Tale of Two Parishes

You are in: Essex > Faith > Tale of Two Parishes > Saints and devils - a church building in a modern society

Saints and devils - a church building in a modern society

Claire Adekola

The editor of the 'Chafford Mum' newsletter writes about the place of the local church in modern Chafford Hundred and how it helps families in the town. Also All Saints' held a Diversity Day to celebrate the local community.

Like pubs, churches are a landmark and are at the heart of every community, so it was with great excitement when our church, All Saints finally became a reality within Chafford Hundred.

Hello and welcome to Chafford Hundred

In our modern society, where many believe that God doesn't exist, a church building is significant in that it stands as a living testimony to His omnipresence in our everyday lives.

It is the physical elevation of the word of God.

Faith in the public space

Historically, and more recently within our communities, religion has caused divisions within the society.

As we prepare to celebrate Diversity week, the argument for Faith in the public space couldn't be stronger.

"When I remember my youth, so much of it centred around the village church"
Claire Adekola

Our church building stands as a positive face to the people of Chafford Hundred. Since it opened its doors, All Saints has provided the community with a much needed place for local groups to meet.

What was an empty shell has become a thriving hub of activity.

It has demonstrated that people of different faiths can work together for the same community and motives. The modern, multifunctional building provides a safe and friendly environment to all who enter.

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

A seat for all at All Saints' church

A personal challenge

As Christians we are encouraged to love our neighbours and there is a strong idea of service, to God and the community.

"It now gives me great joy to see my children experience the same things and to have the church as part of their lives"
Claire Adekola

The awesome presence and power of God is not confined to the church walls, nor can we escape the consequence of sin and disobedience when not at church on Sundays.

Our Faith is reflected in who we are and what we do, and today we each face the challenge of bringing the gospel to our neighbours, reaching out to the sick, elderly and socially excluded.

Jesus himself instructed the apostles to make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). The task at hand is to present to our modern society Biblical teaching ideas and exciting new approaches to worship.

The church is at the heart of the team

A community of hope

All Saints has presented Chafford Hundred with the opportunity to change a housing development into a real community with hope for the future, a proper town with recognisable landmarks like the railway station, schools, shops, library, three pubs and now a church.

When I remember my youth, so much of it centred around the village church, Sunday School, Easter Egg Hunt, Harvest Festival, Brownies then Guides and later the Youth Club.

There were the summer fetes, barn dance, Christmas Bazaars, Nativity plays and evening choir practice. It was a wonderful opportunity to engage with people of different ages and backgrounds.

The experience undoubtedly taught me to appreciate the diversity of the world and to find a place within my community.

It now gives me great joy to see my children experience the same things and to have the church as part of their lives.

Father Alex Gowing-Cumber writes about Diversity Day on Saturday, 27th June 2009:

Just have to tell you it was fab today and no rain until all was cleared up!

I tried an experiment, I believe a first. I had the Sutherland Pipe and Drum Band play and do drill with the Air and Sea Cadets marching with them, the African drummers played in time with the marching band, whilst the DJ cut in some break beats over the PA to compliment all the other rhythm.

We think we may have to re-create this in studio conditions at some point!

The day before Alex appeared on the Ray Clark Breakfast Show on BBC Essex to talk about the up-coming Diversity Day:

Listen to Father Alex Gowing-Cumber on BBC Essex >

Help playing audio/video

last updated: 29/06/2009 at 15:09
created: 29/06/2009

Local BBC Sites

Sites near Essex

Related BBC Sites

Tale of Two Parishes