Bishop's appeal - Advent 2000 and Lent 2001

One of the most remarkable aspects of the changing situation in the diocese over recent years has been what can only be described as an explosion in the number of people offering themselves for ordained ministry. Many chaplaincies, small and large, have experienced this, and have carefully and lovingly supported their "home-grown" candidates through various stages of the selection and training process. A smaller number of chaplaincies have been able to experience the "end product" and it has been a great joy for me to have been able to ordain a number of deacons to serve their first curacies in the diocese.

This is a sign of God's providence, and I am delighted that instead of always receiving clergy whose vocations have been nurtured elsewhere, we are now able to make a positive contribution to the future ministry of the Church.

None of this comes cheaply, however. While the basic training costs of approved candidates are paid by the central funds of the Church of England, a considerable financial burden falls directly on the diocese. A certain amount of this can be borne by the Common Fund, but everyone knows that there are limits to this! Over the past five years the diocesan Ordination Candidates Fund has contributed approximately £55,000. This Fund, whose principal source of income has been collections at episcopal services, is now almost empty. But the number of ordinands continues to grow. It has therefore been decided that this Advent/Lent Appeal should be specifically to help build this Fund up again. The purposes for which the money is needed are various: during the selection process there are travel costs, some "pre-theological" training costs fall directly on the diocese; there are particular costs involved in the pastoral care of those whose vocation is not recognised by the Church; during training there are always additional needs for books and other learning materials, for special placements and for vacation support.

Please give as generously as you can to this Appeal. It is a real investment in the future. As with every aspect of giving, it is especially helpful when people are able to take advantage of one of the tax-efficient methods set up in many countries; and of course legacies are always very welcome.

+John - September 2000