News and Events
Nicky and Michael Fenton invite you to an open house event at their new home and archdeaconry office in Baslow.
Artisan sausage rolls, scones and a range of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks will be served.
Friday 25 October, 2-5pm
Saturday 26 October, 2-5pm
Sunday 27 October, 2-5pm
Everybody is welcome.
Either drop in or stay for the whole event but please RSVP using the link below for catering purposes:
Location: The Old Vicarage, Church Street, Baslow, DE45 1RY (the house is through the churchyard behind the church)
Mobility: Parking for disabled / people with mobility difficulties is available in the driveway and limited parking behind the church.
>> RSVP here
Bishop Libby has presented around 140 Bishop's Badges to those nominated for missional long service and missional innovation awards this year.
The special services, Bishop's Badge Schools and A Celebration of Lay Ministry, took place in Derby Cathedral in June, September and October.
The annual presentations celebrate ministry and service in churches and communities, recognising the distinguished service and dedication of many individuals contributing in Jesus’s name to the mission of their church.
And in schools, children are honoured for their commitment to generous faith, courageous hope and life-giving love.
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In 1927, the Diocese of Derby was founded and Bishop Edmund Courtenay Pearce, the first Bishop of Derby, arranged for a medal to be struck to celebrate this new beginning.
Copies of the medal were presented to prominent members of the diocese and to all those being confirmed in that year.
In recent years, the seventh Bishop of Derby, the Rt Revd Dr Alastair Redfern, arranged for a replica of this medal to be minted and mounted in the form of a badge.
As the eighth Bishop of Derby, Bishop Libby continues this tradition.
Each year these badges are awarded based upon recommendations made to the bishop, as a gesture from the diocese to acknowledge outstanding service to God's church.
Receiving their Bishop's Badges on Sunday, 6 October, were:
Awards for Missional Innovation
Andrew Baldwin, St Michael, Stanton by Bridge
Caroline Cooke, Holy Trinity, Ilkeston
Helen Crisp, Holy Trinity, Ilkeston
Rachel Hewitt, St Michael with St Mary, Melbourne
Richard Maltby, Holy Trinity, Matlock Bath
Peter Newberry, Holy Trinity, Matlock Bath
Awards for Missional Long Service
Clive Avery, St Michael with St Mary, Melbourne
Hilary Bartlett, All Saints, Bakewell
Nigel Bartlett, All Saints, Bakewell
Phillip Briggs, St Michael's, Pleasley
Mike Bromby, Christ Church, Cotmanhay and Shipley
Elizabeth Brookes, Boulton St Mary
Kate Bunting, Cathedral Church of All Saints, Derby
Alan Burlison, Glossop, All Saints
Catherine Butler-Worrall, Christ Church, Cotmanhay and Shipley
Eileen Chadwick, St John the Evangelist, Hazelwood
Elaine Chappell, St Leonard's, Scarcliffe
Catherine Clark, St John the Baptist, Tibshelf
Jodie Clarke, St Bartholomew, Old Whittington
Christine Dale, Holy Cross Church, Upper Langwith
Jackie Day, St Barnabas, Derby
Anne Doody, St Peter and St Paul, Old Brampton
David Edwards, St James, Smisby
Liz Eley, St Peter's, Littleover & Blagreaves
Phil Eley, St Peter's, Littleover & Blagreaves
Gill Flatman, St Edmund's, Allestree
Richard Flatman, St Edmund's, Allestree
Julie Franks, St John the Evangelist, Newbold with Dunston
Valerie Gamble, St Michael's, Pleasley
Michael Halls, St Oswald's, Ashbourne with St Mary's, Mappleton
Cathryn Haywood, St Michael's, Willington
Michael Hyde, St Oswald's, Ashbourne with St Mary's, Mappleton
George Johnson, St Wystan's, Repton
Louise Jones, St Barnabas, New Whittington
Anne Knyhynyckyi, All Saints, Wingerworth
Pauline Leigh, Holy Trinity and Christ Church, Chesterfield
Malcolm Lewins, St Michael's, Willington
Carol Lewins, St Michael's Willington
Judith Lovett, Loundsley Green Church (LEP)
Pat Mann, St Mark's, Winshill
Keith Mann, St Mark's, Winshill
Margaret Matthews, St Michael's, Kirk Langley
Gloria Methven, St Mark's, Winshill
Hamish Methven, St Mark's, Winshill
Godfrey Meynell, St Michael's, Kirk Langley
Rick Naylor, All Saints, Bakewell
Russell Parrish, St Barnabas, New Whittington
Pamela Pickard, Holy Trinity, Shirebrook
Mary Plevey, St Michael and All Angels, Brimington
Sheila Rice, All Saints, Heath with St Albans, Holmewood
Claire Riley, St Leonard's, Scarcliffe
Wendy Savage, St Michael's, Sutton-on-the-Hill
Carol Sharpe, St Bartholomew, Old Whittington
Tim Swift, St Bartholomew, Old Whittington
Pete Taylor, St Matthew's Church, Darley Abbey
Sandra Tye, All Saints, Heath with St Albans, Holmewood
Susan Wareing, St Barnabas, Derby
Patricia Whale, St Helen, Etwall
Dorothy Wibberley, St Bartholomew, Old Whittington
Michael Wilson, Glossop, All Saints
Richard Wood, St Edmund's, Allestree
Paul Woodhouse-Severn, St Peter and St Paul, Old Brampton
Christine Woodward, Benefice of West Hallam & Mapperley with Stanley
Receiving their Bishop's Badges on Sunday, 15 September, were:
Awards for Missional Innovation
Philippa Buchanan, St John, Long Eaton
Lucy Coleman, St Michael and All Angels, Brimington
Rosemary Corfield, St Anne's, Derby
Christine Hill, St Michael and All Angels, Brimington
Kevin Jones, St Peter, Elmton with St Mary Magdelene, Creswell
Robert Wheat, St Michael, Stanton by Bridge
Awards for Missional Long Service
Rosemary Annable, Cathedral Church of All Saints, Derby
Carol Austin, All Saints, Wingerworth
Frank Bagshaw, Cathedral Church of All Saints, Derby
David Baldry, Ashford-in-the-Water
Marlene Bennett MBE, St Martin, Alfreton
Stuart Boon, St Bartholomew and St Luke's, Derby
Ann Capstick, Glossop, All Saints
Christopher Charlton, Derby Diocese
Carole Clay, St Bartholomew and St Luke's, Derby
Tom Corfield, St Anne's, Derby
Margaret Crosdale, St Katherine's, Rowsley
Les Dodd, Cathedral Church of All Saints, Derby
Sue Elson, St Mary the Virgin, Newton Solney
Jennifer Hogg, St John the Baptist, Tibshelf
Hilary Hull, Ashford-in-the-Water
Janet Jordan, St Michael and All Angels, Brimington
John Loveless, St Edmund's, Castleton
Derek Marbeck, Glossop, All Saints
Diana Marshall, All Saints, South Wingfield
Maggie Mellish, St George, Ticknall
David Meredith, Christ Church, Belper
Cheryl Mulvey, St Peter's, Hope
Tim Norman, St Mary the Virgin, Newton Solney
Pamela Pickard, Holy Trinity, Shirebrook
Brenda Pickford, Glossop, All Saints
Christine Pycroft, Glossop, All Saints
Lesley Richardson, Glossop, All Saints
Barrie Rogers, St Mary the Virgin, Newton Solney
Richard Taylor, Derby Diocese
Eileen Margaret Taylor, St Michael and All Angels, South Normanton
Lynn Warren, St Katherine's, Rowsley
John Whitfield, St Edmund's , Castleton
Keith Womble, St Lawrence, Whitwell with All Saints, Steetley
In the Franciscan pattern of daily readings which cover all aspects of Franciscan life, today's (19th September) reflection is entitled ‘The Third Way of Service: Work’.
In the life of the Franciscan order, three ways of service to God and humankind are important: work, study and prayer.
Work as service to God feels important to reflect on, because let’s face it, after we leave school, our work – however that is defined for you – takes up the greatest chunk of our week.
In the manual of the Third Order of the Society of St Francis, the reflection for the 19th day of the month reads: Jesus took on himself the form of a servant. He came not to be served but to serve. He went about doing good: healing the sick, preaching the Good News to the poor, and binding up the broken hearted.
Our work as Christians might involve a mixture of paid and voluntary roles, it might be focused on church life or lived out in the wider world – more often than not a combination of both.
In the life of Jesus we see the example of servanthood – of Jesus taking the ‘form' of servant.
The language of servanthood is challenging in our modern world where we want the innate dignity and worth of all people to be seen and honoured.
People might have leadership and management roles that involve steering the work of others but, increasingly in the business world, so-called ‘flat hierarchies’ are becoming the norm where all team members are regarded as equal with their tasks being what differentiates one colleague from another.
The Apostle Paul talked about there being one body with many parts (1 Corinthians 12), all unique contributions to the whole.
Our work and our service can contribute powerfully to the work of God in the world.
There is something especially profound when this is done on a voluntary basis where people who care for something give their time generously.
In June, September and October, there are Bishop’s Badge service where, this year, a total of 142 children and adults receive the Bishop of Derby’s badge in recognition of their contribution to the life of our churches and schools.
All who receive the Bishop’s Badge are hard-working volunteers who engage in service that honours God and helps others.
At the three Bishop’s Badge services the highlight of the service is two-fold.
First, the commendation of each candidate for the Bishop’s Badge detailing their particular contribution.
Second, seeing the joyful emotions of the recipient of the badge as it's presented by the Bishop.
Work done in the service of God, our worshipping communities and society is an important outworking of our Christian faith and a way we partner with God in unveiling his Kingdom in Derbyshire and parts of Staffordshire.
Wherever you serve and in whatever from that service takes – thank you!
Heavenly Father,
As Jesus came to be served but to serve,
we ask you to bless all who, following in his steps,
give themselves to the service of others,
that with wisdom, patience and courage
They may minister to the needy, outcast, stranger and enemy,
For the love of him who laid down his life for us,
Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
The Ven Matthew Trick
Archdeacon of Derby City and South Derbyshire
We love all the creative and different ways churches are engaging with their parishes and beyond.
Our vision is The Kingdom of God, Good News for All and it's great to see how so many churches in the Diocese of Derby are sharing stories of their success in achieving transformed lives through growing church and building community.
Here are a few of your social media stories that have caught our eye recently:
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St Alkmund's Church in Derby is to host one of a series of vocational events for those who are disabled or neurodivergent.
The event, on Saturday, 21 September, could give those who are deaf, disabled or neurodivergent the opportunity to explore their sense of calling to lay or ordained ministry, in a safe, accessible space with engaging presentations by keynote speakers.
The speakers at the Derby event are:
- Haydon Spenceley - Peterborough Diocese Director of Ordinands
- Lynda Herbert - Licensed Lay Minister, Diocese of Derby Disability Inclusion Action Group member
Drawing directly from their own lived experience, they will share their stories and talk about how they worked through their sense of vocation.
They’ll also be able to answer questions about how accessible they found the discernment process and how they were able to deal with barriers which arose in connection with their disability and difference.
The national Disability Project is working to improve accessibility, inclusion and participation for those who are deaf, disabled and/or neurodivergent in all aspects of our church life, as part of the Church of England’s vision to be ‘younger and more diverse’.
For full details, visit https://www.churchofengland.org/resources/barrier-free-belonging/explore-your-calling
Bishop Libby is encouraging us all to pray ahead of Sunday's Euro 2024 final between England and Spain
The Church of England's lead bishop for sport was in York for General Synod when she watched England's thrilling penalty-shootout victory over Switzerland.
And she posted simply 'Go England!' on Facebook following the semi-final win over the Netherlands that put England's men into their first-ever final on foreign soil.
Here is a prayer you can use ahead of this Sunday's final:
God of grace and mercy,
for all that gives us joy and offers us hope,
we give you thanks.
We rejoice that we are brought together,
across our rich and vibrant diversity, in celebration and shared experience -
and we pray the goodness of all that will last long beyond Sunday (whatever the result).
You know the desires of our hearts,
and we know those hopes are echoed in hearts across the Netherlands.
And so, as we turn to you again in prayer;
we do not ask for victory (though we are honest in naming that we want it) –
rather we ask, once more, that striving for excellence
will be marked by humility and fair play
and rooted in respect for others, on and off the pitch.
May our desire to win not overwhelm our common humanity
and may we, finally, find our hope and peace in you,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
St Peter's Church in Fairfield, Buxton, is one of over 100 churches to be offered a grant as part of the £5.2M Demonstrator Churches project from the Church of England’s Net Zero Programme.
This aims to help 114 churches in 2024 and 2025 pay for items such as solar panels, heat pumps, insulation, secondary glazing, LED lighting and infrared heating systems.
The Victorian church has been given funding for net zero projects as part of a new project from the Church of England.
As work progresses, the network of Demonstrator Churches - representing many different types of community and situations - will share what they have learned more widely with dioceses and parishes so that all Church of England churches can learn from their experiences.
Fairfield St Peter has received a Church of England Demonstrator Churches grant of £15,000 to explore transforming its carbon footprint and energy use by replacing its defunct boiler with a low-carbon alternative. The grant will be used to employ consultants to assess the alternatives and the needs of the church going forwards.
The Revd Howard Robson, priest-in-charge, said: “We’re delighted to have been selected by the Diocese of Derby to be a Demonstrator Church and showcase what can be done to reduce a church’s carbon emissions, and we're keen top see what he consultants come up with!"
“Climate change is having negative effects on communities everywhere and by exploring how to best make changes to reduce our own emissions, we can play a part in tackling the problem and make a real difference.
"We’re pleased we'll be able to share our experience, knowing we can help other churches in our area with their net-zero projects.”
Abi Hiscock, Project and Grants Manager for the Church of England’s Net Zero Demonstrator Churches Project, said: “Ultimately, we want to demonstrate that with the right support and infrastructure, churches from diverse settings and facing a variety of challenges can reach net zero by 2030.
“By the end of this project, we will have over 100 case studies on what to do and when, and what not to do. Along the way, the supported churches are all required to act as champions to other churches in their dioceses or geographically near to them, or simply to other churches working from similar baselines to them, so that the learnings from these projects engage, influence and support this vision.”
It is hoped the project will reduce carbon emissions by 6,615 tonnes by 2030 – targeting some of the highest emitting churches across the UK.
The Demonstrator Churches project is part of the Church of England’s ambitious Net Zero Carbon Programme which aims to equip, resource and support all parts of the Church to reduce carbon emissions from the energy used in its buildings, schools and through work-related transport by 2030.
Bishops Libby and Malcolm have ordained four new deacons and six new priests in Petertide services at Derby Cathedral.
Ordination services are a time to celebrate and welcome new deacons (those to be given the title Reverend) and priests (deacons who have been training under an incumbent for a year) into the diocese.
The new deacons (ordained by Bishop Libby) are:
Benjamin Andreo-Boosey, to serve in the the Benefice of Chesterfield Ss Augustine
Kara Gander, to serve in the Benefice of Swadlincote and Hartshorne, Newhall, and Gresley (collectively known as Swadlincote Minster)
Ailsa Hunt, to serve in the Benefice of Kirk Hallam
Sue Leather, to serve in the Benefice of Derby St Peter and Christ Church with Holy Trinity.
The new priests (ordained by Bishop Malcolm) are:
Josephine Chamings, to serve in the Benefice of Brampton St Thomas and Brampton St Mark,
Peter Dale, to serve in the Benefice of Mackworth St Francis,
Emma Mallord, to serve in the Benefice of Littleover and Blagreaves, and Findern,
Clare Owen, to serve in the Benefice of Mickleover and the Parish of Radbourne,
Lisa Price, to serve in the Benefice of Hope, Castleton and Bradwell,
Nicholas Radford-Powell, to serve in the Benefice of Wirksworth (Team Ministry).
The preacher was The Revd Prebendary Dr Isabelle Hamley, Principal of Ridley Hall College, who led the ordination retreat.
To download a copy of this years event list please follow the link below
Around 40 children have received Bishop's Badge Awards at a special service in Derby Cathedral.
Bishops Libby and Malcolm celebrated the contribution the children have made to the mission and ministry of the Diocese of Derby.
Individuals and groups of children were honoured for their commitment to generous faith, courageous hope and life-giving love after Bishop Libby invited headteachers to nominate the child in their school who they feel best exemplifies the diocesan values in an age-appropriate way.
Speaking directly to the youngsters during the service, Bishop Libby said: "Don't ever let anyone tell you that you're not good enough or not valued - you are someone special and Jesus has seen that in you all. Thank you for all you are doing."
Each child presented with a badge also received a certificate of excellence.
| Children from Scargill CE Primary School led the congregation in prayer
Information About the Recipients
Breadsall CE Primary School - Bella, Bobby, Ronnie, Kathryn, Agnes, Ellen, Xander, Maisie, Poppy, Edward, Isabelle, Harper, Eilis, Callum and Rhys.
Generous Faith
The children joined with the congregation of Breadsall All Saint’s Church to take part in their annual Lent Challenge to support Kumi Primary School in Uganda to purchase some locally produced desks for their school.
Children undertook a variety of jobs for family and friends throughout the 40 days of Lent and were paid small amounts for these jobs.
The idea of using the period of Lent to take positive action rather than “giving up” something resonated with our community and thanks to the generous gift of time given by the pupils, the generosity of the families and friends who paid them to do a wide variety of jobs and the support of the Church, four desks (made by local people in the Kumi region) will be given to the Ugandan school.
Jacob - Monyash CE Primary School
Generous Faith
Jacob has been a shining light in our school all year. As an active member of the worship team he has led prayers which have been thoughtful, caring and reflective. He has never failed to amaze us with his maturity.
Ben – Church Broughton CE Primary School
Courageous Hope
Ben embodies courageous hope as he has shown an amazingly positive attitude towards his treatment and changes that his body and life has undergone. The plan has often changed, but he takes everything in his stride. Ben is able to talk openly about his condition and his treatment, showing others that there is hope.
Lily – Coton-In-the-Elms CE Primary School
Courageous Hope
Lily has personally taken it upon herself to set up a small enterprise, selling eggs from her chickens to raise money for toys for the local preschool in Rosliston. She is always offering to help around the school - in her own time as well. She has faced her own challenges in life but continues to put others first and outwardly be positive encouraging others to be so too.
Izzy – Dinting CE Primary School
Generous Faith
Izzy is so giving with her time to others, she is an incredibly thoughtful and caring human being, who always thinks of others.
Hudson-Lee – Langley Mill CE Infant and Nursery School
Generous Faith
Hudson-Lee has raised £465 for the ‘Little Princess Trust’ and donated his hair to make wigs for children who have lost their hair because of life changing medical conditions.
Isla – Loscoe CE Primary School
Generous Faith
Isla is an outstanding, dedicated worship leader, whose faith shines out and inspires those around her. She is a supportive, kind role model for everyone within our community.
William – Loscoe CE Primary School
Generous Faith
William is an inspirational, committed worship leader, who always shows dedication and resilience. He mentors younger worship leaders and inspires everyone to be the best that they can be.
Millie – Norbury CE Primary School
Generous Faith, Courageous Hope and Life-Giving Love
Since her diagnosis of diabetes, Millie has shown incredible courage, managing medication, sharing her awareness of signs and symptoms by running events and assemblies and raising £6,000 for diabetes charities.
Isla – Ripley St John’s CE Primary School
Life-giving Love
For spreading our school values all day, every day. Isla is an upstanding member of our school community, she is always making the right choices and supporting her peers. She lives through our Christian values every day and models our school rule of 'treat other people how you would like to be treated' at all times.
Seth – Ripley St John’s CE Primary School
Generous Faith
For leading our Worship Team with enthusiasm and courage and wants to encourage all of our children to be the best that they can be! Seth spreads our worship values and messagesdaily and wants to encourage all of our pupil to see things from different points of view.
Scargill CE Primary School - Edith, Lucia, Edward, Beatrix, Una, Hattie, Kauan, Reggie, Anya, Ava.
Generous Faith
Being part of the Collective Worship Committee of Scargill Church of England Primary School who work together as a team to inspire others through our Bible message ‘Let all that you do, be done in love’
Isla – St Chad’s CE Nursery and Infant School
Courageous Hope
Isla has overcome some personal challenges this academic year. She demonstrates so much bravery and courage. With ongoing love and encouragement from her wonderful mummy and school she has learnt that her voice matters.
Abdulrahman – St Chad’s CE Nursery and Infant School
Courageous Hope
Abdulrahman has not been in the UK long after arriving from Afghanistan with his father. He has faced personal difficulties and continues to show fierce bravery. He has a smile that brightens up any room. His thirst for learning is infectious.
Charlie – St Werburgh’s CE Primary School
Courageous Hope
Charlie is a courageous advocate for hope and inclusion. He uses his actions and words to stand up for what he knows to be right, respectfully challenging injustice.
Olivia – Turnditch CE Primary School
Generous Faith, Courageous Hope, Life Giving Love
For being a real team player, showing compassion for others and being determined to help raise money for the school.
Oriel – Youlgrave All Saints CE Primary School
Life-giving Love
Oriel has lived out our school ethos since her first day in school. She has an obvious love of learning and looks to help everyone, always with a smile.
Growing Younger Additional Needs Training Events
The Diocese of Derby is hosting two key training events being led by Dr Naomi Fox, the Founder and CEO of Growing Hope, a charity that works with local churches to offer free therapy for children with additional needs.
The events will both be held on 8 July 2024, with the first session from 10.30am – 1pm and the second session 7pm – 9pm.
Both training events will be held at St Alkmund’s Church.
Join us for a time of learning and collaboration as we explore how to better serve children, young people and families with additional needs in our ministries.
Our churches have the opportunity to be good news to their communities as they face the challenge of supporting children, young people and families where any members have additional needs.
With resources stretched and waiting lists increasing, the local church has resources which can positively impact the lives of families who often do not get the level of support that they need.
The morning is suitable for all but is aimed particularly at leaders of ministry with children and young people, as well as church leaders and clergy.
The evening event is open to all, but is especially relevant for volunteers with children, young people and families.
Youth and children's ministers and/or clergy may want to come on their own in the morning and then come with their volunteer teams in the evening.
>> Lean more
>> Book your ticket for the morning event (10.30am - 1pm)
>> Book your ticket for the evening event (7pm - 7pm)
Resourcing and empowering churches to engage with a General Election period
The General Election has been announced for 4 July, so now is the time for churches and individuals to take action.
The church has long been involved in politics in various ways, and we continue to be called to ‘seek the welfare of the city’ (Jeremiah 29:7), including on environmental issues and addressing poverty and inequality in our communities.
Political parties' manifestos have been written, so we have an opportunity to ensure our local candidates are committed to focusing on the important issues and holding those elected accountable to deliver on their promises.
There are a number of ways you can engage locally with the election period, with parishes uniquely placed to advocate on behalf of the issues and needs of our communities.
Pray Your Part
First, dont forget that Pray Your Part is an invitation from the bishops of the Church of England to encourage prayer and participation in the life of our nation and communities, both as voters and as citizens.
This 21-day journey of prayer and reflection is designed for use in the run-up to the UK General Election. Each day explores a different theme, with a short Bible reading, reflection and prayer for a different aspect of our common life.
Want to get involved?
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Why should I get involved?
As churches we care about what goes on in our villages, towns, and cities, and how governance affects the people in our parishes. We are privileged to live in a country with a democratic system of governance. In order for democracy to function well, it requires citizens to exercise their power and voice, rather than assuming those in elected positions (our MPs) will manage everything. Whilst important, there's more to democratic engagement than just voting.
As Christians we have a unique view of the world, and believe in a God who longs for humanity to flourish. Consider the Lord's Prayer: how do we usher in ‘God’s kingdom’ on ‘earth as in heaven’? One way is by seeking to engage with the political system, asking for decisions and laws to reflect heavenly aspirations on issues of poverty and inequality. When Christians engage with democratic systems and politics, they're part of conversations and decision-making which help mould the direction of our country’s politics.
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Is church political
Some people believe that the very presence of the church is political - by living for God and meeting together, we are making a statement about what we value and how we want society to look. This is why in some countries across the world, where politicial leaders see the church as a threat to their power and rule, it is prohibited to be a Christian or gather as church.
In England, the Church of England is the state (or ‘established’) church, which means we are to some degree entwined with our state, with the monarch (our head of state), and to our state government.
Some bishops, including Bishop Libby, are part of the House of Lords. They scrutinise legislation, hold the government to account, and consider public policy.
Much of the liturgy of the Church of England could be called political, not least the Magnificat which quotes Mary’s prayer and proclaimes the nature of God as one who:“…has cast down the mighty from their thrones and has lifted up the lowly... has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.”
Desmond Tutu is cited as saying: ‘When people tell me that the Bible has nothing to do with politics, I ask them “Which Bible are you talking about?”’
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Is the Church independent and impartial?
It is important to bear in mind that churches are accountable to charity law (even if not registered with the Charity Commission) which prevents some aspects of lobbying during an election cycle. This doesn’t prevent all engagement, but it is important to understand what is and isn’t allowed during this time. Don’t let this put you off – your church can be involved in elections as long as it is within the boundaries of charity law.
A charity must stress its independence and impartiality and ensure involvement with political parties is balanced; they cannot support a political party but can support specific policies if it helps them achieve their charitable purpose. You should read the Charity Commission guidance, with section 4.4 focused on the specificities once an election has been called. More in-depth information on elections and referendums for charities is available here.
During election periods campaigning activities are also covered by the Electoral Commission - read their information on why the Lobby Act shouldn’t stop charities from campaigning.
If you would like more advice specifically related to churches, contact JPIT at enquiries@jointpublicissues.org.uk or on 020 7916 8632.
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Further reading and upcoming events
Want to know a bit more? We recommend reading:
5 Reasons Christians Don’t Get Involved in Politics by Christians in Politics
Can Religion and Politics Mix Today? by Christians in Politics
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What can I do?
As a church
1. Become a Voter Registration Champion
The Electoral Commission estimates that around 26 million eligible voters will miss out on voting at the next General Election because they haven't properly registered, don't have photo ID, or won't turn out to vote on the day.
You're at greater risk of not being able to participate in the democratic process if you are young, a non-UK national, rent your home, have moved recently, live in an economically-disadvantaged community, or are from an ethnic minority.
Your church can encourage democratic participation in your area by giving reminders on registration, ID, and voting dates in your pew sheets or e-news, sharing in service notices, running a voter registration event after your Sunday service or at your community groups. Even if people aren't British Citizens, they may still be eligible to vote (eg if they're from Commonwealth countries), so encourage people to check using the Can I Vote? search tool.
Find out how to accredit as a Voter Registration Champion with Citizens UK.
2. Host a hustings event
A hustings is an election meeting during a general election period. Hustings support the democratic process, facilitate public debate, and help people know who their local candidates are and what they stand for.
They can also be the start of relationship-building.
Continuing to work with MPs between elections is crucial for building good working relationships, raising issues important to your community, and keeping them accountable.
Hustings are normally organised locally by churches (often ecumenically through Churches Together networks) and communities.
If a hustings isn't being planned in your constituency, your church could host it.
Resources for running a hustings:
- Churches Together's guidance for running a hustings
- Register your hustings event with Churches Together here
With the general election only a few weeks away, you need to move quickly if you want to host a hustings event. If you can start planning now, we'd recommend you:
- Gather your planning team
- Decide on a venue (church building, community hall, school etc) and find out its availability
- Invite your local constituents (you may want to choose a date or offer a couple of dates, or to find out candidates' availability first)
3. Pray and preach
As a church, be praying for the election period; for your candidates, for respect and kindness during political debate, and that whoever forms the next government takes issues of poverty, inequality, and the environment seriously.
It can feel daunting to preach on politics during the election period, but it's vital for us to explore how our faith speaks into and interacts with politics today, and to encourage our congregations to be active citizens and voters.
Resources for prayer and preaching:
- Join with the Church of England's call to pray for our nation using the #PrayYourPart resources
- Watch the preaching politics part of this recorded webinar from the diocese
- Read blog Praying and Preaching from JPIT
As an individual
Unlike churches, parishioners are able to support a specific political party and to engage in any range of political activity or campaigning, assuming it is within the boundaries of the law.
Here's four things you could do this election season:
- Sign up for free daily reflections ahead of the election to join in prayer for our nation and play your part as a citizen and voter.
- Vote - register to vote, check what photo ID you need to take to the polling station, and find out who you can vote for. (Even if you're not a British Citizen, you may still be able to vote, so check here.)
- Attend a hustings - a public meeting where election candidates speak to potential voters, allowing you to hear directly from them and ask questions. Find out where your local hustings is and go along. It might even be at your church!
- Read Citizens UK’s General Election Manifesto setting out eight key issues they are asking the next UK Government to address.
Support and training
A series for churches to explore the theological take on the General Election, including strategies for mission and ministry in the context of General Election strategy: voter ID, voter registration, community engagement, and how we can prepare for the election.
Underlying all these themes will be the agenda of working at all times for social justice.
- Thursday 6 June, 4pm
- Thursday 5 September, 4pm
A three-day residential in London by Church Mission Society and Theos.
- 11-13 July 2024
Beyond the election
Elections aren’t the only time you can help shape the political direction.
Here are some ways you can engage beyond the elections...
Join a political party
Don’t sit on the sidelines - get involved with a political party to help be part of a team working to shape the agenda.
You join others to get involved with events and campaign days to help elect candidates, and vote on aspects of the party. You might even stand as an election candidate yourself one day.
You’re unlikely to find a party with whom you agree with on everything, but join one with whom you agree with most and help shape their policies.
Run the Influence Course
Run this interactive six-week course in small groups to explore the Biblical basis of our call to public life, and how we can be active participants not just armchair commentators.
Meet your MP
JPIT explains how you can build positive links between you and your MP, more than just sending an occasional email.
This gives your MP an opportunity to better understand the activities and concerns of their local community – update them on the good things you and your church are involved in, and the difficulties or challenges facing those in your community. See some top tips here.
You can also...
- Write to your MP about the things that matter most to you. Not sure what to say? Try a template from Hope for the Future.
- Track your MP’s activity in Parliament on Parallel Parliament
Even if there’s nothing specific you need your MP to do at this point, engagement now can still be important to grow a strong relationship which will aid you in the future if something important arises.
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For getting a meeting
Does anyone in your church have an existing relationship with them?
Involve them if this relationship might be helpful.
Write them a clear, short email, making it clear you are in their constituency (put your address at the end of the email)
Chase them if you don’t hear back (email, phone, or in person during their surgery hours!)
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During the meeting
Be warm and positive; build a relationship and a collaborative approach. It may sound obvious, but treat them with the dignity and kindness you would anyone else. A confrontational or accusatory meeting is unlikely to be productive.
Be clear about what the MP can do (this could be action or promoting a campaign/event – decide this before the meeting!)
Get details of the relevant person in their team to follow up with
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After the meeting
Accountability – follow up with what they agreed to do, and keep their team informed about your work/event/campaign
Consider carefully whether you want to be publicly critical; it may damage the relationship you’re building
Continue to build the relationship! Follow their campaigns and contributions locally and in Parliament. Consider if you can support their work or feed in insights from your local involvements.
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Join Citizens UK
Explore joining Citizens UK, an alliance of local faith groups, schools, charities, and unions in Reading, Oxford, or Milton Keynes, to act on issues related to the needs of local people. This might be through forming and joining campaigns, conversations with powerholders, and engagement with MPs.
Read
Some suggestions:
- Those Who Show Up, Andy Flannagan (Christians in Politics) – a book on the importance of being involved in politics, not just watching from the sidelines, and how this fits with faith.
- Just Mission: Practical Politics for Local Churches, Helen Cameron – an introduction to political and public theology for churches to see how to use the democratic process to achieve justice
- Politics & Mission: Rediscovering the Political Power of what Christians do, Bishop of Kingston, Martin Gainsborough – looking at how the church’s liturgy is powerful counter-cultural, and through this, the church is uniquely political
- Faith in Democracy: Framing a Politics of Deep Diversity, Jonathan Chaplain – considering the place of faith in public life, finding a third way beyond ‘secularism’ and the ‘Christian nation’
We love all the creative and different ways churches are engaging with their parishes and beyond.
Our vision is The Kingdom of God, Good News for All and it's great to see how so many churches in the Diocese of Derby are sharing stories of their success in achieving transformed lives through growing church and building community.
Here are a few that have caught our eye recently:
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Bishop Malcolm is going the extra mile for vulnerable communities around the world during Christian Aid Week 2024.
He is taking part in ‘70k in May’ – a challenge to cover 70 kilometres in whatever way you like, in solidarity with millions of people who have to walk long distances for clean water or to sell their produce.
This year’s Christian Aid Week - from May 12–18 - is focussing on work in Burundi, one of the most densely populated and poorest countries in Africa.
Bishop Malcolm said his connections with Burundi are spurring him on to complete the challenge: “Every year, during Christian Aid Week, people across this country raise funds, act and pray for their global neighbours in a celebration of hope for a fairer world.
“I’m doing 70k in May not only to get more exercise, (though that in itself is going to help me) but mainly to encourage folks to give to Christian Aid’s work.
"With family and friends in Burundi, I want to help Christian Aid empower local communities facing extreme poverty and the impact of climate change.
“Here in the Diocese of Derby, we have been supporting the Diocese of Bujumbura’s work with people on the fringe of the city whose property is vulnerable to mudslides due to climate change.
"Christian Aid’s work with people in Burundi, on most counts the country with the world’s lowest per capita income, can make an immense difference.
“I plan to walk, cycle, and on a good day run a bit every day, to encourage people to join with me in supporting this work.”
Money raised during Christian Aid Week will help the organisation’s partners empower vulnerable communities to find practical and sustainable ways out of poverty.
Heavily reliant on agriculture, Burundi is also one of the least prepared to combat the effects of climate change, including droughts, floods and landslides.
The global cost of living crisis has intensified the challenges: more than 70 per cent of the population live in poverty and more than half of children are chronically malnourished.
To support Bishop Malcolm, please visit his fundraising page.
A total of 72 local men who died in service during the First World War are now remembered in a Roll of Honour mounted in the Church of Saints Augustine on Derby Road, Chesterfield.
Their names are on permanent display for the first time in around 100 years, after the original roll was taken down to allow the construction of the existing church building.
The church only realised the roll was missing in 2022, when military historian Michael Orme produced a 1920 newspaper cutting confirming that a roll of 72 names had once hung in the original building on the site.
The church’s vicar, Revd Sally-Anne Beecham, believes it is likely to have been lost when that building was demolished.
Revd Beecham said: “It’s extraordinary to think that no-one living has ever seen the original roll of honour and its whereabouts remain a mystery.
"It very quickly became a priority for us to replace the Roll and ensure these men are forgotten no longer, especially as the majority are not remembered anywhere else in the UK.”
In 2023, Michael Orme wrote Only Remembered, a book based on his research of the 72 local men who perished.
A local committee was also formed, led by Revd Beecham, and together they planned, designed and raised money for the replacement.
Mr Orme said: "The writing of Only Remembered was entirely motivated by the hope that, in sharing its story with a wider audience, Birdholme's lost roll of honour might eventually be replaced.
"It should, therefore, be obvious that I am both delighted and humbled by the fact that this has now been accomplished.
"I can only express my sincerest thanks to all those volunteers who shared this vision and have done such splendid work to make it a reality.”
The Roll has now been hung in the Lady Chapel of the church following a short ceremony on Saturday, 27 April.
The Rt Revd Malcolm Macnaughton, Bishop of Repton, marked its return along with uniformed personnel representing a number of military organisations.