diakonia

off on retreat

2009-06-04T12:58:00.002+01:00

I am off on retreat in a few hours so I am busy packing. It is lovely sunny day but the forecast is not good so I am pondering which season to pack for?!

It has already been quite a busy day: I have been in my office doing some admin that can't wait till Monday and just been to vote. I also have some shopping to do so I little trip to ASDA's is required and I need a spot of lunch.

So, the next time I write will be back on the Ellen Loudon blog because my diaconate year will be over and I will be a priest! I will, of course, be changing the Ellen Loudon tagline and will be making some changes to the format...but I am not sure exactly when that will happen.

Thanks for all your support and prayers this year...it hasn't been the most straightforward of years but it has been far from dull. Loads of love...Ellen. xxx

mary poppins - Expialidocious

2009-06-02T13:26:00.002+01:00

This was twittered to me today...and it is a lovely distraction for a hot summer's day

what a week this is going to be!

2009-06-01T18:18:00.003+01:00

So here I am starting my last week before I become a priest (do I really mean 'become' - like I will change into someone new on Sunday? I am not sure? But, I am not sure how else to refer to my 'change'...any ideas do let me know!). Anyway, I am ordained priest on Sunday so this week is a going to be a bit busy. I am in the parish until Thursday lunchtime then off on retreat at teatime until Sunday.

I have a long long list of bits and bobs that need sorting before Sunday though you'll be pleased to know most of them are very superficial and none are theological - they mainly involve cleaning, changing the sheets on the bed, visiting people in hospital and in the sheltered accommodation, going to the hairdresser, meeting Henry for various things, buying black clothes dye to revive my clergy blacks and there is a slim chance that I may go to see Girls Aloud tomorrow night (if my attempt at gegging into the Echo Area pull itself off - though to be honest it is not looking good - but I live in hope).

I have written a brief post for re:jesus about the appearance of Jesus' face in a marmite jar which you may enjoy.

Hope you have a good week.

nasty cough

2009-05-23T14:16:00.007+01:00

Sorry to not be blogging this week. The usual excuses...but a few new ones: I had a rather stressful preaching assignment for Thursday for Ascension day - an ecumenical service with Eucharist. I felt under a great deal of pressure to develop some ideas about Christ and the founding of the church - which I think I managed to pull off in the end - but it was touch and go until really the last minute.

Added to this stress I have had a nasty cough for a few weeks and I was starting to get really very tired of all the cough cough coughing. Eventually one of my parishioners suggested going to the local chemist and ask for the pharmacist's special cough medicine - called Black Magic (see above)! Well, I can tell you it has worked a treat...you feel absolutely no pain whatsoever and the cough submits very quickly to the black magic potion (if you click on the image above it gets big enough to see the ingredients of the potion - then you'll know why it is so effective).

Mark and Eva are both away for a few days (Eva in Colomendy of a school trip and Mark up Ben Nevis)...so I am home alone - which is lovely. Off to the supermarket now and then I shall potter about the house, eat cake and prepare myself for an evening of rubbish TV with nobody to fight over the control with (I have 3 episodes of primeval to catch up on).

eurovision

2009-05-17T14:44:00.003+01:00

Last night saw a (sort of) return to form for the UK at the Moscow Eurovision...Jane and 'the lord' ALW did very well to achieve 5th place. The winner was Norway...see below:

It sounded great last night but today I am already starting to feel a bit irritated by it...but that's the power of the earworm!

Anyway, I had a great evening twittering away during the event and enjoying each offering as it came to us live. Elise and I had plenty to say throughout and couldn't believe it when the last song ended - it seemed to all pass off very quickly.

I hope Philly J had a great time last night in Moscow. I can't wait to hear about what the live interval act was like in the flesh in the stadium. IT must have been fantastic because it looked pretty amazing on the TV. If you missed it here it is again:

The bells the bells

2009-05-16T16:27:00.003+01:00

I had some time off today so went off to Liverpool Anglican Cathedral to hear the bellringers chime out John Lennon's Imagine. It seems an unlikely secular hymn for the Cathedral to choose to launch it's initiative to encourage young people to think creatively. Hailed as "A premiere recital and reinterpretation of John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ using the bells of Liverpool’s Anglican cathedral and produced by artist Cleo Evans in collaboration with local change ringers." The event was part of FUTURESONIC (URBANFEST OF ART, MUSIC & IDEAS).

It was actually quite a moving experience and I noticed that a few people were drying away tears. A song of hope but also a song of despair...hearing it being peeled out by the bells and then sung inside the cathedral by children who weren't even born when John Lennon died was strangely haunting.

The event has been 'blessed' by Yoko Ono who wrote to the cathedral:
"The sound of your bells will travel around the world and remind people of John Lennon and his belief that there is an urgent need for world peace… like the church bell in the town, which used to ring as the warning to people about impending disasters like flood and fire!

Thank you for thinking of a very important way of bringing change to the consciousness of the world."

stephen fry's audioboo

2009-05-14T22:24:00.002+01:00

becoming slightly obsessed with guessing the QI words...can't work this one out at all!? It begins with G...

Listen!

Jesus and Martin Luther King

2009-05-13T13:27:00.002+01:00

You may well know that I have been blogging for re:jesus for a while. Well, I have been writing a series of conversations between Jesus and famous people. My latest is with Martin Luther King and can be found here...

burials at sea

2009-05-12T11:54:00.002+01:00

A modern take on a watery classic.

finding fab faces

2009-05-07T22:40:00.001+01:00

Date; Saturday May 2nd 2009

Venue St. Lukes Church & District
AKA The Bombed Out Church

Mission to capture your face, yes, yours...get in to town any time after 01:00pm and meet the fabcollective at St. Lukes. Get your portrait taken for free and then you will be given a card with website details, be a part of our launch event and we'll make you famous...well on the internet at least.

The results...

6 degrees of kevin bacon

2009-05-05T21:30:00.000+01:00

I always knew it was true!

punk photographer captures the easter story

2009-04-29T21:32:00.002+01:00

We are working on the (post)Easter story in our house groups - these pictures capture the story.

World-renowned photographer Dennis Morris is best known for his iconic 70s images of the Sex Pistols and Bob Marley, so his latest project – for which he has teamed up with the diocese of London – is something of a departure. Working with young people from St Stephen’s and St Mary’s churches in Islington, north London, the photographer has produced a series of shots that mark six key events in the Easter story and which will form part of a teaching resources pack. Morris, who discovered photography as a nine-year-old choirboy in east London, hopes that the images will ‘provoke thought and generate discussion around the significance of Easter’

happy chickens

2009-04-23T19:50:00.000+01:00

mini pinch

2009-04-21T18:34:00.002+01:00

Eva, mark and I play this game when we are out and about...in the car or walking. If you see a mini you shout "mini-pinch" if you see a yellow car you shout "yellow car". There aren't any prizes and no one is keeping score. It is just the catching them first and shouting loudest that's the fun. Picture the glee at seeing a yellow mini!

Anyway, it seems like everymanandhisdog has got a mini or a yellow car at the moment so you have to be prepared for a lot of shouting whenever we are out.

Well, recently I've started having nicer dreams (having had a few months of rather restless nights) and last night was a lovely night of dreams...all peaceful and calm. Until, I saw a mini...in my dream I saw a mini...and then I shouted "mini pinch" and woke myself up. I was very confused...at first I thought I have fallen asleep at the wheel. But, I was all tucked up and safe.

Ahhhhh.

the week ahead

2009-04-12T15:20:00.004+01:00

I have been caught up in activities outside the parish for quite a while now but after Easter I can return to 'normal'. Next week I am marking my return with a week at St Deiniol's to do some work on my PhD. I was fortunate to win a scholarship to spend a week there studying and plan to use this time to complete my second draft of my thesis and chill out a bit. I am rather hoping that there will be some spring days so I can explore the gardens and make a visit to Gladstone's house.

I have made an Easter Sunday posting to the re:jesus blog...Happy Easter!

Good Friday

2009-04-10T15:39:00.003+01:00

Sorry not to post here - but I have made a Good Friday contribution to re:jesus...

"No Respect" (Youth Culture) - Laura Walsh

2009-04-08T10:57:00.000+01:00

Dream - Guerrilla Worship - Liverpool Flash Mob

2009-04-06T23:17:00.001+01:00

the London to New York Tunnel

2009-03-30T18:02:00.001+01:00

Is it art?
Is it a tunnel between New York and London?
Is it smoke and mirrors?

Take a look at this link and see what you think!

marching in the rain

2009-03-28T16:28:00.003Z

I haven't been able to make it to London today but it is great to see so many people marching through London demanding action on poverty, climate change and jobs, ahead of next week's G20 summit. There is some good coverage of the event on the BBC website...including some great photos.

We have had a good day resting, gardening and light shopping at the farmers market on Lark Lane. I am feeling particularly tired and in need of rubbish TV and nibbles. Mark and I had a great evening out last night (which is why I am a bit tired today - not used to late nights and spicy food) with some of the people I was ordained with last June. It was lovely to relax and talk about some oft he adventures we have been having. Mine has been a strange year - with a mix of commitments inside and outside of the parish - not exactly what I had expected from my diaconate year. But, I am looking forward to a more normal parish life after Easter. I am struggling to get my head round being ordained priest in June...but that is still a while off so perhaps it will fall into place before then.

Right, I am off to read a bit of my book and doze on the sofa.

later

2009-03-24T18:32:00.001Z

I will blog again soon...promise. xxx

sheep and LED's

2009-03-19T19:46:00.001Z

genius...

margie

2009-03-19T19:35:00.005Z

Today is Margie's 70th Birthday! Margie is one of my parishioners and very funny. On Sunday she and I sang ABBA's Dancing Queen at the Karaoke and we were great! The picture above was originally posted on Mark's blog but I reproduce it here as a tribute to the marvelous Margie and her 70 years on God's earth.

re:jesus - Jesus and Elvis

2009-03-15T16:00:00.001Z

My latest re:jesus blog - Conversation between Jesus and Elvis.

funny day

2009-03-14T21:03:00.002Z

It has been quite an odd day. I am very tired and spent most of the morning either asleep or dozing or reading. Then this afternoon Mark and I went to see the mighty Count Arthur Strong. It was a bit strange going to the theatre in the afternoon but once that was got over we chuckled our way through the Counts recollections of his life at the BBBBC. Very funny.

Eva is at a sleep over so we have the house to ourselves and in true Mark and Ellen style are now busy relaxing in separate rooms! What a funny couple we are...

Anyway, I did watch some Tv tonight - particularly enjoyed the dancing for comic relief...the two final acts were these:

I am off back to bed to read my book - The 19th Wife...I must agree with Richard and Judy on tis one - it's a very enjoyable read.

inside the today programme

2009-03-11T17:52:00.000Z

A useful insight into the today programme:

review of Liverpool City centre carparks

2009-03-07T16:41:00.006Z

The New Q-park at Liverpool One...cold and confusing.

One of my favourite carparks is the one on the corner of Islington, opposite the national express bus station. It costs £3.50 all day and the man who organises it is suitably grumpy but he has an amazing way of rationalising the cars. He arranges them by size. The 4x4's are parked in one area, the boring fords and vauxhalls are in another area and the small cars are arranged in the middle island. He insists that you park incredibly close to the car next to you (if you complain he suggests that you go on a diet!). To be honest there is a lot to complain about because his technique is both surly and aggressive but I have a great deal of respect for his commitment to car park arranging and have never seen such efficiency. Even after a bit of back-chat he always says goodbye and wishes you well.

Quite the opposite can be said for the new Q-park at Liverpool One. It is expensive, dangerous and far too big (we lost the car today). I am also not sure that there is enough ventilation - I felt sick trying to find the car! Although I like the John Lewis carpark - bacause you get to use the walkway across the bus station this is also a Q-park and has many of the weaknesses of the Liverpool one. I discovered the other day that they also charge for bicycles which seems to be a bit of a cheek because you can't put them anywhere else in Liverpool One.

I am quite happy to walk in to town and get a bus or taxi back...except when it's raining! Hey ho.

sorry

2009-03-04T17:07:00.001Z

I have been quite caught up in bits and bobs so am a bit lax on the old blogging here at the moment. I am keeping up my re:jesus blogging commitments and my latest is here...

dead buildings

2009-03-03T22:37:00.002Z

Thanks to Paddy for this link...amazing, silent and sad dead buildings and other abandoned man-made creations...

morph flash mob

2009-03-01T23:36:00.001Z

Thanks for Johanna for this link - pure Tony Hartesque genius...

cake

2009-03-01T13:16:00.001Z

I haven't given up cake for lent...so here is a lovely song about cake that amused me this week.

lent

2009-02-24T14:16:00.003Z

So, lent is nearly here and I have had a good old think about what to do this year. The Church of England has had the idea to social network this lent and is giving out free tweets and pokes (on facebook) during lent. But, seeing as I am quite socially networked already I can only encourage you to get involved and step up my own activity. You can twitter along with me via the twitter link to your right and I'd love to see you on facebook.

Last year I decided to give up white wine and nibbles for lent and it was very successful. I found that I was more energetic, less tired and even lost a bit of weight. I also found that I actually enjoyed the spiritual discipline of actually purging myself of any residual tendencies to depend on white wine and nibbles for relaxation purposes. So, it had occurred to me that I didn't need that discipline again. But, I have found myself looking forward to it so I am going to give this another go.

The last few years I have also been committed to starting something up during lent. So, this lent I am gong to be more assertive about giving thanks before meals, I have some heart-shaped post-it notes that I am going to distribute liberally with blessings written on them. I have a few other possible start-up plans which I will hopefully let you know about in due course.

Tonight Eva and I have a pancake plan - but Mark is off with Da Boyz so he's going to miss out. Hey ho.

da boyz

2009-02-23T15:03:00.003Z

It has been a hectic few weeks at Loudon Liverpool HQ because Mark has been working on a piece of community theatre that is touring around some Liverpool youth clubs and community centres called Da Boyz. Our usual casual routine has been shattered as we don't seem to ever be in the house at the same time and we just exchange Eva (or she is in childcare or afterschool clubs). It really has been crazy but there is just one week of shows left then we can get back to spending a bit of time together. We are all quite cream crackered at the moment, the house is a tip and we are eating far too much fast food. Hey ho.

re:jesus - Jesus and Lisa Simpson

2009-02-20T18:38:00.001Z

My latest re:jesus blog post is a conversation between Jesus and Lisa Simpson. Enjoy.

st john chrysostom

2009-02-18T20:23:00.002Z

Since I have been living at st john chrysostom vicarage I have been asked a few times who this lesser known saint is...for those of you who would like to know more this site seems to cover most of the basics (and so much more).

darkness

2009-02-15T14:15:00.003Z

Last year was capital of culture year here in Liverpool. This year it is the year of the environment. The city council published details of the initiative in November last year (more details here) and current plans for 2009 include:

* The introduction of a Green ambassadors programme which will ask everyone, old and young, to sign a pledge committing them to completing tasks to reduce their carbon footprint. These will range from reducing the amount of electricity used at home to planting at least one tree or shrub during the year.
* Hosting special events in each of Liverpool's five neighbourhoods to promote debate about all things environmental.
* Launching the city's very own designer bag for life.
* Dedicating one school day for primary and secondary schools which will focus on green issues and the role young people can play in shaping our future world.
* A celebration event to mark the completion of the £14m regeneration of Stanley Park.
* Events which will encourage residents to get out into their local green spaces and learn more about the environmental wonders of the city's parks and gardens, their history and the impact climate change could have on them.
* A major environmental conference to be held in the city.
* Green Fayres selling organic, locally sourced products to be held across the city throughout the year.
* Encouraging residents to get involved in conservation and become volunteers for their local nature reserves.
* A green pantomime which will get the environmental message across in a fun way.
* Making all city council vehicles, such as waste collection lorries, low-carbon to reduce emissions.

One story that caught my eye this week was that a school in Garston went back in time to see what it was like to live without electricity for a day. The North West tonight report (here) shows how they experienced school like Victorian School children for the day.

We have been looking at the story of creation in our Genesis series of sermons and bible studies over the last few weeks and it has certainly provided me with a lot to reflect on in terms of our responsibilities as stewards of God's creation. It may seem like a small step but I hope that the year of the environment has an impact on the way in which we view the environmental impact of our lives in the city.

that was the week that was

2009-02-13T15:13:00.002Z

Indeed the week has past far too quickly and it has been quite frustrating. But there have been some highlights:
On Tuesday evening I attended my first Everton Labour Group meeting where I received a cool welcome - good to see that local politics remains as bazaar as always.
On Wednesday I had to go to the Build A Bear Factory with Eva (I have very strong views about 'build a bear' that I can not write here for fear of the legal repercussions suffice to say it took all my strength to step over the thresh-hold and help Eva spend the gift voucher that was given by my Mum). I came home feeling spiritually and financially bereft. Having said that it was compensated by a great housegroup/bible study at mine - we are looking at Genesis at the moment and it provoked an interesting debate about sex, sin and redemption.
On Thursday I had my hair done. Due to my current situation (please contact me in person for details) I am trying to blend in...so I have had my hair cut very sensibly and gone to my natural colour (though a bit of colour was applied to cover my grey hair - getting greyer by the day!!!).
Today I am home early and have, for the first time this week, had some time in my office. I have moved some papers about and faffed about - which is nice.

Anyway, I must go and get Eva now. She has a friend over for tea so I must be on best behaviour.

synod and racism

2009-02-10T20:46:00.005Z

Having grappled with tackling a friend's racist comments yesterday I am very pleased to hear that synod decided to make clear that ordained or lay ministers should not become members 'of organisations which contradict the duty to promote race equality'...one small step!
For updates on Synod do pop onto the Church Times Blog

racist friend

2009-02-09T20:32:00.002Z

This was an interesting article about how Jerry Dammers dealt with a racist friend. He speaks about his regret at not challenging his friend and points out that if he had been able to speak to him perhaps he might have altered his behaviour. I guess it is up to each of us to challenge inappropriate behaviour and language whenever we encounter it.

Jesus is a friend of mine

2009-02-07T19:27:00.002Z

I have had a very stressful few days and it is always good to have music to cheer yourself up...and this definitely cheered me up!

beastie boys

2009-02-03T20:33:00.002Z

Thanks to Patrick for reminding me that Paul's Boutique has been remastered and all is well...genius. I am sick of hearing about the 'hood but today this picked me up no end. lovely lovely.

washing machine

2009-02-01T14:20:00.003Z

Well, yet again we are without a washing machine. It is very dead - a bit of the cement bit came off and flew through the drum and pierced it - so we are now at the mercy of the loss adjuster waiting for them to condemn it so we can have the cash and get another one. But, how long do we wait? And how do we do our washing in the meantime? The nearest launderette is miles away and both Mark and I are working full time and we have a baby in the house at the moment so the washing is piling up. So, Mark has gone out to see is some bloke in Kirkdale will sell us his 2nd hand washing machine for £40...that should tied us over. As long as the suspension on our car hold up!

I am very tired - I know that is a familiar mantra but, I am starting to feel the pressure of winter and want spring to be here. So, I am going to have a little read of my book - moved on to Stieg Larsson's 2nd book in the Millennium trilogy - The Girl Who Played with Fire . Anyway, must go and chill because I have 2 more services left today and not much reserve energy.

crepe

2009-01-30T19:31:00.003Z

I must report that Eva and I had a fab crepe at John Lewis last night - after some gentle shopping because Eva had a filling and was feeling a bit vulnerable. I bought the vase I was after...but haven't had time to unwrap it. Had a mad couple of days and definitely don't feel like I am keeping up with events this week.
Where am I?
Being in my little office blogging is a bit of a sanctuary from the madness out in the real world. Not that I can avoid it. It's just nice every so often to have a bit of a hide to recap and recoup. So, that's what I am doing...sitting in my office sharing my stuff with you and with God.

I am off to Kate's 40th birthday bash soon so I must get some prayers in and then get m glad rags on.

My favourite news report of the day is that Gordon Brown's phone went off while he was addressing political and business leaders in Davos - oh dear...it's not looking good is it!?

out of sorts

2009-01-29T14:15:00.004Z

I am a little bit out of sorts. I am waiting in for the washing machine man and really want him to get here so I can get out the house. The washing machine blew up again on Monday and I do not deal with this sort of thing very well - as regular readers will recall. Also, I have to take Eva to the dentist later and I know I am going to be in trouble again because I am pretty sure she has a black tooth (I just hope it is a baby tooth!). It seems that no matter how few sweets she eats (she has sweets on Fridays) and how often she cleans her teeth (twice a day) she has bad teeth. I am going to have to ask for further professional advice and I may have to ask the dentist to not be quite so nice and tell her like it is...which I am not looking forward to at all.

I have, however, managed to clear my desk of all things except sorting out my receipts for the tax man. I hate this job - all money matters fill me with horror and sorting out receipts seems to be so cruel. I can't really explain why I hat it so but just moaning about it is putting it off for a bit longer so that is a small piece of happiness.

I might take Eva out for a crepe at John Lewis after the dentist just to cheer us up. I might even splash out and spend my Christmas vouchers on a vase. Anyway, best get on with the receipt chore - I am sure I will feel better after it's done and I will then deserve a crepe!

My favourite news story of the day is of the Armarna Princess the fake Egyptian statue which was bought by Bolton Museum a few years back and they have rather boldly put on display again but as a 'beautiful fake' - good on them!

bits and bobs

2009-01-26T18:57:00.003Z

I am just off to PCC so I can only fit in a few observations...

It took me nearly 30mins to get to church down the road at St Peter's (a 5mins drive normally!) last night because of the Liverpool: Everton Derby game. The traffic was crazy and made much worse by foolish driving. If only curates could have a lights on their cars (what colour would be appropriate) to get passed all the fuss when it is church time. "Move along young man I am a curate don't you know I have a church service to lead" But, sadly I have no traffic rights with my collar on that without. hey ho...

I am doing quite a lot of walking at the moment and there seems a steady increase in dog poo in the area.

I am really enjoying The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson - well worth a read if you like modern crime thrillers.

I am loving the 15 mins extra light of an evening.

Anway, I must dash - and put the heating on in church...

barack's bible

2009-01-23T17:58:00.003Z

Barack Obama had to re-swear the oath of allegiance but there wasn't a bible to hand! According to the Mirror (which I am reading daily for educational purposes at the moment). So they had to improvise. Apparently, Barack had packed his away for the move to the Whitehouse and the special one that usually does the job had been returned to the museum. I wonder how many of us can't find our bibles to do our swearing? If anyone is at a loss I have 15 Good News versions in my office used for Homegroup, 2 NIV's (one given to me by the bishop at ordination), 3 NRSV's, I Jerusalem, 1 Living, 2 King James (I being the family bible, the other being my baptism bible), one that is of unknown translation, 1 Word on the Street (does that count?), and a Message...if only Barack had known.

Whilst I am on the subject of Barack (I think as we now twitter together we are now on first name terms!?) Jonny Baker has written a great blog about his networking skills in the 0tees...the Social Pulpit is worth a read.

re:jesus - Jesus and Karl Marx

2009-01-22T19:44:00.001Z

Sorry to be absent from here but I have been blogging at re:jesus - here is my latest offering - Conversations with Jesus - Jesus and Karl Marx.

Mrs Beamish

2009-01-18T16:00:00.001Z

I have been sent this by a fellow curate...having had a 'moment' during the peace this morning it rings a strange bell.

secret platform below grand central station

2009-01-17T21:31:00.003Z

This intrigued me when I saw it today - news of a secret railway platform.

re:jesus - Coronation Street Cross

2009-01-16T14:35:00.000Z

My latest posting for re:jesus...

Morrissey

2009-01-14T22:23:00.003Z

For goodness sake someone love Morrisey will you...it's got so bad he's throwing his arms around Paris cos only stone and steel accept his love...well, he made me laugh out loud with his joyful moaning (and his fab catching of the tambourine) . Anyway, I am off to Paris to give him a big hug.

Eva's letter to Santa

2009-01-13T21:21:00.003Z

Mark was cleaning Eva's bedroom today and found this letter to Santa on her window-sill. It is an extra-ordinary insight into her inner world and it made tears come out my eyes and my heart ached a little (if you click on it it will get bigger!)...

trinity media

2009-01-12T18:27:00.002Z

Have branched out to on-line MP3's (thanks for the tip Jon) and it's very exciting...

New Calvinists

2009-01-12T17:39:00.002Z

Fascinating article on Mars Hill church, Seattle found in the New York Times...

ordination tips

2009-01-11T21:12:00.004Z

me and my fellow deacons on ordination day!

I was asked today if I had any tips about ordination/starting a curacy. Having had a little think here they are:

- get to know the people who are responsible for your house - we have had a terrible time sorting out the building and it really needed careful negotiation

- set boundaries about answering the door/phone asap...I live in a vicarage and get a lot of cold calls...I wish I had been clearer about when I would answer, what I would have ready for people (food parcels etc) and how I would deal with emergencies (don't assume your parish/incumbent has a policy)

- find a spiritual adviser or someone outside of the parish to speak to about stuff (concerns, spiritual blockages, irritating situations etc etc)

- be prepared to be as flexible as possible over as much as possible - choose to 'debate' only things that are really important to you...

- when you first start it might feel a bit slow - enjoy the slow bit because it gets busy!

- finals, finishing essays, finishing college, leaving college friends, moving, getting family settled, sorting the house, meeting new people, getting ready for retreat, doing retreat, the ordination service etc is all very very tiring - a roller-coaster you have to get on and just hold on tight . There is a period of time when you feel very special (and you are, we all are in God's sight!) but it is important to know that that feeling is not going to last and not to give yourself a hard time when it calms down and (possibly) you don't feel so great about yourself for a bit - it happened to me about 3 days after ordination. It does pass but it was quite painful - I actually felt bereaved. It is ok to have a little cry and a large g&t (or cake or whatever)!

- try to keep in touch with a few theological college friends and keep the network going - great for mutual support and a sounding board

- be very very loving to your family, friends and supporters because they are as exhausted as you but don't get all the attention at ordination.

- if people say 'what would you like as an ordination present' say 'book tokens'.

- make sure you go for a wee before the ordination service starts - it's a long service and you'll be wearing strange clothes for the first time.

- don't wear new shoes for ordination.

So, I hope that helps!?

Christmas - what's the point?

2009-01-10T20:31:00.004Z

I know it's a bit late but this amused me...

God versus the Advertising Standards Authority
Uploaded by TimClague

ps sorry I am back to links and very little comment...I promise I will explain my lack of interweb attention when I can!

U2

2009-01-07T18:47:00.002Z

Mark sent me this...to cheer me up...and it did!

"I'm touching Edge's bum" nearly finished me off!

new year - same old me!

2009-01-06T19:28:00.004Z

The Gaffer Tape that is holding me together!

I am afraid my blogging is slowing down again mainly due to my schedule being completely bonkers. I am being pulled in two different directions at the moment with work commitments and am failing to fill in the gaps. Great big nasty holes are appearing in my world and I haven't the time to sort them out (guess that's what gaffer tape is for)...hey ho.

In order to try to speed things up I have decided to try to twitter (see new widget to the right) but so far I am not even managing to keep that up.

That said I do have some new year resolutions (intentions) to offer:
- Finish PhD (really this has to be done by this summer)
- do more re:jesus blogging
- get (much more) stuck into parish life
- become a priest (in June, I hope)
- find out how to fill in a tax return
- fill in a tax return
- send tax return off
- spend more time with my friends (but not until I finish my PhD!)
- be a more tolerant family member (probably not going to progress this until the PhD is finished but I will at least have a go)

Anyway, best go and do some of the above...

Happy New Year!

bbc - odd box

2008-12-28T14:58:00.002Z

If you need to be reminded of the strangest things that happened this year take a look at this.

Christmas 08

2008-12-27T12:47:00.004Z

Well, I made it through Christmas Day and my first Christmas day sermon (which went quite well I think), we managed to get the turkey on the table by 4pm and unwrap presents without too much stress. The TV that was circled in the Radio Times was watched and we went to bed at a reasonable time with only one argument. So, all in all a good day was had by all. All this year were myself, Mark, Eva, Joe, Elise, Wayne, Lillie, my mum (Celia) and a short but lovely visit by Ian Evans. It was lovely to have baby Lillie here - she was a treat. I hope some pictures will follow.

Yesterday I did quite a lot of sleeping and realised how tired I am. I tried to go to bed early but ended up watching more TV and telling stories. Today I have also had a lie in but could do more sleeping...early night tonight I think. We have a few visitors coming round shortly so best get some mash on. I do hope your Christmas has been good. For me it is just lovely to have some down time and spend some time lounging about with the family.

Happy Christmas

2008-12-24T17:09:00.002Z

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

re:jesus - santa and Jesus

2008-12-21T16:10:00.002Z

Re:jesus has had the best of my blogging this week I am afraid...so here is my latest re:jesus blog effort.

I have 2 sermons to preach today - one at 5pm and the other at 6.30pm. I am feeling a bit under the weather and Mark is completely laid up in bed. Eva is still ill but a lot better...so we are a very sickly household today. Having said that I am hoping I will fight this off and still have some energy to offer my mum and the rest of the family by Christmas day. There's a lot to get through before then and I don't really want to miss out. Anyway, hope you are feeling ok and the lead up to Christmas is going ok. All the best...

just a bit busy

2008-12-20T17:44:00.002Z

As you can imagine I am just a bit busy at the moment. So, I will leave you with this little video which was used in the fantastic Terry Titter Yule Log show...we went to see it on Thursday and I laughed so much I hurt...

variety

2008-12-17T20:25:00.002Z

I am very busy writing my Christmas sermons (4) and watching the Royal Variety Performance...as long as I don't get the two activities mixed up all will be well (actually perhaps a mosh-up wouldn't be too much of a bad thing!?). I know I have mentioned this before but I am very fond of variety...and this year's show has been very good thus far. Very impressed by the stand-up and some of the 'specialty acts', Cliff isn't doing it for me but hey ho. Anyway, I had better get back to Christmas sermons...

If you haven't seen this via the Church Times blog (or somewhere else) then it is a great video worth a look...

Why be Religious?: Father Matthew Presents

Where should church be?

2008-12-16T19:03:00.002Z

The all new re:jesus blog is up and running now....and there has been some ace blogging going on.

This is the latest from me.

defiant dog

2008-12-14T22:49:00.000Z

sit!

you are powerful

2008-12-10T22:33:00.004Z

Happy birthday to human rights!

Today marks 60 years since the world's governments adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The UDHR sets out the rights and freedoms that everyone, everywhere, is entitled to.

This is a time to celebrate and a time to challenge governments who have not lived up to the promises they made in 1948.

girl bishop

2008-12-08T18:29:00.001Z

In a shock progressive move the Bishop of Portsmouth makes a girl Bishop (for the day)!...

justicemail

2008-12-06T17:56:00.002Z

Justice Mail is for busy people who want to be active on issues of social justice but have no time to do the research. They send you brief information including a link to a site where you can send an email message. This will take only five minutes, and then they send you suggestions for action every week or two. You are not expected to act on them all; you make your own decisions.

close encounters

2008-12-04T17:53:00.002Z

Mark has taken some amazing pictures of an alien invasion that took place in our back garden the other day...be afraid...

paperless christmas

2008-12-02T21:06:00.002Z

I think this is my favourite on-line advent calendar...
and this is is a great idea for a real life advent calendar (captured on the interweb)

(thanks to the church times blog for these links)

a lonely craftivist

2008-11-30T20:51:00.001Z

This is a great blog for you to enjoy!

advent sunday

2008-11-30T15:24:00.002Z

Today is advent sunday and we lit the first candle on the advent wreath today...and the new Church of England advent website - why are we waiting - has put up it's first posting. We open the chocolate advent calendar tomorrow.

Having been down to Bristol for my Trinity College graduation ceremony yesterday I am feeling a bit tired today (it was great to see everyone again) so must get back to afternoon tea and a sit down before the evening service.

in the same boat

2008-11-26T12:09:00.003Z

Cartoon by Dave Walker. Find more cartoons you can freely re-use on your blog at We Blog Cartoons.

Dave Walker has been under the weather and hasn't been able to blog for a while...but he is back! I have missed you Dave and it is good to have you back.

elderly ghetto gospel choir

2008-11-19T20:08:00.000Z

Surely this has to be a mistake?

letters to God

2008-11-18T19:48:00.000Z

Out of the mouths of babes...

barnardo's

2008-11-17T17:53:00.002Z

I know I said I wasn't going to b able to blog for a while but I think it may well be that I will be able to post but it will be a little more infrequent than 'usual'. I can't resist the pull of the interweb!

Anyway, I thought I would break my silence with details of this campaign by Barnardo's. It is called Children in trouble.

The Campaign (in Barnardo's words) is as follows:

"There are people who might say that some children are difficult to believe in – those who are troublesome or engage in anti-social behaviour.

At Barnardo’s, we argue that it is these children who especially need our help and support.

Evidence shows that most children in trouble are trapped in a cycle of disadvantage:

* they come from the poorest families and communities
* they have the poorest educational experiences
* they are more likely to suffer ill health and substance abuse.

Most children are not troublesome. They attend school, take part in activities and many volunteer in their communities.

Despite this, society has the perception that children are responsible for a significant amount of antisocial behaviour and crime and are becoming increasingly intolerant.

Society is demonising its young people."

Please watch the following video - will children who are under 13 years of age please seek parental consent before watching this video.

What Barnardo's are campaigning for

Barnardo's want people to think again.

Help them change the public’s intolerance, and stop the demonisation of children and young people: take action with Barnardo's.

no news

2008-11-15T17:39:00.001Z

continued blog break

2008-11-10T20:46:00.002Z

Thanks to everyone who has sent messages and has been praying for the parishes and for the family and friends of Joseph Lappin. Your love and support has been much appreciated.

Unfortunately, due to unforeseen (and totally unrelated) circumstances, I have to continue with my blog break for a few more months. I hope to be back by the early new year. Meanwhile, please do tune in to the new re:jesus blog where I shall be adding the occasional post. In the meantime if you need to get in touch you can either post a comment here and I will get back to you, or you can email me.

much love and blessings. Ellen. xxx

blog break

2008-10-25T14:34:00.002+01:00

I am sorry, dear reader, that I have not been blogging for a while but I am sure you are aware that this has been a difficult week in Everton following the fatal stabbing of Joseph Lappin outside the Shewsy Youth Club on Monday night. The club is attached, physically as well as practically, to St Peter's church which one of the two churches where I am a curate, and we are all struggling to make sense of what is a terrible event. As Henry said in his statement to the press on Monday:
"The whole community are shocked and saddened by these stabbings. We will be doing all we can to help the police with their inquiries but at this moment our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims."

I don't think that I will be able to to blog here for a while...so I hope you will forgive my absence from the world of the interweb. You can contact me via the usual routes and we would all appreciate your prayers. Particular thoughts to the family of Joseph and his friends.

london calling

2008-10-16T22:44:00.004+01:00

There is absolutely no excuse for the Clash's London Calling to be used for the Olympics theme tune. The irony is too much to bear. I can't actually bear it. If Boris or Coe ever bother to actually listen to the lyrics they may actually fear for their lives. But sadly I suspect neither of them posses the irony required to deal with popular music. May they hang their heads in shame!

If you want to watch the video you'll have to go to this link...it is worth it.
I will print the lyrics for Boris and Coe... and please bear this in mind when making your plans for 2012.

London Calling - the Clash

London calling to the faraway towns
Now war is declared, and battle come down
London calling to the underworld
Come out of the cupboard, you boys and girls
London calling, now don't look to us
Phoney Beatlemania has bitten the dust
London calling, see we ain't got no swing
'Cept for the ring of that truncheon thing

[Chorus 1:]
The ice age is coming, the sun's zooming in
Meltdown expected, the wheat is growing thin
Engines stop running, but I have no fear
'Cause London is drowning, and I live by the river

London calling to the imitation zone
Forget it, brother, you can go it alone
London calling to the zombies of death
Quit holding out, and draw another breath
London calling, and I don't wanna shout
But while we were talking, I saw you nodding out
London calling, see we ain't got no high
Except for that one with the yellowy eyes

[Chorus 2: x2]
The ice age is coming, the sun's zooming in
Engines stop running, the wheat is growing thin
A nuclear error, but I have no fear
'Cause London is drowning, and I live by the river

Now get this

London calling, yes, I was there, too
An' you know what they said? Well, some of it was true!
London calling at the top of the dial
After all this, won't you give me a smile?
London calling

I never felt so much alike [fading] alike alike alike

jury service

2008-10-14T17:40:00.003+01:00

If you ever get called up for jury service here are some things I would recommend you take with you:
* chocolate - they don't have any in Liverpool Crown Court which is very silly
* if you can knit take needles and wool (though some is provided) cos many ladies are knitting for Africa
* magazines and books - lots of.
* some sort of comfy - like a blanket or pillow (it is uncomfortable)
* the in-house food is rubbish so bring supplies
* flask of tea (see above)
* many people have copies of the Daily Mail or the Mirror so there is no need for these to be brought with you (best make a not of the daily mail readers and try not to engage in conversation - I had to be very stern with a man who started off on asylum seekers and it was a bit awkward. I made my excuses and have been avoiding eye contact ever since.) you might want some other newspaper...but there is a telly so you can watch bargain hunt.
* I have found mixed nuts and dried fruit quite a comfort (and found particular solace in jelly babies yesterday which went down very well with my fellow jurors - whilst we were deciding the verdict we needed sugar and I was the only person with supplies.)
* remember also to pack compassion, patience and a fair minded approach.

I have finished one jury today - guilty! I can tell you all about it now because it is over and the judge said I could. But, I can't face going through it again just now. Just to say it wasn't very nice...

I had parish duties this evening so I am very tired indeed. Best get myself off to bed.

jury service

2008-10-13T23:21:00.002+01:00

I have started my jury service...I am quite tired. A day of new things and loads to take in. I have tried to chill out this evening but it has been quite hard. I had a lovely time with Eva when I got home and I realized quite how much I have been caught up in stuff and haven't been able to spend as much time as I'd like with her. Shame I have jury service all next week as well because it is half term and I am really not going to be around as much as I'd hoped. Hey ho.

Right, I'd better be off to bed as I have to be in court again at the crack of dawn to find out more.

final hours

2008-10-11T10:02:00.006+01:00

The Vision After the Sermon (Jacob Wrestling with the Angel)
Paul Gauguin
currently held at the National Gallery of Scotland

I am entering my final hours at St Deiniols and feeling quite pleased with my progress. I have managed to work on every chapter and make significant improvements to a large proportion of it. Spiritually I feel I have been able to get this whole thing in perspective and regained a peace around it that had fallen away during the last year at Trinity. A great deal of wrestling - emotional, spiritual, physical and intellectual has gone into these four days and I feel quite exhausted by also invigorated.

I have just over 2 hours left here - Mark and Eva are coming to get me at lunch time. So, I best make the most of these final hours. So, there will be no More playing on facebook!

progress is slow but steady

2008-10-08T20:27:00.002+01:00

It is 8.23pm and I have been hard at work here in the library all day. I worked until the library shut at 10pm last night and that is my plan tonight though I am finding it quite hard to keep going (hence the blog break). My cold is getting the better of me and I think I must be annoying the other readers with my sniffing and coughing...but so far no even a huff or puff from them (so polite). I am making good progress though. I am being very critical of my work and making some quite radical changes to the previous draft. However, I am going to have to be less radical and gather more pace tomorrow. I am about 1/4 of the way through it and one chapter (the one where I develop my practice as research - or what Sara refers to as the auto-ethnographic chapter!) in particular will need a great deal of attention - i.e. it is really pants.

I am loving it here though...the food is great, my room is very comfy, I have made a couple of good friends who are very interesting to chat to at meal times and over coffee. I just wish I wasn't feeling quite so rubbish...hey ho. As long as I get most of this done I will be pleased. Anyway, best get on.

st deiniols

2008-10-07T17:09:00.003+01:00

I am at St Deiniols - home of Gladstone (it was, obviously not now because he is dead - but there is a good exhibition here) and the best library in the world. I am sitting on a very comfy chair in the library surrounded by lovely books in complete silence. It is fantastic. Though I didn't come here to mes about on facebook or write my blog it is quite the nicest place I have ever had the pleasure of messing about on the interweb.

Although I have a cold and am self-medicating variuosly on lemsip, asprin, honey lemon and ginger, chocolate biscuits and crisps I can still smell old books, oak and leather. A heady combination that makes me want to write a PhD...so that's what best get on with doing. Tea is at 6.45pm so I have 1 1/2 hours of creating to do. Wish me luck.

greenbelt jazzy pants

2008-10-06T20:03:00.001+01:00

Mark has exhibited a number of great photos from his Greenbelt Jazzy Pant collection on his blog...pure genius.

cold - retreat - music hall

2008-10-06T16:53:00.003+01:00

I have a cold - which is very sad because I have a busy week planned and could really do with not being ill. I am off to St Deiniol's for a few days to get my head down and do some serious work on my PhD. I have been panning this for months and feel a bit peeved that I now am ill and my head hurts. Still, I have had a good chat with Sara (supervisor) about what is needed so hope that something (i.e. a new draft) will come out of the next few days hard work. I am also hoping that I get a little break and some time-out. Just being away for a few days will be nice.

I think I have access to the interweb in my room so I will be receiving mails, facebook etc but I will be disciplined about time spent away from my developing thoughts on Liverpool's music hall.

must go and pack my socks and pants...

church nicknacks and whathaveyous

2008-10-04T16:42:00.002+01:00

I noticed that Dave Walker has sent out an open invitation to fill this page with links. Farli has had a go so I thought I'd try too.

Having just gone into the church office to do a spot of photocopying I thought I'd list some of the more unusual church nicknacks and whathaveyous I found:
the advent candle ring - broken and 2 candles missing
a small pink fluffy pig
a bike
a complete collection of (unread) bible commentaries
a bag of sand
box of videos - of the gospels (my guess is that they are not of the actual events as they unraveled but some sort of dramatization made for video)

There are so many more things which I will list in follow-up posts. But this is just the start.

harvest

2008-10-04T14:55:00.002+01:00

Today I have been preparing for the harvest service tomorrow at St Peters. There has been photocopying to do, tins to buy, bread to make, sermon to write (I say sermon it is more like telling two all age stories based on Luke 12. 13-21 - the Rich Fool and Isaiah 11.1-9 - A Vision of God's Universal Peace.

We are going to use some of the material from the Loaf Service - Christian Ecology Link's Food Campaign. We are going to make bread at the beginning of the service so I am preparing the dough a bit later so that all that has to happen tomorrow is some shaping at the beginning of the service, a quick rise and bake. To be honest I would quite like to be tucked up in bed with a lemsip. I have been fighting off a cold for a few weeks now and I feel like I am fighting a losing battle. I am freezing cold and Mark, Elise and Eva have all succumbed to it. Still, I am enjoying getting stuff ready and making the harvest loaf is going to be great.

I though I might be able to get out tonight to wish Dilys happy birthday but the combination of harvest prep and feeling like death warmed up probably means I am best being at home (also Eva is not that keen to go out for a curry!). I hope Mark is feeling well enough to go on all of our behalf.

buckets

2008-10-02T10:42:00.003+01:00

having just got the house settled and the plans for new windows nearly in place a new incident has got us in a fluster. Last night we had a bit of a storm here in Everton (and that wasn't just because Liverpool did well in the footy). Whilst I was out at the healing service and Mark was out at the Shewsy (Eva was being sat on by my new friend Penny) the flat roof over our dinning room sprang a leek and the part of the ceiling gave way. We have had to employ a number of buckets to catch the water - which has now subsided to a drip. As they say - "it never rains but it pours". Hey ho.

I am in the house writing (more like fiddling) with my PhD which is going to be discussed by Sara (my supervisor) and I over lunch today. It will be Sara's first visit to the vicarage and I am hoping that she will be gentle with me. As usual I have prepared for writing by cleaning the house a bit - mopping the kitchen floor and all the surfaces (including the toaster, kettle, bread bin and compost bin). So, after 1 hour of messing have achieved 200 words. Which believe me is good going. Having some time to work on this chapter has helped me to realise the strengths and weaknesses in the work so the mulling / cleaning process is time well spent digesting my methodology.

Later on this evening I am off to see Kathy and David - my friends and hairdressers...they are planning a bleaching session and I will be able to discuss pop music, culture and the opening of the 2nd phase of Liverpool One shopping centre which I suspect will become the Museum to Capitalism shortly. Well, we can but hope.

gym

2008-09-30T21:11:00.002+01:00

For those of you who have been waiting with bated breath to find out about my visit to the gym I can report that I have now been twice and am ok about going again. I am not buzzing about it but in the same breath I am not miserable so am going to keep on keeping on. I went this morning before Henry and I had our theological reflection / team meeting session and didn't need to have a sleep afterward - which was just as well because I haven't touched the ground all day!

Anyway, thanks to everyone for the support...I will keep you posted.

back to church

2008-09-29T20:22:00.003+01:00

We didn't do anything specific for back to church Sunday - though I did notices this article (thanks to the Church Times Blog) about a Merseyside church who seem to be an unexpected hit with the Daily Post. Good news I think!

Yesterday was, as ever, a busy day. I was preaching at St John Chrysostom Church on Philippians 1.21-30 in the morning. I really struggled to get this sermon sorted out this week but I think it went ok. My main point was that in this part of the letter Paul gives his readers permission to live with the tension (and not try to fix it) between the “now and not yet” and stand on this shifting ground with confidence. I think the sermon was preached by me for me really. I am a terrible one for trying to pin stuff down - particularly in relation to God's plans!

We had a big Sunday dinner with Elise, Wayne, baby Lillie, Andrea and Paula - roast pork, roast potatoes and parsnips, cabbage, peas and carrots. Followed by crumble. Yum Yum. we then sat and watched Penelope. It was a lovely afternoon.

I then went out to the Deanery evening service which was led by Kip Crooks (who is leading our parish weekend away as well). He was speaking about Art and Faith...which was very interesting. We also had a celebration for Henry's 30 years of ministry. 30 years in Everton no less. Very impressive I have to say!

So, that's my news. I am feeling a bit coldy this evening and have had a day in my office to catch up on bits and bobs. I went out for a few visits this afternoon but other than that its been planning for services, writing emails, poking about with my PhD and faffing. I have an evening off so must go and enjoy some crap TV.

Saturday

2008-09-27T14:03:00.003+01:00

Today I am doing stuff for tomorrow...a sermon needs tweeking, prayers need preparing and some printing needs printing. I am also trying to do things in the garden (very little has been done and as we uncover stuff we discover that the garden is a lot bigger than we we thought and that it is a lot more of a mess that we had ever imagined), I am making cakes and doing some painting (we made a terrible mess on a wall with cranberry juice - long story!). I am covered in magnolia paint and banana cake mix. So, a house sorting and Sunday preparation day.

I am also trying not to care about the Merseyside Derby...one of the good things about being a girl is that you are allowed to not have an opinion about football. Even if I had an opinion I am rarely asked for it. I think the pressure of having a partisan view might be too much for me. Having an interest is enough. The fact that the match is happening at Goodison Park means that the street isn't parked up and I can't hear the cheering from our garden. However, the street is very quiet and we can hear cheers from houses (from Liverpool supporters thus far!).

I had better get on with my Sunday preparation whilst listening to radio 5 live - 24 mins to go!

Brian makes mistakes

2008-09-25T11:31:00.003+01:00

You may well know that I am dyslexic. I am perfectly happy with my special backward logic brain but sometimes it doesn't work very well in the world of non-dyslexics. When I am unable to explain myself to non-dyslexics, make humourous spelling mistakes, Malaprop or become clumsy (a most unhelpful additional symptom) it usually means my poor brain has been overloaded by non-dyslexic thought patterns. It is at times like these I refer to my brain as Brian.

Yesterday Brian was on top form and making mistakes all the time. I sent a top secret email to the wrong person thus blowing the secret (thankfully on this occasion it was just a special card secret). I fell over my own feet a couple of times, banged into some corners and bruised my arm and leg. I lost my temper twice over mess - papers in the wrong place and I couldn't find something I needed in a hurry (I try to create an absurdly ordered world when Brian is making mistakes). But the worst thing that Brian did yesterday was a terrible flight booking disaster. I was left in charge of booking return flights to Belfast from Liverpool for New Year. I managed to find some reasonable easyjet flights and thought I'd got it all sorted, paid for and got the receipt. It wasn't until late last night that Mark noticed that I had actually booked return flights from Belfast to Liverpool! So, Brian cost us £120 because each mistake cost £20 to rectify and because you can't speak to a person you can't negotiate!

It made me realise how difficult booking flights, making orders, and generally doing on-line buying actually is for me. I try to avoid it - or get Mark to make the final transactions and there is always a sinking feeling just after I press "make transaction"...but this was by far the worst (and expensive) on-line mistake I have made. I wonder if there is a way dyslexic people can have the agreement read out to them or if there is some way if you have particular needs you could actually speak to a real person to make bookings? I am not sure I will feel all that confident about making such transactions in the future. hey ho.

avoiding exercise

2008-09-24T18:04:00.002+01:00

I have managed to avoid taking any form of exercise for a long time but tomorrow is the day that all this changes. I have an induction to the local gym which has been prescribed by the nurse at my new doctor's surgery (having had a check up she just happened to notice that I was overweight and a bit of a couch potato). I have signed up for Liverpool's healthy living scheme which allows me to see a personal trainer, join the gym and have my physical well being monitored over 12 weeks. I am not looking forward to this step at all. My aversion to exercise goes very deep and the thought of being the gym fatty feels me with horror but I realize that being affective here - the curate in two parishes in Everton - my health needs to be boosted.

So, I would welcome your prayers - for lethargy (oh I am very good at being too tired to go for a walk/swim/spin); for my sore arthritic feet which do not respond well to impact; for the poor person who has to motivate me off the sofa and in to the gym. But most importantly that I don't lose heart too quickly and keep at it.

my list

2008-09-23T12:49:00.002+01:00

looks like this:
- Finish writing our Will - boring, depressing but necessary (the co-op do a great will writing service)
- Sort out risk assessment for church
- write up notes taken at meeting with Environmental Health man
- write a funding report
- look at and sort electoral rolls
- Write a sermon for Sunday
- Write the talk for Women's Fellowship today (which I have done!)
- phone hairdresser and sort appointment for me and Eva
- go food shopping or make a list and send someone else
- read minutes etc for meeting this evening and find out where meeting is and where to park etc
- get trainers for first gym visit on thurs
- make cakes for Sunday
- plan pastoral visits for next few weeks

There are lots of other bits and bobs but this is where I am up to just now. I am off to Women's Fellowship shortly to speak, drink tea and eat cake (it is a hard life) and I have started to plan my preach for Sunday so am on course - Philippians 1: 21-30! Like Paul I am dealing with the tension between the desire for the new heaven but enjoying the cake in the old earth (Paul obviously worded his argument differently)...will there be cake in heaven?

reflections

2008-09-22T18:59:00.006+01:00

I have been using Reflections for Daily Prayer: 18 August to 29 November 2008 which have been written by John PRITCHARD, Jane WILLIAMS, Tom SMAIL, Emma INESON, Maggi DAWN, Alan GARROW, Ian PAUL.
The collection follows the lectionary readings focusing on one aspect and offering reflections as well as the collect for the day. I find it a very useful focus for my daily prayers. Having been so caught up in the business of being a new curate and trying to keep up some spiritual routine using these reflections has been a spiritual lifeline to me. I have decided to subscribe to the following editions (quarterly) and can recommend it heartily.

You can buy your copy and/or subscribe from Church House Publishing.

narnia

2008-09-19T23:44:00.002+01:00

Tomorrow I am off to Narnia! The Cathedral are hosting a Prince Caspian family fun day and I am available for prayer at a meditation station as part of the spiritual installation. I think there will be a lots of different types of activities - from the obviously spiritual to the more activity based crafts and workshops.

The blurb on the website says:
"Come and join us for an all age family fun day at Liverpool Cathedral. Climb the tower of Cair Paravel, watch the archery demonstrations, see live owls in the Cathedral. Have fun in the workshops, have a go at the crafts, meet our very own Prince Caspian. Get to see the wonderful 5ft wooden carving of Aslan, which featured in Marney Hall's garden at the NEC Birmingham and featured on BBC Gardeners World. Don't miss out !
Times: 10am - 4pm"

Eva went with her school on Wednesday and had a great day so I am looking forward to being part of it. If you get a chance you should pop down.

fashion police

2008-09-18T19:30:00.002+01:00

I don't know if you have seen this story on the BBC website but a man was recently arrested for wearing baggy jeans in Riviera Beach, south-east Florida. Since his arrest the law that allowed the fashion police to make the arrest has been challenged and a ruling has declared that the young man's imprisonment was unconstitutional. Too right it's unconstitutional - we middle aged faded blooms might not like to see vast sways of underpant cotton, or protruding thongs but surely young people should be able to have the right to have a go at wearing weird and wonderful combinations, challenge conventional clothing rules and look as daft as they like. As the news-story rightly points out this particular arrest smacked more of racism - attacking the fashion preferences of African-Americans. But, remember if their not stopped now the fashion may come and knock at your door next - yes you...