessed proclaim what is theirs.

up the workers

The teachers (the NUT) are on strike today. Not everyone will be on strike but even those who don't will be happy enough to take the pay rise should the strike succeed. Nobody chooses to lose a day's pay unless they feel the reasons for such action is valid and I have a great deal of sympathy for their decisions. That said I have not been very happy about the decision I made to take Eva into college today. She has found it very difficult to live by my college bound disciplines and I have found it challenging to deal with her dissatisfaction. I have realised that college is quite a demanding environment - demanding of my time, my affection, my patience, concentration etc etc and that having a small person about whilst trying to maintain those demands has not been very easy. Sharing me and college has not been great for poor Eva. I am not the best mum in the world here!

Anyway, the day is nearly over and nobody has got hurt. We are off home in a minute and will have a lovely time chilling out for a few hours before Mark and I go out to meet Bob and Sue. They have come down from Liverpool on their way to Cornwall. We are off to see Billy Bragg tonight - which I am excited about. So, best get off and have a nice time in the sun.

lunch

I am just about to go into lunch at college and I can't be late today because I want to get on a table that serves Crème brûlée. It's not often that I sit on a main meal table because I am trying to eat less meat and prefer the vegetarian table but unfortunately this table is also a fruit table and I am not prepared to make that sacrifice when it is a Crème brûlée day! I am not sure why I am telling you this or even that you'll be interested!??? Hey ho

Anyway, the fact that I haven't posted anything since Sunday is an indication of how busy and distracted I have been:
- I have done quite a lot of liberation theology reading and am nearly ready to write the essay (but not sure when I will have a window of time to do that!)
- I went back to college and attended a lecture
- I met Ravi Holy (he was taking the lecture on universalism) and we chewed the cud
- Some Foundationers came round for the community meal last night and we had a great time. It seems really odd to think that that was our last community meal together. I have made some significant relationships in Foundation and I really am going to miss the fellowship. It was a good send off. Thanks everyone!
- I am at college again and have a day of meetings and paperwork, tonight is our passover meal so it is also a day of food!

Anyway, lunch is a calling.

patience

Tomorrow sees the start of the last ever Trinity term. However, tomorrow is a study day and Mark needs the car so I suspect I will not go into college so it will be a bit of a false start. To be honest I have not had a great weekend and am not at all ready to go back. I feel bit under the weather, the stress of finishing has got to me a bit and all the arrangements that need to be made are making me feel disorientated. I am at a high level of discontent and just want it all to be over and done with. I think the reality properly kicked in this weekend and Mark and I have found it quite difficult to communicate about how we are feeling and as a result have not been all that supportive to each other (sorry to lay this on you - my dear reader - but you have been such a faithful friend I know I can rely on you for continued love, prayers and support). I know what this needs... as Take That would say - it needs a bit of Patience. So, prayers for patience would be great.

big feet

I have spent the day putting my feet in it...by 'it' I mean pretty much everything metaphorical you can think of. But no real poo.

I have not been able to put a foot right all day.
Everything I say seems to upset someone.

I am not writing this because I feel sorry for myself or misunderstood but because I am sure each of us has managed to be this much of a klutz at some point? Perhaps my foolishness will serve as a warning or a comfort or just be an opportunity for ridicule? Whatever, but if you can be of some comfort to me and say you have been unable to be discrete, generous with words, appeasing, uncritical, and humble at some point and managed to recover that would be great. It would be so much of a comfort to know that there are others who can't manage to be passremarkable...

Even if I am alone in my bigfootedness I am going to have to bear a lonely dinner and an even more lonely evening of silence as this is I think the only way of ensuring that I don't hurt anyone else's feelings. For my sins I am most truly sorry.

I am leading the intercessions in church tomorrow so can only hope that the morning will bring a fresh start and a new day of joy and loveliness.

controlled blast in Westbury-on-Trym

I don't know what the weather is like where you are but it is grim here today. Cold, windy and raining. I am feeling a bit under the weather myself and my aching bones could really do with the sun to come out and some warmth on my back. But hey ho.

Not a lot has happened today. Eva went out for a drive and a look for chairs for my Mum to sit in - she isn't getting enough support from any of the ones we have at the moment. The most exciting thing to happen is the controlled explosion in Westbury-on-Trym. The usually quiet suburb is a mass of excitement and slight bemusement.

I am tucked up in bed reading and here I will stay until later when Mark and I are dues to go out for a meal to celebrate Steve and Gayle's big adventure at the Paintworks.

I thin I need to put a cardi on...

back home from Virginia Water

I decided not to stay for too long. My mum was very tired and I think she needed to be on her own having had Eva for 4 days. I am glad that I came back though. It means I can spend the last day of the holiday with Eva on my own and do a few more bits and bobs here. I am so tired now. You wouldn't think driving to Virginia Water, dodging the posh people in the massive cars and eating would be so tiring.

I went to see an old friend this morning - Enid. She is in her late 80's and had just had a new knee fitted. Enid was the first person to mention ordination to me when I was 17years old (all those years ago!). She had a real vision for my ministry and has been a great influence on me and the formation of my faith. She is a straight talking, intelligent, visionary person (she needed vision to see me as a vicar when I was 17years old!). She sees the positive in difficult situations and has been so faithful in her ministry as a reader at Christ Church, Virginia Water. She and her friend Ann work very hard for the church - making pastoral visits, taking funerals, leading services at the Methodist church (which is affiliated to the Anglican church). They are tireless witnesses to the gospel.

I love to spend time with Enid and listen to what she and Ann have been doing in the church and in their other roles. Enid used to be an inspector for Anglican training colleges and knows Trinity well. She has also sat on various boards of training colleges and has a sense of what training for ministry is like as well as what the job entails after training. It is a privilege to spend time with them and I take great encouragement from their interest in me, the family and my ministry. I felt very proud to tell them about my curacy and even though it seems unlikely that they will make my ordination, due to Enid's poor health, I know I will be in their prayers.

If you get a moment and could spare a prayer for an old friend of mine with a poorly knee and problems with deer who eat her flowers then please do.

Christian Socialist Movement, Virginia Water and purple/blue hair

I have to finish a book on the Christian Socialist Movement (CSM) today - its a personal pride thing - I decided last night that I can't go to see my Mum until it is read). I am really enjoying it actually. The book is called Possible Dreams: Personal History of the British Christian Socialists by Christopher Bryant. It is out of print but amazon has a few 2nd hand copies if you fancy it. I know I am a hopeless socialist romantic but reading about the history (albeit recalled by an equally hopeless socialist romantic) has warmed the cockles of my cold heart. I don't feel so oppressed by Liberation Theology (which was very sad and really not what my Latin American brothers had intended I am sure). I am just getting on with the long list of books I have to read and hoping for some sort of intellectual breakthrough (could be here some time then!).

Anyway, once that book is read I am off to the centre of suburban capitalism - Virginia Water. Not, unfortunately, to start the revolution but to see my Mum and collect Eva. I think I am going to stay for a few days to soak up the rays that reflect from the beautiful people and visit some old friends (quite literally as one of them is in her 90's). In order to create a stir I have dyed my hair purple/blue again - my mum thinks I do it to annoy her. I don't...but I have to admit it keeps me on my toes. Having blue hair in Virginia Water means that you get away with nothing and the suspicion of all falls on your shoulders.


If I don't get to a computer I guess I will be out of touch for a few days. Please pray for me that armed with my reading about Christian Socialism and liberation theology I don't try to single handedly start the revolution from the hight street Virginia Water. Unlikely though that sounds if one of those great big Mercedes cars comes too near me in my 'ickle Peugeot and doesn't indicate I may lose my temper and call the workers to revolt. Wish me luck.

mission, liberation theology and cleaning

This is what I have been doing...thinking about mission, reading about liberation theology and cleaning the dirty house (my it was unclean). Now I am very tired and I still don't feel I have done enough. When will it all end? Well, I can tell you that in 8 weeks it will all be over (bar the inevitable shouting). In 8 weeks time we will be back in Liverpool unpacking boxes and panicking about the Park Palace project - and a whole new type of stress will begin. Until then I am here trying to make sense of this last essay and feeling guilty because I just can't get enough done. Hey ho.

So, I am going to post here 2 small talks which took place at the Church Mission Society (CMS) HQ Oxford at the Global Connections Thinking Mission forum on 27 February 2008. I attended this conference and these two speakers offered particularly interesting perspectives on 21st century Christian mission. The first is Paul Davies speaking about The Base Ecclesial Communities which emerged in Latin America in the 1950s and 1960s were centred on the poor, emphasized people over structures, had lay leadership, and were prophetic rather than priestly.



Paul Davies part 2



The second is Jonny Baker - 'Bath water or Baby? Must we ditch traditional church structures to do mission well?'

reading

Yesterday mark went to Liverpool and my Mum took Eva to Virginia Water. So, I am in Bristol all alone. Now that may sound a bit sad but to be honest so far I am loving it. I have already sorted loads of stuff out, tidied the house and done lots of chores that have alluded me for ages. The silence is golden and the thought of two more days of this sorting and clearing is spurring me on. Of course I miss them and it seems very quiet and boring here. But boring is exactly what I need. I have so many forms from the diocese to fill out, reading to do for an essay (the last one ever), shelves to clear, etc etc. that a bit of boring will spur me on to resolve the lot.

So, today is a reading day. I can sit on my bed and read all day without any trouble at all. Nobody will disturb me and I will not be 'absent' because I am reading. If I get 2 or 3 books about liberation theology read over the next couple of days I will be made up and ready to do my essay writing. Best be off then.

lazy weekend

I have had a very lazy few days and intend to continue this way until Monday. Friday was spent going here and there, shopping and doing chores with Eva and Elise. Today Eva and I spent most of the morning in our pj's waiting for my Mum to arrive, then we played Uno for a while and I made a cake and we chatted. Really nothing exciting but just what was needed. I find it so hard to do nothing that when I finally get a chance I have to really give in. I have given in. I cooked a fantastic stroganoff with so lovely beef filet. Elise and Wayne came over so we had a proper so down all 6 of us and I tried out my Bristolian accent on Wayne. Who was (or at least pretended to be) impressed. I managed a whole conversation using all the best brissle words I know. I even managed a few 'yeah, but no but's. I think I might have mastered the lingo. But then I have been taught by the master of West Country talk Sea Mill's stylieee - Wayne (or Wasser as Joe called him).

I am aiming to get the whole lot of us (Mum, Eva and I) out for church in the morning. So, I have come up to bed. Mark is off to Liverpool tomorrow, and Mum and Eva are off to Virginia Water. So, I shall be alone and after this lazy weekend I will be ready to do another essay - the last ever essay, ever, ever.

eva has worn me out

You wouldn't think that spending time with an 8yr old would be tiring but it really is. Not that what we did was that hectic...went for a drive, went to the cinema, went of for lunch, supermarket, home. But we left at 11am and didn't get back until 6pm. I feel like I have had a busy day at work. We went to see the Spiderwick Chronicles which was actually very good. A bit scary but quite effective. It has a slightly strange ending which I won't spoil for you but I would love for someone to do a theological analysis of it. Any takers?

I don't have a plan for tonight and given the fact that I am now trashed I think I will have an early night. Not much space in my head. Need to give it a break.

back in Bristol

So, here I am back in Bristol again. Having had a very profitable time researching but not really seen anyone except Barry and Andrea. It took me ages to get home but I guess that's what happens when you nationalize a rail service. The thing that did my head in most was that I tried to leave my luggage in left luggage at Lime Street Station, in order to do a bit of shopping, but I changed my mind when I realised it would cost me £12 - what are they thinking of? I mean why would you charge £12 for left luggage? It is mad! and this is the Capital of Culture...more like "capital of rip you off". So rather than stay around for an extra few hours I got an earlier train and got back here by tea time. Miss Liverpool already though. Hey ho.

Not much on for the next couple of days. Going to spend some time with Eva - see a film, do some light shopping, have tea and cake out, do some visiting etc etc. Normal mother and daughter stuff. I'll keep you posted.

liverpool

I am in Liverpool doing some work...I am leading an arts project in June with ZHO theatre. The project is about a building on Mill Street (the Park Palace) which used to be a music hall and a cinema. I am planning the project which will work with children in Mill Street looking at the history and trying to rebuild the theatre as it was in 1904 (by making a model of the theatre). WE will be telling stories, making backdrops, theatre bills, etc etc. The project will last a week and will culminate in an exhibition and presentation at the building.

Anyway, I am here to do some research and meet with the leaders and company. Today I have been in the Central library finding out what is available there. I like to use the stuff that is available in the public domain so that anyone can access it at anytime. There was a surprising amount to stuff there. Pictures, playbills, newspapers maps etc etc. So, plenty to go on. It was hard work though. Usually I like to do this sort of trawling slowly and methodically but seeing as I only had one day I had to rush at it and it is going to take a while to make sense of all the info I have found.

I think I have an idea for a story and a way into the drama. Just got to have a bit of a think. Not now though because my brain has stopped and I need some food. I think Andrea and I are going to find something to eat and see a film. Sorry that I haven't been in touch with anyone else. This flying visit has been very much focused on this project and I haven't had a chance to roam beyond it. Next time - and we will be back very very soon.

lee abbey

We had a great weekend in Lee Abbey. Perfect in fact. Just what the doctor ordered and a perfect ending to transition week. I did very little all weekend. Just sat about, drank tea, drank white wine, ate cake (and anything else really), I made a big chicken dinner on Saturday night and we went out for a cream tea. But we did do a lot of talking and thinking. Strange to think that in just a few months we will all be distributed around the country and just Liz, Phil and their inward baby (which should be out by the 2nd week in June) will be in Bristol. In the midst of the excitement of leaving it is also a bit sad that we will disperse and this faze will be done. So, it was good to spend some 'quality time' together before things change.

Anyway, got back to find out that Phil Jackson has been really really unwell and spent last week in hospital including a few days in intensive care. He is ok now - well at least he is on the mend - but that was a bit of a shock. So get better quick Phil. xxx

I am off to Liverpool tomorrow. Catching the train on my own (I am a bit girl now and can get a train to the Pool all on my own) at 9.30am. Mark and Eva are staying here and I am off to do some research into a music hall - The Park Palace on Mill Street. So, I will be kept very busy in the Central Library looking at playbills and maps. I will report on how I get on.

headache

I couldn't go to college today because I have a headache and sitting listening to people for 3 hours just wasn't going to help. I have a long drive to Lee Abbey ahead - we are going away fro the weekend to stay at the Chalet with Liz and Phil, Nick and Bridget and Steve and Sharon, plus 3 kids. Should be a fun end to the week as ling as my head stops banging. I can't take any more ibuprofen so I have been resting in a darkened room. Forgive me if I don't write much as I am not sure this is helping much. When I get back from Lee Abbey I will write more. There will be a short virtual silence for a couple of days. Hope you have a lovely weekend too.

transition

This week I am at college doing a module called "transition to Parochial Ministry'. Basically it is the module where we find out all about what it is like to be a curate, learn a few trade secrets and discuss clergy stuff. It is quite literally a transition module and it is quite strange being at college when there are only leavers there discussing our new jobs, new houses, new bosses, new tasks, etc etc. I feel like it is become more real by the day. Very soon I am going to be ordained and very soon I will be leaving Bristol and moving into a vicarage and starting a new life and this is the week where I make the first transition from this student life to that new life. The strange (or perhaps I am realising not so strange) thing is that as the days are passing I am getting less anxious and more ready to make this transition. I am staring to feel empowered and equipped. Ready? So, thanks for your prayers, support and stuff...keep it coming but don't worry I am getting the hang of it!

I'll keep you posted.

Counter-Terrorism Bil

Today sees the second reading of the Counter-Terrorism Bill. The government wants to allow police to lock people up for six weeks without even charging them with an offence – a proposal that would undermine civil liberties, damage community relations and have a seriously damaging effect on any individuals who were affected.

Amnesty is asking people to sign the “Not a day longer” e-petition calling on the government to abandon plans to extend the time for which police can hold terrorism suspects without charge.

The petition is on the No.10 website

If you are on facebook you can join the NOT A DAY LONGER! group

potting shed

Mark was looking out for some pictures for Paula for ZHO Theatre company and found some shots of my alter ego Maureen. She MC'd the Potting Shed cabaret on the Walk the Plank boat May 2006 (just aftre I had been to selection conference). These pictures are of Maureen singing Anarchy in the UK and reading from a book (!???).

Just in case you don't know about Walk the Plank here is a helpful video that will fill you in.

lost at greenbelt

whilst browsing through the Greenbelt pages I was fascinated to find the link to the stuff that got left behind at Greenbelt last year. Bags, credit card, lots of hats, toys, phones etc. So if you lost anything it really is worth taking a look to see if it is here.

whilst I am blogging about Greenbelt you may like to take a look at Bruce Stanley's very cute desktop model of Greenbelt - including the (tiny) tiny tea tent.

darkness

How did you find Earth Hour? It was very strange at our house because Saturday evening TV was dominating so to have to and all the lights turned off it was at first quite eerie. Not unpleasant - just odd! Becky was round and despite the fact Eva had a bath run she didn't get in it because she was scared of the dark. So we all sat around with the candles glowing in the living room and told stories and jokes. We really had a great time chatting - it was like the olden days!

None of us got up early enough to get to church this morning. The clocks changing always flummoxes me. Even when I don't forget (I didn't this year though the last 2 years have been a bit embarrassing as I have turned up for church late). This year I just didn't wake up. This will be a serious matter next year as I will have official duties so this really has to be the last time I mess the clock change timing up!!!!! Mark has been for a run and we are just about to have 2nd breakfast. Then a walk about the park (it is a lovely day) and that's about the plan really.

earth hour

Get your candles out. Tonight at 8pm we must all turn the lights out (and unplug every electrical item) for an hour to deliver a powerful message about the need for action on global warming. Earth Hour is orgainised by WWF. Google have more information - click here.

got to keep on writing

I am nearly there - I have written an essay and am staring to write a theological reflection today. If I get this done I only have one essay and an exam to do before I finish this degree and I am out of here in June. Given that I have to sort out a move, get kitted out, arrange all the packing, cleaning as well as attend college (I will still have lectures, chapel, pastoral commitments etc until June) there will still be plenty to do. I could do with getting this bit of writing done simply so I am not so overwhelmed when it comes to all the move stuff. So, that is the plan for the day..

Not much planned for the weekend save spending time with Eva - Mark is working and I don't have anything exciting up my sleeve so if anyone has a plan that we might fit into do give me a call.

I have had removal people in to give me quotes for the move back to Liverpool so it is all becoming very real. Everyday that I am not at college I am trying to clear out one cupboard, cubbyhole, set of draws or whatever just so it isn't so much of a nasty job just before we go (like it was when we moved here). When we moved down here I took 2 weeks off took get everything ready this time I have an exam the week before we move so I won't have anytime then. Can you tell I am getting a bit anxious about it? Anyway, before I get too carried away I best get on with this work.

Ting Tings vs Shampoo

St Claire of Toxteth thinks that the Tings Tings are the children of Shampoo (circa 1994). I am sure this pop analysis will shock the Salford Duo as I suspect they may be basing their career on a far more credible pop pedigree. However, I will let you be the judge...

2 Shampoo videos for you as evidence in the pop trial

Trouble



Girl Power (way before the spice girls had the 2nd hand idea)



I must not be distracted by pop music today!

Daft Bodies - Harder Better Faster Stronger

I know I am supposed to be working but whilst I was traveling round the blogging world I found this...Thanks Julian

Ting Tings

Eva has a new favourite band - The Ting Tings. I am sure you re all plugged into this sound but I found this acoustic version of That's Not my Name, which I though was very good.



Some credit should go to Katie for pulling off wearing a tabard as a fashion item. Not many girls can do that!




If you want to see the lastest video for the single Great DJ you have to go to the Columbia Record Co. youtube bit...they don't want us to embed it - meanies!

I am trying not to be distracted by pop music this week as I press on with another essay. Just 2 more to do. Best be off then.

The Gospel According to Quality Street

This film has been made by a Angela and is a retelling of the gospel using quality street chocs. Genius.

Easter weekend

I have been so busy doing nothing that I haven't been able to blog. Friday we went to some standing stones at Stanton Drew and had a pub lunch (Joe, Harriet, Elise, Amy, Mark, Eva and I). It was really nice to have everyone together for the day. Even though I couldn't get anyone to go to church (standing stones was the best I could do!) I did get to spend some time thinking about Jesus - it can be a bit lonely being the only fully signed up card carrying Christian in the family, particularly on holy days. hey ho.

Saturday was one of those days where you sit about talking to people who come round visiting. Clare and Jessica came down from Liverpool to visit for a few hours (they were on their way to see Clare's mum). So, we had a good chat and drank tea. After they went on their way Becky came over for tea and chat and we had a brief spell in Cribbs getting Eva a cotton jumper because her eczema is bad and she needs to avoid man made fibres (why they are called man made fibres I don't know - I imagine they are made by women or children in sweat shops!!!).

Sunday I got to church with Eva - Hallelujah He is Risen! Elise and Amy are staying here for a few days and the house was full again. Everyone went out to watch the football (can't believe Liverpool lost 3-0 but hey ho!). I had to stay in because Eva had a friend over. So, I cooked roast beef and made a lemon and rasberry cake - yum yum! I was able to break my wine fast which was very exciting but I was so tired that when I eventually had a drink, at about 6.30pm, it made me so drowsy that I was asleep on the sofa by 10pm.

I have a headache this morning. This is one of the downsides to drinking. But I am out of practice having not had a drop all through lent (apart from communion wine!). I didn't even have very much and I feel like my body is rebelling. I am still in bed and thinking about a 2nd sleep. Mark, Eva and Elise are off to Hobbicraft to get some picture frames. I think a bit of food and an extra sleep is in order. I love bank holidays.

back at college

I am got out of my sick bed and made it into college. I am not fully functioning but that doesn't seem to matter much (so far) as I have just spent time chatting over some work and done a bit of reading. I am trying to tie up a few lose ends and get stuff ready for the holidays which start at the end of play today. Not tat I will have much of a break - just going to have the Easter off and get back to it on Tuesday. I only have 2 more essays to write - one for Mission to Cell and the other for Doctrine. I am planning to get at least one of those done next week and write my church placement report. Not that I am making a great deal of progress as I feel quite under-the-weather. I wonder sometimes whether keep plugging away of these things is counter productive. But hey ho. I have deadlines and needs must etc etc.

The following was up on Jonny Baker's blog (don't try saying that after a few sherbets) three days ago and I meant to share it with you then. It is all about awareness!

Gordon Brown will meet the Dalai Lama

I'm not saying that my signing the petition made all the difference but the fact that so many of us did must surely have had an impact - According to the BBC he is going to meet him in London in May.

It has not been a peaceful week in China particularly in Tibet where we read in the same BBC report that: "More than 100 people have turned themselves in to police following anti-China riots in Tibet's main city, Lhasa, Chinese state media have said."

My prayers for peace go out to all of those who have been affected on all sides by this latest protest.

heavy book

The Future of the Parish System: Shaping the Church of England in the 21st Century - a very heavy book!


I got home yesterday feeling a bit grotty and mark was ill in bed. He'd been asleep most of the day. Eva and I made him his tea and tried to cheer him up but he remained upstairs until it was time for CSI (which is the weakest series yet). I thought I was very clever because I was feeling so chipper and despite being tired and grotty was ok. But I spoke too soon and this morning I could hardly raise my head off the pillow - aching all over and with a head like a drum I decided to go back to sleep after some marmalade toast. I haven't got much further than that since. I have had a spot of lunch and have tried to read (but the book is too heavy - might have to find a lighter one!). There was some good news in the post:
My Fossil watch can be repaired for £17.31
My Billy Bragg tickets arrived - Mark, Bob and Sue are going to see him on 24 April at Colston Hall.

Anyway, I am going to try to read again so wish me luck with my heavy book.

busy doing nothing

Sometimes you have days that don't really have much going on, when you feel a general sense of unease - like there is something you should be doing but no really knowing what it is. Days when you chat but don't really get to the point, when you have less time that you thought, when even the easiest of tasks allude you. Well today is that sort of day for me. But it has been quite good to just be: I had coffee with a load of friends I hadn't seen for a week and just talked about not very much at all. I don't think I am going to get through today and have it marked out as a high achieving day but I think that is ok. I think I am very hard on myself, trying to make everyday count and forgetting to sometimes just spend time with people and not put the pressure on for it all to have meaning. So, I must get back to being. I am going to sit and eat cake with my daughter, watch some TV and plan tea.

re:jesus

I haven't blogged on the re:jesus blog site for ages. Partly because I have been so busy and partly because I have been struggling with how to communicate issues of faith in this forum. I love the re:jesus site (not just the blog) because it offers so may entry points into the story of Jesus and contemporises questions of faith, engagement and culture. I would recommend the site to anyone who is interested in what Jesus means to contemporary people.

Anyway, I will attempt to blog on re:jesus at least three times this holy week. Today I was mostly concerned about Easter Eggs

lazy sunday

What a lazy day. I have been struggling fighting a cold all day so spent much of it in bed or thereabouts. But, I think I might have beaten it because I am feeling much better as I am just about to get back into the beautiful bed again. Eva has been out with her friends all day and I have watched tv, cleaned about a bit, read and slept. I had to go to the shops for some food but other than that it really has been a very lazy day. Just what I needed after a busy few days in Liverpool. On of the things I have been up to is listening to my Larry Norman CD which arrived in the post while I was in Liverpool. Larry Norman died 24th Feb 2008 and I wanted to reacquaint myself with his work. It has been a strangely moving re-awakening of my youthful exuberance and love of Christian music. I don't have the same feelings for many Christian artists these days - old a cynical, finding hard to find anything with a bit edginess. Whatever it is Larry Norman had it - as he said "why should the Devil have all the good music'. Here are a few Norman youtube videos. Enjoy.

back in Bristol

Having had a very good few days in Liverpool we are now back in Bristol...and it is raining (again). Well, while we were in Liverpool we got a lot done. We went to our new house and had a useful meeting with the diocesan housing officer and I think things are now in hand - hopefully all the jobs that need doing will be done by the time we move in. Mark and I also had a good meeting with a friend of ours who is doing a big local history arts project from the Park Palace music hall/cinema building on Mill Street, Liverpool 8. I have been asked to be part of the project - running a week long music hall workshop from the building. I am very excited about the project and it will be a useful addition to my performance as research work in relation to my PhD. Even though this is a different music hall it is a contemporary of the Pavilion. I am hoping that the project will take place in June just after I get back but before I start my curacy. If not I will have to do the research, set up the project and then hand it over to someone else. Just have to hope it all comes together...

In keeping with the music hall theme I have chosen a clip of Count Arthur Strong doing a little act at the Music Hall Meltdown which happened last year. Enjoy.

liverpool

I am in Liverpool. Mark and I came up last night and we are staying at Bob and Sue's off Lark Lane. Eva is staying with Elise and Wayne back in Bristol so she doesn't miss any more school! Also, without Eva here we can get a few more bits and bobs done and not have to worry about her being bored and sad. Anyway, it has been quite nice to have a break away - just Mark and I away together. Today we went into town and wondered about a bit, we went to the Cathedral to see Claire Caddick who has just got a job as an education officer there. It was great to see her and despite her very loud clip clop shoes it was great to have a tour of her workplace and see all the backstage stuff. I really am very proud of her!!!

Tonight I am off for dinner with Andrea and Kate at The Maharajah South Indian Restaurant - my favourite place to eat in Liverpool. I have a meeting with the diocesan housing officer at the new house tomorrow. Later a meeting about a music hall project with an arts organization. Some dinner plans are emerging and it would be good to meet up with a few people...so watch this space.

Trinity ladies

Don't we look lovely (click on the image if you'd like to see it a bit bigger).
thanks to Sudharshan for the photo

Petition the Prime Minister to meet the Dalai Lama in May 2008

I heard the Dalai Lama speak at the Anglican Cathedral in Liverpool a few years back and was impressed by his loving and gentle call for peace and reconciliation. We have to remember that this man has been exiled from his own country for nearly 50 years. Recent documentaries have reminded us of the situation in Tibet. I wonder if I might interest you in signing a petition to encourage the prime minister to meet with the Dalai lama in May. The petition has been signed by over 5,000 people - perhaps this quotation might encourage you...

"For once there is good news for His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Tibet.

Since 1959 world leaders have not met with His Holiness publicly because the Chinese Government makes scary threatening phone calls and warns the country concerned that they consider meeting H.H. 'interference in Chinese domestic affair' and that HH is a 'dangerous splittist, terrorist, separatist etc' And for years every country in the world has been scared and done as China demands in order to safeguard their relations and economic interests.

But this year, in the run up to the Olympics, some world Governments have said 'Actually no - HH is talking about non-violence, peace, human rights and reconciliation and we think it's time you listened to him.'

The German Chancellor met him publicly, then Australia and Austria, then the US gave him the Congressional Gold Medal (for more info on this and for links to watch his acceptance speech see the latest blog onwww.isabellosada.com) Canada is expected to be next.

Britain, of course, lags behind. To our shame, Blair refused to meet the Dalai Lama in 2004 and instead rolled out the red carpet, literally, forthe Chinese visit. Gordon Brown now has an opportunity to show that he has more guts. Next year, His Holiness will visit Britain again. It is time that the UK joined those countries showing support for His Holiness. Obviously it is in China's best interests to allow The Dalai Lama back into Tibet and to grant Tibet genuine autonomy."

Isabel Losada, author of 'For Tibet,With Love' and 'A Beginner's Guide to Changing the World'

Please sign the petition to the Prime Minister to make an official announcement that he will meet with the Dalai Lama when he visits the UK in May 2008. - on the No 10 petition page.

Those of you on facebook there is a group (of the same name) that you can join to show your support. The quotation here was taken from this group.

weekend

I have had a very relaxing weekend. I needed one. I have been strangely anxious this week - the whole moving back to Liverpool and getting ordained stuff has been playing on my mind. There seems so much to get in order and ends to tie. I am a bit distracted by it and even though I am doing absolutely fine getting stuff done and getting my head round it all it does sometimes catch up with me. So, a weekend of resting and chilling out with friends is just what I needed.

Yesterday I spent the day with 20 lovely women from Trinity - our first women's day! Just chilling out, being spiritually, emotionally and literally fed by each other company was a great top up of joy. What blessing, what grace, what great girls. God really has provided Trinity with some exceptional women!

Today I have been to church and then out to lunch at Wagamamma with Mark and Eva and a little drive followed by afternoon TV (football mainly - go Cardiff City!!!) and a tidy of the house. I meant to go to Foundation AGM but fell asleep and missed it. Last week was so great I am sad to miss this week. But I really need a very early night - I have to finish the Daniel essay tomorrow.

Some Sunday night links for you:
- Bruce Stanley took some great photos of last week's Foundation little service.
- Maggi Dawn has been speaking to the Arch Bishops - which is very interesting and there is much to come (click on the link to the story about Sentamu being her local priest it is a moving account of his encouragement of her ministry.
- Steve B has got is autograph book out...

I am off to watch Morning in the Streets - recommended by John Davies.

Christian Pat and his Charismatic Cat

David Goodall sent me this link today which really cheered me up. Thanks David*.



*I have subsequently been informed that David got the link from Paul Robert's Blog - what tangled web of blogging links we weave. As the writer of Ecclesiastes says "There is nothing new under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

last day of the working week

As a lay person and seeing as I don't have a Saturday job today is the last working day of the week. So, one would expect me to be working. But things aren't going too well. I have been a bit distracted by interesting people and Welsh cakes (I was given one to eat early this morning and seeing as I have never been able to eat a Welsh cake without a cup of tea I had to spend some time out digesting and talking to fully appreciate the experience). Now I am behind and spending more time not reading about the book of Daniel. However, I did work until quite late last night and then had a dream about Daniel (oh the irony) so I feel I have made some internal spiritual progress deep down in my inner being. I am just hoping that my inner being will be willing to externalize itself at the appropriate time (i.e. when it comes to writing the essay up). I have two more commentaries to read then I am ready to construct an argument and make a plan. Best get on it then.

thursday

Today is the day that I crack my Daniel essay. Really, honestly, today I decide the question, formulate the answer and write a plan as well as choose my quotations, illustrations and construct an argument. Perhaps I won't get round to actually writing it but by the end of the day I will know what I am going to write. This IS what is going to happen today - if I say it enough it will happen!

I already had a buy day - I have spoken in chapel (this year each of the final year ordinands have to do a 2 minute homily and today was my turn).There have been some excellent homily's so far and I was feeling a bit under pressure about it all. When you have two readings and a psalm to choose from for inspiration it is a challenge quite apart from the anxiety of speaking in front of your peers and tutors. No pressure then! Anyway, I was greatly blessed and gracefully I managed to present what I thought God had put on my heart. I chose a verse from the Hebrews reading: "let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds". My point was that the best way to provoke love and good deeds is by doing exactly that - by being loving and doing good deeds. Employing the sweet provocation of love!

Anyway, I think it came together ok and I managed to get it all done in 2mins 14 secs so not too bad! I had to have a penguin bar after though. So, the rest of the day will be spent with Daniel. Oh joy.

screenclean

I have been stressed out about the dirty marks on my lovely macbook and recently bought an expensive product to keep it clean. Mark (my husband not the finger prints etc) was not so sure that I needed to spend quite so much on cleaning wipes and suggested that this method might be as good...I am not so sure!

wippell's

I went to Exeter today to try on my robes and stuff. I was very pleased with it all, but it was still very odd wearing a dog collar, cassock, surplice and cloak even if it was only in front of the man at Wippell's, Mark and Eleanor. The Wippell's man was very professional considering Mark was taking pictures of the whole affair. Anyway, I am sorted - all suited and booted. There are some adjustments to make and I haven't had my grant yet so can't actually take them away for a while yet. But it is in hand.

had a lovely day in Exeter. Lunch with Eleanor and Mark, a potter round town and drove back in time to get some books out of the library at Trinity and pop to the co-op for some food. Eva is staying at Elise and Wayne's new house tonight so Mark and I are in on our own. I have so much reading to do that I can't really make the most of the night off. Hey ho. Best get back to reading about the book of Daniel.

mothering sunday

Yesterday was a very busy but rewarding day. I was woken up by Mark and Eva - toast and flowers, homemade cards and a homemade bag. Eva was so lovely and kind, I got a fantastic text of Elise and I really felt loved and cherished.

I was leading and preaching at St Peter's church Lawrence Western. Jenny had very generously allowed me free rein for the service and I had asked a few Trinity friends to come and help me. It was so good to be able to say to all the people who work so hard week in week out at the church that they could have a week off and all they had to do was turn up and worship. The new Church of England Mothering Sunday liturgy, found in New Patterns for Worship was a wonderful resource for the liturgy. I had planed this a few weeks back and it was great to work through it live with the congregation. My biggest challenge was to plan and deliver a service that was accessible enough just in case any children did turn up but not all age because the majority of the congregation is 60+yrs. As it was there were 3 children that just turned up off the street (8year olds on their own with no parents), one family with 3 children, another 11year old who had come with her grandma and Eva (who played the recorder and said the opening blessing). I felt the service went well and there was a great feeling of support and generosity toward myself and the other students. I felt very blessed by the service and the community.

The Trinity team came back for coffee after the service and I got some great feedback (thankfully all seemed well). Geoff stayed for dinner and we chewed the cud for hours and hours...joined by Lizzie May later on and occasionally Mark and Elise. I had a lovely day.

After a brief but necessary doze I went out to Foundation - another fantastic alternative worship service inspired by Babette's Feast. The group showed clips from the film, served food and shared stories. There was some inspired liturgy and creative ideas (including blessings in bottles). It really was the perfect end to a lovely day. I was very tired and happy as I went to bed thinking about writing an essay on Daniel and leading chapel this week at college.

getting old, being sensible when eating and still messing about in lifts

You may remember a while back Mark and I went to That London to see Count Arthur Strong. At the time I promised pictures and here they are....



This one is of C.A.S and Malcolm acting.


















This is what happens to people when they get old and sensible and are not prepared to take risks with baked beans anymore.








...but not too old to take pictures of ourselves in a lift messing about (not in a rude way! How dare you for thinking that!!!!).

me and sir john betjeman

I am in a facebook group called 'I had my picture taken pretending to be a statue". It is actually one of my favourite facebook groups and I have provided a few pictures for it's gallery. My latest (taken by my Mark) is of me pretending to be Sir John Betjeman - I am standing next to him at St Pancras station, London. I post it here purely for your amusement. I hope you like my bag detail and the way I have made my coat fall just like Sir John B's. It took quite some work I can tell you.

jury service

I can;'t believe it but I have been called to jury service. The original date was slap bang in the middle of my exams and despite the fact that I told them I was moving to Liverpool and starting a new job in June they have given me a new date of 7th July! Seven days after I start my curacy! Really really very anoying.

I am appealing but the man on the phone wasn't hopeful at my chances of getting it moved again. Hey ho.

earache - 2

I have been to Oxford today for a conference at the Church Missionary Society (CMS) - Global Connections - Thinking Mission Forum. Some very interesting speakers and issues raised pertinent and current. The talks will be posted in youtube shortly so when they go live I will put them up.

To be honest it was great to be out and about with my fellow ordinands having a laugh and chilling out. We don't get out together enough really and spending time like that in almost unheard of. So, it was worth the effort (up at 6.30am, 2hr drive there etc). I am in bed early doing the seminar reading for tomorrow and planning a trip to Liverpool to measure up the new house and check for alterations, decorations, refurbs etc. It is all getting horribly real.

I still have earache but I think I will survive.

earache

...is what I have. Very annoying it is too. I haven't had earache for so long I had forgotten how painful it is and how much I want to get away from noise and chat - not great when have a block week going on and a conference to go to tomorrow. Hey ho.

Anyway, these two videos of my 'in laws' cheered me up today. This one is The Churchfitters - the band Mark's brother Topher is in:




This one is Mark's sister Ema and her now husband Stephen in a very blessed, but I am hoping ironic, video:

half-term

Well it is nearly over and tomorrow I am back at college doing a module called From Mission to Cell: New ways of Being Church. That will keep me busy most of the week. I am quite looking forward to it really. I have nearly read the set text and feel ready to take on the discourse.

I am planning to go to the Bristol University multifaith Chaplaincy tomorrow night for 'Faith meets Faith' - An Interfaith discussion on salvation for those outside of the faith. With speakers from the Christian, Muslim and Jewish traditions.

Tuesday night Mark and I are having dinner with John and Maya Bimson and on Wed I am off to Oxford for a conference. So, it really is going to be a busy week.

Having had such a relaxing week it will probably be a shock to my system to have to work to a timetable. Even though I have worked very hard I have been able to work at my own pace. Anyway, I am sure I will find the energy from somewhere.

It is the Oscars tonight and if I were in Liverpool I would be round Philly J's doing the Oscars in real UK time tomorrow night with media blackout all day. Hey ho...maybe next year?

Anyway, best go and have my tea. Running late tonight.

I was a bit cross yesterday

sorry about using a rude word yesterday (I have now altered the post) I really was quite cross about the women Bishops at Synod thing and the silly man's sermon just pushed me over the edge. But that is no excuse for being rude. So sorry. As an antidote to yesterday's rudeness I have put up a nice picture of a fluffy chick. Think happy thoughts, think happy thoughts.

women and men

The difference is:
Women can't be Bishops...

I got an email today with the following press release from Women and the Church (WATCH). It made me feel a bit sad, but it doesn't surprise me.

"At the recent meeting of General Synod, members were told by the Chair of the
Legislative Drafting Group that it was “highly unlikely” that the vote on women
bishops would be taken by July 2010."

Thinking Anglicans covers the issue and there are some useful comments here.

It just feels like the Church of England isn't ready yet and even though that isn't really a good enough excuse I would rather the motion was truly successful at Synod than it be either rejected or just get through. I feel weak in the face of this reality and it makes me sick to think about inequality continuing. Meanwhile the (mostly) male Bishops of the world (though many aren't actually going) meet at Lambeth shortly and so many talented and capable women are still not welcome.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
...and, real men "p**s against the wall"
this is quote from the sermon below...(warning it contains reference to urination)


(thanks to Dave Walker and The Real Live Preacher for the link to this.)

stairs

I fell down the stairs today! No harm done just a bruised pride and a slightly elevated heart beat. But it does indicate how diddly dee I am at the moment (though some of you might already be aware of this). I had just made Eva's bed and had decided to throw out the duvet the poor child has had since she was 2 which is too short and very thin. I threw it down the stairs to put in the big bin then a few minutes later walked down the said stairs and slipped on the duvet. Let this be a lesson to us all - watch your step and dispose of duvets responsibly.

Anyway, I have spent the rest of the morning reading about church planting. I am struggling with the concept and practicalities...perhaps I will be convinced by the end of the book?

I think I am going out for tea and cakes with Neil later, I have to catch up with Liz H because I have some of her books, I am also planning to get tot he Foundation community meal this evening - if Mark gets back with Eva in time. Eva comes home tonight (I am very excited about seeing her) so I have sorted out her room and made her bed up with her new duvet cover (see above). Anyway, I must get on - books to read, sermons to write, letters to post, etc etc.

wednesday

It's half term and I should be on holiday but here I am writing essays and reading books about doctrine. Hey ho. Well at least I am getting through my list. I finished the essay, started some reading on the next one and even had time for a bit of day-time TV (it is the holidays after all).

This afternoon I went off to Cribbs with Becky to try to buy jeans (for her) that don't show off your bum-crack when you sit down. Goodness me it was very tricky - and we didn't succeed. Blimey, after watching Becky try on approx 20 pairs we both lost the will to shop so came home for a curry. Why oh why are all the jeans so foolish. All she wanted was a nice cosey proper fit...

Mel came over for Mark's marvelous curry, becky went to get Liz and Phil H from the station and Mel and I went to see Juno. We got there a bit late and had the worst seats ever, right at the front so I have a sore neck. It was a great film though. Very heartwarming and touching. My neck is very sore! What a lovely day.

Eva is back tomorrow and it will be great to have her back. I miss her. Best get some more peace and quiet while I can.

today

up early - toast and tea in bed - prayer - on macbook by 9.30am - essay draft 1 done by 12.30pm - read and disappointed - rework essay - essay draft 2 done by 2.30pm - Mark takes me out for lunch (Burger at Rocotillos which was not very good, not up to its usual standards and let me feeling a tad queezy) - visit to the Museum to see the Love exhibition which is on tour from the national gallery - back to work - draft 3 done by 6pm - phone Eva and my Mum (all is well) - wrote a first draft of a sermon for Mothering Sunday which has been brewing for a few weeks - I think it might be what God wants me to say (going to test it for a few days and see what happens) - supper at 9pm - watched TV for a while and now off to bed to read Heat.

A busy and productive day. But so much more to do before Eva comes back on Thursday evening.

night night.

The Christian Socialist Movement

I am member of the CSM and thought I would let you know about an upcoming lecture/ dialogue that might interest you. is happening next month:

Faith in Politics?

The Christian Socialist Movement invites you to join in the 2008 Tawney Dialogue; Faith in Politics?

6:30pm - 7:45pm, Thursday 27 March in Westminster.

The Rt Hon Stephen Timms MP (Labour Party Vice Chair for Faith Groups) and Rev Canon Nick Sagovsky (Canon Theologian, Westminster Abbey) will lead a discussion on the relationship between faith and social justice.

This event follows our AGM (starting at 5:15pm) to which all members are invited.



If anyone wants to come with me I am going to book a train to that London for just after lunch. Do let me know if you fancy coming.

weekend

It is cold. Is it cold where you are? Well, it is very cold here. But it is lovely and bright so being cold is inconvenient but with an extra jumper on it is bearable. I am really struggling with energy levels which surprises me as I have had plenty of sleep and am not drinking so sleep patterns are quite normal. I don't really know why I am sluggish. Anyway, we have had a busy weekend with some restful bits in between...

Elise's mum (Kate) and sister (Orla) have been in Bristol - Orla who is 7yrs stayed over on Friday and she and Eva had a great time. They haven't seen each other for almost a year so it was great for them to get together again and have a good play. They also had some interesting conversations about being aunty's and Living in Liverpool - Orla is moving back from Spain with her mum and dad. Anyway, we had a successful morning playing and then lunch at Fresh and Wild followed by a walk. Elise, Kate and Orla have now gone to Liverpool.

I went to M&S to buy some place mats and dinner service. Claire Caddick's mum sent me some 20% off vouchers so I took the opportunity to go and get a few things I needed /wanted. I also got a new pair of jeans so I don't look quite so scruffy (some hope - I have a talent for looking scruffy even in the nicest clothes). John H came for dinner which was lovely. We ate lasagna and M&S chocolate pudding. Played guitars and chatted and chatted. It was great and as none of us were drinking it didn't get messy at all. Very civilized.

I got up for church this morning - I don't know how or remember getting up - I really wanted to carry on sleeping but was disciplined and we all (Mark as well) made it to church just in time. Came back and had a chat with Linda, a Trinity student who is going to start coming ti St Peter's alongside her commitments to St Mary's Shirehampton. It was so good to speak to another trainee vicar about the church and it's potential. Very refreshing. I had to then clean the house and make lunch which seemed to take for ever.

My mum arrived shortly after lunch and we have been watching TV for a an hour or so. I am now going to start changing the beds and cleaning up a bit upstairs. I am so looking forward to bed. I might be tempted to try out the nice clean bed when I have made it! I am not sure I am going to get out again tonight. I'll have to wait to see if I get a second wind.

So, not all that exciting really. But hey ho...sometimes we have to tread water in order to get a sense of where we are in relation to the shore.

white wine

It is holiday time again but I have far too much work to do! I will get a bit of a rest but I must crack on with stuff in order to not lose my head at a crucial moment. So, I have come home with a pile of books and a list as long as my arm.

I have given up...(I am scared to write this because as soon as I tell anyone what I have given up I feel like I am immediately going to fail)...white wine for lent. I think this week is going to be the biggest challenge. Having a bit of a break, Eva being away, time for a lie in and no white wine. Seems almost unheard of. Anyway, I felt like I was in need of a bit of discipline and the white wine still had an unnecessary hold on me so I felt it was the best thing to give up. I haven't outlawed all forms of alcohol but I don't have the same interest in most other sorts of alcohol so I didn't feel the need to remain completely tea total through lent. Having said that I haven't had anything to drink since shrove Tuesday. Not all that bothered so far.

Anyway, now I have written that I fancy a nice glass of Chablis. But i will not relent.

Babies

I have just got back from a baby shower. Miriam is due to have her 3rd baby really soon and tonight a group of us got together at Laura's house to wish her all the best. It was a lovely evening and great to see a group of girls having a great time. In the room were at least 3 other pregnant women, as you know I am living with a pregnant woman and last week another friend of mine gave birth to a baby boy so it really is baby central round here.

I know I won't be having any more children and I always thought I would have more than one. But there you go, it didn't work out like that. I don't regret anything that has happened but sometimes it does feel a bit strange not minding. I feel like I should be more bothered. Christians seem to have loads and loads of children...

Anyway, I am plodding along with work...writing essays, a homily, a sermon and stuff. I have had a quiet day getting on with bits and bobs of work. Slowly the list gets shorter.

wipples

Today was a momentous day because today I ordered my clergy kit from Wipples. I chose Wipples because I need to be properly fitted and in my experience being measured isn't enough and a pre-making fitting is a very good idea. Wipples offer this service and they are in Exeter so I can go down for the fitting, meet up with Eleanor and be absolutely sure it all fits before I buy it. It may cost more but if you are a funny (ha ha and peculiar) shape like me a good fitting makes all the difference.

It was a very odd feeling getting the stuff down on paper and committing myself to fabric, style (though to be honest the choices are limited). I am going for a classic black almost catholic look. I have even gone as far as ordering a cloak! I am going to look sharp.

I am off to bed now. We have had a very exciting day at Trinity discovering spiritual gifts - I didn't get anything new today though I did renew my subscription to the gift of beverage making, being 2 mins late for stuff, making people laugh at my funny hair, saying rude things and eating cake. In addition I remembered how important the more esoteric spiritual gifts are to the church - for building up love, serving, speaking into the world and for their wow factor. When Paul writes to the Corinthian church warning the not to take this stuff for granted or abuse it he was deadly serious about the importance of making the most of all aspects of Christian life - being spiritual is at the heart of this. In an age of spirituality Christianity can forget to make the most of this and downplay the experience of faith in action. When tempered by the mundane and issues of justice, peace and reconciliation God's spiritual action is sublime and extra-ordinary.

How big is the universe?

This youtube video tries to explain. But, be warned it is big!




if that is too difficult to imagine Monty Python know a song about it that at least can cheer you up whilst your mind recovers from the stress of imagining big numbers.





I know it is very early on a Monday morning to be thinking about the size of the universe but it does put things in perspective and either you will be spurred on or stunned into inertia by imagining yourself so small. If you can bear to question deeper ask yourself where God is? Is your God big enough to care about all this or does your God only care about what the Arch Bishop of Canterbury might have said, or whether Gay people are welcome in church, or if women can be Bishops. Trying to see the bigger picture I'm guessing we might have missed the point.

Portishead

It was a lovely sunny day today and we felt we needed some fresh air and a totter. So, after church we went to Portishead. I don't really know why we chose Portishead but there you go - it was our first time, we had always intended to go in the summer to the lido but never made it, we now have a mental list of places to go before we move and today was Portishead!

It was lovely, the sea was out and mud was immense (like the skin of an elephant), we climbed up the the 'lighthouse' and looked out at Wales. The wind was up and the sun out and we certainly got our fresh air. We had a cup of tea and an icecream then headed home. Since then I have read a book on the liturgical year and had a doze. Now I shall eat a chicken dinner and later will go off to Foundation. It has been a restful weekend. Just what I needed after last week.

ebay stoles

On Monday Mark bid (on my behalf) on four liturgical stoles - red, purple, black and green. He was successful and they arrived today - all four for £85. Which believe me is a bargain. Even more of a result is the fact that they are beautiful handmade stoles each with it's own quirky character. I will get mark to take some pictures of them and show you some time. This is an example of how blessing just appears from nowhere. I have been feeling pretty down in the dumps - overwhelmed by essays etc, feeling nervous about curacy stuff, stress of planing to move, family stuff, etc etc. I even felt I needed a few days off and stayed at home to reflect and recoup. So, I was surprised that these stoles could cheer me up so much - after all they are a symbol of the immanent change in my (and my family's) life. And yet I found them a comfort and blessing. Perhaps it was the fact that they are so lovingly and thoughtfully made by a complete stranger who just made them because she could. Perhaps it was the fact that I am starting to come to terms with the adventure of leaving Trinity and starting curacy etc. Whatever the reasons I am, at last, starting to feel excited.

Amnesty - urgent action required

I have just heard from Amnesty asking me to place this request on my blog. Please respond if you feel you are able.

18-year-old Behnam Zare' is at risk of imminent execution for a murder committed when he was 15 years old. Iran remains one of just a handful of countries that continue to execute child offenders – people under 18 years old at the time of their crime, despite its obligations under international law.



Update

Child offender Behnam Zare' is now facing execution within 72 hours. The order to carry out his execution has been sent to the prison where he is held. If you feel able to protest against the execution of this young man please do so through the Amnesty website (please note: you do not have to be a member of Amnesty to register your request)

monday - essay writing

Today I am trying to write an essay. After recent disappointments I am finding it very difficult to be optimistic or even formulate a plan. There is always an element of despair in essay writing - I think this is part of my process - can I get it done? Do I know enough about the subject to write in n informed way? Have a read enough to back up points? then there are issues of spelling and grammar which plague me at every turn. I know I shouldn't be down in the dumps and should just get back on the essay writing horse. But it is hard to motivate myself. That said a nice cup of tea and a shortbread biscuit has helped. That and I have created a spider chart (mind map to those of a previous generation) so I do have some idea of how to progress. So, after another cup of tea and a stroll about the house I shall get back on and see what occurs.

weekend

Liturgically accurate purple hair!









Our little trip to that London was a great success. Mark and I really needed some time away together on our own - something we didn't realise we needed until we were o the train and chitter chattering about all the stuff that's been going on and our future plans. The show was very funny and it was good to see Terry (Kilkerry) Titter making an appearance as Malcolm. I really properly laughed out loud which I feel I haven't done for ages. Mark and I went out for a mighty fine curry after and I got hiccups.

Our hotel was very comfortable and once I had my earplugs in I slept like a log (until the fire alarm went off in the morning - it was a false alarm but I was alarmed!). Saturday was spent walking about in the sunny cold London day. We went to the National portrait gallery, to Covent Garden and just potterd about until we got the train back at 3.15pm. Back for tea and to see Eva before bed.

Today I slept quite a lot, went to Sainsbury's (I don't usually like shopping on Sunday but seeing as yesterday was taken up and we had no food in for the week so it was a bit necessary). Then I went to Candlemass at St Peter's which was quite hectic but well worth the effort. Jenny had prepared a great service and it was good to see a few children there. I played the guitar and generally helped out - mainly on naughty boy monitoring duty. We changed the vestments to purple for lent (at least my hair now reflects liturgical colours).

We have roast beef for dinner and I need an early night. The wind is blowwing hard outside and I am looking forward to Antiques Roadshow - I think I am getting old!

count arthur strong 2

Tonight Mark and I are off to That London to see Count Arthur Strong at the Arts Theatre. This is Mark's birthday treat and we have been looking forward to it for ages. I really need to get away so I am very excited. I have had a very tricky week - Got an essay back and was disappointed with the mark, just feel like I am not getting much feedback on how I am getting on, feel a bit on the edge of things and have so much to do that it is a bit overwhelming. I know I have been here before and that it comes good in the end but this sort of spiritual burn out is very painful and I hate feeling disconnected from God. It creates a strong yearning and confusion. I understand how the Psalmist must have felt when he wrote Psalm 86:

Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me,
for I am poor and needy.
Preserve my life, for I am devoted to you;
save your servant who trusts in you.
You are my God; be gracious to me, O Lord,
for to you do I cry all day long.
Gladden the soul of your servant,
for to you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving,
abounding in steadfast love to all who call on you.
Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer;
listen to my cry of supplication.
In the day of my trouble I call on you,
for you will answer me.


There is none like you among the gods, O Lord,
nor are there any works like yours.
All the nations you have made shall come
and bow down before you, O Lord,
and shall glorify your name.
For you are great and do wondrous things;
you alone are God.
Teach me your way, O Lord,
that I may walk in your truth;
give me an undivided heart to revere your name.
I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart,
and I will glorify your name for ever.
For great is your steadfast love towards me;
you have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol.


If only David had Count Arthur Strong to cheer him up.