NEWS - FEBRUARY 2022 - Solihull Parish
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NEWS
No. 531 FEBRUARY
1 2022 PRICE £1.00
St ALPHEGE - The Square, Solihull B91 3RQ
St HELEN - St Helen’s Road, Solihull B91 2DA
St MICHAEL - Bryanston Road, Solihull B91 1BS
Sunday services are:-
St Alphege
8.00 a.m. Said Holy Communion
10.30 a.m. Sung Eucharist except:
Second Sunday - 9.15 a.m. All Age Eucharist and 11.00 a.m. Sung Eucharist
5.00 p.m. Sung Evensong
The Junction
9.15 a.m. In person in the OBH on 6th and 20th February
On Zoom 27th February
St Helen
10.00 a.m. Eucharist
Third Sunday 10 a.m. Morning Prayer
St Michael at Sharmans Cross School from 3rd October
10.30 a.m. Eucharist
Friday
9.30 a.m. Praise and Play – please e-mail: l.hicks@solihullparish.org.uk
Full details available on the homepage of our parish website at: https://www.solihullparish.org.uk
Please don't hesitate to contact the Parish Office if you need any support or advice. It is always a pleasure
to talk to you.
The Revd. Simon Marshall
The Revd. Sue Chandler
WEDDING AND BAPTISM ENQUIRIES If you need help of any kind, please
Please contact the Parish Office: do phone the pastoral care helpline:
office@solihullparish.org.uk 0121 661 6343.
0121 705 5350
One of us is on duty each day.
The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views of or of .
2
Editorial 2
Roundabout 4
Let us Pray 8
News from Team Churches 9
St Alphege 9
St Helen 16
St Michael 18
The Guardians of St Alphege 12
Music Matters 14
Pioneer Diary 20
Church for Families 23 - 26
Youth Stuff 28
Matters of Faith 38 & 42
For Your Diary 46 www.solihullparish.org.uk
Address Book 48 Want to email the Editor?
parishnews@solihullparish.org.uk
“Fr. John Bradford receiving gifts from the Parish
at the Eucharist celebrating the 60th Anniversary
of his ordination.”
Fr John Bradford 4
Christingle and First Communion 4
Solihull Churches Action on Homelessness, SCAH 5
St. Alphege Churchyard in 2022 6
Mothers’ Union 7
Planning Permission Refused for the Rectory Site 7
Parish of Solihull, 22
Hazel Mary Smith née Williams, 32
Death of “George - the Man with the Trollies” 34
Complexities of the Climate Change Action 36
1
T owards the end of February, on the 27th of the month, the Church remembers the life
and work of George Herbert. He was born in 1593 into the aristocratic Pembroke family
and was educated at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he became a Fellow in 1615.
The failure of his ambitions to be accepted at court led to his decision to “lose himself in a
humble way” and to take up Holy Orders in 1626. He married in 1629, was ordained priest
in 1630 and in that year he became a country rector in Bemerton near Salisbury, where he
spent the rest of his short life.
Herbert never neglected the care of the souls of Bemerton and encouraged attendance at
the weekday recitation of the daily office. He died on 1st March 1633, at the age of 39.
Nestled in the age of Shakespeare and Milton, Herbert wrote prolifically and is arguably
the most skillful and important British devotional lyricist of his or any other time. His work,
, on the priestly life, and his poetry, earned Herbert a leading place in
English literature. Many of George Herbert's hymns are still sung regularly in churches far
and wide. You may recognise these titles:
In the Gospel reading, which is set for the commemoration of George Herbert, St. Matthew
records some of the most beautiful words of Jesus:
Here we recognise the way of Jesus as a way of healing and release, a lightening of burdens.
George Herbert followed this pattern and was noted for unfailing care for his parishioners,
bringing the sacraments to them when they were ill and providing food and clothing for those
in need.
Despite his devotion to the Gospel’s call to serve others, Herbert didn’t seem to think his
writing quite so inspiring, since he apparently told his friend Nicholas Ferrar to publish his
poems ‘only if he thought they might do good to any dejected poor soul’.
Well, let us discover Herbert’s work for ourselves, starting with his wonderful poem, 'Prayer':
OLIVER BIRD HALL BOOKINGS
Enquiries are welcome for the use of the Hall and meeting rooms
for social gatherings, christenings, anniversaries, meetings, etc.
Visit the website on:
www.solihullparish.org.uk/church-hall-hire
or contact the Parish Office:
Tel: 0121 705 5350 Email:office@solihullparish.org.uk
2
Prayer by George Herbert
Fr Simon
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� A friendly community environment
� Guest flat accommodation available for visitors
For further information and brochure contact Business Manager on
0121 705 9293
http://www.raynerhouseandyewtrees.co.uk/
3
Fr. John Bradford
S adly, as many readers will already know, Father John Bradford died on
the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6th. We all feel a profound sense of
loss at his passing. For many years he featured significantly in the life of this
parish as a much-loved priest, spiritual counsellor and friend. We offer our
thoughts and prayers for Marian and all John's family.
A longer tribute will appear in the March edition of Parish News.
Christingle and First Communion
S unday 12th December was a very special day at
St. Alphege Church when we were joined by Chris Tingle
who helped us to put together our own Christingles to take
home and talked to us about the work of the Children’s
Society. We also celebrated 6 children receiving their First
Communion (this is in addition to the 11 children who
received their First Communion back in October 2021). Some
of the children had waited patiently for over 18 months, so it
was wonderful to see a packed church for this very special
occasion.
Please do
pray for the
children as
they continue
on their journey of faith. The Children’s
Ministry team have just launched the 2022
First Communion course, see the centre
pages for full details and do contact Linda
Hicks for more information or to register.
4
Solihull Churches Action on Homelessness SCAH
O n behalf of the Trustees and team of volunteers at SCAH we would like to thank all of
those in the parish who have so generously donated time, household items and, of
course, money to SCAH in the past.
Our work has continued in earnest throughout the pandemic, and over this Christmas and
New Year period we were extremely busy, with some urgent help needed.
We know that many in the Parish are already aware of the work that SCAH does in the
community and has been doing now for more than 28 years.
However, we always want to heighten awareness of what we at SCAH strive to achieve in
helping not only the homeless in our borough, but also the disadvantaged, abused,
threatened and those who are just trying to start a new life for themselves and their families.
The help we give is focused on providing the basic essentials for everyday living, clean
bedding to sleep in, cooking utensils to cook meals with and plates to eat from and cups to
drink from. The things that most of us take for granted.
Can you help us further in 2022? We would be very grateful if you could.
So how can you help? There are three ways that you can help us now.
The first way is to donate household items. Currently we are needing good quality, clean
towels of any size also bed linen (not pillows or duvets) for single beds or standard 4ft 6in
double sized beds. Sorry, but we are not able to pass on duvets or pillows due to Health and
Safety restrictions.
We would also appreciate any items of cutlery for everyday use.
The second way to help is a financial donation. If you wish to make a financial donation to
SCAH please go to our webpage at www.scah.org.uk and click on the CAF donate button to
make a direct donation to the charity. If making a donation by cheque please make it payable
to Solihull Churches Action on Homelessness and drop it into the Parish Office.
The third way that you may help is to become a shopping volunteer. Our volunteers are the
operational backbone of the operation, shopping to fulfil the orders sent to us by the various
organisations we receive requests from on behalf of the homeless and disadvantaged.
Full training and introduction as to what is required of a SCAH shopper is provided to each
new volunteer. For more information on how to donate household items or to volunteer your
time please email us at charitydevelopment@scah.org.uk or secretary@scah.org.uk
We are grateful for anything you can do and appreciate you considering SCAH in 2022.
The SCAH Trustees
5
St Alphege Churchyard in 2022
T he efforts of the great leaf gathering last November are now starting to pay off as the
first signs of spring flowers are already beginning to be seen. The recent storms have
brought down the expected winter tree debris of smaller branches and twigs. These
together with the all the dead Christmas wreaths and grave goods will be collected up at
the first churchyard tidy up morning which is already set for Saturday 26th March between
10am -1pm. This will also allow the first grass cut of the year to take place before Easter.
Other sessions for the tidy up mornings this year (for whichever diary system you employ)
are set as
11th June – to collect up Easter grave goods and clear paths
10th September – general tidy up
5th November – the 2022 great leaf gathering
Can you attend and help at any of these, even if only for an hour? Tasks are suitable for all
ages and families are especially welcome. In particular we would appreciate offers of help to
look after the refreshments on the day (
) and someone* for each session to manage the overall co-ordination
of the morning. If you would like more information or just like to know about what is involved
(without commitment) then please contact Michael on 711 1726 or e-mail
mrumball@btinternet.com.
*
Michael Rumball
for the Church and Churchyard Committee
Advertising in the Solihull Parish News MOBILE HAIRDRESSER
Fully Qualified
Ladies & Gentlemen’s Hairdresser
FOR AN APPOINTMENT
Telephone Claire:
Contact our Advertising Manager, Tim Drakeford 01564 79 46 84
TELEPHONE: 0121 705 4494 07931 751 451
6
W e held our Annual General Meeting on
the first Thursday in January when
Chris Thorp retired as Branch Leader at the
end of six years’ service. We thanked Chris,
not only for her work as leader, but also for
her and Mike’s hospitality in hosting our
committee meetings at their home. We
presented Chris with flowers and a voucher to
spend at John Lewis’s.
Susan Haigh is our new Branch Leader. Susan
was born in Yorkshire and lived in Leeds,
marrying David in 1967. Sadly, David died last
year. She joined Mothers’ Union in 1971 after
she and David moved to live in the Northeast.
In 2008 she came to Solihull to be near to her
daughter Amanda, and family, transferring first to Knowle branch and then to St Alphege in 2016.
The Treasurer reported that we had an excellent year fund-raising and over £2,500 was
donated to Mothers’ Union funds. All the members of the present committee were willing to
stand again and were duly elected. The meeting closed at 2.00pm and was followed by an
excellent talk from Alison Pratt about her years in nursing.
Planning Permission Refused for the Rectory Site
o n 9th December 2021, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council as Local Planning Authority
refused permission for the proposed development on the former Rectory site. The
reasons given for refusal were “by reason of its scale, massing, disposition and lack of
territory”. “The development therefore fails to preserve and enhance the setting, local
character and distinctiveness of the heritage assets or the character of the area as a whole.”
It was also noted that the proposal would not fit the Solihull Local Plan with respect to
affordable housing provision.
The refusal of planning permission obviously means that plans for the redevelopment of the
O.B.H., which were dependent on the acquisition of some funds from the sale of the site, are
on hold. We await further developments.
7
Calendar and Prayer Intentions for February 2022
1 Brigid, Abbess of Kildare David & Anne, our Bishops Holly Oak Grove
The Presentation of Christ in
2 Those caring for young children Hollyberry Avenue
the Temple
3 Anskar, ArchBp of Hamburg, Missionary Archbishops of Canterbury & York Hollyfield Avenue
4 Gilbert of Sempringham Those in religious orders Homer Road
5 Feria Those administering the Covid-19 vaccine Hunningham Grove
4th Sunday before Lent & The
6 Her Majesty the Queen Huntley Drive
Accession of Queen Elizabeth II
7 Feria Those who are in hospital Kelmarsh Drive
8 Feria Prem and Ann, our Parish administrators Kelvedon Grove
9 Feria The Prime Minister and the Cabinet Keresley Close
Scholastica, Abbess of
10 Bible Translators Kilsby Grove
Plombariola, sister of St Benedict
11 Feria Those who work at the Core in Solihull Kinchford Close
12 Feria Our Parish Wardens, Pam and Andrew Kingsbrook Drive
13 3rd Sunday before Lent Our part in God’s mission to Solihull Kinsham Drive
Cyril & Methodius, Missionaries
14 Churches Together in Central Solihull Kirton Grove
to the Slavs, 869 & 885
15 Sigfrid, Bishop, Apostle of Sweden Our Archdeaon, Simon Heathfield Knightcote Drive
16 Feria Delivery drivers and other key workers Ladbrook Road
Janani Luwum, Archbishop of
17 Those persecuted for their faith Lady Byron Lane
Uganda, Martyr, 1977
18 Feria Our Area Dean, Nick Parker Langford Croft
19 Feria Our Pioneer Minister, Suzette Maguire Langtree Avenue
20 2nd Sunday before Lent Solihull Hospital and NHS staff in our parish Laxton Grove
21 Feria Chris Thomas, St Alphege Director of Music Libbards Gate
22 Feria Those caring for a family member who is ill Libbards Way
Polycarp, Bp of Smyrna,
23 The Solihull Faiths Forum Lighthorne Road
Martyr, c.155
24 Feria Those who are looking for work Links Drive
25 Feria Paul Evans, St Alphege Verger Linton Avenue
26 Feria Our district and Parish treasurers Linwood Road
27 Sunday next before Lent The work of our Parish Church Council Littleton Croft
28 Feria Our preparations for the season of Lent Littlewood Close
The Church prays for the community daily: please include these topics in your personal daily prayers.
8From the St. Alphege Register
Baptisms
Luke Reed, Marley Harry Morrison
Iris Myra Bowater Dulcie Rose & Walter Alexander Manning-Poole
Miller Jay, Scarlet Hattie & Betsy-Belle Holtom
Weddings
None
Funerals
21st January Nigel Cameron
28th January Basil Turner
Memorial Services
7th January Hazel Smith
31st January Michael Adams
Interments
None
Names taken from the Chantry Book for Remembrance in February
Norman Dunkley Barbara Palmer Cyrus Thomas
Anthony Walker Mamie Linstead Joan Evelyn Gilbert
Kenneth Atkinson pr. John Stewart Bateson Barbara Gregory
Joseph Fenwick Barbara Alice Edwards Hilda Jewers
Wilfred Alcock Dorothy Warrior Catherine Moir
Rachel Elston Martin John Caldicott Jack Gilbertson
Live and streamed services are being held at
St. Alphege’s, St. Michael’s and St. Helen’s churches.
Details are inside the front cover of this magazine
and on the Parish Website.
https://www.solihullparish.org.uk
9Worship Notes, February 2022
T
he beginning of February brings the celebration of the Celtic festival of Imbolc, which
coincides with Saint Brigid's Day and the Christian festival of Candlemas. Imbolc marks the
coming of Spring, the warming of the earth and the still-hidden possibility of new growth.
Saint Brigid is associated with everlasting fire, and with the abundance of the natural world
at springtime.
Brigid is associated with learning, poetry, healing and is a friend to both animals and people.
She is a bringer of plenty, one who has the gift of making things grow – flowers were said
to spring up as she walked, and in her shrine it is always springtime. Brigid is the keeper of
eternal fire. She nurtures a spark to kindle the flame of creativity and inspiration – a precious
gift of this new season.
Mary the mother of Christ is also celebrated at this point of the year. The feast of Candlemas
tells the story of Mary and Joseph taking the child Jesus to the Temple in Jerusalem to
dedicate him to God.
As they enter the Temple, Mary and Joseph are approached by the wise and aged Simeon,
who praises God for the child who will bring light to the whole world. Having seen the
promised holy child, Simeon places himself into God’s hands knowing that the end of his life
is near.
But Simeon also speaks dark words to Mary: there will be opposition to her son, and suffering
and sorrow will pierce Mary’s heart like a sword – the pain of motherhood.
This poem reflects on Mary’s experience in the Temple, the significance of her child and the
themes of light, warmth and new growth which this season expresses.
Candlemas Song
Fr Simon.
10February 2022 Services
Sunday 6th February – Candlemas
St. Alphege 08:00 Eucharist
St. Alphege 10:30 Sung Eucharist
St. Alphege 17:00 Evensong
St. Helen 10:00 Eucharist
St. Michael 10:30 Morning Prayer
Sunday 13th February – 3rd Before Lent
St. Alphege 08:00 Eucharist
St. Alphege 09:15 All Age Eucharist
St. Alphege 11:00 Sung Eucharist
St. Alphege 17:00 Evensong
St. Helen 10:00 Eucharist
St. Michael 10:30 Eucharist
Sunday 20th February – 2nd before Lent
St. Alphege 08:00 Eucharist
St. Alphege 10:30 Sung Eucharist
St. Alphege 17:00 Evensong
St. Helen 10:00 Morning Prayer
St. Michael 10:30 Eucharist
Sunday 27th February – Next Before Lent
St. Alphege 08:00 Eucharist
St. Alphege 10:30 Sung Eucharist
St. Alphege 17:00 Evensong
St. Helen 10:00 Eucharist
St. Michael 10:30 All Age
Wednesday 2nd March – Ash Wednesday
St. Helen 10:00 Eucharist
St. Alphege 19:30 Sung Eucharist
11The Guardians of St Alphege Parish Church
I t was with much regret that we decided to cancel the Coffee Morning we had planned for
17th December. We were very disappointed but several of you said we had done the right
thing, with the infection rate increasing. Let’s hope that before too long this problem will be
a thing of the past. However, by the time you are reading this, the Fundraising Committee
will have met and rescheduled the Coffee Morning. Rest assured that we will always bear in
mind the prevailing Covid situation. So, keep an eye on the Pewslip.
As I said last month, we are also hoping to arrange a Wine & Cheese Lunch in a few months.
As soon as possible we will let you know the details. Are there any social gatherings which
you would like us to arrange? Either things we have done before, or new ideas? If you think
of something, please let one of the Trustees or Committee members know; the contact
details are on the notice boards in Church and in the OBH.
We are keen to find someone to oversee our website. Ruth Morton has run it for many years
and now finds she is unable to continue doing so. Thank you for all your hard work, Ruth.
So, please, if any member or non-member would like to take this on, please contact a
Trustee or Committee member. We should be most grateful.
As we have said before, we are very anxious to recruit new members, particularly younger
ones. Remember the Guardians is a nondenominational association, so you don’t have to be
a churchgoer to join. If you are reading this it is probable that you do attend St Alphege or
one of the sister churches, but you may know someone with an interest in old buildings who
might be keen to join. Just ask them to contact one of the Trustees or Committee members.
The Trustees
February 2022
margaretoswald43@gmail.com
Wednesday Lunchtime Music Recitals,
1.10pm to 2pm
In order to keep everyone safe, masks must be worn and social distancing and other Covid
safety measures will be in place. Admission is free of charge and a retiring collection is held
in aid of The Friends of St. Alphege Music (registered charity 511237). Tea, coffee and cake
are now available.
Isabel Baumber
2nd February Peter Irving, organ
9th February Performer to be confirmed
16th February Shi Chin, violin
23rd February Davina Brownrigg, mezzo-soprano
12Floodlighting
T he Guardians Floodlighting Scheme is available for anyone who would wish to celebrate
or mark an occasion, or to commemorate a date.
The cost is £8.00 for 2 hours; £14.00 for 4 hours. Please give 21 days notice.
Names are published in the Parish magazine and acknowledged with a card sent to the donor.
It may be possible to have the Church floodlit at short notice but it will not be published in
the Parish News until a later date.
For further information please contact the Scheme organiser:-
Sheila Payne, 0121 706 0520 or email: russellpayne110@aol.com
The Church was floodlit to remember the following in 2022:
3rd January In loving memory of Tony Davies on his birthday.
9th January In loving memory of my father, Dr Oswald, on his birthday.
19th January To commemorate the birthday of the late Nicola Blakeman.
24th January In loving memory of Rachel Elston on her birthday.
27th January In loving memory of Alan Spence.
27th January In loving memory of Betty Hartley.
27th January In loving memory of John Barnsley.
13H ello everyone. I hope you are all keeping well despite the new Covid variant, and that
you all managed to have a wonderful Christmas with loved ones.
December was a busy month for the choirs, as you would expect! We have enjoyed working
with Chris and worked hard for Advent and Christmas.
Unfortunately, Covid continues to cause problems in the choir – as in so many walks of life
at the moment. It was such a shame that Chris tested positive in the middle of December,
and then was unable to direct the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. Other choir members
have had to isolate or shield for various reasons – they are all very much missed when they
can’t be with us in church.
We are extremely grateful to David Rice for
stepping in to lead rehearsals and the Nine
Lessons and Carols service itself. Thanks are
also due to Kevin Gill for his wonderful organ
playing. Readers joined us from across the
local community and all enjoyed participating
in the service.
We had a busy week of carol singing once
schools had broken up – all of it outside for
safety reasons. We started with a small group
of us singing for our neighbours in Hannover
Housing, who liked the singing so much that
some of them came to the Nine Lessons and
Midnight services! We also sang outside
Chris’s house while he played keyboard inside
to give us simulated organ accompaniment,
as this was still within his isolation period.
We then went to Willow Grange, where Peter
Gregory is a resident, and the staff had fun
with their snow machine. The following day,
we went to Knowle Gate, and sang in the
courtyard, including for Anne Kemp, who has
recently moved there. The lead member of
staff was very interested in our online
services and was planning to link residents to
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day services in
their cinema room following my conversation
with her about where and when the services
14are streamed. Our final visit was on Christmas
Eve, to the Marie Curie Hospice, as has been
our custom for many years now. Thank you to
all the choristers who supported these visits,
and to parents who helped with transport – we
know that these visits are very much
appreciated by residents, staff and family
members. I would really like to hope that next
year we might be able to be inside these
venues again, and meeting residents on a more
personal footing, but who knows what the next
year might hold.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day were slightly different from normal years, but we still very
much felt the celebration of Christmas within the services – two Crib Services, Midnight Mass,
and the Christmas Day Eucharist.
This was followed by a well-deserved break, and we are now returning to choir ready for the
New Year and new challenges and activities.
Take care everyone.
Isabel Baumber
Steve Tremayne
Carpentry & Joinery
Property Repairs, alterations
and maintenance
Garage Conversions
High standard of work and
attention to detail
Friendly and efficient service
Telephone
0121 743 8185 07906 233288
15D ue to the success of our Christmas Fair, we are able to donate to our chosen charities:
Family Care Trust and Restore around £800 each, and £200 to Zoe’s Place. We are hoping
that each charity will visit us early in the year to give us some idea of their work, and how
our donation will be used. We will certainly be inviting the Dance School and the St. Alphege
Choir to join us for the next Fair ; their contributions enhanced the event enormously and
helped to bond the three churches in the Parish.
We are very grateful to Chris Carrington for organising another outdoor Christmas Carol
Service which was well supported by our neighbours with over 130 people attending. If
anyone reading this article has any ideas for bringing our neighbours together, please do let
us know by contacting either the Church Wardens or Chris Carrington, contacts for whom
can be found in the magazine.
We are very hopeful that we will be able to restart Wednesday Lunches; we are inviting all
our volunteers to join us for a chat and refreshments in mid-January- watch this space! We
must note that we are eternally grateful to June Paddock, who has headed the Wednesday
Lunch team for a long time, and who will continue to be part of the team in the future.
February will be the time for Cameo’s Annual General Meeting; they are looking for a new
President and Treasurer to take them forward into 2022; if you would like to help in any way,
please contact Pippa Gates on 0121 705 2357. We really want Cameo to go from strength to
strength, the meetings are of great interest and value, so please come and support them, if
you can, on the first Wednesday of each month.
We are very grateful to Revd. Sue Chandler for all the support she gives us, both in a priestly
and pastoral context. She has completely won us over and has become a very valued
member of our church family. Thank you, Sue.
We have achieved much in these very challenging times, but we are aware that there is so
much more to do; we keep the Forget-Me-Nots and Jigsaw in mind and are fully committed
to their resumption.
Sadly, Phil will be relinquishing his office as Warden in April after five years of unstinting
service and he will be greatly missed, especially by Jean!! Please keep a replacement for him
in your prayers; if you feel you could take on the very important role or know someone who
may be able to do so, please, please let us know.
We continue to hold Revd. Helen and all her family in our prayers, and trust that the Lord
will, in His time, help them.
Jean and Phil
1617
Music Group
About thirty years ago a music group was
formed at St. Michael’s. This was to provide a
musical accompaniment for services on a
regular basis and also to put on concerts to raise
money for various good causes. Although the
members of the group have changed over the
years, we still have a music group of about
twelve very talented members. During lockdown
they met on a weekly basis and provided hymns
and worship songs for the services which were
streamed to view. In all that time they recorded
about fifty tracks which are still there to view on YouTube. More recently some of the
members were involved with the One Light, One Vision service held at St. Alphege Junior
school with members of the Youth Choir. Just before Christmas they were heavily involved
in both the St. Michael’s Carol service, which was a most enjoyable prelude to Christmas, and
also the outdoor service at St. Helens’.
St. Michael’s is very grateful for the music group and especially their efforts to get us through
lockdown. Long may they continue to make music.
Toys
What seems like many years ago St. Michael’s was made aware that a need existed at
Birmingham Prison. At Christmas time many of the children of prisoners miss out on presents
through no fault of their own. We agreed to do what we could to address this sad situation.
So it was that a collection was made of good quality used and new toys that could be made
available to these children. Now many years later this is still continuing and is very gratefully
received by the staff at the visitors’ centre at the prison. Tim and Sandra Bett started
arranging the collection of toys originally and now Graham Wiggins has taken over the
organisation. The toys now come from various sources, from St. Michael’s congregation,
uniformed groups and workplaces. The quantity of toys and now quilts and winter coats has
grown over the years and makes a great contribution to the overall distribution.
Helping Hands/Christmas Card
For many years we have gathered food items on a monthly basis to contribute to the ‘Helping
Hands’ project organised by Solihull Christian Renewal Centre. This is a food bank to help
those on low incomes to feed their families and for which there seems to be a growing need.
Angela Callaghan and Richard Austen look after the collection and then arrange for this to
be taken to the Renewal Centre.
Over the last twenty years St. Michael’s has produced a Christmas card for all the members
of our church to sign in place of sending cards to church members and donate towards a
nominated charity. This year it was decided that ‘Helping Hands’ would be the nominated
good cause to supplement to food collected, and this raised over £150. This enables the
organisers to purchase items that are needed but which don’t always turn up in the
collection. We are continuing to raise money alongside the monthly food collection.
Paul Smith
1819
Recognising Jesus
Humbug and Happiness
Some of us took time during Advent to look at the book by Sheila
Jacobs. This was an advent book based on the film ‘Scrooge’, with Alistair Sim, itself a version
of Dickens’ ‘ ’. Hence the ‘humbug’ and the ‘happiness’.
It’s true to say that this book presented us with some challenges – we didn’t all agree with
everything the author of the book stated in her text – but we didn’t let this faze or deter us.
Instead, each time that we met, we asked each other the question -
In this way we challenged both ourselves and the text, while working on more of what we
believed within ourselves rather than what the author might have believed when she wrote
the book.
A popular quote from our discussion time together was the following from Anglican vicar and
missionary Max Warren:
Beer & Carols
Since it re-opened in mid-July relationships at the Greville Arms
pub have gone from strength to strength, resulting in the
Parish’s very first session of Beer & Carols there on 15th
December.
came about when someone asked me if I had
thought about getting the St. Alphege choir into the area to sing
carols on one of the green spaces. This was not a bad idea, but
it didn’t settle with me. After some
reflection I realised that that was
because St. Alphege could have
been doing this for the last 15 or so
years. More to the point, it didn’t
need . So, I began to look at
what did need me, and my
relationship with the Greville, plus the fact that the Parish men’s
group meet there too, made it a contender. Through liaison with
Chris Carrington of the men’s group, Roger Chamberlain was
recruited to play for us and the stage was set to make the offer
to the pub manager. She signed up to this wholeheartedly and
promised the supply the mince pies for the ‘interval’.
20I confess that my heart raced when I saw it advertised on the pub’s Christmas schedule for
all to see. No backing out now!
In the end there were just enough of us - from across all three churches and from
- to carry the carols, while not so many that we ‘swamped’ the pub. All the
feedback has been positive, and we look forward to this being the first of many such events!
Quiet Morning for Candlemas
There was a strand running through both ‘ ’ and ‘ ’ that
emphasized when we, as the Church, go out into the local community to ‘do’
something. This is respect for our neighbours as fellow human beings, but also respect that
we as the Church don’t take God or Jesus out into the world: He is there already! (I hope
that that wasn’t news to you! �) As Hebrews 13:8 reminds us,
.
With all of this in mind, you should already know this but there will be a quiet morning at St.
Alphege in February, held under the title of ‘ (there is a reminder of the
details below). The content will include how we recognise Jesus in our lives and in the world
around us, so that we might respond accordingly. It’s not too late to sign-up!
Recognising Jesus
A quiet morning of reflection, prayer and activities for Candlemas
facilitated by Suzette Maguire*.
Saturday 5th February 2022
St Alphege Church
Tea and Coffee from 9.00 a.m. to start at 9.30 a.m.
Finishing at 12 noon or bring your own lunch and stay for a chat
Book online at:
https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/st-alphege-church-solihull/t-gnxgne
Or contact
Suzette Maguire 0121 709 0884 or Pam Price 0121 704 3104
*We know Suzette as our Pioneer Minister but, what we may not know, is
that she is a trained and experienced Spiritual Director who has led numerous Quiet
mornings in other posts. She says:
“If the experience of a quiet morning is a new one to you, do come
along and give it a try, and/or speak to Pam (Price) or me about it
beforehand for more information. See you on February 5th!”
Keep safe and thanks for listening!
Suzette
21Parish of Solihull
Update from the Parish Wardens
December gave us a lot to be thankful for. We had three excellent Carol Services. The
St. Michael’s one was mellow and warm and involved the St. Michael’s Singers and Musicians
who memorably sang so well. The St. Helen’s
saw many from the local area come to share the joy of Christmas with Carols and
Readings and a talk from Suzette on what we can learn from
. The Nine Lessons and Carols from St. Alphege was a wonderful occasion. We were also
invited to the Greville Arms to a time of , organized by Suzette, which was a
great success. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day it was good to have seen successful and
joyful Crib Services and Christmas Services all over the Parish.
As we write we have just heard of the death of Fr. John Bradford; such a lovely, humble, holy
man who gave ministry to our Parish for so many years. He will be sorely missed but he is now
in glory with our Lord for which we give thanks, as we do for all he did for and was to us all.
Fr. Andrew Hutchinson is to be congratulated on his appointment as Vicar for Liturgy and
Worship in the East Cardiff Ministry Area in the Diocese of Monmouth. But this means, of
course, that, sadly, he will be unable to continue his ministry to us, though he will be with
us until Easter. We will miss Fr. Andrew very much, both personally and for his great ministry
over so many years.
We also have to report that, sadly for us, Joe Minall has handed in his resignation as Youth
Worker, and is to be congratulated on taking up a position with the Police. So, we will have
to start to behave in his presence! He has done great work for us and it has been very
difficult to keep things going during the past 2 years. Joe’s will be a hard act to follow, but
we will now be looking urgently at how to replace him. Joe has kindly said he should be able
to do some youth work for us on a voluntary basis for a few months.
Interviews for a new part-time Office Administrator will be taking place in January.
Covid still casts its shadow, particularly in these dark and cold months, and we still need to be
careful to protect people but it looks as though the Spring will see an opening up and we do
pray this will be so. We also need to keep up to date with the important work of Safeguarding
which is placing new requirements on us which we are working through. We do thank Viv
Dobson, our other safeguarding officers, and Jenny Ladbrooke for their work on this.
As we said in the last update, the New Year gives us the opportunity to look more closely at
our commitments to nurturing young people and families, to developing discipleship, and
finding ways of sharing our faith with and serving others in our Parish.
We are still waiting for details of the review of the Parish Structure and then to finalize the
Parish Profile, and we are pushing hard to get movement on this.
Finally, we would like to congratulate Carol and her team on the production of the full-colour
Parish News which looks great and has very good content. It is excellent value for money.
Please do continue to pray for all aspects of the Parish – and praying for those things that
you are involved with. There is a particular need to pray for energy, and for sufficient people
to do the work that is required.
May the Lord bless you all.
Pam Price
Andrew Williams
January 2022
22Sunday Worship
St Alphege
On 6th and 20th February the Junction will meet IN PERSON at
9.15am in the Oliver Bird Hall
(An informal service for families of all ages. It’s lively and laid back!)
On 27th February the Junction will meet ON ZOOM
(Contact Linda l.hicks@solihullparish.org.uk to register
to receive the zoom link)
On 13th February everyone will meet in the church building at 9.15am
for a lively All age worship service with the worship band
St Helen
Every Sunday at 10.00 am there is worship in a modern space with a
community feel with activities available for children.
St Michael
Every Sunday in term time at 10.30am there is worship in the school hall
where a warm and welcoming space is created for all ages to worship.
There is a crèche for little ones and activities for children of all ages.
Other Activities
Friday 18th February Messy Church St Helen’s Church 4-5.15pm
Praise and Play Every Friday 9.30-10.30am Oliver Bird Hall
23Activities for families of all shapes and sizes
with lots of hands-on, crafty fun - followed by
a celebration including a story and a prayer
4.00pm ‘til 5.15pm on Friday
WHEN? 18th February and 18th March
St Helen’s Church, St Helen’s Road,
WHERE? B91 2DA (off Buryfield Road)
EVERYONE! Children, bring your
WHO? friends, but be sure to bring an adult
Cost: £2 per person, max £7 per family
Places are limited and
booking is essential. E mail
l.hicks@solihullparish.org.uk
to book your place.
24At the heart of worship in the Solihull Parish is the celebration of the meal which
Jesus and his disciples shared on the night before he died – the Last Supper. In
this act of worship known as Holy Communion, Christians gather to hear the word
of God and then share the bread and wine together. For several years the Solihull
Parish has prepared children to receive Holy Communion (not the same as
confirmation which is offered later) through a course of preparation which
involves fun and interactive learning. They are then admitted to receive Holy
Communion at a service known as .
As Holy Communion is so special the bishops have laid down strict guidelines
which every parish must follow. These include the following:
1. Children must attend all sessions of the preparation course and
worship in the Parish on each of the Sundays during the course.
2. Parents must ensure that the children worship regularly after their
i.e. twice monthly as a minimum.
3. Before admission to Holy Communion each person must be baptized.
However, if a child has not been baptized, but wishes to receive Holy
Communion, they may begin the course on the understanding that
they will be baptized before
The dates for 2022 are as follows:
Liturgy of Welcome 9.15.a.m. Sunday 13th February St Alphege Church
Preparation Session 1 2.30-3.30 p.m. Sunday, 6th March Room 1 OBH
Preparation Session 2 2.30-3.30 p.m. Sunday, 13th March Room 1 OBH
Preparation Session 3 2.30-3.30 p.m. Sunday, 20th March Room 1 OBH
Preparation Session 4 2.30-3.30 p.m. Sunday 3rd April Room 1 OBH
Preparation Session 5 2.30-3.30 p.m. Sunday 24th April Room 1 OBH
Preparation Session 6 2.30-3.30 p.m. Sunday 1st May Room 1 OBH
First Communion Sunday 9.15 a.m. Sunday 8th May St Alphege Church
For further information or to register contact Linda Hicks
l.hicks@solihullparish.org.uk
25Every Friday in the main Hall of the Oliver Bird Hall
9.30am-10.30am.
Come along and chat, play, eat biscuits, sing action
songs, explore a bible story.
A time of fun and fellowship for all.
If you want to know more ring Linda on
0121 270 7390
or 07838 670772
or e mail l.hicks@solihullparish.org.uk
2627
Youth
A s we start February and the end of the first half term of 2022, we are very excited to be
preparing for our next social event, that being the St. Basil’s cardboard box sleepout.
This event will be on the 18th February at St. Helen’s,
with the event being focused on the young people
spending a night ‘sleeping rough’ outside in
cardboard boxes. In previous years, as the pictures
show, we’ve had rain, snow and minus degrees, but
we keep going. This is to raise money for the charity
St. Basil’s which does work in the West Midlands
helping prevent homelessness in young people.
As well as raising money we are also looking for
cardboard boxes to use for this, so if you have large,
dry cardboard boxes you can donate please contact
the youth team.
Just before Christmas we had our annual Youth
Christmas party, which this year we thought would
mix up a little bit as we were not able to run this
event last year and we had lower numbers. We
surprised the youth that came to a trip to an ‘escape
the room’ challenge in Birmingham, which although
started planning with 8 young people the numbers
grew to 17! Meaning 2 minibus loads to manage. But
it went very well, and we all had a great time,
although only 1 group of the 3 actually escaped the
room in time.
Sadly, this month will also be my last as a full-time
youth worker as I am leaving to start a new job
during the half term. I am hoping I will still be able
to volunteer with the youth work here until another
person can take up the role. We are at the moment
trying to confirm which sessions will continue
starting March. But will hopefully let you all know as
soon as we know.
28Stuff
Youth Schedule February 2022
Date Session
Wednesday 2nd Feb. Junior Refresh - Our Bible study session for Years 6-8, with a mix
7-8 p.m. of discussion, prayer, worship, and activities, in the Oliver Bird Hall
Friday 4th Feb. This session is open to all youth ages, meeting in Room 6 of the
6-7:30 p.m. Oliver Bird Hall in which we play games, chat, and have pizza.
Film Club – In youth room in the Oliver Bird Hall, we will be
Saturday 5th Feb
watching a rated 12 or below film followed by discussion. All are
6:30-9:15
welcome, bring your own snacks.
Monday 7th Feb Our games and fellowship session in Room 6 in the Oliver Bird
7-9 p.m. Hall, for all youth aged Year 9 and up, in the Oliver Bird Hall
Wednesday 9th Feb Refresh - Our Bible study session for Years 9 and up, with a mix of
7:30-8:45 p.m. discussion, prayer, worship, and activities. In the Oliver Bird Hall.
Friday 11th Feb This session is open to all youth ages, meeting in Room 6 of the
6-7:30 p.m. Oliver Bird Hall in which we play games, chat, and have pizza.
Monday 14th Feb Our games and fellowship session in Room 6 in the Oliver Bird
7-9 p.m. Hall, for all youth aged Year 9 and up, in the Oliver Bird Hall
Wednesday 16th Feb Junior Refresh- Our Bible study session for Years 6-8, with a mix
7-8 p.m. of discussion, prayer, worship, and activities, in the Oliver Bird Hall
Friday 18th to St. Basil’s charity sleepout
Saturday 19th Details to be confirmed
Monday 21st to
Half Term- No youth events
Friday 25th Feb
St Alphege Pre-school
Pre-school places are available for children who will turn 3 years of age in the academic
year beginning in September each year. St. Alphege Pre-school offers highly experienced
and qualified staff. The last two Ofsted Inspection results rated us ‘Outstanding’. Please
see web-site for further information www.stalphege-preschool.org.uk – or email Tammy
Ellender, Manager: manager@stalphege-preschool.org.uk Application forms available
from the Oliver Bird Hall or email the Admissions Secretary – admissions@stalphege-
preschool.org.uk for a copy.
Wraparound
We also offer a wraparound service for nursery Children attending St Alphege Nursery.
Email: Tammy Ellender: manager@stalphege-preschool.org.uk
No1 Club
Before and afterschool club is held at OBH by highly qualified staff offering a range of
activities for all. Tammy Ellender: manager@stalphege-preschool.co.uk or
No1club@stalphege-preschool.org.uk
29BANNOCKS
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3031
Hazel Mary Smith née Williams
Hazel Mary Williams was born to Clive and Irene Williams on 17th July 1958 in West
Bromwich. She was a Midlands girl all her life. She was joined a few years later by her sister
Ruth and they lived from home to home owing to their father’s work.
She always had a passion for musical theatre. She was involved with
performances at school and with Studley Operatic Society, performing
in many shows, including and many
others. She passed her love for musical theatre onto me. She also
sang in her church choir as an Alto.
In 1982, at an 18+ social evening, she met her best friend and
husband for well over 35 years, my dad Alan, and they were married
in 1985 at St. Peter’s, Coughton Court. They moved to Solihull and
made their home there for many years, in Highwood Avenue, when
my brother Daniel arrived in 1988, and then in 1992, I, Michael,
arrived. We made our move to Solihull and to Alston Road, where we
lived for nearly 30 years. It is on this street that our relationship with
Solihull first began. In May 1992 we first came to Saint Francis of
Assisi, Elmdon Heath, which was at the top of the road and there we
were made to feel welcome. Friendships were made and roots were
planted. I was baptised here in May 1992 and my Mum not long after
joined the choir as an Alto, where she remained until the church
closed in 2004. My sister Kitty arrived, and we moved down to our longest-lasting residence
on Alston Road, where we lived for 26 years. St. Francis gave us many happy memories. My
Dad was a Sunday School Teacher, Server and Church Warden, and he could always be relied
upon for heavy manual labour, ably assisted by his two strapping sons, Kitty flourished in
Sunday School, being the life of the party, and Mum looked proudly on, although sometimes
exasperated at some of the antics we had. She was especially proud when I started helping
behind the scenes in the sacristy, then serving and then singing in the choir as a treble,
especially when it came to the famous “Once in Royal David’s city” solo.
When St. Francis closed in 2004, we migrated to Saint Alphege at the invitation of Father
Tim. Mum, Dad and I became servers here and have been for a long time (recent events
notwithstanding). Kitty, Daniel and I received our First Holy Communion here, both parents
looking on proudly, and we celebrated at St. Francis a few weeks before closure. I was also
confirmed here in 2010.
Mum was involved in quite a few things here. She was a server, performed pastoral visits
and took the sacraments to the sick. She joined the ladies of the Choir, whilst I was a Choral
Scholar and assisted vocally on occasion. It was with the choir she and I had some excellent
memories - singing alongside Aled Jones in Lichfield Cathedral, Choir tours in Bristol,
Rochester and Ely Cathedrals - my head is still recovering from the place we stayed at!
However, her joy and creativity came to the fore in helping with Journey to Cross and
Journey to the Stable. In Journey to the Cross she took great delight in playing the part of
Mary Magdalene, who first saw the risen Lord Jesus. In the Journey to the Stable she played
the part of the “Grumpy” Innkeeper’s wife-which was helped by rising at 4 a.m. to assist my
Dad in getting ready for work, but that was my mum all over, rising with the dawn to watch
for the coming day.
3217th July 1958 to 4th December 2021
As a server and member of the church she was fed on the bread of life and cup of salvation.
It was these elements she fed to her brothers and sisters in Christ. May she now sit at that
great banquet in heaven.
In 2013 Mum and I joined the Saint Alphege Musical Production Society for
- the rest is history. We performed together on stage and made many dear friends
among our fellow members.
Creativity has been a great part of her life. There are many who have been recipients of her
knitted items, such as blankets and clothing for babies and perhaps a beautiful but intricate
piece of cross stitch. She even did a cross stitch Sunday School banner for Saint Francis,
which I believe went to St. Helen’s when St. Francis closed.
Her love of music spread to all of us. She and my Dad followed the Aber Valley Male Voice
Choir and had hosted them when they came to Solihull. She loved to sing, listen to music
and feel the spiritual effects of it.
She had a heart of gold. She passed that onto my sister. Her creativity with art she passed
onto my brother. As for me? I’ll leave that to you.
We have just observed the Feast of the Epiphany, when the wise men visited Joseph, Mary
and Jesus and presented him gifts. That child in the manger scene which you may have seen
at our St. Thomas Becket Altar is the child who grew to manhood, who taught us, who
showed us God’s love, who died, rose and ascended for us. This is he for whom Mum
watched, like Mary Magdalene.
She is sadly missed by so many people. Her mother and sister, her many nieces and
nephews, her brothers and sisters-in-law and her extended family and dear friends, who
meant so much to her.
Of course, her three adult children, Daniel, Kitty and I, and her beloved husband, Alan,
continue to miss her for her love and gentle hand, her friendship, her caring and her strength.
It was with profound grief that she passed away suddenly, following successful surgery, on
Saturday 4th December 2021. Her passing came as a deep shock to all - friends and family
alike. The Parish Eucharist on 5th December was offered for the repose of her soul by our
very own Father Andrew Hutchinson. It was also, coincidentally, the first Eucharist I had
served at since the beginning of the Pandemic, so this was a very bittersweet moment.
I would like to say on behalf of my Dad Alan, Daniel my brother and Kitty my sister, how
thankful and touched we are by the Masses being offered by our friends among the
priesthood and the countless messages of condolence, love and support we have received
from so many, and we know that these are, and will continue to be, a comfort to us.
Rest eternal grant unto her, O Lord, and let light perpetual shine upon her.
May she rest in peace and rise in glory. Amen.
Michael “Mike” Smith
33Death of “George – the Man with the Trollies”
T he death has occurred at the age of 82 of “George - the man with the trollies”, who was
a familiar sight in Solihull. He had lived in Solihull and Birmingham all his life and had
worked at Beresfords Steel Weldings; the job he had most enjoyed was making deliveries all
over Britain. However, he may have been living on the streets since 1988, around the time
his mother died. Before the first lockdown he sometimes attended Sunday Mass at St.
Augustine’s Church. He stayed on the streets during that lockdown but became ill in the
Summer and was admitted to hospital. His health worsened and he spent some time in a
care home. Sadly, he caught Covid19 and died from complications shortly before Christmas
last year, 2021.
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3435
The Compexities of Climate Change Action
COP26 in Glasgow brought us pictures of people from all over the world calling for climate
action. If the temperature of the world is to remain within a 1.5 degrees increase over what
it was at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, there must be no more exploration for
future fuel reserves. That was the conclusion of the International Energy Agency and has
resulted in calls for those holding shares in fossil fuel companies to divest (sell their
investments) if these companies are not prepared to comply. Current investors include the
Church Commissioners and the Pensions Board of the Church of England.
Earlier this month one company, Shell, did decide to withdraw from the prospective Cambo
oil field off the Shetlands. I am glad to say their decision was welcomed by Adam Matthews,
chief Responsible Investment Officer of the Church of England Pensions Board. "The
message is clear to the U.K. Government (which ultimately decides if the field is exploited)
that companies beginning to transition will not allocate the capital to such projects,"
Matthews said in a tweet (Reuters Dec 12th). The Pensions Board carries weight as it is an
investor in Shell, and in May 2021 the Church of England Pensions Board backed new Shell
energy-transition plan (churchtimes.co.uk)
However, this plan of Shell’s still includes increasing gas production by 20% worldwide in the
next few years and involves plans to search out new fossil fuel reserves anywhere in the
world for years to come. Most of those fossil fuel reserves are outside the UK. One notable
example is Shell’s engagement in seismic drilling off the coast of South Africa. In response
more than 300,000 people have signed a petition calling for an end to the seismic drilling. In
September 2021, more than 20 Anglican Bishops Call for an Immediate halt to Gas and Oil
Exploration in Africa – Green Anglicans. The bishops are from Mozambique, Namibia, Saint
Helena, Lesotho and South Africa. In Malawi also concern has been expressed by church
leaders about the government decision to exploit oil from Lake Malawi, according to Charles
Bakolo, the Provincial Environmental Coordinator for the Province of Central Africa.
What are the implications for the Church of England of this call from our fellow Anglicans for
“the immediate cessation of fossil fuel exploration across Africa” and “the application of
effective climate justice so that countries of Africa, disproportionately affected by climate
change, may be enabled to leapfrog the polluting fossil fuel era into the clean renewable
energy era”? Should clergy pensions like mine retain such investments? Should dioceses
continue to hold them? Are there investment opportunities in forms of energy better for the
environment or in retrofit home insulation? Many other British churches have made a decision
to divest, most notably a few months ago the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Birmingham,
and Archbishop Desmond Tutu has for some years been asking the Church of England to do
so. And how can the churches most effectively influence the investing community? These may
well be questions raised at the Lambeth Conference scheduled for 2022.
It took decades for the restriction, and then abolition, of slavery to be spread from Britain to
all parts of its empire. I hope that, in the case of stopping fossil fuel exploration, it will not
take that long.
Revd. John Nightingale
Member Birmingham Anglican Climate Action
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37Thousand Years
“A thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday” sang the Psalmist
and his temple choir in Jerusalem long before Jesus was born (Psalm 90 v4). The visionary
poet was meditating on the shortness of life. He was also concerned to tell the people that
they should sometimes shift their prayer focus from day-to-day affairs and take a wider view.
Shortly after the Second World War, a visionary Church of England priest was delivering
much the same message. His name was Robert Coulson (1899-1995), Vicar of Stansted in
Kent and founder of .*
I think he is best described as a practical mystic and teacher of contemplative prayer. During
the first half of his life he served for many years as an Army officer. He then gave himself to
the study of history, psychology and sociology before engaging with religion and spirituality.
He learnt the art of contemplation from a Hindu swami. His writings include books and papers
on the theory and practice of Christian contemplative prayer.
In his teaching, he sometimes referred to his strong conviction that people living in the 20th
century were, at the end of two thousand years, witnessing the collapse of the first Christian
civilisation. Our so-called Western society, built on a Christian foundation, was now in a state
of disintegration. Other civilisations before ours, the Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek and
Roman, had emerged, grown and flourished, and then withered and passed away. So must
ours. The two devastating wars of the century were a symptom of this collapse, part of the
inevitably painful death-throes of a civilisation coming to its end. And nothing in this new
century can contradict this point of view. Some people may consider that the spectacular
new technologies will solve enough problems to usher in a brave new world. Their use,
however, is highly ambiguous, and those who control them have very mixed motives.
Despair or Hope
All this sounds very pessimistic, giving us cause for despair and a wringing of hands.
However, we need to note that, in his teaching, Coulson refers to the Christian
civilisation. This clearly implies optimism about the future. As the Psalm says, in the mind of
God, a thousand years are but as yesterday. So the death-throes may just as well be
interpreted as birth-pangs heralding new life.
It is interesting that, at the time Coulson was teaching and writing, so-called “New Age”
movements were beginning to emerge. He referred to these as “boudoir mysticism”,
because they were largely backward-looking and had no secure theological basis. The
Christian Gospel, on the other hand, engages with suffering and death as well as with
resurrection and life. A key element is hope which, of course, is strongly allied with faith and
love (1 Corinthians 13.13: 1 Peter 1.3).
Coming now to our post-pandemic world. In previous articles (March/April 2020), I have
argued that there is no such thing as “back to normal”. The phrase is meaningless for two
reasons: firstly, because you cannot turn the clock back. And secondly, because nobody can
clearly define what they mean by “normal”. Your idea of is likely to be quite different
from mine.
38You can also read
