The Henson Journals
Sat 4 October 1930
Volume 51, Pages 75 to 76
[75]
Saturday, October 4th, 1930.
Meeting of Archdeacons & Rural Deans
A wet morning, and very depressing. Why are we so woefully dependent on our physical setting?
I celebrated the Holy Communion in the Chapel at 8.15 a.m. All the Archdeacons & Rural Deans communicated. The weather became close & warm, and its effect on me was almost to incapacitate me for my duty. However I managed to preside at the conference from 10 a.m. to 12.15 p.m. We had a considerable discussion, rather illuminating than practical, on the subject which the Bishop of Jarrow introduced viz: classes for church teaching. It appears that this diocese stands high in the general record as having many such classes organized by the C.T.C.S.: but when I questioned the Rural Deans, it appeared that these classes were not markedly different from the familiar 'Bible Classes'. I expressed myself rather unsympathetically towards "ways of renewal": for, indeed, I think we need rather a worthier standard in the performance of normal duty, than organized devotions. "Mind not high things: but condescend to things that are lowly."
[76]
After an early lunch the Archdeacons & Rural Deans left the Castle.
Charles and I motored to Leadgate, where I consecrated an addition to the Churchyard. The service was reverent and well–arranged. There was a large choir, which sang well while marching round the ground – a severe test of efficiency. I was favourably impressed.
On returning to the Castle I had an interview with an aspirant to Ordination, sent to me from Whitburn, by Linnell. His name was Anthony Sugden, and he is 18 years old. I liked him, but he knows nothing, & seems rather good than able. I told him that he must pass the Durham Matriculation, & then see me again.
Ella and Fearne went into Durham to attend a concert in aid of the Castle. I wrote letters, among which was one to Little, the Vicar of Monkhesledon, offering him the appointment to S. Andrew's, Tudhoe Grange. This living is worth £100 less than that which he now holds: but he is said to possess private means, & to be desiring a change of work. The patron of Monkhesledon is the Dean & Chapter.