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The Open Episcopal Church is now a part of the International Council of Community Churches and is a member of Churches Uniting in Christ and the World Council of Churches

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THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH GOES INTERNATIONAL
Our first German ordinand
Archbishop Blake flies to Egypt next week to ordain. Bishop Hamilton flies to America in September to ordain. This week we have welcomed our first ordinand from Germany.
REVD GIBBINS INVITED TO JOIN POLICE FORUM
Norfolk
Arising from his chaplaincy work Revd Gibbins is now a member of the Norfolk Police Independent LGBT Advisory Forum.
MEMBER CHURCH CAMPAIGNS FOR THERAPEUTIC ABORTION
On behalf of a sick woman, Beatrice.
Revd Martin Velasquez joins with other churches to call for reform. Read more.
RISE IN VOCATIONAL APPLICATIONS
From the UK and overseas
The bishops are handling over 10 fresh applications for ordination within the Church.
NEW MEMBER CHURCHES WELCOMED
El Salvador and Argentina
The Open Episcopal Church welcomes into Communion the Evangelical Protestant Church of El Salvador and the St Albans Episcopal Church in Buenos Aries.
REVD TIM HODGES PRESENTS KITE AWARD
Holcombe Rogus
13 year old Sam Girdler receives an Open Episcopal Church KITE Award for his remarkable work, charity fund raising, residential home visiting and his wider caring work for people of all ages in his community.
BISHOP HARSTAD-SMITH PRESENTS KITE AWARD
Pen y Dre High School, Merthyr Tydfil, Wales
Awarded to Ben Jones, for his exceptional work in the community working with the charity, Linking Hands Across The World,especially for his work with Equinisweni school, and the Tumelo home in South Africa.
OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH TO BEGIN MINISTRY IN ARGENTINA
A 45 member downtown congregation
An inclusive community in the heart of Buenos Aries. View their facebook page
HUFFINGTON POST PUBLISHES STATIONS OF THE CROSS BY REVD KOSTAKIS
U.S.A
Read them here
ARCHBISHOP INTERVIEWED ON BBC WORLD NEWS ON NIGHT OF HISTORIC VOTE IN OVERWHELMING SUPPORT OF EQUAL MARRIAGE
With Zeinab Badawi
Archbishop Blake having campaigned for equal marriage since 1994 and the Open Episcopal Church since 2001 was asked to comment on this milestone towards a vital social change. Two further interviews with the Archbishop were broadcast on World News which has a weekly global audience of 239 million and is broadcast in over 200 countries. The Open Episcopal Church is at the forefront of working towards an inclusive and equal society. Watch extracts from the U.K. broadcast opposite.
REVD MORGAN LAUNCHES CLERGY SUPPORT
New Web Site 'When I needed a neighbour'
For clerics of all denominations who are in distress.
Further details
THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH TO BEGIN MINISTRY IN NORTH AMERICA
Ordination in June
Revd Storrs-Kostakis will fly in to attend the church Congress
BISHOP OF SCOTLAND LAUNCHES FIRST SANCTUARY
The Sanctuaries of the Spring are multi-faith ecumenical centres for healing and hospitality
Further details
BERWICK ADVERTISER ANNOUNCES FORTHCOMING CONSECRATION
'Female bishop to follow in saint's footsteps.'
Read the article
ORDINAND AMANDA MCARDLE ACCEPTED AS VOLUNTEER WARD CHAPLAIN
Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford.
Amanda McArdle is studying currently for a Foundation degree in Healthcare Chaplaincy at St Mary's University College in Middlesex.
REVD LAWRENCE APPOINTED TO POLICE AND COUNTY PANELS
Diversity Issues
Advising on Council Agency and Police policies in Dorset
THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH IS TO CONSECRATE A BISHOP FOR NORTHUMBRIA
June 2013
Bishop Elect Lesley Dennis will be consecrated at Congress as the Bishop of Northumbria.
ARCHBISHOP BLAKE'S FUNDRAISING FOR SAVE THE CHILDREN
Annual Christmas Light Display
1204 pounds was raised during December from the thousands of visitors and over 100 gathered for the Christmas Eve pavement carol service.
THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH TO BEGIN MINISTRY IN THAILAND
U.K. born ordinand Iain Baxter's has a ministry plan for Chiang Mai
Archbishop Blake will ordain Iain in Cairo in May.
OEC ORDINAND LAUNCHES FOODBANK
North Solihull
Mike Sheridan has linked with 10 other churches to provide this facility as part of the network of foodbanks run by the Trussell Trust
REVD GIBBINS APPOINTED CHAPLAIN TO POLICE HATE CRIME GROUP
Dereham
Supporting victims of hate crime.
WORLD AIDS DAY SERVICE
Held at the DYMK bar, on behalf of the Bournemouth LGBT community.
The service was led by Revd Moss and Revd Goodwin
REVD LAWRENCE ORDAINED PRIEST
Bishop Wharmby ordains her at the Quaker Meeting House, Boscombe.
Family and friends gather in support.
POOLE COUNCILLOR MR TONY TRENT PRESENTS LOCAL KITE AWARDS
The Town Crier called the Award Ceremony to order.
Over 50 attended as Revd Lawrence introduced the two proud young recipients
THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH ISSUES A CALL TO ALL ANGLICAN CLERICS
A call to join the only unequivocally and comprehensively inclusive church.
Having consecrated the first woman bishop for England in 2003, for Wales in 2007 and for Scotland last year, the OEC represents the only progressive, modern and socially relevant church of its generation. Life is too precious to waste one's opportunity to minister in a reactionary, failing institution that is one of the last remaining bastions of prejudice and discrimination.
BOURNEMOUTH ECHO ANNOUNCES REVD LAWRENCE'S PRIESTING
Considerable local interest in the Open Episcopal Church
Read the article
KITE AWARDS 2012 ANNOUNCED
Awards for young people in Scotland, England and Wales
Remarkable individuals rewarded and encouraged
Full details
BISHOP HARRISON HAS DIED
We grieve the passing of our faithful, kind, wise and gracious bishop.
His funeral service will be held at Hinton Park, Woodland Burial Ground, Wyndham Road, Walkford, Christchurch, Dorset. BH23 7EJ on Thursday 15/11/12 at 12.30
A NEW DEACON FOR THE DIOCESE OF SCOTLAND
Revd Sarah Lawson was ordained on November 4th by Bishop Hamilton
Revd Dr Hugh Quigley travelled from Ireland to assist. Revd Lawson will be ministering from the area of Perth.
OEC CLERIC PERFORMS MARRIAGE FOR MICK JAGGER'S DAUGHTER JADE
Revd Mark Townsend conducted the marriage in the summer
The couple Jade Jagger and Adrian Fillary have commented: "Mark was the perfect man to guide us through the beautiful ceremony of marriage. His warm caring nature meant that our service was perfectly adapted for us and our family. So many of our friends expressed how it was the most wonderful service they had ever been to and how true it felt. He is a unique Rev in every way!"
ORDINATIONS
Revd Richard Britton has been ordained a deacon
Sarah Lawson will be ordained deacon in November, Revd Kersten Lawrence a priest in December, Amanda Mcardle a deacon in February, Revd Dr Hugh Quigley a priest in March and Revd Daniel Gibbins a priest in August.
THE BISHOP OF SCOTLAND MAKES A HISTORIC VISIT TO LONDONDERRY
Bishop Helen Hamilton meets with the Church of Ireland's Dean of Derry Cathedral
The Londonderry Sentinel covers the visit- See the article or Read the web version
THE ARCHBISHOP MEETS THE DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER
Archbishop Blake and our Bishop of Scotland, the Right Revd Helen Hamilton attended a reception marking the Government's historic consultation on Equal Civil Marriage.
Campainers, religious leaders, celebrities and politicians met and enjoyed Ben and Jerry's 'Appley Ever After' ice cream, newly named to celebrate same-sex marriage in parts of the U.S., and entertainment was provided by London's LGBT chamber choir 'Diversity'.
THE ARCHBISHOP MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER AT DOWNING STREET
Archbishop Blake and Revd Gibbins attend No 10.
Following the letter of support sent by the Open Episcopal Church in favour of the government's leglislation for equal marriage.
STRATEGY MEETING AS ORDINANDS CONTINUE TO RISE
The bishops meet with Dr Carrie Pemberton Ford
The bishops met Dr Pemberton Ford, a senior research member at the University of Cambridge and Director of the Cambridge Centre for Research in Human Traffiking.
THE ARCHBISHOP SPEAKS IN LONDON - Details
At the invitation of NESTED
A group of professionals seeking truth.
9 NOMINATIONS FOR KITE AWARDS
Applications from Merthyr Tydfil, Falkirk, Salisbury, Argyll, Poole and Margate
The Archbishop's Council to consider the work of these exceptional young people. Nominations are still open.
SANCTUARIES TO OPEN ACROSS SCOTLAND
Bishop Helen announces Sanctuaries of the Spring
Centres of healing and hospitality for those wounded by religious factions
Further details
THREE NEW ORDINANDS FOR THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Bishop Helen welcomes her first Scottish ordinand
Ordinands too for Manchester and Brentwood.
VIDEO MONTAGE OF THE CONSECRATION
History in the making
NUN MADE SCOTLAND'S FIRST BISHOP
Bishop Hamilton leads the Diocese of Scotland for the Open Episcopal Church
See the story and photograph in the Glasgow Herald at this link
OUR NEW BISHOP FOR SCOTLAND INTERVIEWED ON RADIO 4
Bishop Elect Hamilton, the first woman bishop for Scotland
Listen to the interview at this link
THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH PRESENTS LETTER OF SUPPORT TO LYNNE FEATHERSTONE M.P. THE MINISTER FOR EQUALITIES
The Archbishop and Revd Gibbins spent half an hour at Westminster with the M.P.
The church presented the Minister with a letter of support for the Government's proposals on equal civil marriage and urged her to consider providing for equal religious marriage also and the liberty to marry in any location.
THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH LAUNCHES IN NORTHERN IRELAND
Dr Hugh Quigley is to be ordained
Our first cleric to live and work in Northern Ireland will be ordained Deacon at our Church Congress in June.
CHURCH CONGRESS 2012
By kind invitation of our Diocese of Scotland
It will be held at St. Brendan's Diocesan Centre from the evening of June 4th until the morning of June 8th. Many interesting subjects will be discussed including The Divine Feminine and the Spirituality of Captivity. We will also be travelling by boat to the Holy Isle to connect with the spirituality of Columba and Brendan. The sessions and worship are open to all.
REAR ADMIRAL BRUCE RICHARDSON WELCOMES THE ARCHBISHOP
Admiral The Lord Boyce, Lord Warden and Admiral of the Cinque Ports and Constable of Dover Castle, His Worship, the Mayor of Swale, the Mayoress of Swale, the Worshipful Mayor of Faversham, Councillors, the Director of the Cambria Trust, volunteers and skilled barge restorers witnessed the Archbishop re-dedicate the Sailing Barge CAMBRIA and bless a compass given by the family in memory of Tony Ellis, the inspiration behind the project.
The barge, restored with over one and half million pounds of funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund will provide apprenticeships, social outreach programmes and educational experiences for young people.
NETWORK NORWICH'S ARTICLE ABOUT THE KITE AWARDS
Revd Gibbins is interviewed
Read the full article- here
THE HERALD INTERVIEWS BISHOP ELECT HAMILTON
First female bishop for Scotland
Rebecca McQuillan interviews Helen as she prepares for her Consecration - Read the Interview
TWO NEW CLERICS ORDAINED
In Bournemouth and Kings Lynn
Revd Kersten Lawrence and Revd Daniel Gibbins have both been ordained deacons of the church
ARCHBISHOP TO BLESS THE CAMBRIA
Invited by the Cambria Trust
This 1.4 million pound restoration scheme, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund as well as local government has resulted in this last British registered vessel to carry a commercial cargo under sail alone, to be fully restored. It is hoped the vessel will be used educationally and in work with the young. Full details available from - this link
GAY MARRIAGE WELCOMED BY THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Pastoral Letter issued
Read the press release and pastoral letter
REVD TOWNSEND WILL PERFORM AT GREENBELT
Magic and talks
Revd Mark Townsend has been invited to speak about his new book, 'Jesus through Pagan eyes' and to delight the festival goers with his spiritual presentation of magic and mystery.
STREET MINISTRY
Fr John Hyde's community outreach
Annual returns demonstrate a three fold increase of those helped and in receipt of ministry - up to 2641 people.
INTERNATIONAL WORK
The Archbishop is called overseas
Archbishop Blake will travel to Germany, France and Ireland this year to provide Christian ministry.
NEW PRIEST
Revd Robert Moss is priested
Family, friends and clergy gathered in celebration of Robert's developing ministry.
A GIFT OF SAINTLY RELICS
5 relics donated to the church
Relics of St Sabina, St Marcellus, St Teresa of Avila, St Leopold Mandic and St Philip Howard have been given to the Open Episcopal Church. It is significant that St Sabina, St Marcellus and St Philip Howard were brave and gave their lives in resisting the pressure to conform. St Teresa overcame prejudice and persecution to become the first female Doctor of the Church and St Mandic overcame his disabilities, became known as the Apostle of Unity and is seen as the forerunner of today's ecumenism. The Open Episcopal Church is passionate about unity, inclusivity, and the need to overcome all prejudice and discrimination.Full details
KITE AWARDS
Applications received
Schools and youth groups are being alerted to the innovative KITE Award scheme and the first applications have been submitted.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
1,400 pounds raised
Even in the recession, Archbishop Blake's Christmas lights raised more this year than ever before. Over the years they have managed to raise over 6000 pounds for SAVE THE CHILDREN.
ORDINATIONS
A significant increase
Kersten Lawrence will be ordained deacon by Bishop Harrison at Kinson Chapel, Bournemouth on March 4th. Daniel Gibbins will be ordained deacon by Archbishop Blake in Kings Lynn on March 17th.
INVITATION FROM ROTARY
The Archbishop delivers the Christmas message
At the annual Rotary Christmas dinner in Kent, Archbishop Jonathan Blake was invited to attend and speak to business, professional and religious leaders and congratulate them on raising over 20,000 Pounds this year for charity.
ORDINATION
Sub Conditione of Revd Christopher Morgan
The service was held in the great hall of the Trinity Guild, King's Lynn on Sunday December 11th. Christopher is now the third Anglican priest to join the Open Episcopal Church
THE OEC KITE AWARDS
Awarding up to 10,000 pounds
The Open Episcopal Church is launching an award programme for young people aged between 10-18. The aim is to recognise, honour and inspire young people who are contributing to their community in a remarkable way and to re-awaken in society the virtue of a life spent in the service of others. Full details
THE FIRST WOMAN BISHOP FOR SCOTLAND
The Archbishop's Council, meeting on November 22nd in London, has elected the new Bishop of Scotland
Revd Helen Hamilton M.A. will be consecrated as the new Bishop of Scotland for the Open Episcopal Church and will take responsibility for the Diocese of Scotland. Bishop Elect Hamilton will be the first woman bishop in Scotland. The Open Episcopal Church previously consecrated the first woman bishop for England and the first woman bishop for Wales. The Open Episcopal Church will hold its annual Congress next year in Scotland as guests of the Diocese of Scotland and will welcome bishops, clerics and laity from across the United Kingdom travelling to Scotland for the momentous event of the consecration.
PRISONERS WEEK
November 20th - 26th
Prayer leaflets for use in England can be downloaded from this link
ORDINATION
The priesting of Revd Robert Moss
This will take place on Sunday 5th February at 11.00 at the Kinson Cemetery Chapel.
THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH LAUNCHES A VOCATIONAL TRAINING PROGRAMME
Revd Helen Hamilton is overseeing an extensive modular training resource
Ordinands and present clergy can benefit from this provision which involves a distance learning approach without incurring costs. Full details can be obtained by phoning 01852 314007
HEART OF GOLD AWARD
Inspirational residents recognised in Pride of Bournemouth Awards
Fr John Hyde was honoured in September for his extensive voluntary work and care for others.
PREMIER CHRISTIAN RADIO BROADCAST
The Archbishop was invited to be the guest on the Inspirational Breakfast Show
During the 75 minute show Bishop Jonathan was able to speak about the vision of a church without walls, loving and inclusive, relevant and available for everyone.
GREENBELT
The Archbishop speaks at Greenbelt
The Archbishop spoke in the G-Source about responding to the call of Jesus into ministry without being constricted by denominational obstacles.
THE CLUB CHAPLAINCY
Fr John Hyde's work in Bournemouth
On August 13th a prayer walk was held offering prayers outside the clubs and fast food outlets, as well as providing the practical care outlined in the earlier report below.
LIVING WATER AT SPRINGHILL FARM
Seahouses Northumberland. August 5th -7th 2011
This was the first festival organised by the OEC in Cramlington and was well attended by people of all ages during the weekend. Friday kicked off the festival with a BBQ followed by beer and hymns where people requested their favourite Christian songs and everyone sang along karaoke style. Children on holiday at the farm campsite heard the music and joined the singing with enthusiasm, adding dances and learning new action songs. On Saturday morning the group walked along the coast to make a pilgimage to St Aidan's church Bamburgh, an historic site for Early Christianity in England, and the place where St Aidan died in 651AD. (www.staidan-bamburgh.co.uk) Local muscian Neal Croudace played a range of bluegrass gospel songs on Saturday evening and his rendition of Amazing Grace to the tune of House of the Rising Sun was an inspirational piece. Communion was celebrated on Sunday morning around the refectory table in a simple service where every member of the group participated in prayers of intercessions, or readings and giving each other the sacraments of bread and wine. It was a weekend that was packed with fun, fellowship and lots of good home cooking. Already people are making their reservation for the next one.
WE WELCOME REVD CHRISTOPHER MORGAN
Revd Morgan, who has effected a Deed of Relinquishment from the Anglican Church will be ordained (sub-conditione) and welcomed into the Open Episcopal Church.
The service will take place on December 11th at 2 p.m. at the Kings Lynn Town Hall. Further information and details are available from Revd Morgan's web site.
A SERVICE OF BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
"Our Lady of the Sea", Ardinamar, Luing on August 28th at 3pm
All animals with their owners are welcome to attend.

E-Mail

BEING AND BELIEVING OUTSIDE THE BOX
Archbishop Blake will be speaking on 'Faith, ministry and social action, liberated from the power politics, outdated dogmas and the cult language of 'club' church'
September 22nd 6.30 p.m. at St Phillips Church, Earls Court Road. London. W8 6QA. Tickets from Julian Whiting. Events Director. 0789 9723620

DEDICATION OF A NEW CHAPEL
The Diocese of Scotland- The Isle of Luing
Dedication of the new, outdoor chapel to "Our Lady of The Sea" will take place before the Eucharist on Sunday July 17th at 9.30 am. Refreshments will follow.

LIVING WATER FESTIVAL
August 5th-7th
Three days of walks, fun and spiritual refreshment in amazing countryside - contact Rev Lesley Dennis

07960 419156

THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH IS CHOSEN AS A SAFE HAVEN FOR GRIEVING FAMILIES
Suicide, the tragic death of the young and those with disabling conditions
These are examples of those who turn to our church knowing they will receive sensitive and compassionate ministry, not pushing any dogma, but seeking to ensure their wishes are respected.

POST THE HOST FLOURISHES
Continuing to meet a need
A community of young Christians have asked to receive the consecrated hosts regularly so they can worship together. Others who have felt alienated from the church have been able to receive.

SKYPE MASS AND THE DAILY OFFICE
By video link
Morning Prayer, Evening Prayer and a Mass are being offered - contact 0208 304 7605 for further details

A THIRD ANGLICAN CLERIC TO JOIN THE CHURCH
Vocational applications rise
A third Anglican cleric has applied to join the Church and a fourth is considering the move. In addition, vocational applications have reached their highest level ever.

A CENTRE OF LEARNING IN THE DIOCESE OF SCOTLAND
Revd Hamilton launches discussion groups
Theologcal Dicussion every Tuesday beginning June 28 at 7.45pm. at the St Brendan Centre, Luing. Topics and details : The St Brendan Centre

AN INSPIRATIONAL DAY
Over 100 gather to celebrate Revd Mark Townsend's ordination.
Members of the Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist and URC Churches came together with Druids and Wiccans as well as those from other spiritual traditions like the Bahai faith, in a service of mutual respect and unity, that epitomised the vision of the Open Episcopal Church of an inclusive church.

BISHOP HARRISON'S RESEARCH CONTRIBUTION IN FILM
Research supported by all 5 of the U.K. Research Councils
Dr Kip Jones is the Executive Producer of "Rufus Stone" a film by Josh Appignanesi which begins filming in July.

QUIET DAY
Isle of Luing
On June 25th there will be a Quiet Day on the theme the "Inner Journey" which will include times of silence, reflection and sharing. Please email Helen for further details or to book a place.

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THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH MINISTERS AT THE HOUSE OF COMMONS
A Baptism
Bishop Jonathan Blake baptised three children in the Terrace Pavilion of the House of Commons, as a guest of Brandon Lewis M.P.

THE ARCHBISHOP WILL ATTEND GREENBELT
August 26th-29th
Bishop Jonathan Blake will be exhibiting at Greenbelt this year throughout the festival, speaking to those attending and delivering a talk, encouraging people to consider whether God is calling them to be ordained.

FIRST YEAR EXHIBITING
The Christian Resources Exhibition
This week Bishops and clergy will attend Esher to spread the good news that the Open Episcopal Church is an inclusive, loving and diverse church, ministering flexibly in any setting, offering the sacraments to all, ecumenical in belief, worship and practice with over 20,000 members and with clerics across the U.K.

DYING MATTERS - AWARENESS WEEK
'Why dying matters to me'
May 19th at Arawlay House for those in the South West. The film 'A Party for Kath' will be shown and Mr Tapper from Tapper Funeral Service will speak. Information from Father Canon John Hyde ssb. Tel:01202 466364

REVD TESS WARD'S EUCHARISTIC PRAYER
For Mark Townsend's service
Tess Ward, hospital chaplain at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre in Oxford, has written a special Eucharistic prayer for the Mass on June 18th at Leominster.

ORDINATIONS
May 8th Exeter
Bishop Harrison will ordain Dennis Oakes and Robert Moss to the Diaconate

NEW RETREAT CENTRE
Isle of Luing, Nr Oban
At the end of April the new retreat centre, The St Brendan Centre, Isle of Luing, PA34 4UD will open its doors under the watchful eye of the Reverend Helen Hamilton. Please contact Helen on 01856 873880

Peace at the retreat house

FLASH MOB WORSHIP
Revd Lesley Dennis participates
A group of young Christians in Cramlington organised a flash mob rendition of 'From everlasting to everlasting' at Cramlington's main shopping precinct last Saturday. A flash mob is where a group emerge from the crowd, perform something and then disappear back into the crowd. The people of Cramlington were very appreciative.

REVD MARK TOWNSEND IS TO JOIN THE OPEN EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Ordination in June
The Revd Mark Townsend, a former Church of England Vicar, has chosen to return his permission to officiate in the Diocese of Hereford and effected a Deed of Relinquishment. He is joining the Open Episcopal Church and will be ordained (sub-conditione) on June 18th in the Lion Ballroom, Leominster. Revd Townsend is well known across Herefordshire and beyond as a priest as well as a Stage Magician. "Amazing and Inspirational!" Uri Geller "A priest like no other!" Cherie Blair "Wonderful and heart warming" Brian Viner, The Independent "One who lives and thinks outside the box" Bp. John Shelby Spong "A Priest at the edge" Rev. Peter Owen Jones (BBCs 'Extreme Pilgrim').

DUKE OF YORK'S ROYAL MILITARY SCHOOL, DOVER
Archbishop's visit
The Chaplain, Revd Andrew Richards welcomed Archbishop Blake on March 15th to speak to the sixth form about the Open Episcopal Church.

MESSY ANGELS
Further funding award
Messy Angels has received a, 500 pound grant from the Co-op Community Fund and plans for the Living Water Festival are developing well.

NIGHT CHAPLAINCY
Fr John Hyde reports from Bournemouth
Out and about on the streets of Bournemouth with the club chaplaincy. The team go out on a Saturday night from 10.30 p.m. To 5.00 a.m. Over the last six months we have been involved in helping to respond to: 24 acts of verbal abuse, 17 acts of domestic violence, 28 physical fights, 3 sexual assaults, 31 lone females, 10 lone males, 32 drunk and incapable females, 35 drunk and incapable males, 16 emotional females, 10 emotional males, 25 under 18's, 36 people needing to get home, 28 requiring first aid, 253 slippers distributed, 938 discarded bottles collected and called out the Ambulance Service 12 times. PLEASE PRAY FOR THE WORK.

ECUMENICAL HEALING SERVICE
St Magnus Cathedral, Orkney
All are warmly invited to this service on Candlemas at 12 Noon

NEW GENERAL ELECT
The Salvation Army
The Open Episcopal Church sends Christian greetings on Commissioner Linda Bond's appointment as the 19th General of the Salvation Army.

ECUMENICAL SERVICE
For the Bethany Trust
Bishop Gillham arranged the Asda carol service, participated in by all local churches, which raised, 375 pounds for the Bethany Trust, an Edinburgh based charity that provides night shelters for homeless youngsters

FURTHER EDUCATION CHAPLAINCIES
Steering Committee
Bishop Gillham has been invited to sit on this multi-denominational group examining strengthening the links between chaplaicies.

Are You ALL INclusive?
The International Council of Community Churches
The 2011 ICCC Annual Conference will be held at the Bally's Las Vegas Hotel in Las Vegas, NV from July 24-27, 2011. Updates and links can be found throughout their website. You can also contact the Council office for information

THE MINOR ORDERS
Doorkeeper
On February 8th we look forward to raising Jonathan Chapman to the Minor Order of Doorkeeper as part of his chosen vocational path to the priesthood.

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY
Our observance
Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) is a day for everyone. We need to pause to remember the millions of people who were murdered or whose lives were changed beyond recognition during the Holocaust, under Nazi persecution,and in subsequent genocides in Cambodia, Bosnia, Rwanda and Darfur. The Open Episcopal Church in the South West held a service with a film, prayers, a time of silence and candle lighting.

ORKNEY ECUMENICAL RETREAT CENTRE
Peace and Prayer
The Centre exists to provide a place of hospitality and spirituality for all. It provides a still place for those seeking a time of meditation. The Reverend Helen Hamilton is available to provide spiritual counsel, retreat direction and sacrament for those who require it. Simple overnight hospitality is available on application. There is no charge, though guests may wish to make a donation according to their means. Helen has lived and worked for various churches on Scottish islands for many years. She is passionate about sharing Christ with others, enabling Christians on their journey, Christian healing and ecumenism. Prior to being ordained she worked as a teacher, prison Governor and an Anglican, religious Sister. The retreat centre is a small, orcadian farmhouse, which stands on the hillside overlooking Scapa Flow. A chapel in the eaves reached by a steep stairway is always available for private prayer. Daily prayer is said and the Eucharist regularly celebrated. Accommodation is available for small groups on a daily basis. Please contact: ecumenical@openepiscopalchurch.org

01856 873880

Dawn from the retreat house

NEWS FROM MESSY ANGELS
Cramlington
Fully Inclusive Communion service at Mayfield Community Centre, Brownrigg Drive, Cramlington NE23 5TQ first Sunday of every month beginning on 6th February. Messy Angels now on 2nd and 4th Sunday of every month. Living Water Christian Festival at Springhill Farm 5th 6th 7th August - contact Rev Lesley Dennis

07960 419156 - musicians and singers needed! Messy Angels recieved a 100 pound donation for a Christmas party from Tony - a local surgeon, which was very much appreciated and the children enjoyed the Nativity session and the party that followed.

CHRISTIAN RESOURCES EXHIBITION
May 10th - 13th Esher
The Open Episcopal Church will be exhibiting at Esher for the first time this year.

World Aids Day
Bournemouth
On World Aids Day December 1st in Bournemouth, Dorset there was the inauguration of an AIDS memorial comprising some 200 artist designed tiles each representing a person in Dorset who died of AIDS, all wall mounted in a prominent location close to the pier

The unveiling was attended by the Deputy Mayor of Bournemouth. A tile was donated by Genesis Fellowship & Bishop Stewart is a trustee of DAMSET the charity which organised & completed it. This was followed by the official World AIDS day service hosted by the Church of England on behalf of Body Positive Dorset. Fr. John Hyde participated in the service & has now received an invitation to a meal with the local town centre Rector arising from this service & his ministry in the nightclub chaplaincy

Ordination
Tamworth, Midlands Diocese
The Reverend Deacon Simon Mapp BTh will be ordained as a Priest on 12th January 2011 at 2:30 p.m. in Tamworth Parish Church. All are welcome to attend

Messy Angels
Cramlington
Messy Angels, a club running for family groups in the Open Episcopal Church at Cramlington, has just been awarded a grant of 750 pounds by Northumberland County Council from their Community Chest fund. This will enable the club to continue in operation for at least 5 to 6 months and is welcome news for those attending. For more information on the club contact Rev Lesley Dennis

Conference 2011
Margate
It has been announced that the next Open Episcopal Church Conference will be held in Margate on 10th and 11th October 2011

Ecumenical Officer Appointed
Provincial
The Reverend Helen Hamilton, priest in charge of the Open Episcopal Church work in Kirkwall, has been appointed as the Provincial Ecumenical Officer. All ecumenical enquiries may be made to Helen at ecumenical@openepiscopalchurch.org

Christians Against Poverty
Scotland
Bishop David of the Diocese of Scotland is to become an Ambassador and Speaker for the international charity organisation Christians Against Poverty. He will undertake training for this role in December

Saint Magnus Cathedral
Kirkwall, Orkney
Commencing 27th October 2010 a service of Holy Communion will be held at 12 noon in St Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall. All are welcome to attend this service and to partake of communion

Dorchester
River of Life Centre, Durngate
The Open Episcopal Church of the South West Diocese is pleased to announce that a celebration of Holy Mass will take place on Sunday 3rd October at 11:00 a.m. in The River of Life Centre, Durngate, Salisbury Street, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 9EP. The Celebrant will be Canon Fr John Hyde SSB and the guest preacher will be Fr Tim Hodge. All are welcome. More information can be obtained from The Right Reverend Stewart Harrison on 01202 763609 or Fr John Hyde on 01202 46636

Ordination to the Priesthood
Cramlington
The Reverend Lesley Dennis, Deacon in Charge at Cramlington, will be ordained as a Priest during the annual church conference October 18th-19th 2010

Living Water
Refresh Your Soul in Northumberland
The Open Episcopal Church in Cramlington is planning to hold a Christian festival on the weekend of Friday to Sunday 5th, 6th & 7th August 2011 at Springhill Farm, Seahouses. There will be a marquee on the grassed area outside and as there is a camping and caravan site at the farm there is plenty of room for anyone planning to attend for the whole weekend. Watch this space for more information on the activities planned for the festival

New Community Cafe
Mayfield Community Centre, Cramlington
A new community cafe is planned in Cramlington to be held at Mayfield Community Centre and it is hoped to be open by October. More details will follow soon

Messy Angels Summer Fair
Cramlington
Messy Angels is becoming well established in Cramlington with new families coming every week and averaging 20 to 25 attendees at most sessions with 41 attending on Sunday 22nd August. To enable Messy Angels to continue a Summer Fair was held on Sunday 29th August, raising 220 pounds to keep the ministry going for a while yet. A further fundraising disco and buffet is planned to be held at the local social club at the end of October and will help to ensure the future of Messy Angels. Messy Angels now have their own page on facebook

St Magus Cathedral
Kirkwall
The Reverend Deacon Helen May Hamilton was ordained as a Priest during a Eucharistic celebration held in St Magnus' Cathedral, Kirkwall, Orkney on Saturday 21st August 2010

New Retreat Centre Open Day
St Ola
ORKNEY ECUMENICAL RETREAT CENTRE
SUNNYSIDE, ST OLA, KIRKWALL KW 15 1TR,

OPEN DAY SEPTEMBER 14TH 2010

10.30 EUCHARIST
BRING AND SHARE LUNCH
3.00 4.00 MEDITATION
TEA
4.30 EVENING PRAYER

COUNSELLING, SPIRITUAL DIRECTION, GUIDED RETREATS,
RESIDENTIAL ACCOMMODATION AVAILABLE

REV. HELEN HAMILTON 01856 873880

ACTS
Scotland
At a recent members meeting of Action of Churches Together in Scotland (ACTS) an application to join that was submitted by the Open Episcopal Church in Scotland was rejected on the basis that the church did not fully meet the second requirement, which is "a willingness to work ecumenically", and that it did not meet the third requirement which is "to be organised on at least a Scottish national level". As the Open Episcopal Church has fully demonstrated its willingness to work ecumenically but has been prevented from doing so largely due to hostility from several other churches and because the Open Episcopal Church is a UK wide organisation with congregations, missions and other ministries stretching from Bournemouth on the south coast of England to Kirkwall in the north of Scotland, clarification has been sought from the next members meeting of ACTS in an attempt to discern why our membership application has been rejected and what, precisely, the church needs to do to conform to the membership requirement of that organisation

Messy Angels
Cramlington
Messy Angels is an all age, all inclusive worship session that includes lots of creativity, arts, crafts, storytelling, music, worship and prayer followed by Sunday tea together. It will take place at Mayfields Community Centre in Cramlington beginning 6th June 3.00pm til 4.30pm

Conference 2010
London
The next national conference of the Open Episcopal Church will take place in London on the 18th and 19th of October, 2010

Fr John, Nightclub Chaplain
Bournemouth
Fr John of the Open Episcopal Church's Genesis Fellowship in Bournemouth found himself in the news recently for his work on the Bournemouth Nightclub scene. More details can be found here

Ordination of a new Deacon
Cramlington
The Reverend Lesley Dennis was ordained as a deacon of the Open Episcopal Church in front of a local congregation of around 150 people on Saturday 16th January 2010 at Beaconhill Community Centre, Langdale Drive, Cramlington NE24 8EH. During the service a collection was taken for the Haiti disaster raising over 400 pounds

Scottish Parliament
Scotland
The Bishop of Scotland will address the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday 20 January 2010 and will lead the parliamentary 'Time for Reflection' at 2:30 p.m.

Ecumenical Participation
National
At a recent meeting of the Archbishop's Council, the decision was made to proceed with applications to the ecumenical bodies of the United Kingdom, commencing with an immediate application to Action of Churches Together in Scotland (ACTS). This decision reaffirms the intent of the Open Episcopal Church to take its place in the life of the Christian Church nationwide and to work together with other Christian churches for visible unity

St Cecilia's Oratory
Lichfield
St Cecilia's Oratory has opened in Lichfield. Lichfield is in the Midlands Diocese

Open Faith
Midlands Diocese
The new mission in the Midlands Diocese, "Open Faith", is now open. All are welcome

Ordinands In Training
National
Several new candidates have been accepted by the Archbishop's Council and are currently in training for ordination as deacons

Online Charity Shop
Scotland
The Diocese of Scotland has partnered with Amazon to provide an Online Charity Shop. All commission earned from this enterprise will go to further the charitable purposes of the diocese, which is a registered charity (SC037428)

London 2012
The next Olympic Games
The Diocese of London & South East England is to join with other local churches in providing a Christian presence at the next Olympic Games

ICCC Conference
Indianapolis, USA
The International Council of Community Churches 60th Annual Conference will be held in Indianapolis, Illinois July 19-23, 2010. Updates and links can be found throughout their website. You can also contact the Council office for information

War Memorial Dedication

Photograph by Gary Baker copyright West Lothian Council 2009
Used with permission

Bishop David Gillham of the Scottish diocese, in his capacity as Padre to the Livingston branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland, led a team of ecumenical clergy to re-dedicate the Livingston War Memorial after its move to a new home at the recently completed Civic Centre. Bishop David returned the following week, Remembrance Sunday, to lead the annual Civic Service of Remembrance