text:
How to become a vicar
8th January 2011 (Saturday). in vicaring thoughts | 87 comments
I wrote this as an e-mail for the people at work when I was first going through the discernment process, and some of them found it a really helpful explanation of the steps to becoming the Rev. That was a couple of years ago, but it still basically holds true and relates to the Church of England.
There are three stages to pursuing your dream of wearing a cassock and dog collar.
Training and
Curacy (although technically you get your dog collar and cassock after the training stage)
Unfortunately, it is not possible simply to speak to your vicar and say "I really think the Lord might be saying I should be a vicar" and that's that, although that would be the place to start. If your vicar agrees that the Lord might be saying you should join the ranks s/he will start you on the discernment process. What happens next varies from diocese to diocese, but essentially is a process of trying to hear from God and making sure that this is what he wants!
Typically, you have to meet with the Diocesan Director of Ordinands (no wonder everyone calls them the 'DDO') who is paid to listen to you and God and work out whether it's right that you are called to ordained ministry. Usually you will be sent to see someone else too, usually not a vicar. In St Albans, for example, they like to make this person someone who is trained in psychotherapy, in Peterborough Dioecese a lay person who has experience of testing vocation. This is to get the perspective of someone who isn't ordained on the process of listening to God.
Once the DDO is satisfied, they will send you to see the Bishop. The Bishop will chat to you for a while (usually not more than an hour, bishops are busy people!) and have read a report about you by the DDO. It is up to the Bishop to make the final decision as to whether you should be allowed to train for Revdom. If they think you are a likely candidate, they will send you to a Bishop's Advisory Panel which is a 3 day event where you have 3 interviews, a group exercise and a pastoral letter to write amongst other things. The Bishop's Advisory Panel then advise the bishop (strangely enough) as to whether you should be trained for a life of vicarage.
The Bishop then decides. He can accept the panel's advice, or he can ignore it, it's his choice. If he says yes, you will then start training. From the first conversation with your vicar to this point can (exceptionally) be a few months, is most often at least a year and in St Albans diocese they like to really really know you want to be a vicar, so the process usually takes around 2 years (although they have a new DDO now, who may do things differently).
Training takes either 2 or 3 years, depending on your age and whether you have done any formal academic theology in the past. As a rough guide, if you are 32 or older, or you have a degree in theology already you will do 2 years, otherwise it's 3. Usually, training takes place at a Theological College (the Church of England does not call them bible colleges!), and is full time. It is possible to do the training part time, but if you're training to be a full time vicar, it has always seemed sensible to me to do the training full time.
Once you have graduated Theological College or Course you will spend four years doing 'on the job training' as a 'Curate'. Your dream of vicardom is close at hand. At the start of the first year you will be ordained by a Bishop in a Cathedral as a 'deacon', which allows you to take services, funerals and baptise people. Technically at this point you can marry people (conduct the service, not get married to them) although this is not generally encouraged). After you've completed your first year you'll be ordained a second time, but as a 'priest' which means you can absolve people of their sins, take a service of holy communion and bless people and things. Then after the four years is up you can apply for a job running a church of your own!
So, from first thoughts to full on 'Hi, My name's Dave and I'm the vicar' takes around 8 years, it's not an easy process, but as someone who is now serving as a curate, it's totally worth it!
87 comments
Trackback link: http://sanctified.co.uk/2011/01/08/how-to-become-a-vicar/trackback/
James Ogley on 8th January 2011 (Saturday). at 9:58 pm
Deacons can indeed marry people legally as all Clerks in Holy Orders of the Anglican variety are functionally registrars – but only in the locations where they are licensed to carry out any other service. The knotty bit comes in that one has to be ordained Elder to be able to bless any group of people that does not include yourself (Really? What planet are we on?) so it's the blessing of the marriage that's problematic for your average jobbing deacon.
luke seelig on 12th October 2011 (Wednesday). at 7:09 pm
I'm only 13 nearly fortine but all my life i wanted to be an officer in the army untill a week ago when I was reading the bible I new i would not be able to justify killing another human being and disided strait away like clicking your fingers I wanted to serve god and become a vicer i'm very good at R.E, Math and english but i'm afraid i'm not good enough at english or math to go to univesity and to be honest my family can't afford to send me . Would I have to go to univesity to become a vicar?
sanctified on 29th October 2011 (Saturday). at 9:29 am
Hi Luke,
If you want to become a vicar, the first thing you need to do is talk to the one at your local church. It's very rare that you can be ordained before you are 23, so there's some time for you yet!
Essentially, you will go to University for your training, but the Church of England will pay if they can see that God is calling you to do it.
Sue Butler on 4th March 2013 (Monday). at 8:33 am
Wow Luke I hope that you are still thinking that maybe God might be calling you. I will pray for you. I too am a curate and when I was about your age I also wondered whether God was calling me. It took years I if d out and I did do other jones, but I really am the most happy and contented I have ever been now I 'finally answered the call to become a vicar'.
Sue Butler on 4th March 2013 (Monday). at 8:33 am
Oops I meant I did do other jobs first sorry
Sitzen Erleuchte on 16th January 2011 (Sunday). at 6:21 pm
Thanks for this Dave, it's very useful. If you have more memories of your process I'd be glad to read them. Alternatively, if you have any gems of discernment wisdom, please comment on my vocation discernment blog at https://erleuchte.wordpress.com/
Frank Dickin on 13th February 2011 (Sunday). at 3:57 pm
Can priests marry?
sanctified on 13th February 2011 (Sunday). at 4:58 pm
In a word, yes! Hurrah for the Church of England.
jackie Moss on 9th July 2011 (Saturday). at 7:30 am
Thanks so much for this info. I have been kinda wondering. Its weird as I honestly think this may be a route I go down but I am really getting on a bit and maybe a bit too late in my life….. and too many responsibilities (kids and bills!!) So… however if I studied theology seperately it could shorten my training? ( I am WAY past 32). every day I feel a GREATER pull towards the church…. dont know what to do.
Katie McG on 7th October 2011 (Friday). at 8:09 pm
Thanks for this, it's something I'm seriously considering but want to make sure that it is my calling, at least this is a clear outline as to the process should this be the way God guides me.
Keith Montrose on 9th November 2011 (Wednesday). at 9:06 pm
Hi ,
im fifty years of age,am i at the wrong end of the scale to become a vicar ?
Kind Regards
Keith .
sanctified on 12th November 2011 (Saturday). at 8:54 pm
Hi Keith,
The Church has to abide by equality legislation (on the whole – we won't start a debate about women bishops here) which means you can train at 50. The important thing is discerning the call of God. If you think God is calling you to do it, get going!
keith on 13th November 2011 (Sunday). at 4:24 pm
Thankyou very much .
Kind Regards
Gilly B on 22nd November 2011 (Tuesday). at 7:26 pm
I am 60 and a palliative care nurse(Hospice)-I would like to be a pastor/chaplain and would certainly want to be able to bless people in my ministry-
where do I train for that ?
any suggestions?
thanks for a helpful site
Bless you
sanctified on 14th December 2011 (Wednesday). at 2:52 pm
Hi Gilly,
You can be a chaplain without being ordained, although within the Church of England you aren't supposed to 'bless' people in a formal sense unless you are a priest.
As always, the first step is to talk it over with your parish priest. If there is a sense that this is something that God is working through, s/he will refer you to a DDO who will be able to give the best advice…
Raymond on 1st December 2011 (Thursday). at 1:22 pm
I am 58, have published a spiritual book and feel I may have a calling. My supposed problem is that I am gay and in a single partnership for 4 years. I know I have something to offer. Am I a lost cause?
sanctified on 14th December 2011 (Wednesday). at 2:58 pm
Hi Raymond,
There is certainly some controversy around the issue of sexual ethics in the Church of England. At the moment, the position is that all who are ordained must agree to abide by the provisions of the book "Issues in Human Sexuality". Before you think about what to do next, it would be helpful to get a copy and think about whether you can live within what it says. (Which is essentially that gay relationships should be celibate).
When you are ordained you pledge obedience to the bishop and that includes abiding by Issues in Human Sexuality whether you agree completely with it or not. My own view is that if you can't do that with good conscience it's better not to be ordained.
Lavinia on 14th December 2011 (Wednesday). at 9:04 am
Your stories are all very interesting. I'm convinced I have the calling and the message is becoming clearer,louder and stronger week by week. My issue is that I would not be take n seriously because I've only recently become involved with the Church and it would only be said that it's just a 'novelty' or 'honeymoon' phase for me! Also, as some of you have said, 'I'm getting on a bit'!!
sanctified on 14th December 2011 (Wednesday). at 3:02 pm
Hi Lavinia,
You need to speak to your parish priest! If you're a regular attender at your church, they should listen to you. They may suggest that you do some study or wait a few months before they are happy to consider the next stage, but they should take you seriously and help you to discern exactly what it is God is saying.
Not everyone who feels called is necessarily called to ordained ministry, but if you don't start that journey of discernment, you will never know!
Brett Greenfield on 6th February 2012 (Monday). at 9:11 pm
I have only recently discovered your web site and just wanted to tell you how truly inspiring your views and comments are and would like to thank you for taking the time for sharing them with all of us.
I have for some time wished to join the church,but have been put off following it up believing my age at a few weeks off turning forty would be an obstacle, but thanks to your site I am going to seek advice from my local vicar and see where it takes me.
Many thanks.
sanctified on 18th April 2012 (Wednesday). at 8:28 pm
Thanks for the kind words, I hope that your exploration of your call goes well!
Ben Brady on 19th February 2012 (Sunday). at 4:31 am
Hi .. I want to be a ordained minister but i am very worried about the selection process
I am not academically gifted but i thrive in Religous Studies and i have a calling which is
made clear .. what should i do ?..
sanctified on 18th April 2012 (Wednesday). at 8:27 pm
Hi Ben,
The Church of England is sadly still quite academically focussed, but the sense of call is the most important thing. At a selection conference, they are looking at your quality of mind – can you think well and make good arguments – rather than are you academically gifted. If God is calling you, speak to your vicar and start the process.
You say the calling is clear, which is good, but remember that the church will test that calling and they may not always agree with you!
Darren Bramley on 1st March 2012 (Thursday). at 7:34 pm
Hi There.
I was very interested to read your posting and other people's comments and questions. I am in a high pressure job in the TV industry which I enjoy, but which doesnt fulfil me as much as it used to.
However I am heavily involved with my local cathedral member of an active congregation and help run the Sunday Club, provide Technical backup, filming and to volunteer when time allows. I have a great relationship with all the clergy and our families regularly socialise. I have been on a trip to india with the cathedral to record our charitable causes there, and to try to encourage more fundraising.
What I am trying to ask is : Is it possible to study to become a member of the clergy, whilst continuing my current career? I feel a calling, but know that what I do I am good at, and that I can use the skills that I have in the life of the church. But I have this voice telling me to look further into priesthood, I love spending time in the life of the church and really feel my next step is to consider how I can change my life and use it for the benefit of others in Gods Name….Thanks for any Thoughts….
sanctified on 18th April 2012 (Wednesday). at 8:24 pm
Hi Darren,
In the Church of England there are a huge number of NSM (Non-Stipendary Ministers) also known as SSM (Self Supporting Ministers) or in some places MSE (Ministers in Secular Employment). Whatever they're called, there are increasing numbers of clergy who are ordained but not paid by the church. If you feel the call, you need to talk to one of the ministers at the Cathedral as the first step! There is no harm at all in exploring!
ben on 30th March 2012 (Friday). at 7:00 pm
hi, i recently left the army,i'm 43 and served in several campaigns and gained much life experience over the years, i am a regular church goer and my faith has helped me through some fairly horrific times. i think i could offer a great deal if i was to become a vicar,i could train full time but would i get any kind of financial aid during my training?
sanctified on 18th April 2012 (Wednesday). at 8:20 pm
Hi Ben,
In short the answer is yes, you would get some financial support. If you're single it's pretty minimal, if you're married it's more generous, but not a huge amount. You can also train part time if that suits you better. If you feel the call, get in touch with your local vicar and take the next step!
John Robson on 5th April 2012 (Thursday). at 12:32 am
Hello I dont really know where to begin I have read the questions and answers on the site and would like some advice. I have for a number of years had a desire to become a vicar but never known where to turn as I dont have Degrees or any relevent skills. I am now 51 but can honestly say the feeling I get when I enter a church or abbey etc ia a little hard to describe but its like a feeling of great peace which over whelms me, a real burning desire. I hope this does not sound rediculous to you but thats how I feel. I will be honest and say that I am not a regular church goer and this may make anyone feel I may not be worthy. I would love any advice you could give me. Thank you and God Bless.
sanctified on 18th April 2012 (Wednesday). at 8:15 pm
Hi John,
Thanks for commenting. The point about not being a regular churchgoer is an important one. As a clergy-person, I get 6 Sunday's off a year which means I'm in church 46/52!. If you're not a regular churchgoer, would you be able to commit to a vocation which requires such a level of commitment?
IZ on 4th May 2012 (Friday). at 10:03 pm
My nephew is in USA, has always been very active in his church, run youth groups and been on missions. He had a horrific car accident in his teens and died several times, which has left him with a very basic level of schooling etc. He's done a degree in USA, but to become a priest over there he has to go to uni again for several years with a lot of latin to learn and a lot of money to find. Would he be able to come and train over here? And would it be cheaper for him? He is a truly religious person, who has really found himself through his struggles.
sanctified on 6th October 2012 (Saturday). at 5:59 pm
I really should check these comments more often, so sorry!
It's unlikely that your nephew could just move to the UK to train. There are a number of factors (not least the current immigration controls here). Even if those could be overcome, he would need to be a member of a local congregation for a period before starting on the whole process. So, sadly, this is probably not the option for him. I have to profess my ignorance of the workings of the Episcopal Church USA.
Tom on 21st June 2012 (Thursday). at 6:52 pm
Hi there, i'm 19 years old and am very confused with what road to go down. After leaving school at 16, i've worked full time from then (and i love my job). I've always found religion extremely interesting, i'd love to learn more. I wasn't brought up a Christian as my mum & dad arn't "religious", and have never been to Church, as no-one i know is a Christian i think i'm too shy to attend on my own. As a child i had quite a lot of close family deaths & the vicar that helped me through it all was inspirational. I'd basically like to know where someone like me would stand with wanting to go down this road, acedemically i only have my GSCE's, which was straight B's throughout – including Religious Studies. I feel like there could be alot more to my life & im leaning towards this so much.
Hope you can help!
~ Tom.
sanctified on 6th October 2012 (Saturday). at 6:05 pm
Hi Tom,
The first step is definitely to walk through the doors of a church! A good way to find some friendly people who will be nice to you and help you work out if Church is for you is to do an Alpha Course, they run in loads of churches all over the country and many have recently started or will start very soon. uk.alpha.org/find-a-course should help.
Once you've made that move, who knows where it might take you!
adele lunn on 9th December 2012 (Sunday). at 11:55 pm
Tom i have very recently attended an alpha course and can honestly tell u it has changed my life! It was the best thing i have ever done. It gives u the opportunity to learn about God and practical things on how to pray and read the bible.
I wish u the best of luck and hope as ur comments were posted some time ago that u have been able to find a course and have taken the first steps on a very exciting journey which will equip u on the road to having a more personal relationship with God
TINA VYZE on 27th July 2012 (Friday). at 12:15 pm
Having read you web page i was so glad to read that being old eg 47 ha ha is still ok to train for a profession but didnt realise it took so long i was heavely
involed in my local church for ten years speaking in church ,prayers, sunday
school one of my little flock is going in to ministry, house groups prayer groups, alpha course which i helped to run i have very strong views which has
always stopped me being on the chuch committee as i didnt want to rock the
boat. i also hugely with Gods blessing became a prayer minister and was blessed to watch Gods work at close quarters as the power of the holy spirit
came over people, i have a strong desire to help people and a strong desired
to lead and be centre stage and a huge caring empathy for all ages, but am i just wanting it for me can i put myself second yes but can i be diiplomatic im
not so sure i tell it how it is. I dont go to church at the moment but talk to God
every day is this proffession for me. help!
sanctified on 6th October 2012 (Saturday). at 6:07 pm
Hi Tina,
There are lots and lots of people who aren't keen on church but are friends with Jesus. If you want to be a minister though, the only way in is through regularly attending church first. Obviously, I can only talk about the Church of England, but I would be surprised if that wasn't the case in other denominations too!
Marius on 2nd August 2012 (Thursday). at 1:09 pm
I have been working in non- demonational sitting for over 10 years now. My wife is member of CofE before we got married. I am incresingly feeling God calling me to train and become vicar. How can I go about it?
sanctified on 6th October 2012 (Saturday). at 6:10 pm
Hi Marius,
If you want to be a Church of England vicar, you need to become a member of a Church of England church first. The way the church works is that your calling/vocation is tested. The first test is to see whether your own vicar can see that this might be something God is calling you to. They can only do that if they know you and they will only know you if you regularly attend.
Marius on 12th May 2013 (Sunday). at 9:37 pm
Thanks again for your advise last october. I have joined Cof E and at the same time seeing the DDO and the whole experience is going very well.
Tanya on 6th September 2012 (Thursday). at 8:13 am
Hello, thanks for sharing your story.
I have had a calling for a couple years now, but I still haven't pursued it. My concern is, I'm a member of a non-denominational church which I'm involved in serving, and don't want to leave. Would you suggest I still go through the discernment period before making a definite decision to leave my current church and to attend my local Church of England or is it possible to do both?
sanctified on 6th October 2012 (Saturday). at 6:15 pm
Hi Tanya,
I guess the first thing I would do is explore whether you can exercise that calling within the church you are in. Some non-denominational churches are very small (in terms of scope for doing that), so that's not always possible.
The whole process of discernment and living out your calling involves numerous moments of taking up your cross and making sacrifices to do what God has called you to do. Perhaps, if this is real, the first step is one of faith to leave where you are now and go to a Church of England church. That might end well, it might not, but it's hard to prove a sense of calling to the Church of England if you aren't a worshipper there.
Just having to make that choice might help you to decide whether this is the right path to be exploring…
Caroline on 18th September 2012 (Tuesday). at 1:15 pm
Thank you for your openness and advice through all the comments. I started exploring my call 4 years ago and starte don the discernment process 18 months ago, I am due to go before the local panel in November. My faith has definately deepened whilst being on this journey and my prayer life has become more disciplined.
The process does take some time but I know that it will be worth while, however I am a single parent and have a worry in the back of my mind about how I can go away to residential college (I am currently working on a very low wage) and leave my 8 year old son with my daughter (she has a child of her own) I am not worried about leaving him as feel he will be in excellant hands and the option of him coming with me would not be suitable for him. My concern is about the financial side (I currently recieve tax credits to subsidise my low income). I still have to support my son and pay for what he needs, how can i find out what financial assiatnce I can get. I don't want to feel that money issues will be a problem and prevent things. I know God will provide and have full trust in him but my maternal instinct is strong and this nagging fear is still there. I have prayed about it and continue to do so.
Any help and advice you can give would be greatfully recieved.
God bless you for teh time you take in answering people's questions on the journey of discernment and vocation.
sanctified on 6th October 2012 (Saturday). at 6:24 pm
Hi Caroline,
Financial help is available to ordinands with families. It's not loads but it should be enough. Alternatively, there may be options for studying part-time locally. Your DDO should be able to work through that with you, and it won't reflect at all badly on you if you ask about it.
There is information available on the Church of England website, if you google "support for candidates in training church of england" you'll find it. You need to look at "Support for married candidates" which includes stuff about lone parents.
I hope it works out and that your panel goes well in November!
Lloyd on 28th September 2012 (Friday). at 8:07 am
Thank you for your guide to becoming a Vicar. I've been interested in being a Vicar for several years and have tried talking to a couple of people I know that are Vicars or a Canon but none of these have been able to give me such a clear and concise insight as your comprehensive account. If I go ahead I would be interested in becoming an Army Chaplain. Although much older than the 13 year old boy that has always wanted to be an Army Officer I can identify with his desire to be one, as I had the same thoughts for years when I was much younger. However, the one essential question remaining for me is how do I determine whether God is calling me to be ordained in the first place or is that the same as my conscience telling me that I would be suited to this vocation?
sanctified on 6th October 2012 (Saturday). at 6:30 pm
Hi Lloyd,
This is indeed the big question. Sadly, most people don't have a dream in which God says "Do this!", or hear an audible voice or anything else like that.
So, some things to think about…
* Do you have a persistent sense that this might be the right thing to do?
* Has anyone ever said "You'd make a great Vicar" (They're not always right, but it helps if other people see it in you).
* Similar to the previous one, but have you told anyone you know well and how did they respond. ("You want to what!" is probably not as good a response as "Well everyone else has known that for years").
* What appeals to you about the job?
And all that is on top of the basic thing of are you saying your prayers and reading the bible and are you regularly attending church!
I hope that helps at least a little bit.
Lloyd on 7th November 2012 (Wednesday). at 8:46 pm
Thank you for your reply on the 6th October, which I found very helpful.
Whilst I've thought for some years that this might be the right thing to do, no-one has actually said I'd make a great Vicar.
However, I've told a couple of people close to me about my thoughts that I'm attracted to being a Vicar and interestingly, whilst both of them were surprised and even found the idea a little funny, one of them has since said that they could see me visiting people and having the patience to deal with various people.
One of the main appeals of the job is the feeling I imagine I'd have that I'm helping others and making a contribution to the community I'd serve. If I could extend this to becoming a military Chaplain then I feel that would suit me even better.
However, one of my concerns is having to study and know all about Saints etc. This brings me to your last statement about saying my prayers, reading the bible and attending church regularly, since I do not do any of these. Although I do say a few prayers but that's usually as a result of some form of exasperation or trying to understand aspects of life.
Perhaps I am after all barking up the wrong tree or maybe you would urge me to attend Church, for at least that may make my mind up.
Brian on 18th November 2012 (Sunday). at 4:28 am
Hello everybody, my name is Brian and i find this website absolutely fascinating, i myself have had what i can only describe as a life changing experience. I believe i have had the calling of god, although i didn't realise it until recently. I have worked for the last 30 years as a dj entertaining the masses and have worked with quite a few 'A' list celebrity's along the way. Because of my job I find it very easy to talk to people and have the ability to make people warm to me without really trying. Someone once said to my mother, 'when Brian walks into a room the whole world takes notice because he shines, he has a presence about him which attracts people'. Many people have also said this to me over the years and a few also said to me that i'd make a great vicar ( I thought to myself who are you kidding) because of the warmth that eminates from me when i'm talking to people. Don't get me wrong i'm not trying to imply anything here, these are other peoples words not mine. But surely these are skills that could be put to good use within the church, for a vicar must be approachable and easy to talk to. If you'd have told me a year ago i'd be writing this letter i'd have called you mad, I still don't really understand what's happening to me but something inside keeps pushing me, day and night it never stops. It's a feeling i've never felt before and it's actually so strong it scares me, it makes me feel sick at times and for some reason I feel totally content as though i'm bullet proof, nothing can hurt me. Does any of this make any sense to you, i've never been what you would call a regular church go'er because of one reason or another but i do believe in god, I do pray and god still hears me even though i'm not in church, but I now think he has plans for me which are beyond my control, please help me understand, many thanks Brian.
Richard on 20th January 2013 (Sunday). at 9:07 pm
I've just been reading your very interesting and informative website.
I have been seriously interested in becoming a Church of England minister since I was a student. My local vicar told me to go into business and come back when I had some practical experience of life. I'm now 61 but it looks as though I might have missed the bus. I have not earned megabucks but have had a fulfilling career working with people and their problems and would now like to spend the next 20 years as an ordained minister in the Church. I am a committed Christian and practising Anglican. Am I wasting my time?
lisa on 8th April 2013 (Monday). at 1:40 am
hi, i go to the church of england for every service and ive just been elected to be a member of the dcc and also deanary synod rep, i would love to be a vicar, i have never thought a me to do tbout it before but know i think gods calling me to do it, but i dont know where to start, any help would be much appreciated
regards lisa
lisa on 8th April 2013 (Monday). at 1:41 am
sorry i forgot to mention im 25 yrs old nearly 26
Ben on 8th April 2013 (Monday). at 2:35 pm
I want to become a vicar and wonder if it is worth going to university and doing an undergraduate degree in theology or divinity before starting the process. If so, should I do a degree in Theology or Divinity?
Many thanks,
Gemma on 11th April 2013 (Thursday). at 10:05 am
I've read through all the text although I still don't understand what a priest actually does? Please can someone help, thanks
Kate on 10th July 2013 (Wednesday). at 12:59 pm
I am getting married in March 2014 in our village Chapel. Do we need to have a sanctified vicar to conduct the marriage ceremony or can any of the preachers who take services in the Chapel do this?
No one seems to be able to answer this for me…… I know we need to have a register present which has been arranged but our local vicar is retiring in December and is not being replaced. We have lots of regular preachers that come to take the weekly services but they do not hold a 'license'
Many thanks
sanctified on 15th September 2013 (Sunday). at 5:41 pm
Hi Kate,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.
If you're getting married in a Church of England church (and it sounds like you're not), you will need an ordained person to take the service and the church will arrange that.
Otherwise the Registrar will deal with the legal parts of the ceremony and who is allowed to do the other parts of the service will be dependent on the rules of that denomination.
I guess that isn't mega-helpful, but I know the Church of England well and am far from an expert on everything else.
Andrew Guest on 19th October 2013 (Saturday). at 2:59 pm
Good Afternoon,
im currently church warden at my local church and would like to be become a priest i dont have a degree but have alot of life experience (43) and feel i have a great deal to offer the church of england,is it really as long as 8 years is there not a quicker route then this.
james Taylor-short on 21st November 2013 (Thursday). at 10:36 am
Im an optician…(but am a secret wanna be Vicar!) I have spoken to our local Vicar about what I think is a calling, and he agrees, long story , not enough pace to tell it here..
Thanks for your web page, I would like to ask you something.
I have my own practices in Devon. Am I able to train whilst still holding down a my current job? As I own the business, its hard for me to just "give up the job' I would need to find a buyer, provide for my family, pay the mortgage and so on I am worried that I won't be able to if I give up working. I have a young family that demands attention and money!! I am at a bit of a vocational cross roads!!
Any thoughts,
clint goodall on 12th December 2013 (Thursday). at 10:53 am
hi I'm a disabled ex British soldier who has seen and done far to much for most men to handle, but I feel a calling to do something in the church but not sure what? and I'm not sure the church would ever take me as I have P.T.S.D. people all ways said that I would be a vicar if I had not gone in the army, because off my interest off the church. thank you for reading this Clint
gladys taylor on 29th December 2013 (Sunday). at 5:05 am
very great advice as i am on my way seeking to fulfill my calling though am a sigle parent with a chronic pain disability. My vicar is moving in feb 2014 n am abit upset as i was hoping she can help but she is very busy and at the same time taking another serious post at St. Pauls Cathedral any help welcome
John on 30th December 2013 (Monday). at 12:33 am
Thank you for your website! I have been trying to make sense of what I feel may be the second time I have been called to God.
Earlier this year I woke up one morning with a feeling (although that doesn't do it justice….I simply cannot put into words exactly how I felt) that I should join the church and possibly train as a vicar.
However, equally I also felt that people like me (essentially working class Londoner) don't become vicars!
I had recently started a new local rugby club and instead of following my heart, I put those feelings aside and threw myself into setting up (and playing for) the rugby club.
Fast forward to a few weeks ago and this time I was awoken in the middle of the night with a much stronger feeling that I should investigate and commit myself to finding out more about becoming a vicar. After realising that this burning feeling from within wasn't just a case of heartburn, I decided to look online at what the process was and more specifically whether somebody like me would even be considered to join the Church of England as a Priest.
Now, to confuse things further I also felt like I was being drawn away from the church my family and I have been worshipping at for the last 10 years and move to another. This was a huge decision as not only have my two children (8 & 6) been born and raised within that church, but I too was baptised and confirmed whilst there (although I was actually confirmed in another parish). I was also on the PCC there too.
I can only describe this change of churches by comparing it to splitting up with your first love, but meeting your wife! Things have simply clicked and I feel refreshed and more focused than ever.
The complication now arises in so much that the new church is currently between incumbents and therefore I am unsure how to begin my journey towards joining the church.
Apologies for the length of the message and of the 'ARRRRRGH!' nature of it's contents, but right now I felt that I had to try to put this all into words!
Thank you in advance.
Olu on 10th February 2014 (Monday). at 9:58 am
My husband and I have been missionary couple to England for the past five years. Recently, my husband have been seeing DDO and by God's willing will be going to BAP later this year. As I/we think the future of his and our ministry, I really think I should be going for chaplaincy in either school or hospital especially mental hospital. What advice should you be giving me
nick on 14th July 2014 (Monday). at 3:57 pm
hi, have had a burning desire all my adult life to become a man of god, just reading from this site has really made my mind up that this is the path for me.
I just need help to make my dream a reality
Claudette on 5th August 2014 (Tuesday). at 4:43 am
Hello Vicar and thank you very much for all of the information and encouragement that you provide on this site.
I have for many years felt a strong desire to become a Vicar for a multitude of reasons. The thoughts and feelings are becoming more and more promiment now and I would like to actually take the steps towards realising this goal.
My problem is that I am not a member of the Anglican Church. I have been raised in the Catholic faith and also in the Assyrian Church of the East. For a woman to become an ordained priest in either of these denominations is not possible.
Would you please tell me if there is any possibility for me to still be considered for training and ordination in the Anglican Church, and also how to approach this.
Thank you
kelly on 14th August 2014 (Thursday). at 12:32 pm
I would so much to become a vicar, I've only been following the lord for two and a half years, but I feel this is for me.
I'm almost 30, the trouble is Im a single parent to six children, obviously I had them before I found the lord. Can I still become a vicar?.
sanctified on 20th November 2014 (Thursday). at 4:57 pm
Hi Laila, sorry for being rubbish at replying!
Having lots of children could make training more of a challenge, but being a single parent isn't a bar to ordained ministry. Your first step is to speak to your Vicar about how you feel and ask for their advice and guidance.
Jimmy on 20th November 2014 (Thursday). at 3:33 am
Hi great website, very interesting. For the past 3 years I have been considering leaving my job to become a vicar. Problem is, I earn £50-60K at the moment, and this equates to take home of just shy of £3K per month one it's all taxed and pensioned etc. I have a wife who doesn't work and 3 kids under ten, so as you can imagine the pressure on me as breadwinner is considerable. Added to the financial side of things, would the kids have to move schools if I were subsequently 'posted' somewhere? What sort of take home pay does a 'qualified' vicar get, and does it really take up to 8 years to get qualified? Thanks in anticipation.
sanctified on 20th November 2014 (Thursday). at 4:48 pm
Yep, being a full time minister isn't that well paid. The current Stipend in the Diocese I serve in is £24k, so one and a bit after tax, NI etc. On the other hand, I live in a free house. I don't have much truck with those who say clergy are underpaid.
I'm married and have two kids under 5, we do ok!
Your children would almost certainly end up moving school though. There are challenges and sacrifices involved in being a clergy person, which is why it's hugely important that you really really feel called to it.
james kean on 1st December 2014 (Monday). at 2:34 pm
Would really like to know how to get into the priesthood been a dream of mine for a long time please email with help or any other details
Richard Peters on 14th December 2014 (Sunday). at 11:12 am
I have spent my life being an evil person I find its time now to pay something back and make my lufe whole again . Im 47 yrs old no and would like somw advice as to joining the ranks as a reverand and help teach those the error of my ways and make some good for the things I have done
Matthew on 14th December 2014 (Sunday). at 12:00 pm
Hi I am 15 and I have a real passion for sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and would love to enter the ordained ministry. I understand I'm still a bit young but this has been on my mind for the past year. I am a member of the Church of Ireland, in Northern Ireland and I see that this website is more for Church of England folk. Lots of people have been saying that I have a good pastoral, caring personality. I would just like to hear your views and opinion – thanks for your time.
ps – Great website!
marie ford on 25th January 2015 (Sunday). at 3:17 pm
Hi iam 34 a single mother
I have been having this feeling like I have never felt befor since I got confirmed last year. I kept fighting it see I have no gcse or anythink. I kept saying iam not worthy enough to be a priest. Iam the sacristan at my church.I have spoken to a few people at my church about the way I feel and they all agree they think I will good as a priest and to follow my heart. I dream about it and when I pray it allways feels like someone is telling me to follow my heart I don't know what to do can you please give me some advice.
Mike Talbot on 28th January 2015 (Wednesday). at 5:29 pm
I am 62 years of age, would I be too old to become a clergy
Jen on 3rd February 2015 (Tuesday). at 9:16 pm
Thank you, came across your website, while looking up how to be a curate or reader. The Bishop came to our church last year, we were having a general conversation, not much god talk, he said "ever thought about becoming a curate" my anwser was "I think I would be to outspoken", "just what we need", he said. I have been a christian all my life and I am very involved in my church. I see myself as a simple believer, a doing christian. Never had god speak to me, but I have had moments, feelings when something or one is trying to get through, my heart feels full. Since this brief conversation with the bishop, these feelings have increased, hence the google. What do I do next?
Abayomi on 9th February 2015 (Monday). at 1:44 pm
Hi Rev,
Great reading all of your very useful lines.
I came across this while searching the internet on how I may train as a minister in the Anglican communion here in the UK but I must confess I have a bit of a mixed background.
1, I am 48 in a week's time – 16 Feb 2015
2, I was born into an Anglican family in Nigeria and attended the Anglican church in Nigeria into my teens
3, I joined the Pentecostal brand of Christianity in my undergraduate days in the University and have attended a mix of pentecostal and Anglican churches since.
4, For education, I have studied up to the doctoral level and I taught History and Diplomacy in a handful of universities over the last 25 years.
5, At the moment, I am into writing, internet TV and documentary production and I have resided here in the UK for the last 12 plus years.
I do not have an Anglican parish I attend very regularly and imagine the usual route you have so clearly outlined of going though an ODD may not be feasible for me (Having said that, I can still walk up to the local Anglican vicar who lives 3 minutes away if I have to)
The summary of my question after all the contextualizing comment is; Is there an Anglican Theological School here in the UK (preferably in the South East as I live in the Greater London area) able to train someone like me?
Will such school welcome a practical 'self-referring' candidate?
Thank you,
Ardis A Fgerholm on 3rd March 2015 (Tuesday). at 2:17 pm
I have a question. I have always been "searching" as it were. And 2001, I got "born again". I beginning reading the bible, praying, going to church.. Apart from music,( I am a singer/Songwriter) I seem to have no other "pullings" to anything else but the Church. Lately, I have been attending the Church of England, St. Mary Abbots Parish Church , Kensington London: I was passing by one day and the priests were on the streets asking passerbys' if they wanted to be "Ashed with a cross on the forehead"..that's how I ended up going in the church. And I've been going regularly ever since.
"Suddenly, I am thinking that I might be called to be a priest". Of course I bursted out laughing. It cannot be! Then I thought..No I'm too old,, I am now 43 years old.
Is there anyone I can speak to on these matters?
K on 23rd March 2015 (Monday). at 4:14 pm
How closely do the Church review their candidates as I have just come out of an abusive marriage but his Church believe I have issues with the Church. As that's what he has told them, I would never receive the holy sacrament from my abuser and have found strength from my faith. He has been on longterm sick for 6 years suffering severe depression in his handwriting but the Church weren't told that. He even enlisted in the armed forces attending reservist training when on sickleave. Until he went on another 3 1/2 year sickleave. Using this time not to support the family but to sit at home poring over the computer learning Gods words in his office upstairs, neglecting our two year old daughter leaving her downstairs alone with a tv for company. He even has the church paying for his degree. Luckily my Parish priests tells me to have patience his lies will be seen. All he wants is the easy life and is sitting waiting for his £22k payout for his Church provided home, whilst I have to sell our family home that I have worked hard to keep over his head. Its strange but none of his Church associates have been invited into our home no doubt they all believe that was my fault. That's strange as I worked full time and he was the one sat at home all the time, and my family we never welcomed by him. Domestic abuse is just ignored by the church and bullys are allowed to continue bullying.
helen on 25th May 2015 (Monday). at 3:33 pm
Hi, I have been a nurse for 27yrs and things have completely changed in the last few months in my work. I had not thought of retraining for something new although I have started thinking about the church, I dont know why. I do attend church and have always had a faith but I'm not sure if this is a calling or not.
Can you give me some words of advise
Chris Hill on 31st May 2015 (Sunday). at 11:29 pm
Don't quite know where to start sorry. A few weeks ago I was feeling very low, to the point of feeling suicidal but almost as soon as I thought this was the way out. I felt a much stronger feelng. Almost a voice saying 'no I've got other plans for you' I have always been religious but haven't been to church other than hatchings, matches or dispatches for years. I was instantaneously lifted out of my depression and intrigued could this be the start of a calling? I would love some advice and guidance on how to find what God has planned for me. Thank you.
allan bellingham on 3rd June 2015 (Wednesday). at 8:20 pm
Hi would like be vicar I have been to church since I was young and I hold Aaronic priest hood have authority administer outwards ordinances of sacrament and baptism . I am I awaiting for to get the Melchizedek priest hood and that will gave me power and authority to lead the church and direct the preachings of the gospel and do healing a round the world and over each woard,s and stakes
colin on 17th June 2015 (Wednesday). at 5:43 pm
Im 54 and wondered is that considered too old to apply to become a Vicar
Naomi on 7th July 2015 (Tuesday). at 8:41 pm
Hi, I have felt a strong calling to God now for about 20 years but recently its become really persistent, however, I am a single mother to an under 5, I have only gcses at not spectacular grades and I am nudging 40.
I would like to speak to my vicar about this but I see that he is always horrendously busy. Also I have only been with my present church 2 months (I felt a strong pull to this one from my previous non denominational christian church).
I am not sure if my new vicar will take my seriously and this is what worries me. I have discussed this with a couple of close friends and they feel that I would be suited to the life.
I would appreciate your thoughts on this, Thank you.
Dean Bennett on 30th October 2015 (Friday). at 11:20 pm
I would like to become a vicar but i'm 50 and feel that this is to old. Does my age stop me from becoming a vicar as there is a shortage and I would like to be considered. My point is was Jesus choosing disciples for there age, or that they were the right people to be disciples.
Thank you for reading my message.
Steve Haworth on 23rd November 2015 (Monday). at 1:36 pm
I am fifty six with lots of life skills with in the Church of England is there a way I can put all my experienced into becoming a Vicar I have been through the process before but the higher powers in the cathedral say that you need to have degrees but I have been around so called people who have no people skills what can I do
Coral on 30th November 2015 (Monday). at 9:51 am
Hi, I have a friend who is planning to study theology at degree (once they have took a degree in philosophy, religion and ethics) and hopes to become a vicar. She is female and is worried that this won't happen because of her sex. Are women allowed to become vicars? Thanks Coral
Elizabeth Lamont on 13th December 2015 (Sunday). at 11:58 am
I have lived in France for many years. I am now 67 years old and I feel called to work for God in my daily life. I would love to train to become a vicar. So difficult question: is this possible? France being my home? because of my age? and I only have a small pension so I would need assistance to accomplish this enormous feit at a distance: i.e. accommodation if it is to be done in England etc. I know nothing is impossible for God but this is a really difficult one I know…
Look forward to a reply with suggestions if possible…
Luke edwards on 26th December 2015 (Saturday). at 10:08 pm
Hi my name is Luke I'm 29 how do I go about joining priesthood or a vicar if I have no degrees can I still do it if I can cause its always been my dream after my uncle
Neil Hemsley on 1st January 2016 (Friday). at 3:25 pm
I'm 45 ..have served in the forces / Army
Is it to late to take this path. .say it's a calling..it's something I feel..
I lost my mam to cancer in April my dad years past to heart attack.
I pray for my family and self but feel as I should be doing this full time now… such a strange feeling ?
Any feedback or a chat would be grateful


text:
My english is not so good, but i'l try =)
How can i change properties for Green and Red monitors status?
For Example:
if i create Action for ICMP(ping) monitor and have "Request timed out. 25% losses." - it's Red
For me 25%-75% packet lost is not critial(check vpn tunnel), and i want change Red monitor - is 75-100% losses
Green 0%-75% losses.
But i don't know where is this options?
artem.uglovMember Since 11 Apr 2010
Offline Last Active Apr 14 2010 12:48 AM
Community Stats
- Group Members
- Active Posts 2
- Profile Views 2,485
- Member Title Newbie
- Age Age Unknown
- Birthday Birthday Unknown
Not Telling
User Tools
artem.uglov hasn't added any friends yet.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Western Australia
West Australians #talkupWA and reveal their favourite things about their state
- From: PerthNow
- February 16, 2014
AS locals reveal some of their favourite things about WA, one thing is clear. Sandgropers love relaxing.
Kings Park, Rottnest, our beaches and WA's South West are just some of the things PerthNow readers revealed as their favourite parts of our state.
Enjoying food, wine and coffee in our usually pristine weather are high on the list of things we enjoy most.
Tourism Minister Liza Harvey urged West Australians to drop the pessimism and talk up the state when they travel in an exclusive interview in today's Sunday Times.
Ms Harvey said the Government can spend tens of millions of dollars on advertising campaigns and tourism operators can work endlessly — but it means nothing if average West Australians aren't willing to play their part as ambassadors.
Many PerthNow readers took up the challenge, responding on Facebook, Twitter and with
Join the conversation with #talkupWA — tell us your favourite things and places in WA and what you love best about being a Sandgroper.
Using the hashtag #talkupWA, PerthNow has found dozens of WA locals who are totally smitten for our beautiful state.
Many identified Kings Park and the beach as their favourite places to go in WA.
@perthnow The sunsets, Kings Park, the beaches, wildlife in the suburbs, the south-west of W.A. and good ol' Fremantle. What's not to love!— Wendy Page (@WendyBirdOZ) February 16, 2014
Other locations included The Pinnacles, Margaret River, Fremantle, Esperance, the Pilbara and Shark Bay.
I'm still in love with Perth after all these years #talkupWA #CityBeach pic.twitter.com/lQzcDo5Dq9— Jacky Coglan (@PepeLPeww) February 16, 2014
When asked what they loved about being a Sandgroper, many said it was the relaxed lifestyle that pulled on their heartstrings.
@perthnow I've always thought the city of Perth on the Swan is stunning. Proud the city is livening & growing up. Unique wildlife #talkupWA— Kevin C (@KevinKlonker) February 16, 2014
@perthnow. A recent arrival from the UK... I'm loving the local attractions, climate, festival atmosphere, restaurants & friendly people...— Sara de Freitas (@Saradefreitas) February 16, 2014
Twitter: @ErienneLetteOriginally published as Can't beat our sun and sea #talkupWA
Have your say
- Skip to:
- Read comments
- Add comments


text:
Saturday Forecast
The weekend is here and it is shaping up to be a great one since I think we avoided the higher temperatures. Today we may experience some winds but that shouldn't stop us from experiencing some great groomed conditions. After a small amount of fresh snow yesterday on the upper slopes, the groom is coming out the best it's been over these last few warm days according to our awesome groomers. Variable snow conditions exists on off-piste slopes, use extra caution in these areas today and consider making it a groomer day. All in all it should be a pretty spectacular Saturday. You should be stoked! See you on the Slope! -ConnorFull Story


text:
White working class voters, celine phantom replica Older voters, And those in rural areas can be counted celine bag sale on to vote for the GOP. This is celine handbags sale up 11.3% on the first half of 2014. The presence of carpenter ants may indicate celine handbags outlet moisture problems in the building as they generally celine mini luggage tote replica prefer already rotting wood. The heating elements of the furnace are also fused, And these celine trapeze bag outlet fuses are located on a panel that is on or inside the furnace celine tote sale housing.. Want a more modern celine handbags replica look for your home? Well, If you are like most people today the answer is "yes, Dwell Magazine and other popular modern home publications are featuring ideas and celine trapeze outlet ways to modernize your celine phantom bag sale home, celine luggage replica Interior and exterior. It is celine trapeze outlet extremely celine trapeze bag sale unusual. celine phantom sale This is not a credit card. This process will force you to continually check and recheck your replica celine drawing to make sure you place things in the right spot. celine bags online Given the brevity, Accuracy and quantitative nature of the celine phantom outlet classifier, Results from this study may prove valuable in the development of mobile tools for preliminary evaluation and clinical prioritization particular those focused on assessment of short home videos of children speed the celine mini luggage tote outlet pace of initial evaluation and broaden the reach to a significantly larger percentage of celine mini the population at risk.. Such plans initially sound great but they take enormous capital outlays where the potential payback, If it materializes before competition moves in, Is too far down the road. Gilani claimed that some powerful groups were celine phantom bag replica against him due to his role in exposing their corruption and they were managing cases against him in courts.
Average rating: 4.9


text:
The The real computer geek test Test
Tests others are taking
The Did I Make Obvious Mistakes on My OKCupid Profile? Test
Strick4246551 / m / Straight
anteem44 / f / Straight
unicohombre55 / m / Straight
BoogieBeezy32 / f / Bisexual
The How good is your first message Test
CoastToCoastMan26 / m / Straight
Connect your existing OkCupid account
Sign in
Welcome Back!
Restore your account to continue meeting new people.
Reset your password
We'll email you a link to reset it.
Email sent!
An email is on its way to .
If you don't see it, try checking your Spam folder.
Enter Authentication Code
Sign in
Not so fast!
You need to complete your basic info on the mobile app before you can use the desktop site.


text:
BashBash is the shell, or command language interpreter, that will appear in the GNU operating system. Bash is an sh-compatible shell that incorporates useful features from the Korn shell (ksh) and C shell (csh). It is intended to conform to the IEEE POSIX P1003.2/ISO 9945.2 Shell and Tools standard. It offers functional improvements over sh for both programming and interactive use. In addition, most sh scripts can be run by Bash without modification. * [Source: BASH GNU project]
Stay up to date on the latest developments in Internet terminology with a free weekly newsletter from Webopedia. Join to subscribe now.
Webopedia's student apps roundup will help you to better organize your class schedule and stay on top of assignments and homework. Read More »List of Free Shorten URL Services
A URL shortener is a way to make a long Web address shorter. Try this list of free services. Read More »Top 10 Tech Terms of 2015
The most popular Webopedia definitions of 2015. Read More »
Java is a high-level programming language. This guide describes the basics of Java, providing an overview of syntax, variables, data types and... Read More »Java Basics, Part 2
This second Study Guide describes the basics of Java, providing an overview of operators, modifiers and control Structures. Read More »The 7 Layers of the OSI Model
The Open System Interconnection (OSI) model defines a networking framework to implement protocols in seven layers. Use this handy guide to compare... Read More »


text:
Toast the Roast! Join the crème of the coffee industry for the presentation of the 2016 Australian International Coffee Awards, together with the launch of the 2016 Melbourne International Coffee Expo (MICE). The stars of the coffee industry will gather in North Melbourne's Meat Market to celebrate the newly crowned 2016 Champion Roasters; the coffee bean alchemists who turn the green bean into the perfect toasted roast. Starting with espresso martinis and delicious canapes, the evening hosted by Ross Quail of Sensory Lab is the coffee industry's calendar highlight and the perfect chance to kick off MICE in style. Don't miss your opportunity to be part of this industry event with tickets now available. Date: Wednesday 16 March Time: 7:00pm to 10:00pm Venue: Meat Market, 5 Blackwood Street, North Melbourne Cost: $88.00 (inc GST) per person (RASV members $74.80 (inc GST) per person)) Dress: Smart Casual Booking: Friday 4 March, 03 9281 7425, email@example.com Payment: Avaliable via the booking form
Australian International Coffee Awards Results
© The Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria Limited


text:
- Bluetooth Speakers
- Headphones
- Home Audio
- Car Speakers
- Highlights
Auto Manufacturers
- JBL audio systems transform your vehicle in a personal auditorium
- Toyota
Model# CINEMASB350/230
€ 269,00 € 449,00 each
Bluetooth technology provides high-quality music streaming from mobile audio devices. Whether the sound source is your mobile phone, tablet or laptop computer, this product can work with it.
HDMI™ connectivity helps you get the most from 3D sources, with the highest-quality digital video and audio and easy one-wire connections.
Now you don't have to venture far from home to experience the legendary power, clarity and technical accuracy of the JBL sound.
Connects your compatible TV and JBL device with a single cable.
Makes sudden volume changes smooth and consistent. Say goodbye to loud commercials and low dialogue volume.
Designed to perfectly match any TV.
The Cinema SB350 projects stunning, virtual surround sound from a sleek and simple package. It connects wirelessly to its compact, powerful subwoofer, and connects with a single cable to a TV. It also can play music wirelessly from Bluetooth smartphones or tablets. It also remembers up to 10 different Bluetooth devices for instant reconnection. It can learn any TV remote volume control, giving you simplified control over your Home Cinema experience. A wall or table EQ button calibrates the SB350 for any type of installation and independent volume control of the subwoofer lets you customize bass response to your personal taste.
Sleek and compact, the soundbar and wireless subwoofer complement the look of today's razor-thin flat screens, while projecting a deep, rich, enveloping sound that's unmatchable with a TV's built-in speakers.
Adjust the 160watt built-in amplifier from a tremor to an earthquake directly from the remote control. Place it optimally in any room without wires or clutter.
For true plug-and-play home theater, HDMI ARC technology connects your compatible TV and the JBL Cinema SB350 with a single cable. It is also equipped with optical and analog audio inputs.
Harman Volume makes sure that sudden volume changes—such as commercials—will be smooth and consistent. You won't have to constantly adjust your volume to enjoy what you are watching.
Harman Display Surround sound and Dolby Digital decoding fill your room with movie sound and music, not speakers and wires.
The JBL Cinema SB350 remembers up to 10 Bluetooth devices and can instantly reconnect for music streaming.
The JBL Cinema SB350 learns the volume TV remote's functions, offering one-handed control over your cinema experience.
|System Features/Specifications
|Weight (Metric, English)
|3.3 kg
|Center Speaker Features
|Dimensions (H x W x D – Metric, English)
|242 mm x 242 mm x 320 mm
|Weight (Metric, English)
|4.8 kg
|Subwoofer Features
|Dimensions (H x W x D – Metric, English)
|242 mm x 242 mm x 320 mm
|Weight (Metric, English)
|4.8 kg


text:
Human smugglers made a record profit last year of between $3bn and $6bn (£2bn-£4bn) by exploiting the misery of refugees – which means governments must up their game or risk further growth of this ruthless industry, the head of Europol has told The Independent on Sunday.
The business of human smuggling is now in the "Champions League" of criminal enterprises in Europe, Rob Wainwright said, close to rivalling the trade in illicit drugs. New research by the EU's law enforcement body based on debriefings with 1,500 asylum-seekers, refugees and economic migrants showed that 90 per cent had paid a criminal gang to reach Europe.
With the UNHCR estimating that more than a million people have fled war, poverty and persecution in the past year risking their lives on the clandestine journey to Europe, that "means a lot of people making a lot of money", Mr Wainwright said.
"We also know that, on average, each migrant is paying between $3,000 and $6,000 to a criminal facilitator for their journey. So you do the simple math, and you're up to a turnover in 2015 of between $3bn- $6bn. They are big figures. It's running into billions of dollars made by criminal networks in one year alone in Europe."
"Last year has been seismic in the development of the people-smuggling trade in Europe in particular, and we are now talking about its being a multibillion-dollar industry in the way it hasn't before, and the Champion's League of criminal sectors in Europe alongside drugs."
The criminal networks stretch from sub-Saharan Africa to Scandinavia, with tens of thousands of people involved in the trade. Mr Wainwright said that Europol identified 10,700 suspects last year alone, hinting at the scale of the illicit enterprise. The facilitators range from petty criminals, making fake passports, to taxi drivers taking migrants across countries and over borders, to established organised crime syndicates.
A person fleeing their home will pay different smuggling gangs at different points throughout their journey. A Syrian may have to pay to leave their country without detection by the security forces, then buy fake documents in Turkey, before purchasing their perilous passage on a rubber dingy or boat launched into the waves, towards Greece.
If they arrive safely on Europe's shores, another smuggler is engaged to taken them over the buffer of Balkan states to reach the passport-free Schengen zone and the chance of a safe life in richer nations such as Germany, Austria or Sweden. With Hungary and a number of other countries in Europe shutting down their borders and building fences, the migrants are forced to part with ever-increasing amounts of money to reach safety.
Abuses are reported all along the migration routes: smugglers disappear with a family's life savings, scuttle boats on purpose to stop anyone returning to shore, or sell the most desperate people to kidnapping and extortion gangs.
Refugee crisis - in pictures
Refugee crisis - in pictures
A child looks through the fence at the Moria detention camp for migrants and refugees at the island of Lesbos on May 24, 2016.
AFP/Getty Images
Ahmad Zarour, 32, from Syria, reacts after his rescue by MOAS (Migrant Offshore Aid Station) while attempting to reach the Greek island of Agathonisi, Dodecanese, southeastern Agean Sea
Syrian migrants holding life vests gather onto a pebble beach in the Yesil liman district of Canakkale, northwestern Turkey, after being stopped by Turkish police in their attempt to reach the Greek island of Lesbos on 29 January 2016.
Getty Images
Refugees flash the 'V for victory' sign during a demonstration as they block the Greek-Macedonian border
Migrants have been braving sub zero temperatures as they cross the border from Macedonia into Serbia.
A sinking boat is seen behind a Turkish gendarme off the coast of Canakkale's Bademli district on January 30, 2016. At least 33 migrants drowned on January 30 when their boat sank in the Aegean Sea while trying to cross from Turkey to Greece.
Getty Images
A general view of a shelter for migrants inside a hangar of the former Tempelhof airport in Berlin, Germany
Refugees protest behind a fence against restrictions limiting passage at the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Since last week, Macedonia has restricted passage to northern Europe to only Syrians, Iraqis and Afghans who are considered war refugees. All other nationalities are deemed economic migrants and told to turn back. Macedonia has finished building a fence on its frontier with Greece becoming the latest country in Europe to build a border barrier aimed at checking the flow of refugees
A father and his child wait after being caught by Turkish gendarme on 27 January 2016 at Canakkale's Kucukkuyu district
Migrants make hand signals as they arrive into the southern Spanish port of Malaga on 27 January, 2016 after an inflatable boat carrying 55 Africans, seven of them women and six chidren, was rescued by the Spanish coast guard off the Spanish coast.
A refugee holds two children as dozens arrive on an overcrowded boat on the Greek island of Lesbos
A child, covered by emergency blankets, reacts as she arrives, with other refugees and migrants, on the Greek island of Lesbos, At least five migrants including three children, died after four boats sank between Turkey and Greece, as rescue workers searched the sea for dozens more, the Greek coastguard said
Migrants wait under outside the Moria registration camp on the Lesbos. Over 400,000 people have landed on Greek islands from neighbouring Turkey since the beginning of the year
The bodies of Christian refugees are buried separately from Muslim refugees at the Agios Panteleimonas cemetery in Mytilene, Lesbos
Macedonian police officers control a crowd of refugees as they prepare to enter a camp after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija
Getty Images
A refugee tries to force the entry to a camp as Macedonian police officers control a crowd after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija
Getty Images
Refugees are seen aboard a Turkish fishing boat as they arrive on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing a part of the Aegean Sea from the Turkish coast to Lesbos
An elderly woman sings a lullaby to baby on a beach after arriving with other refugees on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey
Getty Images
A man collapses as refugees make land from an overloaded rubber dinghy after crossing the Aegean see from Turkey, at the island of Lesbos
A girl reacts as refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey
Getty Images
Refugees make a show of hands as they queue after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija
Getty Images
People help a wheelchair user board a train with others, heading towards Serbia, at the transit camp for refugees near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija
Refugees board a train, after crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Macedonia is a key transit country in the Balkans migration route into the EU, with thousands of asylum seekers - many of them from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia - entering the country every day
Getty Images
An aerial picture shows the "New Jungle" refugee camp where some 3,500 people live while they attempt to enter Britain, near the port of Calais, northern France
Getty Images
A Syrian girl reacts as she helped by a volunteer upon her arrival from Turkey on the Greek island of Lesbos, after having crossed the Aegean Sea
Refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey
Getty Images
Beds ready for use for migrants and refugees are prepared at a processing center on January 27, 2016 in Passau, Germany. The flow of migrants arriving in Passau has dropped to between 500 and 1,000 per day, down significantly from last November, when in the same region up to 6,000 migrants were arriving daily.
With many of the people-smuggling networks now getting involved in other criminal enterprises such as narcotics trafficking, security services and governments need to redouble their efforts to shut them down, Mr Wainwright said.
"Criminals that were active in the drugs business or predominantly active in the people-smuggling business are now turning their hand to a bit of both and are finding that their contacts and networks and routes and methods of concealment can work in both fields."
The first challenge for governments and policing agencies was dealing with the scale of the new arrivals. If a million more people want to come to Europe this year, there is "a natural demand for these criminal services, which will therefore sustain a long-term growth model for this particular criminal sector", Mr Wainwright said.
"We're going to have to up our game in terms of dismantling this criminal infrastructure in a more successful way then we have done in the past," he added.
Countries in the EU needed to work on a coordinated response to the crisis, both at the entry point to the Union and in intelligence-sharing to target the criminal kingpins. Better planning of international arrest operations would help, he said, while police forces across the bloc needed to prioritise complaints related to smuggling.
And intelligence-sharing and cooperation between nations was all the more important, given indications that terror groups may be now exploiting the chaotic response to the refugee crisis.
Two members of the gang of Isis-affiliated attackers who killed 130 people in Paris on 13 November had apparently entered Europe using the Balkan migration route, and Mr Wainwright said it was crucial to make sure Greece was supplied with the technology, manpower and resources to carry out effective security screening of all new arrivals.
"When you put the external border of the EU under such strain that it has to cope with a million new arrivals at just a few of the external border points, then you can see how difficult it is to run a systematic and reliable screening process," he said. "This is the single most important thing to get right: to make sure that we can help the Greek authorities, who have been swamped."
Germany proposes fuel levy to fund European aid for refugees
Germany's finance minister, Wolfgang Schäuble (above), has floated the idea of a European tax on petrol to help finance the Continent's efforts to manage the crisis. The EU has struggled to find common ground. Germany and Sweden have allowed large numbers of refugees in but others are reluctant to share the burden.
"If the funds in national budgets and the European budget aren't enough, let's agree, for example, to raise a levy on every litre of gasoline," Mr Schäuble told the daily newspaper Sueddeutsche Zeitung. "Why not agree this at the European level if the task is so urgent?"
Meanwhile, the UN's refugee agency, the UNHCR, is to seek more resources for Turkey, the world's largest host of refugees, and has called for a "massive resettlement" of Syrian and other refugees within Europe.
"We will do whatever we can to help the Turkish government find additional resources for people living here under temporary protection to make their lives as good as we can," said Filippo Grandi, who took the helm at the UNHCR this month and met refugees at camps near the Syrian border.
- More about:
- Human Trafficking
- Europe
- Britain


text:
Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Asia - Istanbul
A restaurant and free self parking are featured at this hotel along with a hair salon. Comfort Zone Spa Fitness is the place to be for rest and relaxation, offering body scrubs and thalassotherapy, as well as body wraps, aromatherapy and a Turkish bath/hammam. Take a splash in the indoor pool and outdoor pool as well as enjoy the sun loungers. There is also a poolside bar and a bar/lounge so guests can sip a refreshing drink by the pool or indoors. In addition to the on-site spa, a fitness center, a spa tub and a sauna are among the leisure facilities on offer.
Child-friendly amenities at this hotel include a children's pool and babysitting. Multilingual staff can provide tour/ticket assistance, express check-in and express check-out. Free WiFi and high-speed (wired) Internet access is provided.
Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Asia - Istanbul
Hotel Info: 1-877-214-4288from $52
- Business Room
- Standard Guest Room
- Standard guest room
- Suite
- Junior Suite
- Junior Suite
- Business Class Room
- Standard Room
- Junior Suite
- Standard Room
- Standard guest room single
- Business Room
Also popular with travelers from the USA
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 195 rooms
- This hotel is arranged over 16 floors
- Check-in time starts at 2 PM
- Check-out time is noon
- Express check-in/out
Required at check in
- Credit card or cash deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
Travelling with others
- Children (12 years old and younger) stay free when occupying the parent or guardian's room, using existing bedding
- Babysitting/childcare *
- Pets allowed *
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in public areas
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in rooms
- Airport shuttle *
- Free self parking
- Valet parking *
- Free nearby parking
- RV/bus/truck parking
In the hotel
- Buffet breakfast daily (surcharge)
- Restaurant
- Bar/lounge
- Poolside bar
- 24-hour room service
- Coffee/tea in a common area
- Indoor pool
- Outdoor pool
- Fitness facilities
- Full-service spa
- Spa tub
- Children's pool
- Steam room
- Pool sun loungers
- Sauna
- Pool umbrellas
- Business center
- Number of meeting rooms - 13
- Conference space
- Meeting rooms 13
- Conference space size (feet) - 4424
- Conference space size (meters) - 411
- Computer station
- Concierge services
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Limo or Town Car service available
- Dry cleaning/laundry service
- Laundry facilities
- Hair salon
- Free newspapers in lobby
- Luggage storage
- Wedding services
- Multilingual staff
- Porter/bellhop
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Year Built 2012
- Elevator/lift
- Safe-deposit box at front desk
- Designated smoking areas (fines apply)
- Garden
- Terrace
- Library
- Television in common areas
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
- Roll-in shower
In the room
- In-room climate control (air conditioning)
- Air conditioning
- Minibar
- Iron/ironing board
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Fireplace
- Individually decorated
- Individually furnished
- Private bathroom
- Rainfall showerhead
- Shower only
- Free toiletries
- Hair dryer
- 37-inch flat-screen TV
- Pay movies
- Premium TV channels
- DVD player
- Desk
- Free WiFi
- Daily housekeeping
- In-room safe
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
Special features
Comfort Zone Spa Fitness has 8 treatment rooms including rooms for couples. Services include massages, body wraps, and body scrubs. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy and thalassotherapy. The spa is equipped with a sauna and Turkish bath/hammam.
Children under 10 years old are not allowed in the spa without adult supervision. Guests under 16 years old are not allowed in the spa.
DiningCore Grill and Bar - Overlooking the garden, this restaurant specializes in Turkish cuisine. Guests can enjoy alfresco dining (weather permitting). A children's menu is available.
Awards and affiliations
Green / Sustainable Property
This property participates in Green Key (nogle), a program that measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural-heritage, the local economy.
Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Asia - Istanbul's small print
Also known as
- Asia Istanbul
- Istanbul Asia
- Radisson Blu Asia
- Radisson Blu Hotel Asia
- Radisson Blu Hotel Asia Istanbul
- Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul
- Radisson Blu Hotel Istanbul Asia
- Radisson Blu Istanbul Asia
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
Children under 10 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, health club, fitness facility, or spa tub without adult supervision.
Guests under 16 years old are not allowed in the swimming pool, health club, fitness facility, or spa tub.
Children under 10 years old are not allowed in the spa without adult supervision.
Guests under 16 years old are not allowed in the spa.
Parking height restrictions apply.
Reservations are required for massage services and spa treatments and can be made by contacting the property before arrival at the number on the booking confirmation.
Optional extras
Valet parking costs TRY 20 per day
Rollaway beds are available for an additional charge
Breakfast costs between TRY 40 and TRY 80 per person (approximately)
Babysitting/childcare is available for an extra charge
Pets are allowed for an extra charge of TRY 85 per accommodation, per stay
Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge of TRY 250 per vehicle (roundtrip)
We have included all charges provided to us by this hotel. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the room you book.
Recent reviews
Excellent 4.5 /5 from 94 reviews
We stayed 4 nights. The hotel was just ok. The location wasn't great for a family as there was nowhere to walk to with the kids for an outing. The staff were not overly friendly, the breakfast was mediocre. Overpriced for what it was in my opinion. We ordered room service around 10:30pm as we arrived late from our flight. It didn't arrive until 12:30pm. 2 hours to wait for room service and no apology.


text:
Trinity Mugshot Round-Up Part Two: More of the Best in Texas
The shutterbug jailhouse artistes up in the Lake Livingston-area town of Trinity have just unveiled their spring collection, and it's a feast for the eyes.
As we've pointed out before, no jurisdiction in Texas can match Trinity's quality in the fine art of the booking photo. The lighting, the angle, even the camera they use are all très magnifique, as are their subjects, many of whom look like they come from Central Casting, rural Southern ne'er-do-well section. In fact, rumor has it that our very first post of this type has resulted in an upcoming CMT reality show called Trinity 911...
And so, with no further ado, we'll show you ten more works by these Dorothea Langes of mugshot photography....
Benjamin Rideout, 41, felony aggravated assault. Trinity cops say a buddy owed Rideout $10, and Rideout used a Louisville Slugger to encourage him to pay.
Darrell Nichols, 47, driving while license invalid.
Gary Sartain, 55, possession of crack. He could keep himself in all the rocks he could ever dream of if only he could give hipsters moustache-growing lessons.
Jeffrey Davilla, 32, public intoxication. That's right, 32 years old.
Jeremy Goolsby, 36, DWI, resisting arrest. Prince once intoned that "the beautiful ones always smash the picture. Always, every time." We say "the neck-tats always resist arrest. Always, every time."
Johnnie Brame, 52, disorderly conduct and public intoxication. (On different nights weeks apart.)
Michael Bourque, 47, public intoxication
Timothy Wallace, 50, crack.
And we've saved two of the best for last...
Roy Draper, 34, no license or insurance. Draper's barber should have been arrested instead.
Sabrina Brust, 29, old theft by check warrant. On the Trinity PD Facebook page, Brust chuckled about how up close and personal the photographers get.
Follow Hair Balls News on Facebook and on Twitter @HairBallsNews.
Get the This Week's Top Stories Newsletter
Every week we collect the latest news, music and arts stories — along with film and food reviews and the best things to do this week — so that you'll never miss Houston Press' biggest stories.
In Case You Missed It
Upcoming Events
Rice University Owls Football vs. Prairie View A&M University Football
TicketsSat., Oct. 22, 2:30pm
University of Houston Cougars Football vs. UCF Knights Football
TicketsSat., Oct. 29, 11:00am
Rice University Owls Football vs. Florida Atlantic University Owls Football
TicketsSat., Nov. 5, 2:30pm
University of Houston Cougars Football vs. Tulane University Football
TicketsSat., Nov. 12, 11:00am
Popular Stories
Sponsor Content


text:
Silent Night, Deadly Night
- Not to be confused with the 1972 horror film Silent Night, Bloody Night.
|This article needs additional citations for verification. (September 2015) (Learn how and when to remove this template message)
|Silent Night, Deadly Night
Theatrical release poster
|Directed by
|Charles E. Sellier Jr.
|Produced by
|Ira Richard Barmak
Scott J. Schneid
Dennis Whitehead
|Screenplay by
|Michael Hickey
|Story by
|Paul Caimi
|Music by
|Perry Botkin
|Henning Schellerup
|Edited by
|Michael Spence
|Distributed by
|TriStar Pictures
Release dates
Running time
|79 minutes
85 minutes (Unrated cut)
|United States
|$1,065,000 (estimated)[1]
|Box office
Silent Night, Deadly Night is a 1984 American slasher horror film directed by Charles E. Sellier, Jr., produced by Ira R Barmak, written by Michael Hickey, and starring Robert Brian Wilson, Lilyan Chauvin, Gilmer McCormick, Toni Nero, Linnea Quigley, Britt Leach and Leo Geter. Set during Christmas, the story concerns a young man, who after witnessing his parents murdered and raised tumultuously in an abusive Catholic orphanage as a young boy begins to suffer traumatic experiences years later and emerges into a spree killer (donning a Santa suit) himself.
Released by TriStar Pictures on November 9, 1984, the film gained controversy upon release towards the advertising's deception. In response, the film received negative reviews and was pulled out of theatres a week after its release. While successful during its opening week, the film was a moderate success with $2.5 million made overall. Since its release, the film has developed a cult following and was followed by four sequels (with the fourth and fifth installment having no connection to the film) and a loose remake released about 28 years later. This was the only film in the series to be distributed by Tristar Pictures
In 1971, 5-year-old Billy Chapman and his family went to a nursing home to visit his catatonic grandfather. When the family steps out of the room and leaves Billy alone with his grandfather, the old man suddenly springs to life and warns him that Santa Claus punishes the naughty. That night Billy's family happens to come across a man dressed in a Santa Claus outfit seemingly having car trouble. The man is actually a criminal who just used the disguise to commit a robbery in a liquor store, in which he killed the clerk.
He then kills Billy's father with a handgun and slits his mother's throat with a switchblade in front of him and his crying infant brother Ricky. Billy then runs off to hide, leaving his baby brother in the car. However, the murderous Santa leaves the children out there to die. Three years later, it is 1974, Billy and Ricky are celebrating Christmas in an orphanage run by Mother Superior, a strict disciplinarian who persistently strikes children who misbehave and considers punishment for their wicked actions a good thing. Sister Margaret seems to be the only one who sympathizes with the children. She tries to help Billy open up and play with the other children, but Billy is constantly subject to Mother Superior's scrutinizing eyes and regularly punished. On Christmas morning, the orphanage has a man in a Santa Claus suit who visits the children. Because of Billy's childhood experience, he's terrified. Mother Superior drags Billy kicking and screaming to Santa, where he punches him in the face, causing his nose to bleed and flees to his room amid looks of horror. Ricky does whatever he can to protect Billy from getting punished.
Ten years later, 18-year-old Billy leaves the orphanage in hopes of finding a normal life. He obtains a job as a stock boy at a local toy store and develops a crush on his coworker Pamela. Billy's sexual thoughts regarding Pamela are often interrupted by morbid visions of his parents' murder. However, he steadily grows unstable.
On Christmas Eve, despite his protestations, Billy is coerced by his jeering coworkers into dressing up as Santa Claus for the store. Shortly after the store closes and the store staff party begins, Billy happens upon Pamela almost being raped by another coworker, Andy. Billy snaps, finally insane, and he hangs Andy with a string of Christmas lights and kills Pamela with a utility knife, uttering darkly that punishment is good. Billy's boss, Mr. Sims happens upon the scene where Billy kills him with a hammer. Mrs. Randall discovers Billy's grisly work and attempts to flee, but is attacked with an axe then killed with an arrow in her torso.
As his rampage continues, Sister Margaret comes in only to discover the carnage and returns to the orphanage to seek help via telephone. Billy breaks into a nearby house to attack the young couple inside: Denise and Tommy, who were seemingly having sex. After he hacks the door down with a double-bit axe, he impales Denise on a set of deer antlers before he throws Tommy through a window to his death. Denise's little sister Cindy interrupts Billy. Rather than attack her, Billy simply inquiries whether she's been naughty or nice. He smiles warmly and "gifts" her a bloody knife he used earlier. Billy exits and witnesses bullies picking on two sledding teenage boys. Suddenly he appears and decapitates one of the bullies, causing the other one to flee in horror. Meanwhile, the authorities are investigating the ongoing murders with the aid of Sister Margaret, who has deduced that Billy is the killer and postulates that he is making his way back to the orphanage, in a mission to kill Mother Superior.
The next morning, a man dressed in a Santa Claus outfit approaches the orphanage. Officer Barnes warns the man to stop but he does not and Barnes shoots him. To his horror, Barnes discovers that the man was in fact Father O'Brien, a deaf pastor on his way to the orphanage when a call came through from a police radio scanner. Billy appears and kills the distraught Barnes with the double-bit axe as punishment and hacks off the head of the snowman with the now bloody axe. Billy arrives at the orphanage with a reunion with good old Mother Superior. And through the use of his Santa costume gains entry and access to Mother Superior, now in a wheelchair, who disbelieves in Santa Claus, taunting Billy in gruesome horror. Billy raises the axe, yells "Die" and prepares to kill her but is interrupted by Captain Richards', who shoots him. Billy is struck in the back and collapses. He looks at the nearby children and utters "You're safe now, Santa Claus is gone" then dies in cold blood. As the children gather around, an attending Ricky coldly stares at Mother Superior before he eerily utters "naughty", thus foreshadowing the events of the second film.
- Robert Brian Wilson as Billy Chapman (age 18)
- Danny Wagner as 8-year-old Billy
- Jonathan Best as 5-year-old Billy
- Alex Burton as Ricky Chapman at 14
- Max Broadhead as 4-year-old Ricky
- Melissa Best as Infant Ricky
- Lilyan Chauvin as Mother Superior
- Gilmer McCormick as Sister Margaret
- Toni Nero as Pamela
- Britt Leach as Mr. Sims
- Nancy Borgenicht as Mrs. Randall
- H.E.D. Redford as Captain Richards
- Linnea Quigley as Denise
- Leo Geter as Tommy
- Randy Stumpf as Andy
- Will Hare as Grandpa Chapman
- Tara Buckman as Ellie Chapman
- Geoff Hansen (Credited as Jeff Hansen) as Jim Chapman
- Charles Dierkop as "Killer Santa" (criminal in a Santa Claus outfit)
- Eric Hart as Mr. Levitt
- A. Madeline Smith as Sister Ellen
- Amy Stuyvesant as Cindy
- Max Robinson as Officer Barnes
- Vinc Massa as Doug
- John Michael Alvarez as Jim
- John Bishop as Bob
- Richard C. Terry as Mac
- Oscar Rowland as Dr. Conway
- Richard D. Clark as Officer Miller
- Tip Boxell as Officer Murphy
- Angela Montoya as Little Girl on Santa's Lap
- Molly Cameron as Little Girls Mother
- Jayne Luke as Other Mother In Store
- Joan Foster as Other Mother In Store
- Betsy Nagel as Other Mother In Store
- Barbara Stafford as Teen Lover In Orphanage
- Paul Mulder as Teen Lover In Orphanage
- Spencer Ashby as Santa In Orphanage
- J. Paul Boardhead as Santa In Store
- Don Shanks as Santa Climbing In Window (uncredited)
- Dan Rogers as Dispatcher
- Spencer Alston as Child At Orphanage
- Kirsti Ballard as Child At Orphanage
- Jacob Peterson as Child At Orphanage
- Jonathan Wilde as Child At Orphanage
- Susie Stuyvesant as Child At Orphanage
- Aron Kinacid as Obnoxious Deejay (uncredited)
- Judith Roberts as Mother Superior (uncredited)
- Jean-Paul Rodrigues as Child At Orphanage
- Micheline Rodrigues as Child At Orphanage
- Monique Rodrigues as Child At Orphanage
|This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (November 2015)
Initially throughout production, the film was titled as Slayride, before TriStar decided to change the title to Silent Night, Deadly Night at the last minute
The films editor Micheal Spence came in as the co-director for the film. This was because director Charles E. Sellier Jr. was uncomfortable with shooting the death scenes.
The film was released theatrically in the United States by TriStar Pictures on November 9, 1984.[3] On its opening weekend, the film outgrossed Wes Craven's landmark slasher A Nightmare on Elm Street, which opened the same day. Before being pulled from theaters, it grossed $2,491,460 at the box office, still making the film a success against its $750,000 budget.[4]
In November 2013, it was announced that Fangoria in association with Brainstorm Media and Screenvision would be re-releasing the film to theaters in the United States throughout December 2013.[5]
Home media[edit]
The film was released three times on DVD in the United States by Anchor Bay Entertainment. The first release was a double feature disc alongside sequel Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2 in 2003.[6] The second release was in 2007.[7] The first two region 1 releases are currently out of print.
The film was released on DVD in the United Kingdom in 2009 by Arrow Video; this set includes an audio interview with director Charles E. Sellier Jr., poster, booklet including "Deadly Director: Charles Sellier Interviewed by Calum Waddell" and "Silent Night, Sex Night: The Slice and Times of Linnea Quigley".[8]
The film was re-released on December 12, 2009 in the Brattle Theatre as a double feature with Black Christmas.[9]
On December 4, 2012, the film was again released alongside Part 2 as a two-disc "Christmas Survival Double Feature", containing the same archival bonus features as the 2003 release.[10]
On September 16, 2014, the film was released on Blu-ray by Anchor Bay/Starz Entertainment as a 30th Anniversary Edition. No new special features were included, with the exception of a few new commentaries, none of which any of the actors participated in. The Blu-ray contains exactly the same release as previous DVD editions with the extended scenes edited back into the film with noticeable picture quality changes. There has yet to be a release of the full, uncut print from a single source.[citation needed]
Controversy and reception[edit]
|This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (September 2015)
Silent Night, Deadly Night was one of the most controversial films of the 1980s because the ad campaign, particularly posters and TV spots, made significant emphasis on the killer being dressed as Santa Claus. The PTA fought to have this film removed from theaters due to its subject matter and the fact that it was shown around Christmas, although an earlier film with a similar premise had gone unnoticed.
Upon its original release in 1984, the film received a negative reception. Siskel and Ebert condemned the film and Siskel went as far as to read names of the film's production crew on air, telling them, "shame on you". Siskel also said that all the money the filmmakers were making off of this film was blood money.[11] Leonard Maltin also denounced the film, calling it a "...worthless splatter film", giving it zero stars and asking: "What's next, the Easter Bunny as a child molester?" Large crowds (mostly angry families) formed at theaters and malls around the nation to protest the film.[citation needed] TriStar Pictures, its original distributor, pulled all ads for the film six days after its release (November 15). The film itself was also withdrawn shortly thereafter, due to the controversy.[12]
The film was later re-released by an independent distributor,[citation needed] Aquarius Films, in May 1985, with an ad campaign replacing the original "Twas the night before Christmas"-theme with a new one that centered on the controversy surrounding the film and edited out all close-up shots of Billy, in the Santa suit, with weapons. The print ad material also replaced the original 'Chimney' picture with one that talked about the controversy.
In the United Kingdom, the movie was never submitted for certification to the BBFC, and its sequel was denied a video certificate in 1987 after the distributors refused to make the cuts required for an '18' certificate. However, in 2009, Arrow Films submitted the film to the BBFC for classification, who passed the film uncut with an 18 certificate.[13] The UK DVD was released on November 23, 2009.
Related Works[edit]
The film had spawned four sequels.
- Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2 (1987)
- Silent Night, Deadly Night 3: Better Watch Out! (1989)
- Silent Night, Deadly Night 4: Initiation (1990)
- Silent Night, Deadly Night 5: The Toy Maker (1991)
A loose remake of the film titled Silent Night was released on December 4, 2012. The film was directed by Steven C. Miller and stars Malcolm McDowell, Jaime King, Donal Logue, Lisa Marie, Ellen Wong, Brendan Fehr, Courtney-Jane White, Mike O'Brien, Cortney Palm, John B. Lowe, Curtis Moore and stuntman Rick Skene as Ronald Jones Jr., The Killer Santa.[14]
- ^ Internet Movie Database Business/Box office for
- ^ Internet MovIe Database Business/Box office for
- ^ "The Six Slays of Christmas - Day Five". Dread Central. Retrieved 2011-12-23.
- ^ "Silent Night, Deadly Night". boxofficemojo.com. Retrieved 2011-04-13.
- ^ "Special Announcement: FANGORIA Brings Holiday Horror Classic "SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT" Back to the Big Screen this December!". fangoria.com. Retrieved 2013-12-09.
- ^ "Silent Night, Deadly Night / Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2 (DVD)". dvdempire.com. Retrieved 2011-04-13.
- ^ "Silent Night, Deadly Night (DVD)". dvdempire.com. Retrieved 2011-04-13.
- ^ In the UK? Win a Copy of Silent Night, Deadly Night on DVD!
- ^ Boston Residents: Catch a Double Feature of Silent Night, Deadly Night and Black Christmas This Friday!
- ^ "Silent Night, Deadly Night: Parts 1 & 2". 4 December 2012. Retrieved 27 July 2016 – via Amazon.
- ^ gradepoint (2 February 2009). "At the Movies, 1984-Silent Night, Deadly Night". Retrieved 27 July 2016 – via YouTube.
- ^ Unknown (2006). Going to Pieces: The Rise and Fall of the Slasher Film (DVD (Region 1)). United States: THINKfilm.
- ^ BBFC Website - Silent Night, Deadly Night Classification
- ^ "Malcolm McDowell Talks Silent Night, Deadly Night Remake". dreadcentral.com. Retrieved 2012-04-18.
- Psychotronic Video Guide (1996) - Michael J. Weldon
External links[edit]
- 1984 films
- English-language films
- 1984 horror films
- 1980s thriller films
- American independent films
- American horror films
- American films
- American thriller films
- American Christmas films
- American slasher films
- Films set in 1971
- Films set in 1974
- Films set in 1984
- Films shot in Utah
- Santa Claus in film
- TriStar Pictures films
- Films about orphans
- Obscenity controversies in film


text:
Welcome to PoleKat Fitness!
Pole fitness is all about having fun with the added bonus of getting a workout! It is a mixture of gymnastics and dance on a vertical pole and uses strength, agility and cardiovascular fitness. It is the fastest and most fun way to tone up, especially targeting 'difficult' areas such as the thighs, arms, abs and bum. It is also a fantastic way to increase your confidence in a friendly and fun environment.
Class activities include spins, holds, strength training, floorwork, headstands/handstands, inverts, tricks, and doubles acrobatics (acro-pole). I teach men and women of all ages and all abilities, from complete beginner to advanced. Everyone is welcome!
Please browse the site and feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
[This website is now smartphone and tablet accessible, meaning it should appear the same on your mobile device as it does on your computer screen. If you are having trouble viewing this website on your phone or tablet device, make sure you have chosen "standard view" rather than 'mobile app']
PoleKat Fitness' NEW STUDIO - PKF Aerial Arts Academy - opened March 2016. Make sure you come and visit us soon!


text:
Dr. David Leonard is an ENT doctor, or otolaryngologist, in Chesapeake, VA. He treats conditions that affect the structures of the head and neck.
We invite you to write a review about your experience with Dr. Leonard.
Find potential causes and treatment options with the MD.com Symptom Checker.
See our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.