Items filtered by date: June 2025
Hosted by Bishop Malcom Macnaughton, one of our wonderful young people Hadassah, and the Growing Younger Team (on one of the hottest days of the year so far!), over 100 youth and children’s leaders, parents, and clergy from across the Diocese of Derby gathered for our first annual Growing a Younger Church Conference.
Our Diocesan vision is ‘The kingdom of God; good news for all - transformed lives, growing church, and building community.’ This obviously includes children, young people, and families (CYPF) and one of our priorities as a Diocese is to grow a younger church.
On the day, we heard stories about ways that God is moving across our parishes, and shared practical solutions on how to join him in what he is doing, as well as taking time to acknowledge the challenges that come with all things CYPF and the hard work invested by all those involved.
Fuelled with tea, coffee, and pastries, attendees heard throughout the day from keynote speakers including Naomi Wadswoth from Open Doors Youth, Nicola Wigglesworth from The Child Behaviour Network and Andy Saunders from Lighthouse Ministries, as well as other wonderful speakers from across the diocese and beyond. It was fantastic to hear from such a diverse range of speakers and topics, and to see so many church communities from across the diocese represented.
The day was a real opportunity to connect and chat with others (some folk even picnicking outside in the beautiful grounds of St John’s Walton), and the chance to discover the part that we can all play in growing a younger church.
We hope that all our attendees left not only with some fabulous goody bags, but that each person left feeling connected, encouraged and equipped to nurture the faith of CYPF in their own contexts.
Feedback was overwhelmingly positive from participants around the diocese. Comments included:
“It was a really good day – the best youth training I have attended!”
"I wanted to say how helpful the day was. It was great to meet other people and learn from their experience and ideas, and I thought the variety of speakers available was brilliant. I came away feeling energized and excited. Thank you for arranging the conference!"
“Really inspiring”
“Thank you, thank you, thank you!”
To close the day, Bishop Malcom shared this Diocesan Growing Younger Vision Prayer:
“Gracious God, in your mercy and for your glory, renew, reshape, and revive our children, young people, and families. Instil in them generous faith, courageous hope, and life-giving love, so that, as active young disciples, their transformed lives may inspire the faith of others, and together we may grow in greater love with you. Through their witness, may the good news of your kingdom be received by all. Amen.”
A huge thank you to all who came together to make the day a success and chose to spend a sunny Saturday in June committing to growing a younger church!
Please email growingyounger@derby.anglican.org if you would like any more information on the seminars, resources or talks from the day.
The Diocese of Derby Diocesan Synod met for the 146th time on Saturday 14 June, at St Werburgh’s Church in Derby City. Synod gathered for a day of worship, updates and bold conversation, covering everything from diocesan finances to disability access and the role of education in our schools.
Opening worship and vision
The morning session was chaired by Canon Julian Holywell, chair of the House of Clergy. The day began with prayer, scripture, and remembrance of the late Rev Prebendary John Baines, celebrated for his humour and ministry, and life of service, most recently at St George’s Church, New Mills.
Before business, Synod gathered for worship, led by Rev Dawn Knight, Area Dean for South East Derbyshire Deanery, which included a reading from Romans 3:21 to 31 – that all who believe are ‘…justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.’
Opening reflections, led by Rt Rev Malcolm Macnaughton, Bishop of Repton (who was acting as president for the meeting while Bishop Libby is on sabbatical) focused on being ‘on the front foot’, embracing faith, mission, and creative possibility despite current pressures. +Malcolm referenced the joys and challenges of parish life, the upcoming ordinations of deacons and priests, and the national Thy Kingdom Come initiative, which recently marked its tenth year, pointed to signs of renewal and resilience.
Annual General Meeting and financial overview
The meeting moved seamlessly into the Annual General Meeting of the Diocesan Board of Finance (DBF). Canon Mark Titterton was reappointed as Executive Chair of the and members approved the 2023 financial statements. Martyn Marples, Director of Finance, noted an overspend of £265,000 and investment gains of £1.3 million, lifting net assets to £110 million, though these have fallen back since by £2.6 million due to turmoil in the global financial markets. He also highlighted that free cash flow remains under pressure. He announced a shift to a total return investment strategy, allowing sustainable use of capital gains to support ministry, especially stipends, while preserving long-term asset value.
Will Hagger, Diocesan Secretary, reported on safeguarding improvements, streamlining governance, and development of a multi-million-pound bid to the national church’s Strategic Mission and Ministry Investment Board.
Martyn also shared that, following a thorough assessment by Bishop’s Council and other diocesan governance structures, the DBF is viable as a going concern. It was also recommended that BHP be reappointed as auditors.
The floor was opened for questions from Synod members, covering topics such as parish finance pressures (especially common fund expectations), sustainability of clergy numbers and lay ministry pathways, transparency about diocesan budgets and spending priorities, and call for creativity and urgency. Martyn reminded Synod of the need to make the most of the current window we have around finances, and that the decisions we take now will help offset making even harder decisions three to five years from now.
Derby’s response to so-called ‘Hereford Motion’
The second session was chaired by Rev Bryony Taylor, and included a debate brought to Diocesan Synod from Carsington Deanery. At its meeting on 1 February, Carsington Deanery Synod passed a motion calling for a debate at Diocesan Synod on a proposal to call upon the Church Commissioners to redistribute over £2 billion back to Diocesan Stipends Funds. This motion was first passed by the Diocese of Hereford last year, and will be debated at General Synod in July.
Synod debated the motion, which was moved by Carsington Deanery representative Peter Kelsey:
“That this Synod:
(i) call upon the Church Commissioners and Archbishops Council to undertake everything necessary to effect a redistribution of financial resources directly to Diocesan Stipend Funds to reflect the value of contributions made by Diocesan Boards of Finance to the Church of England Funded Pension Scheme since it was established by the settlement of 1997 (£2.6 billion)
(ii)call upon Diocesan Boards of Finance to manage the funds redistributed as a result of the above to support parish ministry in the ways discerned locally to be most effective in enabling growth and sustaining the Church of England's commitment to be a Christian presence in every community.”
A debate followed that addressed the desire for funds to be released to fund clergy posts that could sustain or revitalise parishes that have been struggling. It was argued that after a long period of the Church Commissioner’s fund benefiting from legacy contributions made by the dioceses, now is the time for some of that money to be returned and put towards funding frontline mission and ministry. It was also noted by Synod delegates opposed to the motion that it did not solve the underlying issue that parishes face around their financial health, and that these funds would only delay the inevitable. It was argued that releasing more money into sustaining parishes without focusing on the core task of the church, to share the gospel and bring people into faith in Jesus Christ, would undermine the effectiveness of what the Church is called to do. It was also noted that any funds released, should the Hereford Motion be passed by General Synod, would be to fund stipendiary clergy only, and that parishes would not be able to be access these funds for spending on mission and ministry at their own discretion.
The motion was passed by approximately three quarters of synod in support, with the remaining voting against or abstaining.
Accessibility and disability inclusion in focus – the symbols project
A presentation from Carl Veal and Lynda Herbert on behalf the Diocese of Derby Disability Inclusion Action Group (DIAG) highlighted the need for greater accessibility and inclusion in church life. They spoke movingly drawing on their own experiences of the barriers that can exclude people from full participation in worship and community.
They introduced the web-based self-assessment tool that DIAG have produced. Inspired by the accessibility legend used by places like National trust, and with sponsorship from the Archbishops’ Council, DIAG have commissioned a series of symbols that can be used on church literature and publicity to highlight the accessibility features of their buildings. These include symbols covering the presence of accessibility ramps and toilet facilities, hearing loops, and measures to recognise and serve neurodiverse people.
The full catalogue of symbols and how to use them can be found online at www.accessiblechurch.net
Diocesan Board of Education: Challenges and opportunities
The afternoon session was chaired by Peter Kelsey, this time in his capacity as Chair of the House of Laity. It included a presentation from Carolyn Shoyer, Diocesan Director of Education, around the work of the Diocesan Board of Education (DBE), sharing updates on school partnerships, collective worship, RE provision and spiritual development.
She talked about strengthening relationships between church schools and parishes, advocated for Christian distinctiveness in education, and navigating the landscape of national policy and inspection frameworks. Synod was invited to consider how churches can better support schools as places of hope, hospitality and leadership.
Final deliberations
Final pieces of business included receiving a written report on Safeguarding, notification of upcoming conversations around Living in Love and Faith in both the Houses of Clergy and Laity, and finally formal notice of amendments to Canon law by General Synod, relayed by Diocesan Registrar Ian Blaney.
The meeting closed by sharing ‘the grace’.
Diocesan Synod gathers again on Saturday 18 October at St John’s Walton, Chesterfield.
Statement from the Archbishop of York on the plane crash in Ahmedabad
It is terrifying, and heartbreaking, to hear the news of the plane crash in Ahmedabad. Carrying 242 people, including many UK nationals, the plane crashed into a residential area.
My prayers are with all the victims who were on the plane, those on the ground, and all those who are going through the unimaginable suffering of losing loved ones so unexpectedly.
I’m praying for everyone affected, and hoping beyond hope that more survivors will be found.
Stephen Cottrell, Archbishop of York.
In the Diocese of Derby our hearts go out to all those in the Gujarati community across the midlands who have lost members of their family in this terrible tragedy. We stand with you in sorrow, and pray for you as all those affected seek to both to take in what has happened, and to begin the hard journey of grief. You are in our prayers.
Malcolm Macnaughton –Bishop of Repton
Full time, permanent stipendiary role
Set in a lively, thriving market town in the High Peak these two churches are working together across the area pioneering exciting mission amongst children, young people and in a deprived housing estate.
They seek an enthusiastic, pastorally hearted, missional priest to work with them to:
• Grow the churches, reaching out to more people and making new disciples
• Nurture a rich variety of church experience and worship tradition, reviewing and refreshing the mechanisms and provision that support church members in deepening their faith and encouraging lay ministry
• Develop the ministry, mission and community partnerships already in place and create new initiatives and partnerships in response to identified needs and missional opportunities
• Lead the Growing Faith Hub across Glossopdale, investing in work with children and young people, actively recruiting and training volunteers, strengthening relationships with schools and children/youth organisations, exploring potential for forming new worshipping communities with schools
• Increase the Christian presence in Simmondley and re-establish a church presence in Gamesley
• Support the churches in becoming financially sustainable into the future
You would be supported by a strong team of volunteers with a heart and passion for reaching out in creative and innovative ways and a commitment to team working across boundaries to build God’s kingdom.
The Diocese of Derby is committed to safeguarding. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. For information on safeguarding, recruitment checks and how we process your data, visit https://bit.ly/DODSaferRecruitment
Enquiries to: Archdeacon of Derbyshire Peak and Dales, nicky.fenton@derby.anglican.org
Closing date: 12 noon, Friday 18 July 2025
Interview dates: Thursday 7 August 2025
Notification of pending faculty petition for Sutton-on-the-Hill St Michael, dated 8th June 2025
See attached Form 4a (PDF)
If you wish to object to any of the works or proposals, you should write giving reasons for your objection to:
The Diocesan Registrar at 1 The Sanctuary, Westminster, London SW1P 3JT
Derby.registry@1thesanctuary.com
so that it reaches the Registry no later than 21 days after the day of this notice (ie by 30 June 2025), stating your name and postal address, and whether you live in the parish and/or your name is entered on the electoral roll of the parish or any other capacity in which you write.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of Thy Kingdom Come - a world-wide prayer movement inviting Christians around the world to prayer. Launched by the Church of England’s archbishops it now takes place in over 170 countries and involves 85 different denominations. Bishop Malcolm has been visiting churches and schools in Carsington, Bonsall, Wirksworth, Elton and Kirk Ireton - cycling between venues!
We have also asked people around the diocese to reflect on the Lord's Prayer, you can watch the video on our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/DioceseofDerby
12 June
The Revd Christine (Chris) Nowak will be licensed as Assistant Curate (Associate Priest-SSM) of the benefice of Chapel-en-le-Frith and of the benefice of Chinley with Buxworth and Hayfield, Diocese of Derby, on Monday 14th July 2025 at 7 pm at St Mary’s Church, Chinley by the Bishop of Repton, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
5 June
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dwayne Engh, Ordained Ministries Development Officer and Assistant Curate (Associate Priest) of the Cathedral Church of All Saints Derby, Diocese of Derby, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Ashbourne with Mapleton, of the church of Ashbourne St John, of the benefice of Clifton and of the benefice of Norbury with Snelston, in the same diocese, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd Dr Ailsa Hunt, Assistant Curate of the benefice of Kirk Hallam, Diocese of Derby, has also been appointed Assistant Curate of the benefice of West Hallam and Mapperley with Stanley in the same diocese. Ailsa will start in her new post on Saturday, 28th June 2025, the day of her priesting at Derby Cathedral.
The Bishop of Repton is delighted to announce that the Revd David Ridley, Team Vicar in the benefice of Sittingbourne with Bobbing, Diocese of Canterbury, has been appointed Priest-in-Charge of the benefice of Hadfield and of the benefice of Glossop, Diocese of Derby, subject to all legal and safeguarding requirements being fulfilled.
Utility Bill Increases
Several parishes have recently reported significant increases in their utility bills over the past year. One of the most common reasons for this is the expiration of a fixed-term energy contract, which often results in being moved to a more expensive “out-of-contract” rate. These contracts typically last between 1 to 3 years and can easily be overlooked.
Understanding Your Utility Charges
Utility bills generally consist of two main components:
- Standing Charge – A daily fixed fee, regardless of usage.
- Unit Rate – The cost per unit of energy used (usually measured in kWh).
If your monthly bills seem unusually high, it’s worth checking both your standing charge and unit rate. As a rule of thumb, if your standing charge exceeds 100p per day for either gas or electricity, it’s a good idea to contact your supplier. Ask for your contract’s end date and, if you’re out of contract or nearing the end, consider renegotiating your rates.
Tips for Renegotiating Your Contract
- Know Your Usage: Smaller parishes with lower energy consumption might benefit from a plan with a slightly higher unit rate but a lower standing charge.
- Compare Services: Some suppliers, like British Gas Lite, offer cheaper rates but only provide online support. If having access to phone support is important to you, factor that into your decision.
- Plan Ahead: Contact your supplier about two months before your contract ends. This gives you time to shop around and puts you in a stronger position to negotiate.
Success Story
One parish recently had separate suppliers for gas and electricity. The treasurer contacted the gas supplier two months before the contract ended and successfully negotiated a new rate of under 6p per unit for a 3-year term. His key advice: track your contract end dates and start negotiations early—suppliers are more flexible when they know you have time to explore other options.
This year sees the 10th anniversary of Thy Kingdom Come, a prayer movement launched by the archbishops of Canterbury and York 10 years ago.
Since its launch, Christians in 172 countries now participate and more than 85 denominations are involved.
Thy Kingdom Come is truly global in its reach!
Thy Kingdom Comes focuses on the 10 days between Ascension Day and our celebration of Pentecost.
Think back to the story of the disciples after Easter, waiting patiently in Jerusalem, full of expectation and anticipation, for the gift of the Spirit which Jesus hadnpromised.
If they were honest, it was all a bit frightening as they didn’t quite know what the gift would involve.
They may not have realised what the impact of the Spirit would be – for them all it would be a costly gift involving the giving of their own lives in witness to the risen Jesus - yet they waited in
obedience to Jesus’ instructions.
This year the focus is on the words of the Lord’s Prayer, the prayer that Jesus taught his disciples to pray and which we pray in every act of Anglican public worship.
The published materials say: ‘the prayer Jesus taught us transcends the ages, uniting people across different denominations, generations, and nations.
We believe that now, more than ever, we need to pray Thy Kingdom Come over our homes, communities, nations, and our world.’
The resources include reflections on the Lord’s Prayer from a range of different voices from across the world to help us experience something new in a prayer that many of us are familiar with.
Thy Kingdom Come has travelled a long way in 10 years.
Let’s engage with it this year and become part of the story with global Christians.
Let’s enter the hope and expectation that the first disciples experienced in those days before the first Pentecost in Jerusalem.
Let’s create an opportunity every day in the 10 days between the Ascension of Jesus and the gift of the Holy Spirit, to notice where God is active in the world, in the church and in our own lives, and
to commit ourselves to cooperate with God’s work.
Why not visit thykingdomcom.global and see how you can get involved in your parish?
There are resources to help the Church pray and especially there is an encouragement to pray for individuals close to us.
We are encouraged to pray for five people each that we with them may know the gift of God’s Spirit in their daily lives.
On Friday, 30 May, from 7pm to 10pm, Derby Cathedral is holding a prayer vigil for Thy Kingdom Come to which all are invited.
Why not hold a vigil in your parish church and open your own parish community to the growing involvement in Thy Kingdom Come
The Very Revd Dr Peter Robinson
Dean of Derby
The Standards are broad statements of what the Church of England wants to achieve in the most important dimensions of its safeguarding work.
Each Standard has several ‘What Good Looks Like’ indicators, to identify safeguarding strengths as well as areas for learning and development.
Using the Standards is NOT a compliance-based, tick-box exercise.
The Standards and their indicators have been developed over a three-year period, working with dioceses, cathedrals, parishes and victims and survivors and were approved nationally in 2023.
A series of tools and resources have been developed to assist in measuring or evidencing of how well the Standards are being met, as well as help share best practice.
There are 3 handy documents for parishes to use: Parish Booklet Parish Poster 1 Parish Poster 2
