St. Martin s Magazine

17 Pages·2006·0.65 MB·English

November 2006
50p

St. Martin s
Magazine
O all ye works of the Lord bless ye the Lord: Praise Him, and magnify Him for ever.
O ye Angels of the Lord bless ye the Lord: Praise Him, and magnify him for ever.
O ye Heavens bless ye the Lord: Praise Him, and magnify Him for ever.
Benedicite, vv 1 3 Canticle appointed for the Feast Day of St Cecilia,
St Martin’s Church, Hale Gardens, Acton, W3 9SQ
http://www.stmartinswestacton.org
email: [email protected]
Vicar
The Revd Nicholas Henderson
25 Birch Grove, London W3 9SP. Tel: [phone].
Associate Vicar
The Revd David Brammer,
All Saints Vicarage, Elm Grove Road, Ealing,
London W5 3JH. Tel: [phone].
Non-stipendary priest
Alec Griffiths
St Martin’s Cottage
Hale Gardens,
LondonW3 9SQ. Tel: [phone].
Parishes Secretary (9am - 2pm Monday - Friday)
Parishes Office, 25 Birch Grove, W3 9SP.
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Readers
Dr Margaret Jones. Tel: [phone]
Lynne Armstrong. Tel: [phone]
Churchwardens
Clive Davies
1 Park Way, Ruislip Manor, Middx HA4 8PJ. Tel: [phone]
John Trussler
19 Gunnersbury Crescent, Acton W3. Tel: [phone]
Treasurer - please write c/o Parishes Secretary.
Director of Music – Kennerth Bartram Tel: [phone]
Sunday School – Melanie Heap Tel: [phone]
Youth Group – Michael Robinson Tel: [phone]
Womens Group - Doreen Macrae Tel: [phone]
Magazine Editor – Alistair Mitchell
SUNDAY SERVICES
8.00 am Holy Communion
10.00 am Parish Communion& (Sunday School
6.30 pm Evensong 1st, 2nd and 3rd Sundays
Taize Evening Service 4th Sunday
22nd November.
St. Martin s Church

Hale Gardens, London W3
NOVEMBER
In Latin, novem means "nine" and November was also the ninth month in the Roman calendar until a
monthless winter period was divided between January and February, so nine has rather strangely become
eleven.
Something has happened as well nowadays in the Anglican Common Worship lectionary
that we have been using like most other churches over the past few years. The once remaining Sundays
after Trinity have been swept up rather cleverly or in a slightly odd way, depending on your viewpoint into
the Kingdom Season which focuses on the coming of the Kingdom and spans most of the month of
November. Actually it fills the gap between All Saints and the start of Advent in a way which reflects at
least in part the 20th and 21st century and the modern world in which we live.
So we begin with All Saints celebrating those who have gone before us the men and women of our faith
who inspire us in our daily lives. We pause as it were briefly at All Souls remembering our own loved ones
by name and especially those who have died recently. Then we move to what epitomizes our fractured
world and the terrible failures of the Great wars in particular in Remembrance, lest, as it were, we forget.
Finally, with the feast of Christ the King (originally in October) we end the Christian year by celebrating
the Kingship of our Lord Jesus Christ whose rule over the earth is gentle and whose kingdom, in stark
contrast to those on Earth, is perfect peace.
This suits November rather well as until global warming rather changed its character was like Thomas
Hood s famous poem by the same name:
No sun - no moon!
No morn - no noon
No dawn - no dusk - no proper time of day.
No warmth, no cheerfulness, no healthful ease,
No comfortable feel in any member -
No shade, no shine, no butterflies, no bees,
No fruits, no flowers, no leaves, no birds, -
November!
That is a bit whimsical, like the spirit of our age, but theologically we might also consider during this
season Jesus parable of the talents in Matthew chapter 25 where different servants are given different
numbers of talents whilst the Lord is away. On his return some of the servants have made more talents and
are commended but one has hidden his talent in the ground and simply returned it and he is severely
condemned. Likewise in Luke chapter 16 there is the story of the unjust steward who makes things right
and who is commended.
In each of these there is a strong identification with the Lord or the King to whom accountability is owned
and who expects good stewardship of us. This has a strong green theme about it and is particularly
relevant to our present times. These readings will pop up during the Kingdom season and read in
conjunction with the other themes of saints, souls and remembrance they represent a surprisingly heady and
useful mix.
I have discovered elsewhere that Saturday 25th November is the curiously entitled spend nothing day ,
which, for the sake of the environment encourages us to lay off conspicuous consumption. How relevant
I have always thought that Christian theology and secular understandings might have more to say to each
other than the wide division, even gulf that currently separates us. My recent doctoral research has shown
that in the Deanery of Ealing and probably elsewhere in the country Christianity is becoming more and
more an isolated and separated group, which phenomenon needs to be addressed and perhaps in a
convoluted way the Kingdom season helps us. It s early days yet with this newish season, but I have high
hopes.
NICHOLAS
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EDITOR S EDITORIAL
As I take up the reins as your editor, I am reminded of verse 15 from Psalm 145 where
the psalmist writes:
Thou givest them their meat in due season.
Thou openest thine hand : and fillest all things living with plenteousness.
It is my intention to provide plenty of good material, that is to say the meat to digest,
material of academic interest, arouse controversy, with a good mix of humour as well as
the usual news and notes of forthcoming events. All sorts of things are in a state of
gestation!
I would commend to you John Clark s piece about the Gideons. It would be good to
think that St. Martin s could field a few more enthusiasts to help spread such a vital part
to our Christian life, and I know John would be only too glad to help and encourage.
By opening a hand I invite everyone to send me your thoughts, suggestions and criticisms
you would like to see in your Parish Magazine. Someone has set this ball rolling, as they
say.
Please remember this is your organ sorry Ken! for notes (perhaps Christmas recipes?)
and news preferably typewritten to reach me, direct or to the Parishes Office, well before
Stir Up Sunday. Senior members of the Parish will remember that! With your help the
December edition will be full of plenteousness.
The quotation on the front cover, this month, is based on part of the Song of the Three
Children: see Daniel, Chapter 3. This has been used in Christian liturgical worship from
early times, usually to be heard in most cathedrals and collegiate churches.
Alastair Mitchell

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Statement from the Revd. Nicholas Henderson, Bishop Elect of the Anglican Diocese
of Lake Malawi.
Recent developments in the Diocese of Lake Malawi concerning the pop star
Madonna and the child David Banda
The recent visit to Malawi by the pop star Madonna has been a mixed blessing, raising
hopes and sowing confusion. On the one hand it has highlighted the plight of an
impoverished nation and the large numbers of orphans in need of care and attention. On
the other hand the procuring of a child, David Banda, possibly for adoption, and the
nature of the $3 million (£1.6) donation to the new Raising Malawi charity have raised
serious questions.
Any highlighting of the profile of this poor and almost forgotten land, ravaged by the
pernicious effects of Aids and malnutrition is to be welcomed. However, there are a
number of well-established and existing charities operating within Malawi already
working to relieve the present situation, which would welcome the large amount of
foreign capital that Madonna appears ready to donate. These charities pursue a policy of
self-help within the country and lay strong emphasis on a Malawian solution to the
problem of orphaned children. It is unnecessary and probably unwise to attempt to
duplicate their efforts with yet another charity with its own agenda rather than reinforce
what they are already doing.
In addition it is hard to understand why it is necessary for Madonna and her husband Guy
Richie to remove a child from his father with a view to adopting him and bringing him up
in what will be an alien environment. This flies against Malawian governmental policy
as well as what might be construed as natural justice. It lays the visiting star open to
charges of cynical manipulation and implies that huge amounts of money may allow the
overriding of agreed norms and hasten what would be otherwise (quite rightly in such a
case) protracted legal processes.
I am acutely aware that Malawians themselves whilst being pleased that interest is being
taken in their country s needs are at best perplexed and at worst angry at what looks like
yet another example of Western and indeed American colonialism muscling in to do
good , seemingly oblivious of local opinion and culture. A reassessment of the situation
is urgently required and it is important to get this case right as an example of how the
present day relationship between the First and Third world can be positive rather than
ultimately breeding resentment and failing in its good intent.
As Anglican Bishop elect of the Diocese of Lake Malawi, in which much of the recent
activity has taken place, I wish to protest at the actions of Madonna and invite her
publicly to reconsider how she might better use her obvious goodwill and intentions
before too much damage is done by this case.
The Revd. Nicholas Henderson
Bishop Elect
Diocese of Lake Malawi
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INDIAN SUMMER SOIREE
As part of St, Martin s centenary celebrations a splendid black tie party was held at the
Vicarage and gardens on the 18th October. There was a fine turnout from throughout the
Borough of Ealing and beyond, and it was very good to see All Saints well represented.
A tasty meal consisting of Kleftico (Lamb cooked slowly in the oven) with Greek salad,
olives and feta cheese with roast potatoes and rice which was followed by marshmallow
chocolates prepared by Michael Koutas of the Lantern restaurant. An excellent wine was
served.
The Vicar was first on the dance floor and demonstrated some choice moves, an
inspiration to all and impossible to miss in a brightly coloured waistcoat. Indeed,
sartorial elegance was much in evidence.
The band was in great form with Ken Williams (of church pantomime fame) on
keyboards, Sam on drums, Lisa Greenwood on bass clarinet and vocals, and the
inimitable David Brammer on saxophone. Fine performances.
Meanwhile in a quiet corner of the marquee secret photograph taken at the Soirée
We were fortunate to have two glamorous and elegant young ladies as waitresses: Molly
Brammer and Martha Dillon. Jane Duckworth handled the raffle elegantly and with
aplomb, and we made over £200. Thanks are also due to Kathy Oliver, a former
treasurer, who generously donated a magnum of champagne as first prize. The Reverend
Peter Watkins, vicar of St. Matthew s, Ealing Common, was our special guest; indeed, he
is so very special that we believe he is now the longest serving priest in the country. We
were also delighted to welcome members of the Bassi Family from the Empire Stores.
Let us hope we can enjoy more such wonderful events at the Vicarage in the near future.
John Holt
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A TREK OVER THE CHILTERNS
On Saturday the 26th August a party of parish walkers set out from Wendover to ascend
Coombe Hill which commands a superb view of the Buckinghamshire countryside. As
soon as the walkers, especially those new to this part of the country, emerged from
Wendover Woods and first espied this tremendous view there were gasps of appreciation
such was the impact. Out came the cameras. Locals will tell you that you can see a
number of different counties all at one go. Some will tell you that on a good clear day
you can see the Bristol Channel, rather an apocryphal remark.
At the top there is a monument in memory of villagers who fell in the Boer War, and you
do look down on to Chequers. There was no evidence of you-know-who in residence!
Sitting in the pub garden doesn t count as walking!
Everyone agreed they had a thoroughly enjoyable day. Some ladies had a chance of
shopping in Wendover, and a fitting conclusion to the day was relaxing over a good cup
of tea in the garden of Wendover s Shoulder of Mutton (one or two of us made it a
beer!). Walking conditions even for August could not have been better: not too warm
and not too cold.
CALLING ALL ACTORS AND STAGE HANDS
There is just time to sign up for taking part in the 2,007 pantomime. Have you ever
thought of treading the boards? Or constructing stage scenery? There could well be a
place for you by getting in touch with Nicholas, David or Ray Russell as soon as
possible. All ages and complete families will be welcome.
The pantomime this time will be Mother Goose and performances will be given in the All
Saints Church Hall from 1st to the 4th of February, 2007.
For those who wish just to go along to be part of the audience, you too will be welcome.
Please put these dates in your diary and watch out for more information in the January
issue.
It would be interesting to hear about your favourite pantomime story.
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A VIEW FROM THE ORGAN LOFT
This tiny smudge is in fact a photograph of Ken Bartram
One of the many and amusing pleasures of being a church organist is the placing of the
organ console and bench and how it relates to the view accorded to the organist
throughout an average church service.
The great advantage of being seated aloft is having a fine view of the clergy, servers and
choir and at least fifty percent of the congregation.
This can be very useful for a variety of reasons. The tempo of the processional and
recessional hymn is often dictated by the robed members involved and the speed of
movement.
You really have to watch this one. Get it wrong and you can end up with a shortfall of
those still processing in, or out. So you speed up, or slow down, accordingly. The
procession preceeding the Gospel reading has to be viewed from on high as each Gospel
reader has their own style and timing is essential.
To have eye contact with the choir is a great advantage. You have to co-ordinate.
Although sign language can work, facial expression says it all. Pace it too slow, too fast,
pitch it too high, or too low, or just get it plain wrong, and a quick glance says it all!!!
It is a bird s-eye view. So remember, I am watching over you all, and it is a pleasure and
a privilege! Ken Bartram Director of Music

BIBLE SUNDAY, 2,007
On Sunday 29th October Bible Sunday was observed by an entertaining, yet educative,
presentation devised by John Clark in the form of a question and answer session. The
questions were posed by David Brammer. They were answered by John who was very
glad that we should reproduce his script, though there are one or two adjustments to
make this suitable for publication.
Question: Why are we here? I never go to church. It is so boring.
Answer: We are coming to meet with God.
Q: I do not need to go to church to meet with God?
A: Yes, you are right but people come together to share in the singing to God,
to pray and hear the word of God and share in the Communion of Christ.
Q: But what is it all for?
A: To strengthen our relationship with God and with other people.
Q: But how? It is not obvious from what is going on here has anything to do
with the real world. Inside the church is not the real world is it?
A: Yes it is. Christ is our link to what happens on earth and the Heavenly
World, that is the real world. And the church family is called to be where
that reality takes place.
Q: But what has your God got to do with me? I have free will. I have
absolute authority over my choices, don t I?
A: Yes, that is why in the Bible, some of it s writers refer to people as having
the power to choose it is the freedom that God has given us. Ultimately
God wants you to have the same heart and mind as Jesus, which means
becoming a Son or Daughter of God which is why we have the Bible.
Q: How does some old book written thousands of years ago have anything to
do with my life?
A: Pick one up and have a look. Do not just dive in. Look at the index or
Concordance. Look at one of the gospels which tells the story of Jesus
life: that is a good place to start.
Q: Oh, really!?
A: As a Christian, that is where I began by learning about the life of Jesus.
Q: Why should I read it there when there is much more important stuff to
read and do?
A: I found that this was the most important thing to read and do; it has
changed my whole approach to life.
Q: I do not have a Bible and in fact the last time I saw one was in the hotel I
stayed in on holiday.
A: It is funny you should say that because it was very likely that the Gideons
International placed that Bible in the hotel. Gideons believe that it is the
most important book in the world and so they put them in places where
they can be picked up and then be read in private, in hotels, hospitals and
schools. [Bibles can even be found in the Defence Academy Residential
Halls near Swindon.] They say thousands of people write in to say thank