Frequently Asked Questions

As in any organisation, we use terms, phrases and acronyms freely, always assuming that the other person knows what they mean.

For example, when we write 'choir dress' on an invitation, what do we assume this means? At the recent installation of Bishop Paul, a number of clergy struggled with that one!

We have many people in the two deaneries who have a wealth of useful information, specialisms and particular interests which we are sure they would be willing to share. We hope that we can put some of the questions you may have on this page with offers of answers from the two deaneries. We will keep questions and answers anonymous.

What is a chapter meeting?

A meeting where the clergy of a deanery get together to support one another and discuss maters which may be common across the deanery.

The wider chapter meeting in Nottingham North & South deanery, invites clergy, retired clergy, readers & RLM's.

What is choir dress?

Answer : Black cassock; white surplice; black scarf; academic hood (optional).

Answer sent in from someone in a 'High Church tradition' "To my mind the C of E term "choir dress" means cassock, surplice, hood and scarf.  However, in my tradition within the C of E "choir dress" would be interpreted as cassock and cotta, with or without stole depending on the occasion - a sacramental event would mean a stole of appropriate colour was worn, non-sacramental - no stole."

Now what does 'High Church' mean?

Scattering of ashes

Someone wants to scatter ashes in a local park or memorial garden.  Do we need any special permissions or need to advise anyone of this or is it purely a church decision?  While the Diocese obviously still owns the land it is administered by the NCC Parks Dept except for the land immediately alongside the church, which includes the memorial garden.

The Cremation Act doesn't’t mention anything about where to scatter ashes - either on ordinary land or in rivers but it is technically illegal to put something on someone else’s land or in rivers without the owner’s consent. 

Here’s a bit more info-
“The Environment Agency has published a draft policy in consultation with faith groups about the scattering of ashes, in order to help protect the environment, particularly regarding the spreading of ashes on rivers and streams.  There is no evidence that the disposal of human ashes in rivers and streams has a negative impact on the environment, but non-biodegradable items such as metal and plastic do cause damage and may be harmful to wildlife.

The rich mineral concentrations in cremated remains can also affect soils and consequently plants and the Mountaineering Council of Scotland has asked bereaved relatives to avoid scattering ashes on the most popular sites on Scottish mountains and even bury ashes because of the significant effect soil changes are having on mountain plants.

People arranging individual ceremonies do not require Environment Agency approval, but should comply with the following guidelines;

Do not:

Spread ashes within 1km upstream of any drinking water supply
Spread ashes where the water is used for commercial, agricultural or recreational purposes, such as a marina
Use a bridge over a river used by boaters or canoeists
Use anywhere close to anglers
Hold ceremonies in windy weather or close to buildings because of the risk of ashes being blown astray.  You should spread the ashes as close to the surface of the water as reasonably possible.
Allow other non-biodegradable materials such as wreathes and  plastic bags to enter the water

When scattering ashes, consider the time of day – early in the morning or towards dusk are recommended and be considerate to passers by or people in the vicinity.

So permission from either the Diocese and/or the NCC parks dept. is required. An email to the diocesan registrar would be a good idea.

Scattering of Ashes in a churchyard is not allowed.

Ashes may be 'strewed' which means that a sod of earth may be lifted and the ashes placed under the sod which should then be replaced.

Qu:- Is there a Deanery Policy in respect of Reader's being included at installations?

Answer: - No because there isn't a Diocesan policy other than for the Bishop's Installation. However, the Nottingham North & South deaneries will endeavour to invite readers to deanery installations (subject to available space)