Dear all
Double email today as I have included information about both this Sunday’s (tomorrow) and the following Sunday’s as I shall be away for most of this week at a diocesan conference for Women in ordained ministry in Madrid.
This is a work event and so I can still be contacted by email, or on the Chaplaincy phone (see below).
Nikki has been specially invited as she is one of only 6 PTOs in the Diocese who were also the first to be ordained priest 30 years ago.
There will be a special service at St George’s, Madrid on Thursday at 1830CET to recognise this momentous anniversary.
All are welcome to join in person, or via the livestream – on this link
www.facebook.com/stgeorgesmadrid/live_videos/

This Chaplaincy marked the Feast of Pentecost last Sunday in Cognac, with members of the congregation responding to the invitation to wear red.
Pentecost is essentially the birthday of the Christian church as the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples to equip them for the work ahead.
Thank you Sue Wilcock for this photograph – the congregation, filled with the Holy Spirit, prepared to carry the light of Christ out into the world.
The Pascal candle was symbolically extinguished and Pascal Candles are no longer used on Sunday mornings. They will only now be lit for funerals and baptisms.
We are each tasked with carrying the light and sharing it with all.
You will note the bags of offerings for Resto De Coeur from this service.
Please keep Paul Davies and Paul Jennings in your prayers as they complete their Congregational Worship Leader course next week.
We look forward to news of the arrangements for their commissioning service, and look forward to welcoming them into the Ministry Team.

This Sunday is another important day in the Church’s year.
As we move into ‘Ordinary Time’ we start with Trinity Sunday - a celebration of the doctrine of the Trinity – God in three persons – Father, Son and Holy spirit.
As we continue to celebrate the 170th anniversary of the Council of Nicea, the Bishop has suggested that on this Sunday (as we did during the Easter season) we omit the ‘..and the son..’ words from the Nicene Creed in recognition of our unity with our Eastern Orthodox brothers and sisters (who not include these three words in their creed as they were added some years after the original agreed wording).

Bishop Robert has also encouraged all Chaplaincies to sing The Hymn to the Trinity which was written by his predecessor Bishop Geoffrey Rowell.
I attach a copy of it – you may wish to read its powerful words emphasising love.

For Trinity Sunday the liturgical colour is white, but from next Sunday the colour will be green.

Readings for this Sunday are:
Proverbs 8 1-4, 22-31
Romans 5 1-5
John 16 12-15

As we embark upon Ordinary Time, some of you will notice that we have two different groups of readings that are set for each Sunday
Either Track 1 (continuous) or Track 2 (related)
Track 1 enables a congregation to hear the whole of a particular book of the Bible over a period of Sundays.
However, in a multi centre Chaplaincy when services are not held in the same church each week, I find it preferable to follow Track 2 (related), when the theme of the Old Testament reading, the psalm (when used) and the Epistle relate to the Gospel reading.

The readings for Sunday 22 June – The First Sunday after Trinity – are:
Isaiah 65 1-9
Galatians 3 23-end
Luke 8 26-39


I remind you that there will be no service in the Chaplaincy on Sunday 29 June as this is when Florence will be ordained priest by Bishop Robert on Holy Trinity, Brussels.
I urge each congregation to watch this service, individually or in groups, which will be live streamed at 1030 that morning.
I know she will appreciate your thoughts and prayers as she embarks upon this major step in her ministry journey.
There will be a livestream of the service on the YouTube channel of Holy Trinity:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XuNyyfhcHY


On Sunday 6 July – The Third Sunday after Trinity – there will be only one service in the Chaplaincy and that will be Florence’s first Eucharist as priest
I encourage you all, worship team and all 4 congregations, to come and support her, and to enjoy a wonderful bring and share lunch in her garden nearby.
I realise it is a long way for some of you, but perhaps local wardens for each worship centre can ensure that lifts may be arranged for those without transport.

God bless
Heather
The Reverend Heather Aston MBA, MA
Chaplain
Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd
Poitou Charentes
06 21 32 31 28

Eucharist service at Chef-Boutonne 11h00 on Sunday 15th June - PLEASE NOTE there is the annual brocante at the Château de Javarzay so there is likely to be an increase in traffic. It is recommended that you allow a little extra time for parking.

Eucharist at Chef-Boutonne 11h00 on Sunday 22nd June - Wanda will make a block booking for lunch at the Restaurant des Canards after this service. Please contact her by 22h00 on Wednesday 18th stating main course choices : Sunday roast OR chicken Caesar salad OR trout. 09 64 12 29 54 wandamckerchar@aol.co.uk

William Jones this morning at the Resto du Coeur handing over our gifts. As usual it was very warmly received, on this occasion by one of the lead organisers.

Thursday 19th June at 12 midday. At the home of Eileen and Mick. Raffle with allproceeds going to this years AFIA Holiday. All welcome. Address information and numbers attending to Sue or Karen please.

On Sunday there will be one Chaplaincy service at 1030 in the Temple in Cognac to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost (what we used to call Whitsun).
We remember and celebrate the day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in tongues of fire, preparing them and empowering them for the work ahead.

If you are in the Poitou Charentes I urge you to join us for this service (there is plenty of free parking in the square by the Temple).
There will be an opportunity for everyone to receive personal prayers, and to be anointed with Oil of Chrism which was blessed by the Bishop on Maundy Thursday.

The Liturgical colour is red and it has become traditional for congregations to wear red in church on this Sunday

I remind you that the Chaplaincy Council is committed to supporting the local Resto de Coeur (foodbanks) in our area and so each worship centre/church will receive donations at services.
These donations comprise part of our offering and go directly to the local Resto after the service.
Please remember to bring something each week – it is much needed for some in our communities.

I have attached the readings for Pentecost which are:
Acts 2 1-21
Romans 8 14-17
John 14 8-27

God bless
Heather
The Reverend Heather Aston MBA, MA
Chaplain
Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd
Poitou Charentes

On Saturday May 31st Peter and Liz were married at Leicester Cathedral.

Warmest congratulations were sent by the whole Chaplaincy Family.

Tomorrow will be the penultimate Sunday of the Easter season.
The Christian church celebrated Ascension Day on Thursday and we look towards the fire and wind of the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost next Sunday at Cognac.

The liturgical colour for tomorrow, the 7th Sunday of Easter, is white and the readings are:

Acts 16 16-34
Revelation 22. 12-14, 16-17, 20-end
John 17 20-end

There will be a Eucharist at Courcelles at 1030 and Morning Worship at Champagne Mouton also at 1030.

The first post-service coffee of 2025 in the gardens at Chef Boutonne. Also celebrating Caroline Matthews' birthday.

A reminder - lunch at the Canards restaurant after the service on 25th May. Choices: Roast Salmon or Burger. Please contact Wanda McKerchar by 10pm Wed May 21st.

Dear Chaplaincy Family,

Thank you for you support at the AGM on April 30th, whether in person, through your prayers or your messages. It was an excellent AGM, with new members elected and thanks and goodbyes expressed to those standing down. We will soon be publishing photos and details of the new team. In the meantime here are a few photos of the day.

The Dawn Service, Aube de Pâques at the Monastère Pié-Foulard, Prailles. Our Chaplain Heather brought the butterflies and Wanda decorated them all 100! The theme was "Hope" and there was an explanation of why butterflies were chosen to symbolise this in the service booklet.Paul and Beverley Jennings from our chaplaincy completed the Dawn Walk in the rain. A memorable moment was Heather was dancing round the candles with the nuns!!!! 30 people attended the Easter Day Service at Chef-Boutonne and 27 at the service in Courcelles.- two wonderful celebrations of our Risen Lord Our Chaplain Heather has sent a message to the nuns at the Monastery offering our condolences on the death of Pope Francis. As a Chaplaincy we offer our condolences to our Catholic sisters and brothers.

We are now into Holy Week, the most important week of the church year and there are a number of services across the Chaplaincy.

We had two successful Palm Sunday services at Chef Boutonne and Cognac – thank you William for providing the palm branches which were duly waved as we processed into church at Chef Boutonne from the garden.

On Maundy Thursday we will commemorate The Last Supper with a service at Courcelles at 6pm.
On Good Friday there will be a Stations of the Cross service at 1800 at Chef Boutonne, and an ecumenical Tenebrae service at Cognac at 1930

On Easter morning we are invited to join the Benedictine Community at the Monastère Pié-Foulard for their Aube de Pâques - a dawn walk at 0600, followed by a dawn service at 0700. (Please see the attached poster._
As a Chaplaincy we are providing paper butterflies for the congregation to take home with them. I will also take a lamp so that I can bring a flame from their Easter candle to the Chef Boutonne service to light our new Easter candle. If anyone goes to the dawn service who will then go on to Courcelles, please bring a lamp with you.

Easter Day services will be 1030 at Courcelles and 1100 at Chef Boutonne

God bless
Heather
The Reverend Heather Aston MBA, MA
Chaplain

Heather, Nicky and Florence led our Palm Sunday Worship at Chef Boutonne and Cognac.

Notice of Annual Meeting 2025.pdf

Congratulations to Catherine Chambers who was licensed as a Lay Reader for the Chaplaincy by our Chaplain, the Reverend Heather Aston on Sunday at Champagne Mouton.

It is with great sadness that we have to inform you that Robin Goddard, a long-standing member of our chaplaincy, died peacefully during the night last Friday. A short ceremony is to take place at the crematorium of Angoulême, Cimitière des trois Chênes, 352 Rue de Basseau, 16000, Angoulême at 9h30 on Thursday 3rd April. Please remember Anne-Maria, family and friends of Robin in your prayers.

Wanda McKerchar - Warden

Dear Chaplaincy Family,

Do you have any Spring News to share in April's Jubilate? If so please e mails sally.simon@icloud.com by March 24th. Photos are especially welcome.

Thank you

Please don’t forget to complete your Electoral Roll Form.
This year we have to completely renew the Chaplaincy Electoral Roll, everyone must re-apply. Please contact your Local Warden or Andrew Chambers.
You must be on the Electoral Roll to vote at the AGM.

We had a lovely service yesterday at Chef Boutonne led by Heather. Afterwards we enjoyed a super Bring and Share lunch.

Notices were given of all the services in March and April. Please check the details of the services very carefully, there is lots going on.

In addition during Holy Week (Mon/Tues and Wed) Heather would like to lead a Sung Evensong (on Zoom). Please add that to your diaries...and watch this space for further information.

The Annual General Meeting for the Chaplaincy will be held on Wednesday April 30th at Chef Boutonne in the Salle de Raymond Quiard, Jarvarsay. 10.30 coffee, 11.00 AGM followed by a Bring and Share lunch. We look forward to welcoming as many people as possible, as we start on the next exciting chapter of our Chaplaincy Life.

Dear Friends,

When the war in Ukraine started we held a series of vigils online across the Diocese. These were hugely supported.

As the third anniversary of the invasion of Ukraine approaches, we will be coming together once again online to pray for peace and to remember all our sisters and brothers affected by the war.

The service will be led by Bishop Robert, and we will hear reflections from Christina Stafiychuk-Laschenko Churchwarden in Kyiv. Revd Kasta Dip, chaplain in Warsaw, who is now also working in Kyiv, will be the preacher.

The service will be on Zoom on Wednesday 19 February at 18.00 CET/17.00 GMT (19.00 Ukrainian time) and the Zoom link is:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84853917927?pwd=qfn9t8STh6LclVKjVy52cagG4svbQ0.1 . Please be online (on mute) a few minutes before the service.

We hope you can all attend, and please share this with everyone in your chaplaincies and beyond.

Warm regards,

Andrew.

Andrew Caspari
Chief Operating Officer (Diocesan Secretary)
Diocese in Europe
M: andrew.caspari@churchofengland.org

There have been a number of scam e mails recently to members of Council.
Please be alert to scammers:
1) Nobody from the chaplaincy would ask for money in an email. Do not reply.
2) Check the email of sender is the one you have for them. If not, do not reply and report it.
3) If the way language is used sounds odd, do not reply.

Remember, break the silence – speak out about scams. The more they are reported, the more can be done about them.

NEVER respond to any email, notwithstanding from whom it is sent, which is begging for money or offering a “plausible” reason why someone may be in temporary need - perhaps stranded in another country, as in possibly up the Amazon in a boat but in need of a quick sub to buy some oars because they’ve left their wallet in their hotel bedroom!
ALWAYS make sure you delete said emails!

We are delighted to announce that Heather's licensing service will take place on Sunday 26th January, at 11am in Chef Boutonne. The service will be followed by light refreshments and a chance to welcome Heather. You are of course all invited, and it would be wonderful if there was a good turn out from this end of the chaplaincy. As it is a long way for some of us, please do be in touch if you need help organising car sharing.

People intending to come to the licensing service should try to allow extra time as there is a road closure in Chef-Boutonne for the next month or so. Yellow "Déviation" signs will guide you to Avenue de l'Hôtel de Ville - parking available on the right at the mairie (spaces behind it too) , in front of the Ecole Primaire on the left and along the avenue itself. Please be aware that we try to keep the parking directly in front of the church available for those with mobility issues; it would be helpful to know if you require this in which case please contact Wanda 09 64 12 29 54.
We look forward to welcoming you on this very special occasion.

As part of the week of prayer for Christian unity in this area, there will also be services on 26th January in Jarnac temple (10.30) and on 9th February at the Roman Catholic Church in Cherves Richemont (10.30) to which you are warmly invited.

RENEWAL OF CHAPLAINCY ELECTORAL ROLL

Notice is given that under the Church Representation Rules a new Church Electoral Roll is being prepared. Every person who wishes to have his or her name entered on the new Roll, whether it is entered on the present Roll or not, is requested to apply for enrolment not later than Friday 14 March 2025.
The new Roll will take effect on Friday 21 March 2025.’
The full text of the notice will be available to read at Worship Centres along with printed copies of the application form. The application form is also available in the ‘Forms’ section of the website.

A lovely Ecumenical Service was held on Sunday 15th December in the Temple in Cognac, organised by the Scouts. The gathered congregation was shown how a light had been collected from Bethlehem, La Rochelle for their candle to bring to Cognac. The service was led by Florence Lorrain, with priests from the EPUF, Catholic Churches and the regional Imam for the Muslim community. There were lots of Scouts of all ages; a very mixed congregation. It was so wonderful to share this uplifting service with an abundance of young people freely and enthusiastically participating. There were prayers, readings, and the Procession of the Light which was then shared throughout the congregation who were invited to take the light home as a ‘Light to the World’. It was a joy to hear the singing of “We are Marching in the Light of God” as the final refrain!It was also an excellent opportunity to strengthen our Ecumenical links in Cognac. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year. William Jones

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALLAN WALTERS WHO HAS WON THE CHRISTMAS CAKE.

THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN TO RAY SMITH FOR MAKING THIS DELICUOUS CAKE WHICH HAS RAISED A WHOPPING 325.00 EUROS FOR THE CHAPLAINCY

Week One- Hope
Dear Jesus, you are the hope in our messy world. This Advent, help us slow down, listen to your voice, and focus on what’s really important. We place our hope in you as we prepare our hearts to celebrate your birth on Christmas. Amen.
Week Two- Peace
Dear Jesus, you entered our world on Christmas as the Prince of Peace. This Advent, as we strive to become the-best-version-of-ourselves, fill us with a deep and abiding peace. Help us share that peace with everyone we encounter, especially those who need it most. Amen.
Week Three- Joy
Dear Jesus, help us focus on you during this busy season. May we stay aware of the joy you bring into our lives. We want to find you in the everyday moments and come with hearts of gratitude to your manger on Christmas. Amen.
Week 4- Love
Dear Jesus, may the light of your love always shine in our hearts. As Christmas draws closer, we marvel at your great love for us. Let your love transform every aspect of our lives and touch everyone we encounter. Our hearts are open to you, Jesus. Amen.

29 November 2024

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
I am delighted to share the announcement that the next Suffragan Bishop in Europe is to be The Reverend Canon Andrew Norman.
Andrew is currently Director of Ministry and Mission for the Diocese of Leeds. He succeeds Bishop David Hamid, who retired in February.
Andrew has previously lived and worked in the Diocese in Europe. Prior to ordination he worked in Malta in a banknote-printing factory. After his ordination as priest in 1996, he served as curate of St Michael’s Paris. Following his curacy he was appointed Associate Vicar at Christ Church, Clifton in the Diocese of Bristol. Andrew then worked with Archbishop Rowan Williams as Archbishop of Canterbury’s Secretary for International, Ecumenical and Anglican Communion Affairs. He was Principal of Ridley Hall theological college in Cambridge from 2008 to 2016, before moving to his current senior post in the newly formed Diocese of Leeds. He is the author of ‘A Church Observed: being Anglican as times change’. Andrew has a great variety of experience and gifts in theology, ecumenical work and strategic development that are highly relevant to our diocese. I’m sure he will be a wise senior colleague and an encouraging pastor to our clergy and congregations.
Andrew is married to Amanda, who speaks French and rusty German, currently works for the Leprosy Mission and is a Licensed Lay Minister. They have two adult daughters.
The plans for Andrew’s consecration in England and installation at Holy Trinity Cathedral, Gibraltar are being finalised at present. These events are likely to be at the very end of February and the first weekend of March. The Suffragan Bishop will be based in the Bishops’ Office in Brussels, where he will work alongside the Diocesan Bishop. As Suffragan Bishop, Andrew will Chair the Ministry Team of the diocese and will be Lead Bishop for Safeguarding alongside other responsibilities.
I invite you to watch an introductory conversation that I had with Andrew in Brussels recently which is posted on the diocesan website.
I very much look forward to Andrew joining us. He will get a little introduction to the diocese this weekend visiting the Community Kitchen project in Brussels today, meeting members of the youth group in Rotterdam this evening and then celebrating Advent Sunday in Malta. He will have opportunity to meet many of you in all parts of the diocese when he takes up his post in the Spring. Meanwhile, please join me in praying for Andrew and Amanda as they face this major time of transition.
Yours in Christ,
+Robert Gibraltar in Europe

Office of the Bishop in Europe, Rue Capitaine Crespel 47 (box 49), 1050 Brussels, Belgium Tel: +3222137480; E-Mail: bishop.europe@europe.anglican.org Diocesan web site: www.europe.anglican.org

Sunday 10 November saw ceremonies of Remembrance at both Cognac and Chef Boutonne. This annual event, linked with Armistice Day on 11 November, allows us to reflect on the sacrifices made by Armed Forces personnel in war and conflict since the end of the ‘Great War’ in 1918. Whilst most of the veterans of both the first and second world wars have now died, there are many veterans of other wars and conflicts stil alive and bearing the scars of their injuries, both physical and psychological. Across the world we continue to see terrible acts of war and violence against both military and civilian communities; our Remembrance prayer is that one day we will see that time when wars will cease and the God of peace will reign over all.
“He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war any more.” (Isaiah 2.4)
Charlie Wilcock

Please join Mothers Union for a coffee morning this December
When: Friday 6th December
Where: The Church of Christ the Good Shepherd Chef Boutonne
Time 10:30 am
Come and find out about Mothers Union and our branch in France.
Enjoy coffee and cake, and buy some greetings cards.
All proceeds to go towards our fundraising this year, including saving to send a family away on holiday (AFIA) in 2025.
More details and information from Sue Wilcock or Wanda McKerchar

The story in the news this week that has led to the resignation of The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, is about revelations of child abuse that have now come to light. A man called John Smyth did vile and abhorrent things to hundreds of children.
Tragically, people knew, and they did not act.
I, like all decent people, am absolutely mortified about what has happened in the Church of England, the church that we, the chaplaincy of the Christ the Good Shepherd, are part of.
I want to assure you that God hates this evil and wickedness even more than I do, even more than we do, and it will not go unchecked.
Psalm 146 : verse 9
‘The LORD watches over the foreigner and sustains the fatherless and the widow, but he frustrates the ways of the wicked.’
God cares about the weakest and most vulnerable in society. God will not let it stand. And neither will we.
Here in The Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, Poitou Charentes, we take safeguarding really seriously.
We have a safeguarding officer, whose details are on the website, and you can contact her by email at any time. You can also speak to a member of clergy.
If you have an issue with someone, they do not need to know, even if it is me. You can go straight to our safeguarding officer. Email: chaplaincy.safeguarding@gmail.com.
She will take you seriously, she will listen, and rest assured, action will be taken. It will not be covered up.
Please know you can be safe in the church, even if the news this week does not make it seem that way.
God loves all people, and God cares passionately about all people being treated properly, being safe, and given dignity, especially children and the most vulnerable, and so do we.
Reverend Nicky Marshall

Dear Chaplaincy Family, There is lots happening in November and December. (Please check in Events.) Last reminder for Chef-Boutonne's CHAPLAINCY 20th ANNIVERSARY Afternoon Tea Party which will be held on Saturday 16th November at 3pm in the church, 16 Avenue de l'Hôtel de Ville. No fixed charge - donations invited "en chapeau". Raffle and book sale. Birthday cake and fizz to end the year's celebrations of this milestone. Places are limited ( a few still available) so BOOKING is ESSENTIAL by contacting Wanda 09 64 12 29 54 (wandamckerchar@aol.co.uk) by Wednesday 13th. Don't forget your entries for Ray Smith's Christmas Cake (Thank you Ray). There is still time to book on the Deaf Awareness Course. There are also lots of extra services in Dec (the Lumière de Bethleem was a beautiful event last year).ALSO – don’t forget…there is a Dec edition of JUBILATE Why not send your Christmas Greetings to Sally Freeman (sally.simon@icloud.com) for inclusion (BY NOV 20TH) plus any seasonal recipes and/or traditions you would like to share.I look forward to hearing from you. Sally Freeman

MU are having lunch at WAFU Cognac on Thursday 7th November at midday. If you would like to attend then please book with Sue or Karen by Saturday 2nd November.
Sue Wilcock: sue.wilcock@sky.com
More information on our MU page.

Reminder: Please book your places with Paul Davis.

Cyrillle Payot (of the EPUdF in Cognac) has asked Florence to share this invitation to a conference on the work of Christian churches in the Middle East, with a particular focus on the current situation in the Lebanon. The speaker will be Mathieu Busch, from Action Chrétienne en Orient (ACO).
The conference will be held in the temple in Jarnac, 16 rue Abel Guy at 8pm.
All are welcome (the talk will be in French...).

Harvest Festival Cognac
The Altar: before and after gifts were received for Resto du Cœur, monetary offerings for Medicines sans Frontières (167 €) AND written notes, presented by members of the congregation witnessing their gifts of time and talent. These Harvest Gifts were offered to the Praise of God.

Dear Chaplaincy Family,

We heard this morning from Archdeacon Peter Hooper that our new Chaplain, Heather Aston's visa application has been delayed. Sadly this means we must delay her Licensing Service. This is disappointing but the Team involved in Heather's recruitment will meet next week to look at a new date. I would like to thank everyone for their hard work in the preparations for 20th October. The Ministry Team will be in touch with everyone regarding the new date as soon a possible. Kind regards, Sally Freeman Communication Officer.

Due to illness, this had to be cancelled. It has now been rescheduled to: Wednesday 27 November 12.30 - 17.00 Venue: Chef Boutonne. All those on the course have been notified, but if you were unable to make the original date, and would like to come, you will be most welcome. Please contact Paul or Helen Davis to book a place: Tel 05 45 31 05 06, or email paul.davis16700@gmail.com

The Church Development Tool: a way of planning together. This year we are running the Church Development Tool survey in our Chaplaincy from now until the end of October. It’s a quick, anonymous survey that we’re inviting everyone in the church to complete, to help us shape our prayers and our planning as a church for the year ahead. What we find out will help us see where we’re doing well, and help us discern areas where God might be calling us to do something new or different. Please complete the survey online: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/8370/surveys/church-development-tool/survey/. (The direct link can be found in Publications under SEPT 2024 Church Development Tool.) Printed copies of the form in normal size or large print will also be available in our Worship Centres until the end of October. On the printed form, please ignore the two optional questions relating to ’type of school attended’ and ‘free school meals’. Paper returns may be sealed in an envelope marked ‘For the attention of Charlie Wilcock’ and handed to the Local Warden at a church service, or scanned and sent by email to charliedoc22@gmail.com. Thank you for your participation in the ongoing development of the Chaplaincy of Poitou-Charentes as we look forward to welcoming our new Chaplain later in the year. Charlie Wilcock. Secretary to Chaplaincy Council

William and Liz Jones have received the invitation below to the annual fundraising dinner held by our friends in the EPUF. Our congregation has supported this for a good number of years. It would be good to get a small group together to be there again this year. It is always a good do with good food and good humour, and plenty of fellowship. Too many

We look forward to welcoming you to our Harvest Festival Communion Services at Courcelles and Champagne Mouton this Sunday, October 6th, 10.30am. Please don't forget your gifts of non perishable foods and other household items, especially for Resto de Coeur. THANK YOU. We are also looking forward to welcoming as many people as possible to Reverend Heather Aston's Licensing Service on Sunday October 20th at 3pm at Chef Boutonne. (Fizz and nibbles afterwards.) Our new Chaplain Heather will be presiding at the services during October and November: Chef Boutonne on October 27th, Courcelles on Nov 3rd and Cognac on Nov 10th. Date for Champagne Mouton to be confirmed. We are entering a new and very exciting chapter in our Chaplaincy Life.

The Licensing Service for the Reverend Heather Aston will be held on Sunday October 20th at 3pm at Chef Boutonne. It will be followed by Fizz and Nibbles.
Please could you contact your Local Wardens to confirm your attendance so we have an idea of numbers for seating, catering etc.
We look forward to welcoming you to this joyous occasion.

Chaplaincy Council and Ministry Teams.

The Leadership Team of the Chaplaincy will be offering a YOUTH ALPHA COURSE starting on September 27th This engaging course for 13-18 year olds is designed to make discovering faith both fun and inspiring and to enable independent thinking going forward.It starts on Friday 27th September: 5.30pm to 7.45pm in Civray. It will run for 8 weeks is free of charge and food will be provided.If you know any young people who might be interested, please ask them to contact Catherine Chambers and/or Sam Brett catherine.chambers@outlook.com rusticfrance@gmail.com#youthalpha #DiscoveringFaith #christian #christianity #christianfaithThere is a concert coming up in October, to celebrate 20 Years of La Chantonge. Whilst this is not a Chaplaincy Event, there are many members of the Chaplaincy who are either past or current members.

There is new information in the Living in France - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) document on the new digital Entry/Exit System (EES) that the EU will introduce in Autumn 2024. Non-EU nationals, including UK nationals, visiting the EU will need to create a digital record when entering the EU’s Schengen Zone. This includes providing biometric data (fingerprints and facial image) at the border.

UK nationals with rights under the Withdrawal Agreement will be exempt from  EES  registration if they have the correct documentation.

This will apply to those resident in France with children under 18 years old, who will need to apply for a DCEM card for the children to be exempt from EES registration. There a link on how to apply for this in the living in guide Passport and Travel section, just above the EES section.

Other information can be found in France travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) The British Community Committee of France (britishinfrance.com) have also added EES information on their website.

As you may or may not know Wanda McKerchar has established a lovely relationship with the Benedictine sisters at the Monastère de L'Annonciation, Pié-Foulard, Prailles. She attends their Aube de Paques celebration at 7h00 on Easter Sunday and has been privileged to represent the Chaplaincy and read a prayer on our behalf for the past three years. Florence was involved before Wanda and Sr Anne-Delphine was delighted to hear about Florence’s ordination.

Sr Anne-Delphine has sent Wanda an invitation to the celebration of their 25 year anniversary on 13th October but has asked that it is extended to any other members of our congregations who might be interested. Wanda will be going for the morning and buffet so could give a lift to anyone if needed. However, replies are requested by 16th September so it needs to go on the website asap please. (See poster below.)

In addition, there is an event on 29th September. They have been awarded the "Eglise Verte" and are having a walk along a newly prepared chemin and an ecumenical celebration afterwards with a bring and share meal. (Details can be found below.)

The Church Development Tool: a way of planning together. This year we are running the Church Development Tool survey in our Chaplaincy from now until the end of October. It’s a quick, anonymous survey that we’re inviting everyone in the church to complete, to help us shape our prayers and our planning as a church for the year ahead. What we find out will help us see where we’re doing well, and help us discern areas where God might be calling us to do something new or different. Please complete the survey online: https://www.achurchnearyou.com/church/8370/surveys/church-development-tool/survey/. (The direct link can be found in Publications under SEPT 2024 Church Development Tool.) Printed copies of the form in normal size or large print will also be available in our Worship Centres until the end of October. On the printed form, please ignore the two optional questions relating to ’type of school attended’ and ‘free school meals’. Paper returns may be sealed in an envelope marked ‘For the attention of Charlie Wilcock’ and handed to the Local Warden at a church service, or scanned and sent by email to charliedoc22@gmail.com. Thank you for your participation in the ongoing development of the Chaplaincy of Poitou-Charentes as we look forward to welcoming our new Chaplain later in the year. Charlie Wilcock. Secretary to Chaplaincy Council

Sue Wilcock, President, welcomed us at Cognac as we celebrated and rejoiced 20 years of the Mothers' Union in the Poitou Charente, the only MU in France. We gave thanks for the faithfulness of God throughout these 20 years and for his ongoing presence as he leads us forward together into the future.MU Members Pat Jenkins read Psalm 150 and Liz Jones Philippians 1: 2-6, 9-11. Sue shared stories from the history of our Branch and Florence Lorrain gave a moving and thought provoking Talk on the challenge of our commitment to following Christ. And the MU Banner was re-dedicated. Mothers' Union Prayer: Loving Lord, We thank you for your love so freely given to us all. We pray for families around the world.Bless the work of the Mothers' Union as we seek to share your love through the encouragement, strengthening and support of marriage and family life. Empowered by your Spirit, may we be united in prayer and worship, and in love and service reach out as your hands across the world. In Jesus' name. Amen.

There is lots going on in September and October. Please make sure you look at the Events Diary and the Service Details (left on the Home page) and the adverts below. 20th Anniversary Service and Afternoon Tea MU Poitou-Charentes is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in September 2024 We are having a service of thanksgiving on Sunday 8th September at the Temple Cognac 10.30 am This will be followed by coffee and cake All welcome.As we enter the period of Harvest (don't forget to bring your donations) and think about Giving please consider Funding the Future of the Chaplaincy especially as we enter our next Chaplaincy Chapter with the arrival of our new Chaplain Heather Aston (watch this space!) Sing to God - Cognac Sunday September 29th. Please send you favourite hymns to David Hawken david.hawken@orange.frDeaf Awareness Course with Paul Davis Wednesday October 9th. Please book you places via Wanda early to avoid disappointment. Contact Paul or Helen Davis for further information. 05 45 31 05 06.

Champagne Mouton Church RoomSunday 1st September 2024 at 10.30.am“Sing to God”Your chance to submit your favourite hymn(s)AND to raise money for Chaplaincy fundsHere’s how it works;• THINK - What are your best-loved hymns or worship songs ?• WRITE – a list of your Top Three (or Five or Ten) ; if you wish you can say why they mean a lot to you, or where you first heard/sang them. • SEND YOUR LIST to david.hawken@orange.fr by 24th AugustDavid will count the votes and we will sing the Top Ten for our Morning Service on 1st September.• On that day we will take a special collection for Chaplaincy Funds – please come, ready to give generously. (And don’t forget somethings for Resto du Coeur)“Sing to God” has been well received already in Chef Boutonne and Courcelles. Let’s make it something special in Champagne Mouton

A full house was privileged to begin August by listening to a concert given by two French singers and a celebrated English accompanist.Dr Noël Tredinnick BEM (formerly musical director at All Souls Church, Langham Place, London) played piano and organ for local mezzo-soprano Léontine Maridat-Zimmerlin and soprano from Paris, Lorraine Prigent. Their programme spanned the centuries, leaving the entire audience wanting more. During this Olympic season, the three performers were definitely worth “trois médailles d’or”.After expenses were deducted, we were able to add 200 euros to Chaplaincy Funds. Thank you to the audience members for your generosity and especially to Léontine, Lorraine and Noël. Next time, we shall have to find a larger place for a performance of such quality.David Hawken

Resto Du Coeur - the contributions brought to services each Sunday are hugely appreciated and desperately needed. We look forward to receiving your gifts of food this Sunday at Courcelles and Champagne Mouton and each Sunday at all our Worship Centres. Thank you

20th Anniversary Service and Afternoon Tea
MU Poitou-Charentes is celebrating its 20th Anniversary in September 2024
We are having a service of thanksgiving on Sunday 8th September at the Temple Cognac
10.30 am
This will be followed by coffee and cake
All welcome

Our second event that week will be a Celebration Afternoon Tea
Thursday 12th September 2024
Chez Wilcock : 2 rue des Acacias, Fiolle, 17120 Floirac
As many will know we have limited parking only in our garden, so numbers will be restricted and you must book for this event.
The afternoon tea will be provided by Sue and Charlie. There will be a raffle, and donations will be for our MU branch fundraising, including next years AFIA holiday.
All info from Sue Wilcock, MU Chair.
sue.wilcock@sky.com

Members of the Chef-Boutonne congregation raised a glass to Maureen Carlile at her last service (July 14th) before moving to Wales. Safe travels, Maureen, and very best wishes from your Chaplaincy friends, including those who couldn't join us on 14th July. We look forward to seeing you again when you come for a visit to France!

Don't forget lunch after Holy Communion at Chef Boutonne (July 28th). Options for the main course are Sunday roast OR chicken Caesar salad OR cod in parsley sauce. Please contact Wanda to book by NO LATER then Wednesday 24th.

Thursday August 1st Lyrical Concert 6pm at Chef. Please see information and poster below. Seats need to be reserved in order to avoid disappointment.

AND on Friday August 30th, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Chaplaincy there will be a BBQ (using the green space behind the Salle Elisa next to the Temple in Cognac). We do hope that lots of people will join us from around the Chaplaincy, but numbers will be limited. So contact please William and Liz Jones as soon as possible if you would like to come along. We know that it is a time for visitors, family and friends...but everyone is welcome.

Lyrical Concert - Thursday August 1st at 6pm. Noël Tredinnick (piano) Lorraine Prigent (soprano) and Léontine Maridat-Zimmerlin (Mezzo-soprano). Programme to include: Fauré, Purcell, Handel and Saint-Saens. Please reserve seats to avoid disappointment for this wonderful concert. Further details, please contact: david.hawken@orange.fr Tel: (0)786 050243.

Thursday August 1st at 6pm also at Chef Boutonne a Lyrical Concert. Please see the information in the poster below. Also, lunch Restaurant des Canards, after Holy Communion Sunday July 28th, Chef Boutonne. Options for the main course are Sunday roast OR chicken Caesar salad OR cod in parsley sauce. Please contact Wanda to book by no later than Wednesday 24th.

"The Bishop in Europe is pleased to announce that he has offered the post of Chaplain in the Anglican Chaplaincy of Poitou-Charente, to the Revd Heather Aston, currently Rector of the Benefice of The Boscastle Group of Churches, in the Diocese of Truro. Heather has accepted this, though of course the offer is subject to completion of the usual formalities. Heather is expecting to move to Poitou-Charente once she has fulfilled her notice period to The Boscastle Group and the necessary formalities have been finalised.”

Archdeacon Peter adds “this is really good news for the Chaplaincy in Poitou-Charente and almost brings to an end the process to find a new Chaplain, though of course, it will be hard for The Boscastle Group to have to say goodbye to such an able priest. In making this announcement I would particularly like to give thanks to those who have been part of this vacancy process and also to all who have worked so hard in keeping the mission and ministry activities of the Chaplaincy on-going.

I ask that you hold Heather in your prayers as she brings to an end her ministry in the Diocese of Truro and prepares to come to join the Poitou-Charente Chaplaincy.”

Further information regarding a licensing date will be confirmed once all the formalities have been completed.

There WILL be a special service of Morning Prayer at Chef-Boutonne on Sunday 14th July at 11h00. We shall be bidding a fond farewell to Maureen Carlile, a regular member of our Chef-Boutonne congregation, who is leaving next week to live in Wales. This is not 'Adieu' but ‘Au revoir’ as she will no doubt be popping back occasionally to stay with daughter, Tess. However, you are invited to help us celebrate her time with us and to wish her well for the future. Please stay for refreshments afterwards. There is also an Ecumenical Service at Cognac, 10.30am. All are welcome.

A huge thank you to everyone who worked so hard to make Florence's Ordination service and Garden Party yesterday such a superb occasion. Huge thanks to Simon and all the singers for the uplifting music, to William, Wanda and Andy for organising and setting up tables and seating, to Sue for the wonderful cake, and, of course, to François and Florence for their hospitality. Top day.I'm so proud to be part of this great Chaplaincy Team.NickyThanks also to Bishop Trevor, Archdeacon Peter and all who came from near and far to support Florence on the day of her Ordination.

Congratulations to The Reverend Florence Lorrain.What a wonderful day. A very moving ceremony in the beautiful Temple at Jarnac. A coming together of clergy, family and friends to witness and share in Florence's ordination. We have so very much to celebrate and thank God for.

NEWSFLASH - there will be no service at Chef Boutonne on Sunday July 14th as it is Bastille Day and many people are involved in events in their communities. There is however an ecumenical service at Cognac. All are welcome.

Ordination of Florence Lorrain, Sunday 7 July 11.00 am, The Temple JARNAC Please see below for information about the service and the Bring and Share lunch afterwards. NB consider parking. ALL welcome. Ecumenical Service Sunday 14 July 10.30 The Temple COGNAC The usual monthly service will not be usual. We are joining our hosts for a joint bi-lingual service. This is a great opportunity for us to build on the super links that we already have with our EPUF friends. Save the Date - BBQ Friday 30 August the Salle, Cognac to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Chaplaincy. More details to follow.

During Holy Communion on June 23rd Chef Boutonne Sam Brett and Audrey Williamson will be welcomed into our branch of the Mothers' Union. Following the service: lunch at the Restaurant des Canards. Please book with Wanda by 10pm on Wednesday 19th June stating choice: traditional Sunday Roast, Coq au Vin or Salmon with Sweet Chilli Sauce. (15€ for main course and homemade dessert (or cheese) Please note NO live music on this date.)

Dear Chaplaincy Family,

Please check Events carefully for all the dates coming up.

Next Sunday Sing to God at Courcelles, 10.30. Have you chosen your favourite hymns? Sunday July 7th 11.00 Ordination of Florence Lorrain followed by a Bring and Share lunch (please contact Sally Freeman/William Jones/Florence Lorrain to let us know what you are bringing). Parking will be at Place Charles de Gaulle which is an equi-distance walk to the Temple at Jarnac 18 rue Abel Guy and the garden of Florence and François for the lunch (58 rue des Chabannes).

Sunday June 2nd - following Holy Communion at Courcelles there will be a Bring and Share lunch in the garden of Chris and Terry Smith, Courcelles to celebrate 20 years of our Chaplaincy. Everyone is welcome but please e mail Stevie Sheldon p.sheldon@wanadoo.fr or Karen Burke karenburke@orange.fr to confirm your attendance. It should be a wonderful occasion.

Sunday June 16th "Sing to God" at Courcelles 10.30am.
Some months ago the congregation of Chef-Boutonne celebrated "Sing to God" The purpose was threefold:
*to choose your favourite hymns
*to give glory to God
*to raise funds for the Chaplaincy.
Now it's YOUR turn! If you are a regular or occasional worshipper at Courcelles you have the opportunity to choose up to 4 favourite hymns.
Please write them down on the sheet (provided at the service on Sunday June 2nd) and hand them to Ann Walters or send before Sunday 9th June to david.hawken@orange.fr He will compile a list of your favourites, including as many as possible.
Looking forward to seeing you there!

Owing to unforeseen circumstance this Sunday's service (May 26th) will be Morning Prayer, not Holy Communion at Chef Boutonne. Everyone is invited to enjoy fellowship after the service with coffee/tea being available, as usual, and then you are invited to bring your own picnic lunch . Let's hope the weather allows this to be enjoyed in the garden! PS Please contact Wanda if you wish to book for a special event at the Restaurant des Canards see Events page for more details.

Au revoir mais pas adieu!

Please keep Richard and Rhiannon Beech in your thoughts and prayers as they leave their home in France to return to somewhere (to quote Rhiannon) "past Stonehenge and turn right"! As we begin to publicise events to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of our Chaplaincy we should remember that they were founder members and have been faithful servants ever since in various roles. More details will be found in the next issue of "Jubilate" but for now we send very best wishes and our prayers for smooth travels and a safe arrival to them both.

To celebrate the anniversary of the formation of the chaplaincy there will be a BRING and SHARE lunch in the garden of Chris and Terry Smith in Courcelles (15 rue du Bourg, Courcelles.There will be parking available in the garden) after the service at Courcelles on June 2nd. Everyone is welcome. Please can you contact Paul Sheldon p.sheldon@wanadoo.fr or Karen Burke karenburke@orange.fr for further details and also to confirm you are coming, so that we can arrange for sufficient tables and chairs. You will need your couverts. We look forward to seeing you and having food and fellowship together.

Silent Minute - this movement was begun in the UK by Major Pole OBE in1940. During WW2, people united in meditation, prayer or focus (each according to their own belief) to consciously call for peace to prevail. This dedicated minute received support from the King, Winston Churchill and Parliament.

Many of us have recently received this Call for Prayer via Secours Catholique, Confolens. We are asked to stop for one minute, every day, to pray for peace in the world, for an end to conflict, for the restoration of peace for all people of the world and for families who seek safety and salvation from God.

Each European country has a designated Silent Minute, here in France it is 16.00.

There are no services this Sunday but we invite you to join the online service for Church in England (churchofengland.org) or the Chaplaincy in Aquitaine.

Our AGM is on Thursday April 25th. 10.30 coffee and 11.00am AGM. Everyone is welcome. It is your opportunity to support and participate in the administrative decisions of our Chaplaincy. It is also a time for fellowship during the Faith Lunch afterwards. Please bring food and drink to share (along with your couverts). We look forward to seeing you.Date for diary - after service lunch Sunday April 28th at Chef Boutonne. Details and how to reserve (by April 24th) in Events.

Dear Chaplaincy Family, Please note the Ordination of Florence on July 7th will be at 11.00am (not 10.30 as previously published). The services at Champagne Mouton and Courcelles will not take place on July 7th. Instead, everyone is welcome to celebrate this joyous occasion in the life of our Chaplaincy. (There will be a Bring and Share Lunch, please watch out for further details.)

AGM NEWS Please note the Updated Electoral Roll can be found in Publications under APRIL 2024.

We met on Sunday at Champagne-Mouton for a special service. Neil led us in joyful worship and David said a special prayer for Richard and Rhiannon at the end of his intercessions. To close Neil had arranged a beautiful recording of

NEWSFLASH and a DATE FOR YOUR DIARY!!!It is with great pleasure that I can confirm that our Ordinand Florence Lorrain, having completed her training for the Priesthood, will be Ordained Deacon on Sunday 7th July, 11.00am at The Temple Protestant de Jarnac, 16 Abel Guy, Jarnac, 16200.Florence will be Ordained by Bishop Trevor Willmott, and all are invited to share in this special occasion. Following Florence’s Ordination, there will be a celebration Garden Party (Bring and Share lunch) in the garden of Florence and Francois, at 58 Rue Des Chabannes, 16200, Jarnac.Florence will serve as Assistant Curate in our Chaplaincy of Christ the Good Shepherd, Poitou Charente.Reverend Nicky Marshall

Almighty Father, look with mercy on this your family, for which our Lord Jesus Christ was content to be betrayed and given up into the hands of wicked men, and to suffer death upon the cross; who is alive and glorified with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

Chaplaincy AGM Thursday 25th April 10.30 Chef Boutonne

Chaplaincy Council Elections
Could you help with the day-to-day running of our Chaplaincy? At this year’s Annual Meeting we will need to elect at least three new members of Council, a representative for the Archdeaconry Synod, and two Churchwardens. If you are ready to volunteer, nomination forms can be found on the website under the ‘Forms’ tab. If you would like further information, please contact one of the current Churchwardens (Wanda McKerchar and Andrew Chambers) or the Chaplaincy Council secretary (Charlie Wilcock).

NOTICE OF REVISION OF CHURCH ELECTORAL ROLL
Diocese in Europe
Chaplaincy of Poitou-Charentes
Notice is given that the Church Electoral Roll of the above Chaplaincy will be revised by the Chaplaincy Council, beginning on the 11th day of March 2024 and ending on the 4th day of April 2024. After the revision, a copy of the Roll will be published by the Chaplaincy Council on the website for at least 14 days and a copy of the Roll will be available for inspection on a reasonable request being made to the Council.
Under the Church Representation Rules, a lay person is entitled to have his or her name entered on the roll if the person
(a) is baptised,
(b) is aged 16 or over, and
(c) has made one of the following three declarations and duly applied for enrolment:
The first declaration is that the person is a member of the Church of England or of a Church in communion with it and is resident in the parish.
The second declaration is that the person is a member of the Church of England or of a Church in communion with it, is not resident in the parish, but has habitually attended public worship in the parish during the preceding six months.
The third declaration is that the person is a member in good standing of a Church which is not in communion with the Church of England but subscribes to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity and is also a member of the Church of England and has habitually attended public worship in the parish during the preceding six months.
Application Forms for enrolment can be obtained from the Church Electoral Roll Officer or form the Chaplaincy website under the ‘Forms’ tab. In order for a person to be entitled to attend the annual parochial church meeting and to take part in its proceedings, an Application Form for enrolment must be returned by the date shown above for the ending of the revision of the Church Electoral Roll by the Chaplaincy Council.
Any error discovered in the Roll should at once be reported to the Church Electoral Roll Officer (Andrew Chambers - andythomcham@hotmail.com).
Dated this 10th day of March 2024 Charlie Wilcock
Secretary to Chaplaincy Council

Mother's Day at Cognac. The altar with the flowers . There were several bunches for each person so that there could be a wider outreach. Florence gave a very interesting explanation of the colours of altar clothes and vestments used in the liturgical calendar. In particular, the “rose” which is used on only 2 days in the year. Please book for the John Bost visit on March 16th. Don't forget to book for lunch on 24th by 20th March. Also the Easter Wreath making workshop, places are limited and finally please can you think about events to mark our 20th anniversary.