Lent started on Ash Wednesday with a service of Holy Communion with imposition of ashes. A season of preparation and penitence is upon us, a time to attempt to be more attentive to hear the voice of God inwardly and to be more ready to obey.

As we head towards the second Sunday in Lent, we would like to let you know a little more about our charitable giving during this time.

Bishop Robert’s Lent Appeal

The Bishop’s Lent Appeal this year is to raise funds for a new classroom in a school in the Anglican Diocese of Mumias, Kenya.

2020 is the year of the Lambeth Conference. Some 600 Anglican bishops from all over the world will gather together in Canterbury in July. Last summer, Bishop Robert was privileged to take part in a preparatory pilgrimage that brought together 15 of these bishops and spouses.  Bishop Joseph Wandera, Bishop of the Anglican diocese of Mumias in Kenya was among those who shared this pilgrimage.  In view of this being a special year for the Anglican Communion, Bishop Robert asked Bishop Joseph to suggest a project in his diocese which could be the subject of his appeal.

The Kenyan Government has introduced a policy of free primary education, leading to big increases in the numbers of children enrolled in schools.  However, the number of teachers has not increased and classrooms are congested.   Donations to this Lent Appeal will support the expansion of the Bishop Hanningtone Academy, established by the Anglican Diocese of Mumias as their contribution towards better quality primary education in a Christian context.

You can read Bishop Robert’s 2020 Lent Appeal letter here.

Mission to Seafarers Rotterdam

This is the second cause we will be supporting.

No matter what problem a seafarer is facing, be it injury, abandonment, non-payment of wages or personal difficulties, they know they can turn to the local Mission for help, advice and support. Chaplains and volunteers offer practical and financial support, advocacy services, family liaison or simply a space to talk in a time of crisis. The Mission offers an opportunity for crews to get into touch with their overseas relatives and friends by telephone or via the Internet. There is a chapel and the pastor/clergyman is present when spiritual guidance is needed.