Andrew to reprise role as UK’s first clergyman on the catwalk
More than 20 years after he became Britain’s first clergyman on the catwalk, Rev Andrew Roberts (pictured centre) will reprise the role at CRE Midlands 2020 – this time as the event’s presenter.
Based in Kingswinford in the West Midlands, Andrew, a Methodist minister, is author of the bestselling book Holy Habits (BRF).
‘I’m delighted that the superb suit made for me by Juliet Hemingray (pictured right) in the 1990s, which I use when officiating at special events like weddings, still fits!’ said Andrew. Formerly national director of training with Fresh Expressions, an agency that encourages new ways of ‘doing church’, Andrew has a wide-ranging speaking and teaching ministry. In 2018 he was a special guest of the Bishop of New York and next year will head down under to speak in Australia.
Held in an inflatable theatre on the first day of CRE Midlands (11am, Wed 4 Mar 2020, NAEC Stoneleigh Park), accompanied by lights and music, Clergy on the Catwalk will feature colourful, contemporary vestments and round-the-parish leisurewear from leading ecclesiastical designers like Hayes and Finch and Collared Clergywear.
‘The church has modernised in the past 30 years and what clergy wear reflects those changes,’ explained CRE event director Brett Pitchfork. ‘Gone are the usual three shades of grey. In has come a spectrum of colour and design which can be seen in everything from a royal wedding to the humblest Christening.’
Photo: CLERICAL COLLECTION: (left to right) Rev Cindy Kent MBE, Rev Andrew Roberts, Juliet Hemingray
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Bishop welcomes return of CRE to NAEC, Stoneleigh Park (4/5 Mar 2020)
The Bishop of Coventry, the Rt Revd Dr Christopher Cocksworth (pictured above), has welcomed the return of CRE to the Midlands for the first time in five years (NAEC, Stoneleigh Park, nr Coventry, 4/5 Mar 2020).
‘I’m delighted that more than 100 specialist organisations will once again bring their skills, services, ideas and resources to Stoneleigh Park,’ said Bishop Christopher. ‘I encourage people from all church traditions to enjoy a day of rich discovery.’
Often dubbed ‘the ideal church show’, everything from computers to communion wine, puppets to pulpits, will be on display. A series of seminars, given by both regional and national experts, will cover issues of vital concern to local church leaders and members of all kinds – from parish magazine editors to treasurers, youth workers to worship leaders.
The Gospability Choir, created by Coventry singer Sandra Godley and made up of more than 20 people who have overcome mental or physical health problems, will help open the exhibition (10am, Wed 4 Mar). Gospability sang at Windsor for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle before the couple’s wedding last year.
Clergy on the Catwalk will follow – a presentation of the latest in clerical clothing, from formal vestments to round-the-parish leisurewear, modelled by ordained ministers. Several theological colleges will form a Study Zone, for people of all ages interested in lifelong learning – from short courses to doctorates, summer schools to evening classes.
On the exhibition’s second day (Thu 5 Mar) long-established composer Chris Bowater leads a day-long conference on corporate worship.
‘Battles over musical styles, levels of volume, kinds of instruments and old versus new – they’ve gone on for decades,’ said Chris, a father of the modern worship movement. ‘Ironically, in heaven worship unites us! So what is it we fight over – and why?’ Attempting to answer these and other allied questions forms the basis of CRE Midland’s Worship Thursday. Chris will be joined by several leading songwriters and worship leaders representing different traditions and styles.
‘Local churches face a multitude of questions and the exhibitions will offer some vital lightbulb moments,’ said CRE event director Brett Pitchfork. ‘Experts will fill every aisle, guiding visitors through the complexities of local ministry. Located in the heart of England, Stoneleigh Park offers thousands of free parking places in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.’
Up to 2500 local church leaders and members, representing all major denominations, are expected to visit the two-day event.
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Making a difference: One bauble at a time
Hand-blown by Muslims, hand-painted by Christians and shipped by Israelis, Bethlehem Baubles are seeking to renew the authentic Christmas spirit.
Each product arrives on a bed of straw in its own presentation box along with a certificate of origin with no plastic used.
Founded by Ros Pollock (pictured above) while she was posted to Jerusalem with the UN, Bethlehem Baubles aims to provide a grass roots, fair living wage to a struggling community.
‘Christmas should be about connecting with the things that really matter,’ said Ros. ‘In an age of mass production and commercialisation, we are offering you the chance to return to these simple origins and renew the authentic spirit of Christmas. Together we can make a difference for some skilled artisans, by offering an original and thoughtful gift that represents a deep sense of connection and community.’
With a unique design for the collection each year, Ros believes her baubles have the potential to become an abiding part of the Christmas experience – perfect for stocking fillers and ‘that tricky relative who you never know what to get.’
‘We’ve paired up with Bethlehem Fair Trade Artisans (BFTA) who work closely with Muslim and Christian communities at an individual level,’ she explained.
BFTA is a non-profit NGO established in 2009. It works to spread the fair trade message in Palestine and links Palestinian producers to global fair trade markets. In 2015, BFTA became the first guaranteed member of World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO) in the Middle East. Its mission is to empower the most vulnerable producers in Palestine, support them to become active agents in their own livelihoods and develop their social rights and communities.
Order now for Christmas.
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Acts of God and man: Is your church sufficiently insured?
In today’s litigious world, churches face risks far beyond property damage.
‘They should regularly consider the situation and be comfortable that they have sufficient insurance and risk management arrangements in place,’ says Russell Hickman, church specialist at Access Insurance.
Access serve over 2,500 churches in the UK, providing advice on getting the right cover in place, as well as helping in the event that a claim needs to be made. From the last 1,000 claims Access have helped church clients to make, several stand out as warnings to other churches.
‘In one case a woman fell down a flight of stairs after the lights were turned out, in an apparent attempt to encourage people to leave the premises. The compensation she received for her injuries was over £70,000,’ recalls Russell. ‘Thankfully the church had adequate insurance.’
In another, cameras were damaged as volunteers packed them away. The £5,500 claimed was paid out quickly and the projection, recording and broadcasting was able to continue. Often claims happen due to outside sources totally beyond the control of the church. In one instance, Access assisted a client after a hit-and-run driver caused severe damage to their building. Repairs costing over £13,000 (22 per cent of the church’s income) were paid for.
‘It’s best to consult and take advice from an expert when arranging church insurance,’ says Russell. ‘The feedback we get is that we understand the context in which churches operate and pay attention to detail. Probably the fact that I’m a church secretary helps me immensely!’
The faith of Access’ leaders informs the way that business is conducted. By 2025 Access aim to give £500,000 to charity each year. They are also in the process of setting up a fund churches can apply to for small grants for community, outreach and evangelism projects.
• Access Insurance are on stand F15 at CRE Midlands 2020
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Gathering no moss, CRE rolls on to Stoneleigh
Stoneleigh Park, located in the heart of England, is the venue for CRE Midlands – 4 and 5 March 2020.
Six miles south of Coventry, between the M6, M40 and M42, Hall 2 is Stoneleigh’s biggest and best-equipped venue, offering thousands of free parking places alongside the hall – ideal for exhibitors as well as visitors.
CRE Midlands will attract key local church leaders, influencers and purchasers from major towns and cities like Birmingham, Coventry, Leicester, Wolverhampton, Worcester, Rugby, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Oxford, Cheltenham, Northampton, Milton Keynes, Derby and Nottingham.
‘It’s our first exhibition in the area for five years and while some will go to Surrey for CRE National 2019 (15-17 Oct, Sandown Park) the vast majority will not expect to travel more than 50 miles to a venue,’ explained CRE event director Brett Pitchfork. ‘For them, it’s Stoneleigh only!’
If the exhibition’s visitor profile is similar to CRE North, 50 per cent of an expected 2500+ attendees will be at their first-ever CRE – giving exhibitors access to a fresh and engaged audience.
‘Stand prices are the same as CRE North 2019, making the exhibition as affordable as possible – and there’s a special reason to respond quickly with a 10 per cent early bird discount available on all bookings,’ said CRE sales director Carol Malpass. ‘CRE North sold out with several months to go and with many strategic locations already taken at Stoneleigh, we urge prospective exhibitors to be in touch as soon as possible.’
• For more information and to book a stand at CRE Midlands 2020 click here
Torch Trust sets sights on 50,000 UK churches
Some 250 people a day are diagnosed with sight loss – but a click on this mapreveals much of the UK population miles from a church offering inclusive facilities.
CRE National 2019 exhibitor Torch Trust aims to change all that. Currently celebrating 60 years of seeing those living with sight loss grow in faith and thrive in Christian community, the trust is looking to partner with more than 50,000 churches across the UK. It will present Sight Loss Friendly Church at CRE National 2019 – an initiative to equip and enable churches to consider the needs of those with sight loss, providing free expert advice and guidance, workshops, training and accessible Christian literature and resources.
‘We can’t wait to meet you at Sandown Park (stand B4) as part of Churches for All,’ said Torch Trust’s Melissa Armstrong.‘Don’t leave CRE without chatting about the particular needs in your church.’
For the first time, the CRE visitor handbook will be available in large print and braille versions (at the reception and at the Churches for All stands), courtesy of CRE and Torch Trust.Torch Trust also produce a wide range of helpful material including braille and large print bibles, audio and electronic media. It also runs a postal library providing a regular supply of Christian books.
• The Torch Trust (stand B4) are part of Churches for All (stands B3 to B5) at CRE National 2019
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Study Zone: Deepen your learning, sharpen your skills
Several colleges will come together to form a Study Zone at CRE National 2019.
The initiative is for people of all ages interested in theological study and its practical implementation at every level – from short courses to doctorates, summer schools to evening classes, residential or online.
‘We are delighted so many organisations are taking the opportunity to showcase all they have to offer our visitors,’ said CRE MD Steve Goddard. ‘If you’ve thought about studying further but never got round to it, Sandown Park is where you’ll discover the options available.’
The zone will be situated around a bespoke seminar area, where participating colleges will contribute short presentations on the whys and wherefores of theological study and life-long learning. Several college representatives, including two principals, Rev Dr David Hilborn of Moorlands and Andy Dipper, of All Nations, will contribute to the general seminar and CRED talk programme. Click here for the full seminar schedule.
‘It’s never too late to begin, though studying Greek and Hebrew when I was 20 gave me a much deeper understand of the Christian faith,’ said Steve. ‘We were also given a range of tasks to apply our faith in a practical way – and that was just as important. Whatever academic qualifications you have, or don’t have, one or other of the colleges will provide a way forward.’
The colleges taking part in the Study Zone at CRE National 2019 are:
All Nations Christian College
London School of Theology
Moorlands College
Oak Hill College
Waverley Abbey College
• The Study Zone runs from stands SZ1 to SZ5 at CRE National 2019
Photo: Oak Hill College students, Eleanor Bentall
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Mental health: High time churches ‘learned the language’
An eight-week course, taking participants on a journey discussing faith and mental health, will be introduced at CRE National 2019.
Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries, from Vancouver, Canada, have found their message is crossing continents – hence their first visit to Sandown Park.
‘Churches rarely have the language to talk about the subject, and this has meant that people experiencing mental health challenges have felt isolated and misunderstood,’ explained Sanctuary’s Kate Dewhurst.
The course challenges the stigma associated with mental health and considers the importance of companionship, self-care and the community in the recovery journey.
When a preacher’s daughter was diagnosed with bipolar II diagnosis, she felt exposed to the stigma surrounding mental illness and was convinced the church would be no different.
‘Ashamed, fearful of judgment and convinced I was the only one struggling, I kept my diagnosis under wraps,’ she admitted. ‘I self-stigmatized. Why wasn’t my faith enough to balance the chemical makeup of my brain or calm my worries? From the beginning, Sanctuary’s passion for spreading mental health awareness within faith communities was evident. Words cannot express the freedom that comes from knowing that one is not weak, not of little faith, and most importantly, not alone.’
The Sanctuary Course, with an introductory 60 per cent off available to visitors at CRE National 2019, is a small group resource designed to help initiate and guide conversations about mental health and faith.
‘It is a starting point, creating a base of shared knowledge from which churches can explore the next steps,’ said Kate Dewhurst. ‘Perhaps most importantly, through the simple act of talking openly, the course helps churches create safe spaces for people to share their mental health stories and receive support in community.’
• Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries are on stand S109 at CRE National 2019
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Oberammergau: Make next year, your year
A picturesque Bavarian village will welcome more than half a million visitors next year and one exhibitor at CRE National 2019 wants you to join them.
The world-famous Oberammergau Passion Play was first performed 386 years ago. With neighbouring villages ravaged by the bubonic plague, the villagers vowed to present the drama of Christ’s journey into Jerusalem, his death and resurrection – if the village was spared.
More than 2,000 villagers, an orchestra and a vast stage have enthralled audiences every ten years since.
‘Now is the time to act if you would like book your place as limited space remains on escorted group departures from May to September 2020,’ said McCabe Pilgrimages’ Paul Ellerby. McCabe is one of the only UK travel companies to include top category tickets for the play with accommodation in Oberammergau village itself.
‘You’ll enjoy a one-week holiday, combining a stay in Austria with one or two nights in Oberammergau,’ said Paul. ‘All holidays include an excursion programme with a pilgrimage theme and opportunities for worship.’
• McCabe Pilgrimage are on stand S125 at CRE National 2019
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Now first contact needn’t be the last
First contact with families approaching churches for a wedding, baptism or funeral need not be the last – thanks to new online software that helps develop lasting relationships with parishioners.
The Life Events Diary is a free tool for Anglican churches, making it easier for them to follow the latest data-protection laws and keep information in one, safe place. It also includes tools to help with pastoral care, offering timely reminders of anniversaries and helping administrators stay in touch with occasional visitors.
Developed by the Church of England in conjunction with iKnow Church (Church Edit), it has already become an essential part of ministry for many churches with lots of positive feedback. The C of E’s Tom Pearson will speak on the subject at CRE National 2019 (3pm, Wed 16 Oct).
‘Visitors will get an insight into the many opportunities Church of England churches have to build relationships with those who come to them for their services,’ said Tom. ‘And they’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how engagement, relationship and follow up is so important.’
• Life Events are on stand S95 and iKnow Church are on stand S94 at CRE National 2019
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