Hounslow Deanery

Parish Churches serving communities across north-west London

Category Archives: Synod

25 Mar

February Deanery Synod Minutes & June Synod date

Hi All,

I do hope you enjoyed the last synod looking at Volunteers and I’m sure you’ll all join me in thanking both our speaker the Venerable Richard Frank and Christ Church Turnham Green for hosting. If you were unable to attend but would still like to hear the talk then it’s still available to watch via Christ Church’s YouTube channel here.

The Meeting minutes are here for your review – do let me know if you see any issues or would like to request any changes.

June Synod Meeting

The June Synod will be held on Monday the 3rd of June, starting at 7.30pm with refreshments from 7pm, hosted by Holy Trinity Hounslow. The theme of the Synod is Working with Hounslow Council and so that we can encompass all the many different areas your church can work with the council, the format of the evening will be a little different from normal.

The synod will start with an introductory presentation from both Holy Trinity and Hounslow council. This will then be followed by a marketplace where you can meet service providers, get contacts, and ask questions. We encourage you to come along and bring any volunteers in your church who might benefit from this event. Due to the unique nature of the event, it will not be broadcast via zoom so being there in person is the best way to get answers to all those burning questions!

2024 Deanery Synod Meetings

Topics for the year have been tentatively agreed and there are two meetings left;

  • 3rd of June – Partnering with Hounslow Council, Holy Trinity Hounslow.
  • 9th of October – Discipleship, Hope Church Hounslow

Please do reach out if you have any suggestions.

Deanery Updates & Notices

Kensington Office move – It’s the end of an era… the Kensington Episcopal offices have moved.  As of 20 November, the new address is:

Bishop of Kensington / Kensington Area Office

3rd Floor, Regal House

70 London Road

Twickenham

TW1 3QS

An Easter message for children and young people – A message from Bishop Sarah has been released for churches and schools to use in services and assemblies across the Diocese. You can watch and download the video on Vimeo here.

How to use Canva for your church, April 4, 3pm – 4pm. Canva is a free design tool which offers a number of great features to help you create logos, flyers, posters, social media posts and much more. This webinar is ideal for those who are new to Canva, for more information or to sign up, please click here.

EV Charging Points at churches – webinar, Tuesday 9 April, 2pm. Parish Buying is running a webinar for any church interested in installing EV charging points at some of its parking spaces to serve either parishioners or the wider community.  

The minimum number of parking spaces to be converted to EV charging is two, and you must own (not rent) your car park.  For more information or to register click here.

Living with Backpain in Ministry, Tuesday, 20 April, 10am-12.30pm, LDF, 36 Causton Street, London, SW1P 4AU. Back Pain effects about one-third of the adult population of the UK and can leave people feeling depressed and frustrated by the ways it limits their activities and their working lives. To book click here.

Prayer Spaces experience and training – Week commencing 22 April at Diocesan House, Causton Street, SW1P 4AU. Prayer Spaces are an amazing way to help young people (and in fact all ages!) in schools and churches experience how to pray in different and creative ways.  There will be an opportunity to experience a prayer space and attend a training session during the week commencing 22 April at Causton Street.   To find out more about Prayer Spaces, click here.

Finding Home: Christian responses to homelessness, Tuesday 23 April, 10am-2pm, St Mark’s Church, Kennington, SE11 4PW. Do you support those who experience homelessness, or are interested in starting a ministry in this area? This talk is a space for parishes across the Dioceses of London & Southwark to come together and discuss their responses. Hosted by the Diocese of London’s Compassionate Communities Team and the Diocese of Southwark’s Together Southwark. For more information click here.

Kensington Area Youth Event, Friday 26 April, 7pm-9pm. The next Area Youth Event will be at HTB Onslow Square site (SW7 3NX) from 7-9pm on Friday 26 April, for those in school years 6-13.  A great opportunity to gather with lots of other young people, and totally free! Further details available soon – but if you think you might like to bring young people from your church along, get the date in your diary!

Listening for God’s Call – a vocations day for women, Wednesday 27 April 11am-3pm, St Botolph without Aldgate, EC3N 1AB. For women in the Diocese of London who are beginning the process of discernment of a call to ordained ministry. The day gives an opportunity to understand the process, and to discuss some of the particular joys and challenges of ordination for women. Lunch will be provided, for more information click here.

Kensington Youth Weekend Away 2024 – 21-23 June 2024. The annual Kensington Youth Weekend will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge, Wokingham. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring young people (Year 6+) and leaders from different churches across the area together, to enjoy worship, teaching and a range of outdoor activities. Particularly aimed for churches who don’t run their own residentials. Further information will be sent out in due course, and contact Jo Jones for further details.

Cooks needed for the Youth Weekend Away! – Do you like cooking?  Are you happy to cook for large numbers?  Do you like having fun?  If this is you, the team are looking for a couple of people who would be happy and willing to join the Youth Weekend Away to cook the meals.  Training is available if needed and support will be provided with menus and shopping.  If you or anyone you know might be interested, please could you get in touch with Jo Jones as soon as possible.

Kensington Area Growing Younger Day – Saturday, 12 October, 10am-2pm at St Mellitus, Courtfield Gardens. An excellent opportunity for churches to bring their children and youth teams, or anyone interested in ministry to children and young people, to be inspired, encouraged and equipped. Panel discussion, input from Bishop Emma, a range of seminars, resources, networking – and a free lunch! Further details to follow.

Warmest wishes and God bless,

Kathleen McQuarrie

Hounslow Deanery Secretary

21 Feb

February Deanery Synod Reminder

Hi All,

Just a quick reminder that the February Deanery Synod is tomorrow! Featuring the Venerable Richard Frank, the Archdeacon of Kensington as our speaker looking at the subject of volunteers – a cornerstone of many churches! Hosted by Christ Church Turnham Green, the synod will be on Thursday the 22nd of February, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. Join us to hear from the Archdeacon and bring all your questions about volunteers!

In preparation for the meeting, please take a look at the below documents and get ready to bring your questions to our expert speakers.

**If you’re unable to attend but would still like to listen to the talk then Christ Church will be broadcasting it on their YouTube channel via this link. The recording will be kept online for a few days so you can catch up later.***

2024 Deanery Synod Meetings

The date for the next synod are still pending as our Standing Committee members are working with speakers. However topics for the year have been tentatively agreed;

  • June – Partnering with Hounslow Council
  • 9th of October – Discipleship, Hope Church Hounslow

Please do reach out if you have any suggestions.

Deanery Updates & Notices

Kensington Office move – It’s the end of an era… the Kensington Episcopal offices have moved.  As of 20 November, the new address is:

Bishop of Kensington / Kensington Area Office

3rd Floor, Regal House

70 London Road

Twickenham

TW1 3QS

Who Cares? An Introduction to Pastoral Care – 20th & 27th February, 5th, 12th & 19th March. Are you interested in caring for others, whether in a small group or visiting them at home or in hospital? This course covers topics including Listening, Visiting, the nature of Pastoral Care, Boundaries and confidentiality, and more. For more

information and to book click here.

Lent Listening Groups – 20th & 27th February, 5th, 12th & 19th March. Explore how listening can create space to pay attention to what God is doing in our lives. A mix of online sessions hosted by our bishops, and small group sessions in your own context, for both churches and individuals. For more information and to book click here.

Kensington Area Youth Event – Friday, 1 March, 7pm – 9pm, St John’s Hampton Wick. Bring your young people along – there will be food, fun and games, worship and engaging discussion. Further details to follow soon. For more information contact Jo Jones.

Toddler Group online training session – Wednesday, 6 March, 7.30pm. If you’re involved in running a toddler group at church (or interested in setting one up), then save the date!  This training session will cover several key themes, including how to make church baby/toddler groups welcoming, distinctive and a key part of your ministry to children and families.  For more information contact Jo Jones .

Multiply Estates Mission 2024 – Tuesday, 12 March, 9am – 2 pm, St Barnabas North London. Multiply Estates Mission is an opportunity to explore what it takes to build churches for those yet to belong, to create welcoming homes for the weary, for those longing to find a family in Christ.  Cost is £10 per person.  For more information and to book, click here.

Kensington Area Lent Day – Wednesday, 13th March 2024, 10am. The Area Lent day is for all clergy and Licensed Lay Ministers.  For more information and to register, please click here.

Kensington Youth Weekend Away 2024 – 21-23 June 2024. The annual Kensington Youth Weekend will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge, Wokingham. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring young people (Year 6+) and leaders from different churches across the area together, to enjoy worship, teaching and a range of outdoor activities. Particularly aimed for churches who don’t run their own residentials. Further information will be sent out in due course, and contact Jo Jones for further details.

Cooks needed for the Youth Weekend Away! – Do you like cooking?  Are you happy to cook for large numbers?  Do you like having fun?  If this is you, the team are looking for a couple of people who would be happy and willing to join the Youth Weekend Away to cook the meals.  Training is available if needed and support will be provided with menus and shopping.  If you or anyone you know might be interested, please could you get in touch with Jo Jones as soon as possible.

Kensington Area Growing Younger Day – Saturday, 12 October, 10am-2pm at St Mellitus, Courtfield Gardens. An excellent opportunity for churches to bring their children and youth teams, or anyone interested in ministry to children and young people, to be inspired, encouraged and equipped. Panel discussion, input from Bishop Emma, a range of seminars, resources, networking – and a free lunch! Further details to follow.

Warmest wishes and God bless,

Kathleen McQuarrie

Hounslow Deanery Secretary

08 Feb

February Deanery Synod

Hi All,

The February Deanery Synod is coming up on soon. This first synod of 2024 will feature the guest speaker the Venerable Richard Frank, the Archdeacon of Kensington. He’ll be talking on the subject of volunteers – a cornerstone of many churches! Hosted by Christ Church Turnham Green, the synod will be on Thursday the 22nd of February, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. Join us to hear from the Archdeacon and bring your questions al about volunteers!

In preparation for the meeting, please take a look at the below documents and get ready to bring your questions to our expert speakers.

Do make sure to mark the 22nd of February into your diary and feel free to reach out to myself or Martine if you have any questions on this event.

2024 Deanery Synod Meetings

The date for the next synod are still pending as our Standing Committee members are working with speakers. However topics for the year have been tentatively agreed;

  • June – Partnering with Hounslow Council
  • 9th of October – Discipleship, Hope Church Hounslow

Please do reach out if you have any suggestions or would like to host.

Deanery Updates & Notices

Kensington Office move – It’s the end of an era… the Kensington Episcopal offices have moved.  As of 20 November, the new address is:

Bishop of Kensington / Kensington Area Office

3rd Floor, Regal House

70 London Road

Twickenham

TW1 3QS

Praying for Schools – 4th-18th February. Praying for your local schools is a brilliant way to support them, either through a dedicated prayer group or including them in your regular parish or individual prayers.  The Pray for Schools organisation is running a ‘Love Our Schools’ fortnight and useful resources can be found here.

Racial Justice Sunday – Sunday 11th February The theme for this year explores the movement of people from their homelands to the places they now call home – the journeys made, and the reception or welcome received on arrival. View the resources 

Disability and Diversity – 16th February 10am-4pm, London Diocesan House, 36 Causton Street, London, SW1P 4AU. A disability theology day with Professor Brian Brock.  There are a few spaces left.  For more information and to register, click here.

“Decisions, decisions…” – a reflective weekend for SSMs – 16th -18th February 2024. Christians in Secular Ministry (CHRISM) are hosting this weekend.  Guest speakers include the Rt Revd and Rt Hon Dame Sarah Mullaly, DBE, Bishop of London and the Revd Annette Fritze-Shanks, Bishop’s Adviser for Self-Supporting Ministry.  For more information and on how to book, please click here.  

Who Cares? An Introduction to Pastoral Care – 20th & 27th February, 5th, 12th & 19th March. Are you interested in caring for others, whether in a small group or visiting them at home or in hospital? This course covers topics including Listening, Visiting, the nature of Pastoral Care, Boundaries and confidentiality, and more. For more

information and to book click here.

Lent Listening Groups – 20th & 27th February, 5th, 12th & 19th March. Explore how listening can create space to pay attention to what God is doing in our lives. A mix of online sessions hosted by our bishops, and small group sessions in your own context, for both churches and individuals. For more information and to book click here.

Kensington Area Youth Event – Friday, 1 March, 7pm – 9pm, St John’s Hampton Wick. Bring your young people along – there will be food, fun and games, worship and engaging discussion. Further details to follow soon. For more information contact Jo Jones.

Toddler Group online training session – Wednesday, 6 March, 7.30pm. If you’re involved in running a toddler group at church (or interested in setting one up), then save the date!  This training session will cover several key themes, including how to make church baby/toddler groups welcoming, distinctive and a key part of your ministry to children and families.  For more information contact Jo Jones .

Multiply Estates Mission 2024 – Tuesday, 12 March, 9am – 2 pm, St Barnabas North London. Multiply Estates Mission is an opportunity to explore what it takes to build churches for those yet to belong, to create welcoming homes for the weary, for those longing to find a family in Christ.  Cost is £10 per person.  For more information and to book, click here.

Kensington Area Lent Day – Wednesday, 13th March 2024, 10am. The Area Lent day is for all clergy and Licensed Lay Ministers.  For more information and to register, please click here.

Kensington Youth Weekend Away 2024 – 21-23 June 2024. The annual Kensington Youth Weekend will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge, Wokingham. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring young people (Year 6+) and leaders from different churches across the area together, to enjoy worship, teaching and a range of outdoor activities. Particularly aimed for churches who don’t run their own residentials. Further information will be sent out in due course, and contact Jo Jones for further details.

Cooks needed for the Youth Weekend Away! – Do you like cooking?  Are you happy to cook for large numbers?  Do you like having fun?  If this is you, the team are looking for a couple of people who would be happy and willing to join the Youth Weekend Away to cook the meals.  Training is available if needed and support will be provided with menus and shopping.  If you or anyone you know might be interested, please could you get in touch with Jo Jones as soon as possible.

Kensington Area Growing Younger Day – Saturday, 12 October, 10am-2pm at St Mellitus, Courtfield Gardens. An excellent opportunity for churches to bring their children and youth teams, or anyone interested in ministry to children and young people, to be inspired, encouraged and equipped. Panel discussion, input from Bishop Emma, a range of seminars, resources, networking – and a free lunch! Further details to follow.

Warmest wishes and God bless,

Kathleen McQuarrie

Hounslow Deanery Secretary

28 Sep

October Synod Reminder 

Hi All,

Just a quick reminder that the October Deanery Synod is coming up in less than a week, please make sure to have this booked in your diary! Our guest speaker will be the Rt Rev Dr Emma Ineson, the new Bishop of Kensington. After presiding over communion, she’ll be talking us through her vision for the area followed by a Q&A session. Hosted by St Michael’s Elmwood Road, the synod will be on Tuesday 3rd of October, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. Join us to hear from our new Bishop and bring your burning questions!

In preparation for the meeting, please take a look at the below documents and get ready to bring your questions to our expert speakers.

Do make sure to mark the 3rd of October into your diary and feel free to reach out to myself or Martine if you have any questions on this event. I’m afraid this meeting won’t be broadcast this time, so if you want to hear from Bishop Emma make sure to attend!

During the meeting we will be voting new members of the Deanery Standing Committee – as part of their duties they will be picking the dates for the 2024 Synod meetings. We will let you know as soon as they have picked the dates!

21 Sep

October Deanery Synod

Hi All,

The October Deanery Synod is coming up on soon and this first synod of the Triennium will feature several important deanery votes as well as opening the triennium with communion. Our guest speaker will be the Rt Rev Dr Emma Ineson, the new Bishop of Kensington. After presiding over communion, she’ll be talking us through her vision for the area followed by a Q&A session. Hosted by St Michael’s Elmwood Road, the synod will be on Tuesday 3rd of October, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. Join us to hear from our new Bishop and bring your burning questions!

In preparation for the meeting, please take a look at the below documents and get ready to bring your questions to our expert speakers.

Do make sure to mark the 3rd of October into your diary and feel free to reach out to myself or Martine if you have any questions on this event.

During the meeting we will be voting new members of the Deanery Standing Committee – as part of their duties they will be picking the dates for the 2024 Synod meetings. We will let you know as soon as they have picked the dates!

Deanery Updates & Notices

Black History Month – October 2023. This year, Black History Month will be dedicated to honouring the achievements of black women who are often the forgotten heroines. We’d love to hear how churches are planning to celebrate this important occasion. Please email communications@london.anglican.org

Holy Land Study Tour – Monday 2nd – 11th October. With the Rev Preb Andrew Corsie, Willesden Area Director of Ministry, and Dr Salim J Munayer, Founder of Musalaha. A Study Tour offering insights and fresh understanding gleaned from over 30 years of pioneering “conflict resolution delivery“ set against the intense backdrop of the Israeli/ Palestinian violent conflict. For more information, click here.

Growing Younger training event – 14th October, 9am -1pm, Building on a similar event last year, who share a desire to help children and young people flourish in our churches. The morning will include: a panel sharing their thoughts and taking questions; input from Bishop Emma and a range of seminars exploring various aspects of youth and children’s ministry, led by experienced local practitioners. For more information and to book, please click here.

Racial Justice Pilgrimage – Monday 16 October. Join the Bishop of Willesden Lusa Nseng-Ngoy on a walking pilgrimage to visit Black History sites from Westminster to Ladbroke Grove. The total distance is 7.6 miles. Please bring a packed lunch and meet at Windrush Memorial, Waterloo Station 9am to Finish at Grenfell Tower 3.30pm. View the route and timings here.

Menopause Cafe – 19th October 2023, 7pm. The Menopause Cafe is back.  at the earlier time of 7pm.  Hosted by the Spire Cafe, St Paul’s Church, Brentford.  Check the website here for more details and how to register.

West London Youth Prayer Night – 20th October, 7pm. Join us for an amazing night of Prayer and Worship. We will be led in worship by Zac Carpenter with a band from local Vineyard churches and Josh Green from 24-7 Prayer Youth will be speaking. This is open to all churches and youth groups. We want to gather to seek God and pray. Click here for more information and to book.

New Church Officers’ Evening – Tuesday, 24th October 2023, 7.30pm – 8.45 pm

This year the diocese are holding an online event for Churchwardens, PCC Treasurers, PCC Secretaries and new PCC Members.  This is an opportunity to hear about the roles and receive information about the support that is offered by the Diocese and the Kensington Area Team.  To register, click here

Light Night – 31st October, 7.30pm. Hope Church Hounslow are hosting a light party for young people at the end of October. More details to come soon but please see the flyer here, for more information please reach out to Chris at Hope Church.

Safeguarding Sunday – Sunday 19th November. Register your church to take part, and receive a free digital resource pack with everything needed to plan and run a ’Safeguarding Sunday’ service.  Whether you can give this 10 minutes or can dedicate a whole Sunday morning, it all counts. Find out more here.

Kensington Youth Weekend Away 2024 – 21-23 June 2024. The annual Kensington Youth Weekend will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge, Wokingham. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring young people (Year 6+) and leaders from different churches across the area together, to enjoy worship, teaching and a range of outdoor activities. Particularly aimed for churches who don’t run their own residentials. Further information will be sent out in due course, and contact Jo Jones for further details.

Youth Group Football – Is your youth group looking to form their own football team or arrange matches against other churches? If so, they can join this network and have access to the directory. The group is also working with Ambassadors to provide a space for teams to play friendly games. Click here to sign up.

Warmest wishes and God bless,

Kathleen McQuarrie

Hounslow Deanery Secretary

25 May

The Summer Synod is coming up

Hi All,

The Deanery Summer Synod is coming up on soon and this final synod of the Triennium will have a focus on Disability and the church. We’re being graciously hosted by St George’s Church Hanworth (Castle Way, Hanworth Park, TW13 7QE) and we look forward to seeing you all there. We’ll be meeting on Thursday the 8th of June, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments served from 7pm. Our speakers will be Rev John Beauchamp, Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler, and our own Rev Rachel Wooden.

In preparation for the meeting, please take a look at the below documents and get ready to bring your questions to our expert speakers.

Due to IT limitations, this meeting will not be broadcast so the only way you can hear from our excellent speakers is to attend in person. Do make sure to mark the 8th of June into your diary and feel free to reach out to myself or Martine if you have any questions on this event.

Our next Synod will mark the beginning of the new Triennium and will feature communion, Bishop Emma speaking on her vision for the area, and important deanery business.  Please make sure to block out the 3rd of October in your diary!

£150,000 Hounslow Energy Fund Launched

Hounslow Council has re-launched its Hounslow Community Energy Fund (HCEF) for 2023, with £150,000 available to support community-based projects that cut carbon and improve energy efficiency. Churches are eligible to apply and the deadline is the 31st July. We know a couple of Hounslow churches managed to get funding in the last round so we encourage all of you to consider it this time. For more information and guidance on how to apply, click here. 

School Governors Needed!

While we’ve recently managed to fill one of the governor vacancies in the deanery, there are still two outstanding and we desperately need your help in filling them.

  • The Green School Trust -are looking for someone who would like to move into a chair or vice-chair role after a suitable period of induction. For more information, please reach out to Kate Nepstad, Head of Governor Services.
  • The Blue School – One of our Deanery Foundation Governors stepped down in March and we are looking for a replacement to represent the Deanery.

If you know anyone in your congregation who would make a good fit to represent the Deanery on the board of Governors please reach out to me or Martine. Any foundation Governor candidates will be voted on by the Deanery Standing Committee before being submitted to the school. Please note that we would need to receive the below before any candidate can be considered;

  • A letter from the candidate’s vicar (or church wardens if the church is in interregnum) – confirming both the good character of the individual and that they attend church regularly so are well placed to represent the Deanery as a Deanery Foundation Governor
  • An email or formal letter (preferably sent via email) from the candidate explaining what they would bring to the role, their experience and skills, so demonstrating their suitability. It helps if this also includes their contact details so both we and the school can reach out to them in the event they are successful.

Deanery & Area Vacancies

Parish Administrator – St Philip & James Whitton with St Stephen’s Hounslow

seek a Parish Administrator, to be based at Whitton. The role will involve the management of day-to-day activities of the two churches, including some financial duties, to act as PA to the Vicar, and support the churchwardens and officers in their roles. Hours: 24.5 hours per week – can be worked flexibly across Monday to Friday

Salary: £15.00 per hour plus Workplace Pension (c£28.860pa pro rata)

For more information please contact the Hon PCC Secretary, Mrs Lucy James,

Community Development Lead – Hope Church Hounslow. The role will be to oversee and co-ordinate our community work along with the Vicar; build on relationships with outside agencies; give oversight and administrative backing to their Foodbanks and community work with different groups; build and train volunteer teams; grow their work with debt advise, benefits, housing, mental health support, food poverty, back to work/employment training, vulnerable families and vulnerable adults; oversee risk assessments and to be involved in fundraising for this work. Deadline for application is 26 May at noon and interviews will take place in the week beginning 5 June.  For more information click here or contact info@hopehounslow.org.uk

General Secretary for the Diocese of London –  Seeking to do everything we can to support our parishes, chaplaincies and church plants as they contribute to the flourishing of people and communities across the city, the diocese are looking for an experienced leader who has the desire to play a vital role in the work of the LDF. They will work closely with Bishop Sarah, the Area Bishops and Archdeacons, and the broad range of trustees and non-executives. Application deadline 29th May, for more information click here.

Deanery Updates & Notices

Thy Kingdom Come 2023, 18th – 28th May – The Diocese has launched a brand new app which is a one stop shop for access to inspirational daily prayer reflections, videos from ecumenical leaders on the TKC23 daily themes and resources for children and young people. The TKC App is an award winning resource that your congregations can download to guide them through 11 days of prayer and reflection as we pray – Thy Kingdom Come in our lives and communities. To download TKC23 App click here for android, or here for IOS.

Triennium End– Just a quick reminder that the Deanery Rep terms come to an end on the 30th of June, and new reps should be elected in your APCMs. Please do let the deanery office know your church deanery reps following your APCM so we can make sure our membership list is up to date.

Summer Deanery Synod – 8th of June, 7:30pm. The next synod will be looking at Disability and will feature speakers Rev John Beauchamp, the Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler, and Rev Rachel Wooden. Hosted by St George’s Church, Hanworth (Castle Way Hanworth Park, TW13 7QE), the synod will be on the 8th of June, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. This meeting will not be broadcast via zoom so the only way to hear from these great speakers will be to attend in person!

Kensington Area Youth Weekend 2023 – 16-18 June 2023. The Area Youth weekend away, for young people in school years 6-10 will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge near Wokingham.  If your church hasn’t participated in this before and would like to find out more, please contact Joanna Jones here.

Clergy raining – Monday 19 June, 10am – 1pm, Diocesan House. How do we speak the gospel in public today? Much of our outreach at local level can be hampered by the lack of a strong and positive public narrative about Christian faith in public discourse. Bishop Graham Tomlin will speak, click here for more information.

Multiply Conference – 22 June, 10am-4pm, St Paul’s, Hammersmith. Multiply 2023 is an invitation to join in.  A day conference for church leaders, practitioners and strategists. To dream bigger, to sow into opportunities emerging around them, and to bless and nurture the rich, blended ecology of the Church. It takes all kinds of Church to reach all kinds of people. For more information, click here.

Rethinking Disability – 22 June, 10am – 4pm, London Diocesan House. a day looking at the theology of justice in a disabling world and the Church. The day will draw together recent theological perspectives on disability justice, share stories gathered from disabled Christians, and explore practical pathways for increasing the participation of disabled people in church. For more information click here.

Theology in a Summer – 17th July. This online short course, features six talks from a variety of speakers on topics across the spectrum of theology, including biblical studies, doctrine, church history, ethics and more. Open to all. For more information click here.

Growing Younger Retreat – 13-15 September 2023. Collaborating with the Diocese Children & Youth team, the Kensington Area Growing Younger Team are hosting retreat for employed children and youth workers at Ripon College, Cuddesdon (Cuddesdon, Oxford OX44 9EX). For more information, reach out to the Diocese of London Children & Youth team.

Autumn Deanery Synod – 3rd of October, 7.30pm. The last synod of 2023 will feature several important deanery votes as well as opening the triennium with communion. Our guest speaker will be the Rt Rev Dr Emma Ineson, the new Bishop of Kensington. After presiding over communion, she’ll be talking us through her vision for the area followed by a Q&A session. Hosted by St Michael’s Elmwood Road, the synod will be on the 3rd of October, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. Join us to hear from our new Bishop and bring your burning questions!

Holy Land Study Tour – Monday 2nd – 11th October. With the Rev Preb Andrew Corsie, Willesden Area Director of Ministry, and Dr Salim J Munayer, Founder of Musalaha. A Study Tour offering insights and fresh understanding gleaned from over 30 years of pioneering “conflict resolution delivery“ set against the intense backdrop of the Israeli/ Palestinian violent conflict. For more information, click here.

Creative Growth – As part of the London 2030 vision, the Creative Growth ambition wants to see that estates are fully included in the vision for every Londoner to encounter the love of God in Christ. In partnership with the area Bishops and Directors of Mission, an Area Estates Advocate has been chosen for each area to work with the Diocese Estates Enabler. Our own Revd Fi Budden is the Advocate for Kensington Area.  If you are interested in exploring estate ministry, or highlighting the estate ministry you are already involved with, please contact Fi who would love to hear from you!

Warmest wishes and God bless,

Kathleen McQuarrie

Hounslow Deanery Secretary

06 Apr

2023 Deanery Synod Dates

Hello All,

Happy Easter and I do hope you’re enjoying the warmer weather. This is just a quick email to let you know about the dates for the next two synods. Our next synod will be looking at Disability and will feature speakers Rev John Beauchamp, the Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler, and Rev Rachel Wooden. Hosted by St George Hanworth, the synod will be on the 8th of June, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. This meeting will not be broadcast via zoom so the only way to hear from these great speakers will be to attend in person!

The last synod of the year will feature several important deanery votes as well as opening the triennium with communion. Our guest speaker will be the Rt Rev Dr Emma Ineson, the new Bishop of Kensington. After presiding over communion, she’ll be talking us through her vision for the area followed by a Q&A session. Hosted by St Michael’s Elmwood Road, the synod will be on the 3rd of October, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments from 7pm. Join us to hear from our new Bishop and bring your burning questions!

Finally, just a quick reminder that Deanery Synod rep terms come to an end on the 30th of June with new reps due to be elected as part of your APCMs. Along with this, the terms of both the Deanery Standing Committee and our Lay Chair, Simon Surtees will also be ending with elections due to be held as part of the October Synod. Simon is planning on standing again and nomination forms for the Lay Chair will be going out following the Summer. Please make sure your church lets us know of your new deanery reps as soon as possible so that we can include them in this important process.

Deanery Updates & Notices

Triennium End– Just a quick reminder that the Deanery Rep terms come to an end this year, and new reps should be elected in your APCMs. Please do let the deanery office know your church deanery reps following your APCM so we can make sure our membership list is up to date.

Internship programme – Hope Church Hounslow are running an internship in partnership with Kick from September. The post is open to male or female coaches and will provide the opportunity to work with children from 5 to 18. For more information see the advert here.

Kensington Area Youth Event – 21st April 2023. This should be a brilliant evening with comedian Paul Kerensa and the opportunity to meet Bishop Emma – and food! We would love to welcome as many young people and their leaders from across the area as possible. To find out more about bringing a group along, contact Jo Jones.

LLM discernment – Tuesday 25th April, 7-8pm. A short online session to explore licensed lay ministry (LLM) in the Diocese of London; what it is, how discernment and training happens, and an opportunity to ask questions. For clergy and interested lay people. To book a place, click here.

Growing Younger “Faith at Home” – 11th May, 7:30-9:00pm. The Area Growing Younger group are inviting churches to attend a workshop for parents and carers on how to grow and foster faith in our children at home. The event will include a conversation with Care for the Family, a space for discussions, and a means to feedback into the livestream to have your questions answered. For more information contact Jo Jones.

Vocations Discernment Process – 15th & 22nd May, 5th & 12th June. The next round of the discernment process for those considering a call to ordained ministry begins in May with a four week discernment group on Zoom. If any incumbents have potential candidates, please email Rev Peter Vannozzi.

Kensington Area Youth Weekend 2023 – 16-18 June 2023. The Area Youth weekend away, for young people in school years 6-10 will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge near Wokingham. If your church hasn’t participated in this before and would like to find out more, please contact Joanna Jones here.

Growing Younger Retreat – 13-15 September 2023. Collaborating with the Diocese Children & Youth team, the Kensington Area Growing Younger Team are hosting retreat for employed children and youth workers at Ripon College, Cuddesdon (Cuddesdon, Oxford OX44 9EX). For more information, reach out to the Diocese of London Children & Youth team.

Holy Land Study Tour – Monday 2nd – 11th October. With the Rev Preb Andrew Corsie, Willesden Area Director of Ministry, and Dr Salim J Munayer, Founder of Musalaha. A Study Tour offering insights and fresh understanding gleaned from over 30 years of pioneering “conflict resolution delivery“ set against the intense backdrop of the Israeli/ Palestinian violent conflict. For more information, click here.

Creative Growth – As part of the London 2030 vision, the Creative Growth ambition wants to see that estates are fully included in the vision for every Londoner to encounter the love of God in Christ. In partnership with the area Bishops and Directors of Mission, an Area Estates Advocate has been chosen for each area to work with the Diocese Estates Enabler. Our own Revd Fi Budden is the Advocate for Kensington Area. If you are interested in exploring estate ministry, or highlighting the estate ministry you are already involved with, please contact Fi who would love to hear from you!

Venue Needed – John Beauchamp, Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler is looking for venues to hold neurodiversity training in the Spring and Summer this year. If your venue is:

  • close to accessible transport
  • step free
  • has accessible toilet facilities
  • has flexible seating
  • has good acoustics and a hearing loop
  • is warm in colder weather

please contact John directly.

Warmest wishes and God bless,

Kathleen McQuarrie

Hounslow Deanery Secretary

08 Mar

February Deanery Synod Minutes

Hello All,

I’m sure you’ll all join me in thanking Christ Church Feltham and Rev Andy Watkins for arranging last month’s informative Deanery synod. Many of the reps who attended have let us know how useful they found the talks on Asylum seekers, and we encourage you to take a look if you weren’t able to attend.

The minutes of the meeting are here and these include links to recordings of the interviews. Do let me know if you have any questions or notice any changes needed in the minutes. We’d also be very grateful to receive feedback on how you found this meeting and any suggestions you might have as to how we can improve and make more valuable the time we are spending together as Synod.

We don’t have a date for the next synod yet but are working closely with speakers, with the hope of announcing a date soon. Please do reach out to Martine or myself if you would like to contribute

Multiply Estates Mission

For this event, we’ll be joined by the fantastic Sarah Small, Head of Eden at The Message Trust, and Cris Rogers, director of Making Disciples.

Alongside Sarah and Cris’s keynote talks, attendees will be able to put questions to our panellists – including:

  • Brendan Bassett, team lead of Jesus Shaped People
  • Sara Barron, executive director of the National Estate Churches Network
  • Ray Driscoll, head of estates planting at the Church Revitalisation Trust
  • Mark Miller, head of New Wine’s urban ministry

We’d love those who are involved in estate mission and ministry or those that would like to be, to join us at St Barnabas Church, North London, on Tuesday 28 March 2023. Multiply: Estates Mission is for everyone – we’d love people to bring their teams, including their local leaders. For more information and book tickets, click here.

Deanery Updates & Notices

  • Triennium End– Just a quick reminder that the Deanery Rep terms come to an end this year, and new reps should be elected in your APCMs. Please do let the deanery office know your church deanery reps following your APCM so we can make sure our membership list is up to date.
  • Coronation Weekend Webinar – 9th March, 11am. The upcoming coronation gives a wonderful opportunity for churches to engage their communities in celebration and worship, and to support volunteering, as well as to pray for the King. This webinar will introduce the national plans and resources for the coronation weekend with suggestions as to how to use them locally to create a memorable and outward-facing occasion. Hosted by Stephen Hance (Vision and Strategy Team) with colleagues from the National Church. Click here to join.
  • Supporting Young People’s Emotional & Mental Health – 15th March, 5.30pm-7.30 pm. Led by the brilliant Dr Kate Middleton, from Youthscape/Mind & Soul Foundation, this session will be offering advice and support for how we can offer care to our young people around wellbeing. It’s free – all are welcome. For more information, or to register, click here.
  • Kensington Area Youth Event – 21 April 2023. This should be a brilliant evening with comedian Paul Kerensa and the opportunity to meet Bishop Emma – and food! We would love to welcome as many young people and their leaders from across the area as possible. To find out more about bringing a group along, contact Jo Jones.
  • Growing Younger “Faith at Home” – 11th May, 7:30-9:00pm. The Area Growing Younger group are inviting churches to attend a workshop for parents and carers on how to grow and foster faith in our children at home. The event will include a conversation with Care for the Family, a space for discussions, and a means to feedback into the livestream to have your questions answered. For more information contact Jo Jones.
  • Vocations Discernment Process – 15th & 22nd May, 5th & 12th June. The next round of the discernment process for those considering a call to ordained ministry begins in May with a four week discernment group on Zoom. If any incumbents have potential candidates, please email Rev Peter Vannozzi.
  • Kensington Area Youth Weekend 2023 – 16-18 June 2023. The Area Youth weekend away, for young people in school years 6-10 will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge near Wokingham. If your church hasn’t participated in this before and would like to find out more, please contact Joanna Jones here.
  • Growing Younger Retreat – 13-15 September 2023. Collaborating with the Diocese Children & Youth team, the Kensington Area Growing Younger Team are hosting retreat for employed children and youth workers at Ripon College, Cuddesdon (Cuddesdon, Oxford OX44 9EX). For more information, reach out to the Diocese of London Children & Youth team.
  • Creative Growth – As part of the London 2030 vision, the Creative Growth ambition wants to see that estates are fully included in the vision for every Londoner to encounter the love of God in Christ. In partnership with the area Bishops and Directors of Mission, an Area Estates Advocate has been chosen for each area to work with the Diocese Estates Enabler. Our own Revd Fi Budden is the Advocate for Kensington Area. If you are interested in exploring estate ministry, or highlighting the estate ministry you are already involved with, please contact Fi who would love to hear from you!
  • Venue Needed – John Beauchamp, Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler is looking for venues to hold neurodiversity training in the Spring and Summer this year. Please contact John directly If your venue is:
    • close to accessible transport
    • step free
    • has accessible toilet facilities
    • has flexible seating
    • has good acoustics and a hearing loop
    • is warm in colder weather

Warmest wishes and God bless,

Kathleen McQuarrie

Hounslow Deanery Secretary

Deanery WhatsApp Groups
Useful for sharing best practice, the Deanery groups cover roles as diverse as Churchwardens, PCC Secretaries, Treasurers, Safeguarding, and children’s workers. If those in your parish would like to join, click here to let us know.

Kintsugi Hope.
Kintsugi Hope is not just a charity. We have a vision of starting a movement of Kintsugi Hope Wellbeing Groups where people can experience safety and support. For more information click here.

Hounslow Welcare Trust.
Last year the trust extended grants in excess of £35k, supporting projects ranging from debt support, community hubs, and relief for Ukraine. Get in touch if your church would like funding.

01 Feb

The February Deanery Synod meeting is next week

Hello All,

The First Deanery Synod of 2023 is next weeks with a focus on ministering to Asylum Seekers. We’re being graciously hosted by Christ Church Feltham (Hanworth Rd, Feltham TW13 5AB) and we look forward to seeing you all there. We’ll be meeting on Wednesday the 8th February at 7.30pm, with refreshments served from 7pm. Our speaker will be Rev Jonathan Samadi, vicar of St Mary’s Staines.

This synod we’re hoping for a participation heavy event featuring series of conversations and interviews that would provoke conversations among the deanery synod members and hopefully spark ideas. Bring your questions and issues around ministering to asylum seekers at your church.

Please make sure to mark the 8th of February into your diary and feel free to reach out to Rev Andy Watkins, the Deanery Community Champion, if you have any questions on this event.

    Deanery Updates & Notices

    • Racial Justice Sunday – 12th February 2023. Racial Justice Sunday is taking place on 12 February 2023 and is very much a call for all Christians to engage in the righteous struggle for racial justice.
      • CofE liturgical resources
      • Churches Together in Britain and Ireland resources
      • Churches Together in England resources
    • Bishop of Kensington welcome service – Sunday 19th February, 3pm. The new Bishop of Kensington has been announced as the Rt Revd Dr Emma Ineson (diocese announcement here). Everyone in the area is invited to her welcome service at St Barnabas Kensington which will be followed by refreshments.
    • Deanery Vacancies – Holy Trinity Hounslow are currently recruiting a Case Worker for the Olive Branch Crisis Drop-in to guide homeless guests from first meeting and assessment to being housed. Application Deadline: Tues 28th February, Click here for further details.
    • Multiply Estates Mission – 23-28 March 2023, 10am – 1pm at St Barnabas Church, North London. For practitioners with a deep love for estates mission and for those who are new to the call but hungry to get going. Join us to hear stories from across the nation and discover practical tools for starting this work in your community. Register here
    • Kensington Area Youth Event – 21 April 2023. This should be a brilliant evening with comedian Paul Kerensa and the opportunity to meet Bishop Emma – and food! We would love to welcome as many young people and their leaders from across the area as possible. To find out more about bringing a group along, contact Jo Jones.
    • Kensington Area Youth Weekend 2023 – 16-18 June 2023. The Area Youth weekend away, for young people in school years 6-10 will take place at Oakwood Youth Challenge near Wokingham. If your church hasn’t participated in this before and would like to find out more, please contact Joanna Jones here.
    • Creative Growth – As part of the London 2030 vision, the Creative Growth ambition wants to see that estates are fully included in the vision for every Londoner to encounter the love of God in Christ. In partnership with the area Bishops and Directors of Mission, an Area Estates Advocate has been chosen for each area to work with the Diocese Estates Enabler. Our own Revd Fi Budden is the Advocate for Kensington Area. If you are interested in exploring estate ministry, or highlighting the estate ministry you are already involved with, please contact Fi who would love to hear from you!
    • Venue Needed – John Beauchamp, Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler is looking for venues to hold neurodiversity training in the Spring and Summer, this year. Please contact John directly if your venue is:
      • close to accessible transport
      • step free
      • has accessible toilet facilities
      • has flexible seating
      • has good acoustics and a hearing loop
      • is warm in colder weather

    Warmest wishes and God bless,

    Kathleen McQuarrie

    Hounslow Deanery Secretary

    27 Oct

    Deanery Synod Minutes

    Hello Everyone,

    Thank you so much for coming to our recent deanery synod meeting at which we looked at how we might better serve our local schools. I’m sure you all join me in thanking our speakers Jo Jones, Sally Yarrow, and Penny Roberts. The minutes of the meeting are here and these include a links to the presenters’ slides. Do let me know if you have any questions or notice any changes needed in the minutes. We’d also be very grateful to receive feedback on how you found this meeting and any suggestions you might have as to how we can improve and make more valuable the time we are spending together as Synod. 

    Also, please have a think about the subjects you would like discussed at Synod – maybe this is something you could raise at your PCC meetings and see whether there are any particular areas where you would welcome more advice or sharing of information with other churches in the deanery. 

    The next synod meeting is planned for February, with a focus on community engagement. Please do reach out to Rev Andy Watkins, the Deanery Community Champion, if there’s anything you would like to contribute to this event.

    Church Energy Cost Support Grants

    With the cost of living crisis starting to bite we know that many churches are facing significantly higher energy bills than ever before. The Diocese of London has been allocated £684,000 to help churches with energy bills this winter, and these funds are due to be distributed in the next couple of months.

    The amount that can be allocated to each church will depend on how many churches apply, as grants will be awarded by dividing the allocation from National Church by the number of applicants. The Diocese would therefore request that you consider carefully how great your need is for financial support at this time, bearing in mind your sources of income and available reserves.

    If your church wishes to apply for a grant, please send an email to energyfund@london.anglican.org including the following details by 11th November 2022:

    • Name of your church
    • 4-digit diocesan reference number
    • Contact name at the church
    • Bank account details to which funds should be remitted, together with supporting evidence, e.g., scan of paying-in slip or bank statement extract

    All applications will be reviewed and processed after this deadline, therefore please expect to hear back in late November. If you have any questions about the grant scheme or the process, please contact Mary Spredbury, the Kensington Area Finance Adviser.

    Deanery Updates & Notices 

    Bishop of Kensington – until the consecration of the new bishop of Kensington, Bishop Ric Thorpe (the Bishop of Islington) will be Acting Bishop of Kensington during this interim period. Archdeacon Richard will be leading the Area Team locally during this time, but for any Bishop’s Office enquiries during this period, please continue to contact Emma Hughes (PA to the Bishop of Kensington).

    Hounslow Welcare Trust – The Hounslow Welcare Trust exists to make grants to help deanery churches work in their community. Supporting projects ranging from debt support, community hubs, and relief for Ukraine, the trust has given out over £40k to deanery churches in the last year and would like to give out so much more. The next meeting of the trust will be held in November so if your church project could do with funding, take a look at the criteria and send in your application before the 1st of November

    Patenting in a Digital Age – 1st November, 7.45pm, at All Souls. Young people growing up today are ‘digital natives’ – the first generation to grow up exclusively in the digital age. The impact of digital technology is far-reaching; creating both challenges and opportunities. Led by Jason Royce, former director of Romance Academy, and a hugely experienced youth worker, this seminar will look at the challenges and opportunities of parenting in this digital age. To sign up, click here.

    Preventing Gambling Harms in Diverse Communities (PGHDC) – run by YGAM together with Hounslow Safeguarding Children Partnership, PGHDC was set up in 2021 to equip Faith and Community Leaders in London and surrounding counties with the knowledge and skills to have purposeful and informed conversations with young people and their families about gaming and gambling. The training is open to Safeguarding Officers, Children & Youth Workers, School Chaplains, and anyone else who works closely with children. Workshops are being held Monday 7th November at 6 pm (register here), and Tuesday 29th November at 10 am (register here). For further information please reach out to Marek Maj, YGAM Education Manager

    The Menopause Café – 17th November, 7.30pm, St Paul’s Church Brentford.The Menopause and the Workplace report found that one in 10 women have left work because of symptoms of the menopause. Featuring our special guests, Bishop of London Sarah Mullally, Menopause Nutritionalist and Wellbeing Specialist Joanne Fazel, and Angela Chan, Head of Inclusion at StoryFutures. Tickets are £2 each, please click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

    Clergy Marriage Retreat – 25-27 November 2022 at Wiston House, West Sussex. An opportunity for clergy couples to spend a weekend away investing in their marriage. The weekend is led by Nicky and Sila Lee, Will and Louie Van der Hart and Ian and Jo Dyble, who help couples recognise and navigate the unique pressures on clergy marriages. As on The Marriage Course, each couple’s conversations are kept private while mealtimes give an opportunity to get to know others. There is limited availability so, if you would like to come, please book early.

    Warmest wishes and God bless,

    Kathleen McQuarrie 
    Hounslow Deanery Secretary

    Deanery WhatsApp Groups
    Useful for sharing best practice, the Deanery groups cover roles as diverse as Churchwardens, PCC Secretaries, Treasurers, Safeguarding, and children’s workers. If those in your parish would like to join, click here to let us know.

    Kintsugi Hope
    Kintsugi Hope is not just a charity. We have a vision of starting a movement of Kintsugi Hope Wellbeing Groups where people can experience safety and support. To find out more about Kintsugi Hope please click here.

    Hounslow Welcare Trust
    This year the trust has extended grants to several churches, supporting projects ranging from debt support, community hubs, and relief for Ukraine. – take a look at the criteria and get in touch if your church would like funding.