Random Thoughts
on Religion and Life
from The Rector and others

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ST MATTHEW’S – IT’S NOT NORMAL

On Sunday May 13, Helen Loder SSM celebrated and preached before making her farewells to St Matthew’s. While officially retired, she has decided to offer assistance in another parish, St Clement’s, King Square.

Here is some edited reflections that she offered on her last day:

Helen took as her text: ‘Jesus said: “I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything that I have heard from the Father”’.

She expressed her sadness, saying that she felt she had built many friendships in her time here. Helen pointed to how this worked, in a far from normal way – she stressed that this can be overlooked - in a number of ways:

• the welcome, as typified by Chris Giff, and reflected through all the people here, especially as she was nervous about how a woman priest would be received when she first arrived 11 years ago
• the support given to a bereaved family when a young girl was killed and the support given to her  - Kevin was on leave in Australia at the time – in taking a very emotional funeral
• the faithfulness in coming week by week – ‘whether we have wind, rain, snow or even sunshine, still you come. You are the faithful, praying heart of St Matthew's. Without you we might still have this glorious building, but the real church is not the clergy, but you.’
• the stickability and growth – physical and spiritual – of the young people who come to the church, something she described as ‘ the magnificent exception’
• the elderly members of the church – ‘The older I get, the more of an inspiration and model they become’ – are ‘wonderful examples of East End resilience’
• the music offered by Chris Maxim, his ‘outstandingly rare’ contribution to liturgy and the easy relationship he has with the Rector

Helen concluded:
‘This is an ending. But not the end, for we will surely meet again from time to time. And I will pray that you continue to be the church filled with my friends and filled with the Spirit of God. God bless you all.’

MISSING THE PLOT

There are many arguments about the gifts required for, and even the nature of, the next Archbishop of Canterbury. Perhaps these ‘random thoughts’ from the Rector may be germane to the selection process.

Those who are hard for male headship and oppose women exercising episcopal roles in the Church often draw on two aspects - the life of Jesus and Pauline writings.

The first was that in selecting apostles, who themselves were archetypal representatives of the twelve tribes of Israel, Jesus chose men.

The second is the writings of the reformed Pharisee, Saul who became Paul, who turned from persecutor to church planter and missionary zealot.

While there is substance to both of these aspects, it is regrettable that on seizing on them, proponents of male headship and opponents to women in the episcopate miss the plot.

The first arguable archbishop was a woman. Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene – one of the few consistent aspects of gospel writers – and told her to tell the others. She was in one instance disbelieved (Luke 24.10-11) or, in another, too fearful to spread the news (Mark 16.8).

Mary Magdalene has been, and in some cases still is, the subject of lurid character assassination: while it is true that she is reported to have been healed by Jesus (Luke 8.2), (Mark 16.9), she is also one of the women who is reported to ‘have provided for them’ (Luke 8.2). This ministry is also shared by Joanna and Susanna.(Luke 8.3)

Reports of Mary Magdalene being a prostitute, along with her abandonment of hairdressing and clothes, amount to little more than excuses for painters to portray naked female flesh on religious themes, rather than being based on reliable sources.

In the commission of Jesus to Mary Magdalene after his resurrection, he makes her the apostle to the apostles, a term widely recognised and utilised. The early church therefore upended the social order by accepting the evidence of Mary and the other women at a time when a woman’s evidence was officially not taken seriously. Subjugating women simply turned back the clock.

This accolade of arch-apostle for Mary Magdalene accords with the amazing events of the resurrection; events which Christian history often eschews.

In the resurrection appearance to Mary Magdalene, Jesus institutes a new order. The old order of sin and death which came in the Fall recorded in Genesis 3 is done away with. A mark of the Fall was its overturning of the created order in which woman and man were made on the same day and were not ashamed – another way of saying that they were equal.

Inequality of the genders is a sign of the fallen nature of humanity. In the resurrection Jesus restored this equality, something which the vested interests of male hierarchies have tried to subvert ever since.

The appointment of Mary Magdalene could even be argued for women to hold the highest positions in the Church, though the commissioning of Peter (John 21) and the other disciples (Matthew 28.19-20) would seem to suggest that the roles are interchangeable.

To that end, male headship – despite the writings of Paul, who could be argued to have missed the full implications of the persecution Jesus accused him of (Acts 9) and, in some ways, remained a Pharisee. He did challenge the rules, such as resisting pressure on Gentile male converts to be circumcised – but his suggestions about presbyters and bishops (1 Timothy and Titus) rely on the pre-resurrection social patterns of cultic leadership.

To insist on opposition to women in all orders of the Church just misses the plot.

EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH - HOW FRESH CAN YOU GET?
by Sebastian Sandys

As ‘fresh expressions’ of ministry go, “arsenic, strychnine and just a pinch of cyanide” are unlikely candidates but this evening I can tell you: they take some beating. 

I should perhaps explain.

Once a month, one of our Churchwardens hosts what has become known as the ‘Bus Pass Film Club’. I’ve been aware of this for some time and listened with mounting envy  and a sense of exclusion as the invitation has been issued in church to pensioners of the parish to join him at his flat to watch a film, share some sandwiches and a cup of tea.

Last time it was announced, I found I couldn’t help myself. The next film was to be “Arsenic and Old Lace” a 1944 film directed by Frank Capra based on Joseph Kesselring's play of the same name. One of my favourites.

And so I gate-crashed. And there we all were. Four old ladies, two old queens and a nun. Sitting on sofas, eating salmon sandwiches and enjoying the finest cinema in the borough.

This was fellowship. This was our common life. This was church.

If you haven’t seen the film – then I suggest you do so at your earliest convenience.

And if you live in the parish and haven’t yet engaged with us then why not do that too. Every one us will be at Mass within in the week – and if you can’t face that – then next month is going to be a cowboy film.

 

Reflections of the year ended December 31, 2011
presented to the Annual Parish Church Meeting of March 11, 2012

PCC SECRETARY'S REPORT
2011 marked an historic year in the life of St. Matthew’s with the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the re-dedication of the church upon it’s re-building after World War 2. The celebrations of this event were a focus for a lot of the work that the PCC planned and embarked upon culminating in, not only the celebratory events in July, but also the completion of the restoration work of the church tower.

The building works and the fundraising to pay for said works have continued to be a focus for the PCC over the past twelve months and thanks must be given to the Fundraising Committee, for all their hard work and initiative. Their efforts culminated in the Tea on the Green event which was a central part of our anniversary weekend, and was a great success despite the rather inclement weather which did nothing to dampen the enthusiasm of all who arranged and participated in the day.

Thanks should also be paid to our Churchwarden Malcolme Bass for his hands-on oversight of the builders and other on-site professionals working on the tower, the result of which meant that the tower work was completed on time and on budget. It should also be noted that we sorrowfully said good-bye to our other Churchwarden, Nicholas Callow, who resigned in the autumn and moved to South London to be nearer his daughter who has had health problems. Nick was a great support and, along with Malcolme, worked tirelessly for St. Matthew’s and leaves a very big gap in the team that will need to be filled in the coming year.

The year has also seen the regular work of the PCC continuing with the good governance of the church finances (particularly important in this time of rather difficult economic climate); the on-going work to bring the Hall property on line as a source of regular revenue for the church; and a desire to continue to reach out to the needs of the wider community. As a result of that desire the PCC hopes that we can enthuse and inspire the wider congregation to engage with local initiatives. As a result of the Street Pastors presentation at one of our Sunday Masses, Adey Grummet has taken on the role of co-ordinator for Tower Hamlets Street Pastors; and we have also started to contribute to the Tower Hamlets Food Bank – works, which it is hoped, we can continue to support and increase our involvement in.

The PCC has also continued to offer some financial assistance with those projects and also with our other charitable partners, namely USPG, the U-Turn Project and St. Saviour’s Priory.

2012 holds fresh challenges for St. Matthew’s as we continue to work to bring the fabric into good order and offer prudent stewardship of our financial resources. The PCC will also look to recruit the officers needed to forward these practical issues, and also the mission of the church, and thus will be speaking to members of the congregation in the hope that some may feel confident to share their gifts in support of these aims.

It only leaves me to thank the PCC for their diligence and commitment to the on-going work and mission of St. Matthew’s Church that they have showed over the past twelve months, and to say how much I look forward to working with them, and others, in the coming year.
                                                       - Revd Sr Judith Blackburn SSM

ELECTORAL ROLL OFFICER'S REPORT
There has been a revision of the electoral roll which took place from January 15 to February 19, 2012.

A total of seven names were removed from the roll and 11 names were added, taking the total to 73.

A copy of the roll was available for inspection on the table at the back of church for three weeks in advance of the scheduled Annual Parish Meeting.
- Adey Grummet

FABRIC REPORT
The Church
I am delighted to report back this year of works that have been completed,
( 1 )  Tower restoration. ( 2 ) Clock re gilding and painting, with associated internal works. ( 3 ) Bell works completed and in regular use so nice to hear the bells of St Matthews ringing out, for which we owe The Middlesex County Association and London Diocesan Guild of Church Bell Ringers a big thank you. There are a few jobs that have had to be carried over and we hope to get started on this coming year: window grills repainted at ground level, church flooring re sealed and polished funding for this found from the estate of the late John Fenton (West Ham John, as he was known locally). Other work for the new year will be a new pump and servicing of the Heating, which was held off to ensure work to the tower was completed. It looks like we have turned a corner as far as graffiti on our doors and walls are concerned only Three lots all year, I can live with that, wish less but we can be thankful it is just the three.

Now a little sad news, we seen to be getting more damp patches on the upper level of the church, our Architect is investigating, so we should get solution soon.

The Parish Hall.
Apart from ageing due to lack of use nothing really to report. Major repair works are needed, but as we are expecting to lease this out, a programme for the works is being set up under the terms. (See the Rector’s report.)

The Parish Room
The U turn Project still have control of this, although we do get the use for various meetings such as PCC meetings. I can say the building is in a state of good repair, though there is the inevitable wear and tear. The tenants do need reminding from time to time to carry out some maintenance, such as gutter clearing.

The Watch House
Sebastian Sandys, is still in residence and still has works need to be done, but once again we can only thank him for not pushing us for work to start, I myself have done a couple of repair jobs this year but once the income comes in from the letting of the hall we can say we will look at the Watch House. Again, thank you Sebastian for bearing with us on this.

I should also note that we have not made any grants to Kevin and Adey for the Rectory again this year.

Summary
All in all although there are works to be carried out in various quarters, but our buildings are in good shape nothing holding us back with our normal daily function, and see no problems to worry about.
- Malcolme Bass (Churchwarden)

REFLECTION ON 2011 FROM THE ASSISTANT PRIEST
It has been interesting to reflect on life at St. Matthew’s after completing my first full year in post. There has been a lot to be grateful for, but also one is made very aware of the challenges ahead.

My year started with Bishop Pete Broadbent, Bishop of Willesden in his capacity as the Acting Bishop of Stepney, licensing me in January. Although I have been working at St. Matthew’s since October 2010, this made me ‘legal’, and it was Bp Pete’s first outing after being let off the ‘Naughty Step’ following his rather ‘candid’ comments on the royal wedding. That said, it was a really good occasion and I was pleased that a lot of old friends were able to come and share it with me and experience the warm welcome that St. Matthew’s is famed for (I direct you to ‘Ship of Fools’ website for confirmation). Bp Pete had been made responsible for the oversight of the Stepney area whilst a new Bishop was sought to replace Bp Stephen; and it was with relief that Bishop Adrian Newman was consecrated as Bishop of Stepney in the summer. It will be interesting to see how we all work together, but the first signs are very encouraging.

Lent was soon upon us and the Lent discussion groups were a particular highlight for me. The Sunday group gathered to watch the film God on Trial and discuss the various issues that it raised; a discussion that was enhanced when we were lucky enough to have Eddie Marsan, one of the stars of the film, come to speak very movingly of his experience as part of that production. It should also be noted that there was a second group running in parallel during Lent – the Bus Pass Group which met at Malcolme’s flat with Sr. Helen, where they watched films depicting the great stories of the Bible. It is a testament to the group’s on-going interest and Malcolme’s hospitality that this group still meets regularly.

June saw the Cluster Pilgrimage to Bury St. Edmunds which coincided with Armed Forces Day and thus saw Bury a lot more active than it had seemed when Fr. Kevin and I went to reconnoitre the Cathedral and grounds. Those who journeyed with us had a happy day where we were able to celebrate Mass in the Cathedral and some took advantage of the Cathedral’s really good ‘spiritual tour’. We were even able to say final prayers in the vicinity of the place where St. Edmund had once been buried (a fact that came as a surprise to some working at the Cathedral: ‘St. Edmund? Buried here?’) It is hoped that the 2012 pilgrimage will see us venture to Peterborough and that more people will take part than was the case this year.

St. Matthew’s celebrated its 50th Anniversary of Rededication in July with the launch of Adey Grummet’s new history of the church; a history day with some wonderful and interesting speakers; and the Tea on the Green event which was really well attended in spite of the torrential rain. What was encouraging about all these events was the fact that so many people came into the church – some to re-acquaint themselves with it and others to find it for the first time and light a candle, say a prayer, find some quiet. The fact that the restoration of the tower had been completed and the bell chamber had been put to rights was icing on a very enjoyable cake.

In between all these big events and seasons the daily round of the church carried on: the offices, the Masses, and our input at Silk Court, which is valued by both its residents and staff – and also by Fr. Kevin and myself. So much of a clergy-person’s life is taken up with administration and building projects that to be able to go and be a priest to others seems to be a rare gift. I am only too aware of how much of the ‘other stuff’ a priest finds themselves having to do and how this can be so frustrating for Fr. Kevin. As a ‘part-time’ member of St Matthew’s staff I also recognise how much needs to be done and how little I seem to be able to contribute.

The coming year will hold its own challenges as we work together to reach out to the wider community in our parish and our city; and the challenge of nurturing the gifts, faith and prayer of the people of St. Matthew’s. However, I do thank Fr Kevin, Sr. Helen and the people of St. Matthew’s for all the support and encouragement that I have received over the past year and I look forward to engaging with the challenges of 2012 in your company.
- Revd Sr Judith Blackburn SSM

RECTOR'S REPORT
I reported that 2010 was ‘a buildings busy year’. The first six months of 2011 were that with a hat on, with the feather of very difficult financial strains, mainly the result of unresolved issues in relation to the letting of the hall. (We had hoped this would be done and dusted by Christmas 2010 but a certain naivete on our part, disappointment with some of the professional advice we had been given, and tardiness in some of the properly required regulated aspects of a church hall lease, meant the PCC had to draw down reserves we had hoped would be in a position to be added to. (By the beginning of August we got the official green light and the lawyers took over.) The lease had not been signed by December 31.

The main building project was, of course, the tower. We had been successful in gaining the support of a number of trusts, as mentioned last year, to carry out urgent works to the stones, bricks and other parts, including the installation of a second lightning conductor rod. Our fundraising committee did some wonderful events that involved both church and community and their efforts meant we were able to meet all costs of this project. We were greatly blessed in Malcolme Bass who, being on site nearly every day, kept a beady eye on the workings of the contractors. I personally owe him a huge vote of thanks. His liaison with people coming and going, his oversight at night – not to mention his devotion and skill in ‘refreshing’ the crucifix over the porch were invaluable. The main contractor went into liquidation and, at the end of year, we were still negotiating with the new company which took over the assets to finalise our payments and for the follow-on works to be done.

We are also highly indebted to the band of bellringers, headed by Philip Vracas, Stephen Jakeman and Leon Thompson (who was nominated as our Parish Clerk this year) who led the fundraising and provided the labour for the refurbishment of much of the workings of our belltower and ringing chamber. They put in many solid hours and have set out on a programme of recruitment and training of a local team. They also provided ringers for a number of key celebrations during the year.

I must admit that the administrative side of the Tower Project, of which I was project manager, was demanding and, in many ways, draining. My thanks to Nicholas Callow for his listening ear and assistance, and to the PCC and all members of the church for supporting this work. It was very much a team effort and that is a sign of growth in the taking on of responsibility by members of the Council. Thanks to them all.

We had hoped this would be the end of that matter but, as events would have it, a ceiling collapsed over the stairs to the organ loft just after Christmas. This will mean another effort to oversee buildings work in our beautiful church.

If buildings and finances were the only matter in hand, I think I would remiss in my duty. Indeed, I would not be here. A high point was the official licensing of Sr Judith Blackburn SSM as Assistant Priest, officiated by the Acting Bishop of Stepney, Pete Broadbent. It was good to have him here, and to hear his encouragement of both Judith and us. (He also acknowledged some of the painful aspects of how Judith came to be here.)

In Lent, I interviewed five members of the congregation about their lives, work and faith. The diversity among us in personality and employment, was startling and rarely have I been in a church where people were listened with such care and interest. Thanks to those who took part: Nicholas Callow, Ingrid Doris, James Riley, Elizabeth Shanahan and Matthew Shelley.

On Sunday evenings we gathered to watch and discuss the BBC film, God on Trial. This was a moving and engaging subject. The prolonged silence after the initial viewing was especially profound. The Freedom Pass Group met again, this time in Bentworth Court, to watch a film on the life of Jesus. A regular film night has continued in the cinema at 8 Bentworth Court. It has proved popular.

We were delighted to welcome into our midst The Reverend Therése Olsson into our midst. Therése, a priest from the Lutheran Church of Sweden, was at St Saviour’s Priory, exploring community living with a view to establishing a community for ordained women in her own church. As part of the Priory’s link with St Matthew’s, Therése joined the altar party, acting as chief concelebrant on a number of occasions and preaching on her penultimate Sunday. We wish her the best.

Our Holy Week services were well attended, with our Easter celebrations drawing the largest congregations we have had in over six years. We also conducted our meditation services on occasional Sundays where the deeply felt prayer was tangible.

Another significant area of growth has been in our ministry to older people. Before Christmas 2010 I was invited to do a service at the Elder Project at St Hilda’s Community Centre which, by virtue of being on the north side of a street, is just outside the parish. Paul Turp, the Rector of St Leonard’s, graciously gave permission for me to cross the border and it was the first of a series of occasional services there: Ash Wednesday, Easter, Pentecost, All Saints/All Souls and St Hilda’s Day. The group also visited us as part of our 50th anniversary celebrations in July.

Mention must be also made of Silk Court, where the mass is celebrated on Thursdays. Attendance at this service has grown, with up to 20 people per week. Liz O’Connor, the activities co-ordinator, is extremely helpful in assisting us in reaching out to these people who would otherwise be forgotten because they cannot come to the church. We have been doing this for over ten years, but it is an example of what the church hierarchy likes to crow as fresh expression. As it says in the book of Ecclesiastes, there is nothing new under the sun.

Another example of outreach was to offer a Christian Club at St Matthias School on Mondays in October and December. This had a good initial attendance, up to 15 children, but struggled when, after such a good opening, it was put on hold while Kevin took his leave. Thanks to Marian Smith and Matthew Shelley for their assistance in this work.

The culmination of the year would have to be our celebratory weekend to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the rededication of the church after its damage in the Second World War. A number of events drew good numbers: community arts projects from St Matthias and William Davis Schools. It culminated in a weekend of events: a drinks reception, a history day with Professor Arthur Burns, Fr Ken Leech and the launch by Adey Grummet of her new history of the parish which turned out to be a good seller, especially in the lead up to Christmas. On the Monday night, the Bishop of London presided and celebrated at a mass for which Chris Maxim composed a new anthem, O how Amiable are Thy Dwellings.

We were pleased to welcome the new Bishop of Stepney, Adrian Newman and Archdeacon of Hackney, Rachel Montgomery, at a service at Christ Church Spitalfields in September. Jordan and Matthew Shelley joined Marilyn Odeh in performing a Stepney Area Dictionary which was received with delight and laughter.

We welcomed a number of guest preachers – Fr Quintin Peppiatt for our Patronal Festival; The Revd Brandy Pearson and Fr John Roff Ashdown in Advent who, with Judith and Kevin (filling in for Bishop Michael Colclough) responded to the question What are we waiting for?. Sebastian Sandys also preach three times: on silence, solitude and in on civil discourse.

The Carols Service was an outstanding success, with a packed church to hear an excellent choir made up of church members, the Giltspur Singers and some friends. Chris Maxim provided a new setting of the Magnificat. Christmas service attendance was generally up, with a surprising drop at midnight mass. (Given the number of wheelie suitcases on the streets of the parish in the lead up to Christmas, it was probably predictable.)

Judith led a group exploring Christian Spirituality with contributions from the Revds Jane Thorington-Hassell from the Victoria Park Baptist Church, Philippa Boardman from St Mark and St Paul’s, Old Ford and Fr Tom Keighley, a member of the Franciscan Third Order. Attendance was, to quote Judith, ‘small but perfectly formed’.

Our pastoral ministry continues, with St Matthew’s clergy officiating at 20 funerals, five of them in church. The reading of Banns is likewise in demand, with this being done ten times. Seven couples, including one being married in St Matthew’s in 2013, undertook marriage preparation, as well as those who had the only wedding in church in the year. This is a valuable ministry offering a service that would otherwise be neglected in the couple’s lead up to marriage. (I still find it amazing that priests are prepared to officiate at a marriage without offering preparation.)

There were eight Baptisms in church, and two people – Meena Ali and Tony Radford – were confirmed in St Paul’s Cathedral on November 5 by the Bishop of Stepney.

These reflections should be read alongside the Annual Report, which complement them.

Once again, I must thank all of you who serve in public or hidden roles:, my fellow priests Judith Blackburn and Helen Loder, servers, welcomers, PCC and committee members, Chris Maxim  those who do the glamorous, mundane and dirty jobs. Without them, it would be impossible for me to function.
- Kevin Scully

 

ON BEING RIGHT
A sermon preached by the Rector on Sunday May 29, 2011

While God has overlooked the times of human ignorance, now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will have the world judged in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed, and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead. (Acts 17.30-31)

I spend a lot of my time – perhaps too much of it – thinking about conflict, disagreements. These can be seen in the world – one country against another, a political grouping seeking domination of another, a part of a community trying to annihilate the other; it can be in the church – the ongoing battles about women as bishops in the church, the openness or otherwise of gay people in the priesthood, the saga of who is allowed to get away with what because of their connections or their patronage; and within myself. I won’t give any public examples but, just to make the point, if I get to casting the proverbial stones later, I am well away of the glass walls of my home.

Paul, the persecutor Saul who turned from being the nasty piece of work he was because he thought he was right, had a massive change of heart. He was fearless and the account in Acts of his speech to the Aeropagus, something of a court of appeal, is where he lays out a concise understanding of the Christian faith. Now, for many people it is Paul, more than Jesus, who is responsible for the establishment of the church. Jesus was the inspiring teacher and preacher, God made man who opened the gate of heaven to us all, but it was Paul who got the message out and got people setting up churches, from the small to the large.

If the epistles are anything to go by, it was not always plain sailing because, even from the early days, people seemed to find things to dispute, disagree about and be nasty to each other. Paul sometimes, when he was called upon to arbitrate on a point of behaviour, church practice or gender politics, could still seem a nasty piece of work. A quote, from someone not too far from where I am standing, might sum it up: ‘I am right; that’s all there is to it. And I am sick of having to apologise for it.’

This insistence on being right, this insistence on maintaining that there is a right and a wrong, is called dualism and, for those who remember meeting Eddie Marsan when he spoke to us about them making of the film, God on Trial, you  will recall his thoughts on what he considered the shortcomings of this way of thinking.

And yet the history of religion and politics and personality is often about drawing of lines. Are you with me or against me? Is he one of us or not? Is she sound on this matter or principle or practicality? Am I right or wrong? The very term the ‘chosen people’ is redolent of this, and the church claims to be the new chosen people. We can resort to barbarism on one level or we can take refuge in our innate sense of superiority on another.

This being in or out is a key plank of Christianity and it is one that is played out time and again. A couple of weeks ago one of the more right wing parts of the Church of England organised a men’s conference and the big draw for the people who seem to think what is between their legs affects their place in the world, was a pastor from a mega-church in Seattle, one Mark Driscoll. Driscoll was quoted as having a pot shot at the Bishop of London for his sermon at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in Westminster Abbey.

I quote from the Church Times newspaper:
' Mr Driscoll told delegates that he believed that Christians in England often feared man more than God. “If you’re a Christian you’re very much part of a tribe . . . you want your tribe to approve of you and not criticise you; so a lot of your decision-making is determined by fear of tribe.

“The way that showed up in the royal wedding was he didn’t say anything wrong, but he just didn’t say it all. . He didn’t talk about sin, he didn’t talk about repentance, he didn’t talk about the Lordship of Christ. . . He had the largest gospel oppor­tunity of any human being in the history of the world — two billion people were watching — and he didn’t tell the whole truth. And that is British cowardice.'

Now, there is something subtle and slightly sinister in this. Speaking at a tribal event – just check the credentials of those who organised the conference – for heaven’s sake, you had to be a man to be there! – he attacks tribalism. Now this, as I say, is something that happens in politics, business, the church and within ourselves.

The world was supposed to end last Saturday. Well, a pastor of another American church had convinced himself and lots of other that it was. But it didn’t. It did not because too often in the world, in organisations, communities, groups and within individuals, this desire to be right conquers all. And when you think you are right, and others are wrong, you can delude yourself. You lose your sense of proportion.

Religion is about the ultimate sense of proportion. We are beings in eternity with God taking not the long term view, but one that has no end. Repentance, if it means anything, is about putting God before ourselves. And Driscoll has to be right there. But too many of us try to decide what God wants. The thin line of humility and outrageous self-justifying certitude resides in our pronouncements of what God wants.

Repentance is about letting God be in charge. That is what judgment is. That is what the second coming – metaphorical, literal or poetic, it does not matter – the second coming is where, as Paul told his listeners in the Aeropagus, that the raising of Jesus from the dead is that which brings all into the place where God will do as he wills.

Before Paul talked of the end times, he was a bit more gracious. Funny how we like to grab the bits that condemn when we could have the bit that frees. What did he say? ‘Since we are God's offspring, we ought not to think that the deity is like gold, or silver, or stone, an image formed by the art and imagination of mortals.’

Our faithful walk is not to pronounce judgment, but to allow ourselves to be judged. Trying to speak like God is dangerous. It is worse than that, it is idolatrous.  To that end, let us meet God as he meets us, open about our shortcomings and failures but aware of his loving power to lead us to that place where, as the priest and poet John Donne put it in his prayer:

Bring us, O Lord God, at our last awakening
into the house and gate of heaven,
to enter into that gate and dwell in that house,
where there shall be no darkness nor dazzling, but one equal light;
no noise nor silence, but one equal music;
no fears nor hopes, but one equal possession;
no ends nor beginnings, but one equal eternity;
in the habitations of thy glory and dominion,
world without end.

 

St Matthew’s gave over the sermon slot on Sunday February 27, 2011 to a discussion of the proposal to admit women to the Episcopate.

The discussion came after a consideration of the three questions that had been proposed to the diocese by Fr David Houlding.

1. Do you believe that women should now be ordained as bishops in the Church of England?
2. Do you believe that there should in principle be arrangements put in place for those who in conscience would not be able to accept them?
3. Does this draft legislation provide for this to happen?

 

The Rector, Kevin Scully, after consulting members of the PCC, put to the meeting the following:

• the first question was irrelevant as the General Synod had already considered this and had ruled that they should. We also do not believe it is helpful to revisit this.
• the questions were not ‘discussion’ questions as they presumed yes/no answers.

To that end, three questions were put as a lead in to the latter two of Fr Houlding’s questions: The discussion itself was lay led; active serving clergy did not take part in the discussions.

• What has been your experience of women in the ordained ministry in the church?
• How have women in ordained ministry added to the life and work of the church?
• How have women in ordained ministry diminished the life and work of the church?

 

Overall, responses to these were that women had made a significant, positive contribution to the priestly life of the church. Reflections included: some felt more able to relate to women; inclusivity and diversity were made real by women in the priesthood; good pastoral experience.

The congregation was generally in favour of women being made bishops as soon as possible, though there was a significant group who considered that those who do not agree with the measure should be accommodated. Much discussion centred on how this might occur, including the tricky question of how to include those who want to exclude others.

In response to Fr Houlding’s questions, there was a range from the strident to the tolerant:

• Overall the answer was no, with about 20 per cent favouring arrangements being extended to those who objected.
  
  
• This was a complicated issue, as the legislation took no account of those who felt such accommodation was unnecessary. Indeed, there was a strong feeling that such accommodation should be strongly opposed.

 

The following were part of the material that was put before our Annual Parochial Church Meeting on April 10, 2011. The Annual Report and Accounts were also received at that meeting. We publish them so everyone can see how we work at St Matthew's.

Reflections of the year ended December 31, 2010
presented to the Annual Parish Church Meeting of April 10, 2011

PCC SECRETARY'S REPORT
2010 has been an interesting year at St Matthew’s with a number of challenges to keep the PCC busy. The committee continues to have the benefit of a broad range of skills and enthusiasms from its members – ranging from old hands to several new members. The committee has done its best to represent the diversity of St Matthew’s congregation united in our faith.

Necessary building works have been a focus for the committee over the last twelve months. One particular challenge has been getting the restoration works on the tower underway and I am pleased to report that work will commence 2011. The PCC also expresses its gratitude to the bell ringers group who have restored the church bells, allowing St Matthews to mark the anniversary of its rededication with a beautiful peal.  A Fundraising Committee for the work on the tower has also got underway with a number of events, including a successful quiz night at Bethnal Green Working Men’s Club, and several more planned for the coming months.

With many challenges and changes in the diocese and the wider church community, the PCC has also been keen to engage St Matthew’s congregation in these issues and for their range of opinions to be represented in our response.

In the next twelve months the PCC is looking forward to dedicating more of its energy to contributing to the spiritual mission of the church now that much of the infrastructure and building works are being resolved. As I stand down as secretary I would like to thank my fellow PCC members for their commitment and support over the last twelve months and I look forward to seeing our work for the congregation progress.
- Charlotte Dollard

ELECTORAL ROLL OFFICER'S REPORT
There has been a revision of the electoral roll which took place from January 23 to February 26, 2011.

A total of 17 names were removed from the roll and ten  names were added, taking the total to 69.

A copy of the roll is available for inspection on the table at the back of church. This was two weeks in advance of the scheduled Annual Parish Meeting on April 10, 2011.
- Adey Grummet

DEANERY SYNOD MEMBERS' REPORT
2010 was an unusual year for the Tower Hamlets Deanery without the formal leadership of either an area bishop or an archdeacon. This is then a pivotal time for the Deanery when it considers how it wishes to act in the future and the provisional episcopal oversight from the Bishop of Willesden has undoubtedly been informative in this.

Deanery Synod members played a crucial role in setting the tone of Church of England debate for the next five years by electing members to the General Synod in October. Amongst the many important issues which the General Synod debates and legislates on, the newly elected members will ultimately be making decisions of gravity on the issues of women in the episcopate and the Anglican Covenant during their time in office. These are matters of concern for the Deanery Synod also as they will be handed down to the dioceses for approval, who will in turn seek opinion from the deaneries in 2011.

The Deanery Synod has begun a process of reflecting on how it serves the Deanery. The Synod has asked itself questions to do with how it engages with worshippers in the Deanery and has begun considering how it may seek to interact and align with neighbouring deaneries in future.

The Area Dean and Deanery Synod members would welcome contribution and comment from parish members, who are also welcome to attend (but not vote at) Deanery Synod meeting.
- James Riley & Chris Giff

FABRIC REPORT
The Church
The main focus during the past year has been on the preliminary work for the repairs to the Tower which have become urgent, plus fundraising for the completion of the works.  The work itself should be completed in early Summer, having been overseen by Jon Bolter the church’s architect. The opportunity will also have been taken to carry out work on the clock and on the crucifix. During the year the Middlesex Bell-ringers have raised funds for and completed work on the bells: we are fortunate indeed to have the support of such an enthusiastic and knowledgeable group. Maintenance work to the church has been ongoing throughout the year: improving the security of the building; painting the doors, which happily has discouraged graffiti; painting of all gates and the majority of the fencing. During the coming year we hope the window grills can be re-painted, the windows re-sealed, and the floor to be re-sealed and polished: income from the estate of John Fenton will assist with the costs in one of these areas. We plan also to resolve the major inadequacy of the heating system.

The Parish Hall
The PCC agreed early in the year to look for a tenant for the hall rather than to sell it. By the end of the year, no lease has been agreed: but if negotiations with a tenant can be resolved, the church will benefit from income from the hall for the period of the lease. The condition of the building is quite poor – the roof, windows and internal decoration all being of concern: and any lease agreed will seek a way of apportioning repairs between the church and the tenant, whilst still ensuring  a necessary income stream for the Church.

The Parish Room
This has the U-Turn Project as a long-term tenant: the lease allowed for a lengthy (5 year) rent-free period to enable the building to be put in good repair. Although no income is raised, it has meant that the building has been thoroughly overhauled and is in a good state of repair.  Small meetings (for example, the PCC) are held in the building.

The Watch House
Sebastian Sandys’ tenancy was renewed in September for a further 12 months. Further work is required on the building – particularly draught-proofing for both windows and doors, and some internal decoration, which the parish could ill afford to carry out.  We acknowledge our indebtedness to Sebastian for not pressing for the renewal work at a time when the parish has very limited resources.
- Malcolme Bass and Nicholas Callow (Churchwardens)

RECTOR'S REPORT
2010 has definitely been a buildings busy year. Our hoped for plan to move on to resolving the hall was turned upside down because of needs to raise funds for work to the church tower – see the Fabric Report. This has meant a drive to let people know of our needs and secure funding. I was worried that this might take our eye off mission and worship, which would be a major abandonment of our being here in Bethnal Green. However, initially at least, the profile raised by the Tower Project, has helped us to become more visible in the community. A huge thank you to all those who have supported the Tower Project – English Heritage and the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Garfield Weston Foundation, the Wolfson Foundation, the Allchurches Trust Limited, many local businesses and individuals. By the end of the year we were in a position to proceed, albeit £16,000 short. But we are confident we can bridge the gap. Thanks are due to the Fundraising Committee for the identification of a number of trusts and organising of events.

A new PCC was voted in and they have been both energetic and focussed. My thanks to all who have served on the old and new PCCs – we said farewell to Pat Musgrave, whose service spans decades, and Churchwarden Jan Fox, who remained on the council. Some new committees have made life easier: a Buildings Committee and a Fundraising Committee. However, our work did start, as it should, with prayerful reflection, led by The Revd Sr Judith Blackburn SSM.

Much has been done on the fabric of the church under the stewardship of Malcolme Bass: the doors and railings have been painted and many little jobs that have escaped attention for some years have been swept up. He has garnered support from the congregation and community in doing this. Collaboration in many areas of church life is now the key.

Judith came to us unofficially in October after five years as Priest-in-Charge at neighbouring St Peter’s. Her licensing will be in 2011. The Revd Sr Helen Loder SSM officially retired but has indicated that she would still like to be associated with St Matthew’s. We hope to call on her to fill in if necessary.

Our worship was enhanced by a number of initiatives. A child friendly service was launched on the first Sunday of the month at 0900. This had good support initially but numbers dropped to one or two. To that end, we brought it to an end in December. We hope to find a way to revive our child-focussed sermons in the main mass in 2011. Also, we began two other services: one of Quiet and Meditation which is a welcome change – again, attracting small numbers – and a explorers’ group for the Deaf. This latter project had some interest but failed to find its way. We may address this again.

Once again, we welcomed a number of guest preachers – Fr Peter McBride for our Patronal Festival; Fr Graham Buckle and The Revd Lucyann Ashdown in Advent. We hosted the Bethnal Green service for Christian Unity in February, when we welcome ministers and people from other denominations.  Our Lenten sermons were given over to religious consideration of Shakespeare, with Helen speaking on Lady Macbeth, and Kevin on the plays in general, Jacques’s speech from As You Like It and King Lear.

We were lucky to have presentations at church and the PCC from the charities supported by St Matthew’s. James Pender, who works for USPG in Bangladesh, Rio Vella of U-Turn Project and Helen spoke of the Priory’s work. We once again gave ten per cent of Stewardship income to these projects, a grant of £530 to each.

Many singers were recruited for our third Carols by Candlelight Service in December. Sadly it fell in the middle of the big freeze, affecting numbers attending, but quality was higher than ever.  Christopher Maxim, our Director of Music, again provided a new carol, A Little Child There Is Yborn. The Giltspur Singers and a number of extras swelled the ranks of the choir.

Chewing Over the Bible, a Lent group for over the 60s, a young people’s confirmation group and Marriage Preparation took place. The reading of Banns continues to attract many people, for whom marriage preparation is offered. There was no marriage in St Matthew’s in 2010. An Explorers’ Group was held, with one person, Harriet Holmes, going on to Confirmation in a large service at St Paul’s Cathedral. We also repeated the Lenten Prayer Partners exercise, in which church members were paired with two others to pray for each other.

Our bereavement and ministry continues, with the parish clergy officiating at a total of 15 funerals for the year – six in church - brought fee income of £1485 to the church. There is an ongoing trend, reflecting changes to the demographics of the parish, to publish more Banns of Marriage. This occurred eight times, with an attendant fee income of £256. Most of these fees are assigned to the diocese to support my stipend.

Once again, I must thank all of you who serve in public or hidden roles:, my fellow priests Helen Loder and Judith Blackburn , servers, welcomers, PCC and committee members, those who do the glamorous, mundane and dirty jobs.

I trust 2011 will be a fruitful, holy and wonderful year.
- Kevin Scully