A space to wrestle and belong — Diocese of Norwich

A space to wrestle and belong

Published on: 22 August 2022

By lunchtime on the day we meet, the Revd Jack Branford has already had his regular meeting with the Headmaster, taught a Year 10 RE lesson and visited the bereaved family with whom he’s planning the funeral of a parent.

pg 17 - Gresham's School- Jack Branford

He has been Chaplain at Gresham’s School for two years and delights in the “incredible privilege” of the role. His own chaplain at Norwich School was “great when I was wrestling with life’s big questions” and it was there that Jack came to faith. Since ordination, he’s felt powerfully drawn to school chaplaincy himself.

It is now his turn to offer space for wrestling. But everyone also craves a sense of belonging and through his welcome, encouragement and pastoral care, Jack offers this too. “This is your Chapel,” he tells the Gresham’s community often. Sixty of its members – both students and staff – have been baptised and/or confirmed in the last 12 months.

This article is from...

Prayer Diary 5 Autumn font cover

Autumn 2022

Articles in this issue...

The calling of a Warden

Ian Newton is the sole Churchwarden of St Andrew’s Field Dalling, part of a multi-parish benefice in rural North Norfolk.

A journey of ‘becoming’

The calling to Licensed Lay Ministry in the Church of England is a distinctive one.

Hospitality and home

“Jesus’ invitation of relationship is based on a metaphor of hospitality,” says Anna Lloyd, quoting Revelation 3:20: “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person.”

It’s never too late…

“Perhaps I shouldn’t be surprised," reflects Elizabeth Hargest who was commissioned as an Authorised Worship Assistant (AWA) just last year, “because leading worship is in my DNA.”

“Oh God, where are we going today?”

Licensed Lay Worker Carrie Sant’s calling begins by seeking to offer her days to God and to be available where a need is revealed, then stepping out in faith, asking God to lead in filling the gap.

Discerning the way forward

In 2018, Ashley Hobbs came to Norwich to explore God’s call on her life.

Walking with those in grief

“I didn’t feel called to work for TimeNorfolk,” says Lindsey Nettleton, “It felt more of a timely push through an open door!

Becoming aware

In 2016 Blessing Chishanu, having grown up in Zimbabwe and studied theology in Namibia, had a call to serve the church in Lowestoft.

Called to creation care

Eleven-year-old Madeleine Humphries from Norwich has always been interested in protecting nature.

Integrate Youth for Christ work in Thetford Academy

Steph’s story started locally with voluntary work and developed to charity work, alongside a group of churches in primary schools and high schools in Norfolk.

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