The Beacon www.beaconhillbenefice.org.uk December 2016

Llangunllo Heyope Bleddfa

Christmas Cathedral

Price: £7 for the year or 70p per copy - 1 - The fungi have been wonderful this year, all colours and sizes.

- 2 - Priest for Bleddfa/Llangunllo Priest for Heyope/Beguildy Revd Canon Mark Beaton Revd Melia Cope The Rectory, School Lane, The Vicarage, Church Street, Knighton Tel. 01544 350 342 Tel. 01547 528 566 [email protected] [email protected] Monday is MarkÊs day off. Monday is MeliaÊs day off. Ministry Area Curate St David’s, Heyope Revd Linda Watson Churchwardens Craig-y-Lea, Road, Knighton Robert Forbath 01547 528 232 Tel. 01547 520 358 Judy North 01547 529 165 [email protected] Sidesmen: Robert Forbath Tuesday is LindaÊs day off. St Mary Magdalene’s, Bleddfa St Michael’s, Beguildy Churchwarden Churchwardens David Gavin 01547 510 637 Fay Payne 01547 510 320 Benefice Wardens Phil Fourie 01547 510 347 Bob Williams 01547 550 142 Sidesman: Phil Swancott [email protected] Flowers & Cleaning: 5-18 Dec Carol & Robert Forbath 01547 528 232 Jean. 19-31 Dec Lyndsey & Caroline. [email protected] 2-15 Jan Sarah & Marje. Benefice Minutes Secretary St Cynllo’s, Llangunllo Jenny Williams 01547 550 142 Churchwardens Benefice Correspondence Sec. Isabel Morris 01547 550 689 Isabel Morris 01547 550 689 Benefice Treasurer Health and Safety Officer Hilary Howcroft 01547 520 080 Bob Williams 01547 550 142 Reader Emeritus Laura Woodside-Jones 01547 520 266

Cover: The Holy Family shows an elderly Joseph, innocent Mary, and Jesus spreading his arms in blessing. In the foreground is John the Baptist, JesusÊs cousin, dressed in camel skins as he lived his adult life in the wilderness. He carries a tall cross to foreshadow the cross of Jesus. Each figure is adorned with a halo to symbolise holiness. Western artists paint Mary in blue with a lily for purity. A shining crown on the ground will be given later to her as the Queen of Heaven. The container is perhaps a gift from the Magi? The Christmas star shines over the angels who hold a sign In dulci jubilo ("In sweet rejoicing").

Unit 1, Craven Arms Business Park, Craven Arms, Shropshire SY7 8NR Tel: 01588 673972, [email protected]

- 3 - Contents Letter from Melia...... 5 Dynamism Re-lived at Bleddfa...... 6 Felindre Village Hall Contacts...... 6 2017 Beacon Subscriptions ...... 6 The Big Apple Day...... 9 The Sweet Smelling Teme Valley Gardeners' Club ...... 9 Letter from John and Linda...... 10 Felindre W.I. Elects its Cabinet...... 13 Welsh Names ...... 15 East Radnor Rambles...... 17 Remembering the Sound of One Hand Clapping ...... 18 ÂDo you want to know a secret⁄Ê ...... 18 Recipe: Chocolate and Salted Caramel Cupcakes...... 23 Staying Power...... 23 How much would keep you from attending church?...... 24 The Lampedusa Cross...... 24 December Notes for ...... 26 Open the Book – King David Stories...... 29 Why ever would you close our pool?...... 31 ChildrenÊs Page...... 33 Llangunllo W.I. Annual Meeting...... 35 Llanfair Waterdine WI News ...... 37 Punch, Pies and Pavlova to a Beatles Tune...... 40 Christmas Carol Services in the Benefice...... 42 Christian Aid...... 43 That coin in your Christmas pudding...... 43 A Cheeky ÂWay to PrayÊ...... 44 Holy Days in December / early January 2017...... 45 Diary for December 2016/ early January 2017...... 46 Church Services in December and Early January ...... 48

The Beacon is created in PagePlusX8. The text is Souvenir, titles in Verdana.

- 4 - Dear Friends News of LindaÊs impending move to the Builth Ministry Area came just as we were about to go to print last month. It was a shock for us all and inevitably we feel mixed: proud for her at the confidence that the Bishop has placed in her, wishing her well in her new challenge, but also bereft at the thought of losing her and John. We have watched Linda grow in ministry and been blessed through what she has offered. John has not only been treasurer of St EdwardÊs, but has also chaired the Finance Committee of Knighton Church in school. It will be hard to replace them and they will leave with our love and prayers. Their final service on 8th January will be attended by the Bishop who will inaugurate our Ministry Area that morning. Please try to attend. Meantime, I would be very grateful to hear from anyone who might be willing to be a treasurer, or a school Governor. Please contact me! Life faces us with one challenge after the next. When we feel perplexed, it is good to remember again that life is a gift – let us take courage and go forward. When they began their arduous journey to register for the census, Mary and Joseph didnÊt know how long they would be away from Nazareth. Temporary shelter and unknown midwives were all that was available for the birth of a young womanÊs first child. Yet Mary came through childbirth safely – unlike so many women in undeveloped countries today. However, the young family, threatened by the cruelty of a despotic ruler, then became refugees. Today, 65 million people in our world have been forced to leave their homes through war, persecution and famine. The number of child refugees has shot up in the last five years. Which countries take in most refugees? According to the UNHCR, Pakistan and Turkey, followed by Lebanon, Iran, Ethiopia and Jordan. In this country, the plight of children living in temporary, inadequate housing has been highlighted recently by the annual ÂChildren in NeedÊ appeal. The need for adequate shelter is one of the basic human needs and, without it, we see the growing incidence of children with mental health issues and long term problems. This Christmas, we would like to shut out these stories – they do not foster the Âfestive spiritÊ. But in the name of the One who came to share our human flesh, let us acknowledge that Christmas is not about excess and escapism; but about God who loved the world so much, that lives alongside the worldÊs struggles. I wish you all a fresh discovery of the Joy of Christmas. Best wishes, Melia Cope

- 5 - Dynamism Re-lived at Bleddfa he Bleddfa Founders Celebration Weekend opened with a reception in the TGallery so that guests had the opportunity to raise a glass and see how the gallery is evolving. The weather was kind and did not disturb the ceremonies planned for outside. For the first time James saw the bench specially carved with a dedication to his partner Hywel. A walnut sapling was planted to ultimately replace the decaying walnut tree recently removed from the churchyard; a symbol of continuity and regeneration. The acapella group 'Invoice' added a beautiful and unusual vocal element to the special evensong which was alight with candles. This was the last part of a thoroughly enjoyable weekend bringing together many old friends and memories, whilst also introducing many people to the man whose dynamism and vision originated the Bleddfa Centre. Sarah Pearson, Manager of The Bleddfa Centre Photos by Myfanwy FELINDRE VILLAGE HALL CONTACTS Chair: Carolyn Duthie 2017 Beacon T: 01547 510 633 Subscriptions E: [email protected] It is now the time of year Vice Chair: Jenny Barrett when thoughts turn to subs for the New Year T: 01547 510 380 and the good news is that E: [email protected] the 2017 subscription Treasurer: Brian Thomas remains at £7 for 11 T: 01547 510 373 copies. The subs will be E: [email protected] due a.s.a.p. with Secretary: Jayne Bright hopefully all received by the end of January. It T: 01547 510 380 / 07964 665 477 would help your E: [email protected] distributor greatly Social Secretary & Bookings: Jess Barrett if subscribers could have T: 01547 510 052 / 07805 002 497 ready the cash or cheque E: [email protected] made out to „The Beacon Email for hall bookings and enquiries Hill Benefice,‰ hopefully [email protected] by the end of January.

- 6 - James welcomes guests

James Roos-Evans

Invoice Singers: Paul, Margaret, David & Penny

James and Sarah Pearson planting commemorative tree

Evensong

- 7 - Adam working the apple press Pressing mash

Catching up Help pressing

Apple and spoon race Fascination

- 8 - The Big Apple Day pple Day at the Knucklas Orchard raised over a £1,000 for the Aproject. The beautiful King Arthur plate was raffled and brought in 250 shares for the project. Adam manned his apple press and guests brought their own apples for pressing into juice. Juice and cider were on sale to accompany a fine barbeque. The excellent cake stall, replete with all things „apple‰, included an apple cake competition. The afternoon included live folk music, a raffle and a tombola. The Applympics added fun and games for the children. Photos by Dave Smyth and Alan Wicks

The Sweet Smelling Teme Valley Gardeners' Club Our meeting on Nov 14th was to hear a talk by Susan Russell on „Perfume in the Garden‰. She talked about the various reasons plants have for producing smells, both to attract insects which might play a useful part in the life of that plant, and to repel insects and animals that might eat or otherwise harm them. Producing perfume uses up a lot of energy that the plant must first manufacture, so it is important that it is only given off when most needed. Obviously, they smell good to attract pollinating insects, but only when the flowers have reached the stage of needing to be pollinated. In bad weather when flying insects are taking shelter, then the plant saves its precious perfume until it is likely to be picked up by the appropriate pollinator. This should be considered when looking through the plants sales tables in the nurseries and taking a smell to help choose a good plant. In cold windy weather they are unlikely to smell their best. It is not just the flowers which may be scented. Some plants use their leaves to manufacture scent. This could be an unpleasant smell to deter. Leaves responsible for photosynthesis may produce a gaseous response to cool them as a form of protection against become dried out in the suns rays. Roots and stems are also employed to help the plant attract or ward off as required. Mrs Russell showed photographs of many different scent-producing plants which we might wish to grow and their responses to their environment. There were Nicotiana, Heliotrope, Bearded Irises, the Incense Rose, Mertensia , and Honeysuckle being some of them. The competition was for a collage of leaves. The winners were respectively; Jean Price, Rose Morris and Sue Woodall. Rosemary Naylor

- 9 - Dear Friends As was reported in churches, I shall be taking up a new position of Assistant Curate in the Ministry Area of Builth with pastoral oversight of the Colwyn Benefice in the New Year. The Colwyn Benefice consists of the parishes of St BridgetÊs, -in-Elwel; St DavidÊs, Cregrina; St DavidÊs, Glascwm; St DavidÊs, Rhulen; St MaryÊs, Bettws Disserth; St MaryÊs, Llanfaredd; and St MatthewÊs, . I would like to take this opportunity to say a big thank you to you all for making me feel so welcome in all that I have done. I have really enjoyed my time with you all as your Curate. John and I may be going to work in pastures new but we shall continue to live in Knighton. Which means that we will still see you around and about. Our farewell service will be at Whitton on the 8th January which will be a Ministry Area service. We look forward to seeing as many of you there as we can. With our love and best wishes Linda and John

Crazy cryptic questions (Answers on page 15) 1. Why can't a bicycle stand alone? 2. What is the definition of a will? 3. How does a backward poet write? 4. What do you get if a piano falls down a mine shaft? 5. What does a clock do when it is hungry? 6. What happened to the man who fell into an upholstery machine? 7. What happens when you get stuck with debt? 8. Why should you beware of a photographic memory? 9. What do you call a short fortune-teller who escaped from prison? 10. What will marathon runners with poor footwear suffer? 11. How would you define acupuncture?

- 10 - Point of Lay Pullets ó Beechwood Blue Five Turnings Farm, Knighton ó Commercial Brown Tel: 01547 520204 ó Rode Rock Mob: 07503 507727 ó Speckledy Email: [email protected] ó Sussex White

Christmas Holly Wreaths and Holly Posies

Judy Thornton Summerhill, Knucklas Telephone 01547 528609

Tip 13 Being Predictable

Dementia Friendly Knighton & District The person with dementia may be confused if things have been rearranged or by new people they meet. Try to keep things the same or offer additional assistance if things have changed. Try to arrange that the same person supports the person each time they visit but remember they might not remember you or what you talked about the last time you met.

Community Carols at St Edwards Church! Tuesday, Dec 13, 6pm

Come! Bring your family. Sing traditional carols. See the nativity story from the valiant Open the Book team!

- 11 - DOMESTIC APPLIANCE REPAIRS Tree-Line Ring PETE JONES is now registered with OFTEC 07971 252069 or 01588 638677 for all your oil fired servicing PROMPT / RELIABLE including: central heating boilers, SERVICE Rayburns, AGAs, Stanleys etc Find us at Knighton Sat Market for Fully insured Vacuum REPAIRS/Bags/Belts/Filters Contact Jenny Barrett Cooker Bulbs/Elements/ Seals at Tree-Line Dryer Belts/Filters/Switches on Washer Bearings/Hoses/Pumps 01547 510 380 COOKERS - WASHERS - DRYERS - VACUUMS 07939 811 508

Beguildy Shop & Curtain Call Post Office Bespoke Soft Furnishings A wide range of and Alterations groceries and goods. • Handsewn curtains, swags, tails We need local support to survive! • Roman and blinds • Bedspreads and quilts Weekly grocery orders delivered. • Pelmets, headboards, tracks, Bed and Breakfast poles – Installation offered and Self Catering • Cushions Accommodation Eileen Wilson 01588 660752 01547 510 631 [email protected]

FULL STEAM AHEAD Cleaning Company

Green, Safe and Eco Friendly Carpet, R ug and Upholstery Cleaning Stainguard Protection, Odour Removal, Fast Drying time, Member of National Carpet Cleaners

Tel: 01547 529304 Mob: 07889 277338

- 12 - St Michael's Church Beguildy Christmas Fayre Monday 12 th December 7.00 pm Felindre Village Hall Games, Stalls, Bar, Refreshments and Promise Auction

Felindre W.I. Elects its Cabinet Pat welcomed thirteen members and (two tellers from the Teme Valley W.I.) to our Annual General Meeting. We sang Jerusalem before the roll call which were thoughts for our future meetings. The most popular ideas were outside visits and craft making. Fay, our treasurer, reported on a successful year with healthy looking accounts. We thanked Ruth Davies, our auditor, and it was agreed to give her a cheque for thirty pounds, which she is donating to a charity of her choice. Pat congratulated Sue on her hard work in compiling the Scrapbook and congratulated Rebe and Joyce for coming first in the Curling. After voting, the election of officers were: President Rhona Barnett, Vice President Rebe Brick, Secretary Jayne Harris and Treasurer Fay Payne. Also voted onto the committee were Kath Harris, Kath Horn, Francis Morris and Sue Woodhall. Our monthly competition was an animal made from vegetables. Rebe came first, Sue second and Rhona third. Our next meeting will be on the 7th December. The subject of our talk is handbell ringing. Everyone very welcome. Sue Woodhall

Christmas Tree Festival at St Edward’s Church Come to see Christmas trees decorated by organisations across our Ministry Area. The Festival this year is on Saturday and Sunday the 10th and 11th December.

- 13 - The Radnorshire Arms Beguildy LD7 1YE 01547 510634 [email protected] Martyn & Sue Williams Look forward to welcoming you Open for Home Cooked Lunch & Dinner, Real Ales & Special Occasions Tuesday Night Specials Closed Mondays except Bank Holidays

- 14 - Answers to Crazy Cryptic Questions (page 10) 1. Because it is two-tired 2. A dead give-away 3. Inverse 4. A-flat minor 5. Goes back four seconds 6. He was fully recovered 7. You can't budge it 8. It might never be developed 9. A small medium at large 10. The agony of defeat 11. A jab well done

Sometimes the heart sees what is invisible to the eye. - H Jackson

Welsh Names YALE – From a Welsh surname which was itself derived from a place name meaning "fertile upland" (from Welsh ial ). YORATH – Anglicized form of IORWERTH. Means "handsome lord" from Welsh ior "lord" and berth "handsome". This name is used in the Mabinogion, a collection of tales from Welsh myth, where it belongs to a son of Maredudd. This name is sometimes used as a Welsh form of EDWARD. EDWARD – "rich guard" from the Old English ead "wealth, fortune" and weard "guard". This was the name of several Anglo-Saxon kings, the last being Saint Edward the Confessor shortly before the Norman conquest in the 11th century. He was known as a just ruler, and because of his popularity his name remained in use after the conquest when most other Old English names were replaced by Norman ones. The 13th-century Plantagenet King Henry III named his son and successor after the saint, and seven subsequent kings of England were also named Edward. This is one of the few Old English names to be used throughout Europe in various spellings. A famous bearer was the British composer Edward Elgar (1857-1934). It was also used by author Charlotte Brontë for the character Edward Rochester, the main love interest in her novel 'Jane Eyre' (1947). Info from www.behindthename.com

- 15 - LCL OIL BOILER SERVICES OIL BOILER SERVICES AND REPAIRS GWYNETH PROSSER - Minor plumbing work undertaken TRAVEL COUNSELLOR - City and Guilds 01686 467 590 - NVQ Qualified - OFTEC registered 07780 965737 - Fully insured gwyneth.prosser@ Tel 01547 520964 travelcounsellors.com Or 07722 893 253

Painter and Decorator Est 1993 Douglas Preece

Tel: 01544 267713 (Evenings) Mobile: 07773 659107

Alan & Andrew Hoyle Belmont, Knucklas

Tel: 01547 529472 New Build / Extensions Mob: 07528936389 Renovation Brickwork / Joinery Plaster / Decor Registered Company Tel: 01547 529244 [email protected]

- 16 - East Radnor Rambles You are welcome on any of these walks. Bring food and drink, waterproofs, boots, no dogs, please. Wed Dec 7. Hopesay Circular. 7 miles moderate. Start at Exp 217 SO391832 Hopesay on roadside. Wed Dec 14. Bishops Castle Circular. 6.8 miles moderate 270 m ascent. Start Exp 216 O323888 Church Street carpark Bishops Castle. Sat Dec 10. Severn Way, to Newtown linear. 9 miles moderate 330m ascent. Take Train 10.07 from Newtown Station to Caersws to start SO028919. Wed Dec 21. Kington, OffaÊs Dyke Path, Herrock Hill, Mortimer Trail. 7.5 miles moderate, 400 m ascent. Start at Exp 201 SO296565 Kington Mill St carpark (charge). Sat Dec 24. , Colva Hill, Llanfihangel, Caety Traelo. 8 miles moderate. Start at Exp 201 SO230551 Gladestry Village Hall. Thursday , Dec 29. Breinton & along the Wye (Please note 11.00 start). 6.5 miles Optional tea at Garden Centre, 250 m ascent. Start at Exp 202/SO 472415 Park at far end of Wyevale Garden Centre carpark, Hereford. Wed Jan 4. Aymestrey Circular optional lunch at Riverside. 5.2 miles moderate, 250 m ascent. Start at Exp 203 SO425654 Riverside Inn carpark. Sat Jan 7. Bucknell, Mynd, Hopton Castle. 9 miles moderate, 5.5 miles if weather bad. Start at Exp 201 351740 Baron Inn carpark.

Over every mountain there is a path, although it may not be seen from the valley. - Theodore Roethke

- 17 - Remembering the Sound of One Hand Clapping mild morning in Llangunllo greeted a good crowd for the Remembrance AService at the Cenotaph on November 13th. The beautiful cenotaph has a new plaque commemorating the fallen from Bleddfa. Revd Linda Watson conducted the wreath laying for all four churches, Gravel Chapel and the two Community Councils. Trevor Head played a moving Last Post on his pre-World War I trombone. The last note was punctuated by spontaneous birdsong. We transferred to a beautifully decorated Llangunllo Church. At four separate windows our four communities had the names of the fallen, candles, and poppies representing each soul. The font and cross glowed with candles and poppies. At the front an army blanket, a helmet, barbed wire, and a gas mask covered the soldierÊs rifle. Parishioners from all our churches read lessons and prayers. Keith Williams, representing Gravel Chapel, read a moving poem about the raindrops falling on the soldierÊs helmet. The droplets gradually turned to tears, not rain. Carwen Maggs played our hymns and National Anthems. LindaÊs sermon told the story of a triple amputee from the Afghanistan War. When, at a memorial service, he was wanted to applaud the fallen, another soldier reached down to lend the other hand for clapping. Parishioners provided coffee, tea, and a fine Welsh spread.

‘Do you want to know a secret……… ⁄..may I whisper in your ear ooooh oooÊ, and other such Beatles nostalgia played most enjoyably to an appreciative Ladies Guild audience by Paul Woodhouse. Paul entertained us well with his knowledgeable commentary and delightful repertoire. Lots of foot tapping and pleasant youthful memories for a lot of us; it was great! Do come and join us we are a very happy group meeting every third Tuesday evening in Knucklas for just a couple of hours. For more information contact Margaret 01547 529 155.

- 18 - John Pearson, Beguildy Linda Watson

David Gavin Bleddfa Jen, Beguildy C C

Trevor Head

Shaun Deacon Linda & Judy Mitchell Owen & Oliver, Bleddfa Llangunllo

- 19 - Beguildy

Bleddfa

Llangunllo

Shell casings

Heyope

Shirley & Pam

- 20 - The 14th century font at Heyope is having a facelift. Lottie OÊLeary has removed the old cement filling cracks in the stonework and replaced it with hydraulic lime mortar. We are grateful to the Crug-y-Byddar monies, which have funded the labour.

Knighton Drill Hall Centre THE MELLSTOCK BAND, Dec 4th, Doors open 7pm A unique combination of singing, instrumental music and spoken word featuring authentic instruments: concertina, violin, oboe and serpent. Costumes represent the rural Sunday best from the Thomas Hardy era. TICKETS: ADULTS £10 (including a mince pie and mulled wine or squash) , CHILDREN £8. Available from The Tower House Gallery. To reserve on the door tel: 01547 528613 or email [email protected]

Knighton Community Centre Flicks in the Sticks Dec 9, 7.30pm, ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS THE MOVIE, Tickets £4

Come along to Welcome to Worship Informal worship in St Edward’s Hall at 6pm6pm6pm for anyone: believer, doubter, undecided. Dec 4 “Why does the Church think people should respond to the gospel?” Refreshments after. All are most welcome!

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. - Leonardo da Vinci

- 21 - Knighton Motors (Church Road) Local family garage for over 20 years MOTs, Service on modern and vintage cars, vans, caravans, motorbikes, even mowers! Yard space for rent. Fast, competitive and reliable / Door-to-door pickup arranged Open daily Phone: 01547 520415

ELWYN C. POWELL & DAUGHTER ELECTRICAL SERVICES EST. 1980 ECA MEMBER PART P APPROVED CONTRACTOR Portable Appliance Testing Electrical Installation Condition - Reports Domestic, Commercial Agricultural Installations V.A.T. Registered

TEL: 01547-520028 [email protected]

Come and warm yourself up on a cold winter night or chilly Sunday afternoon. Castle Inn, Knucklas

We serve food every evening and Sunday lunch. Monday to Saturday from 6.30pm Sunday lunchtimes from 12 noon Sunday evening from 7pm.

We also have five Bed and Breakfast rooms, including a family room, and our Function Room is available for larger gatherings.

Or visit us at: www.castleinnknucklas.co.uk for more information. Telephone: 01547 528150

- 22 - Recipe: Chocolate and Salted Caramel Cupcakes A sprinkling of crunchy sea salt flakes brings out the salty sweetness. Ingredients: 150g dark chocolate 150g unsalted butter, softened 150g caster sugar 3 large eggs 75ml sour cream 40g dark chocolate 260g salted caramel sauce Sea salt flakes, to decorate Method: Heat the oven to 180 °C/fan 160 °C/350 °F/gas 4. Line a muffin tin with 12 paper muffin cases. Gently melt the chocolate in a bowl. Beat together the butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, along with a spoonful of flour. Mix in the remaining flour, sour cream and melted chocolate. Divide the mixture among the muffin cases and bake for 20-25 minutes, until risen and just firm to the touch. Remove from the tin and cool on a wire rack. For the topping, melt the chocolate as before, then leave to cool for a couple of minutes. Spread a generous dollop of the salted caramel sauce over the top of each cupcake, then swirl with melted chocolate. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes. Leave for 30 minutes for the chocolate to set. Recipe from the Marks and Spencer website

Staying Power hen Charles Spurgeon was in his early twenties, such large crowds came Wto his church that the building couldnÊt hold them. So he met with thirty of his church leaders and suggested they build an auditorium that would seat 5,500. Allegedly, he told them that if any of them doubted the possibility of accomplishing this, they should leave. Twenty-three did! But Spurgeon held true to the vision God had given him, and for over thirty-five years crowds packed the Metropolitan Tabernacle morning and night, making it one of the most influential churches in history. Got any rivers you think are un-crossable?

- 23 - How much would keep you from attending church? urvivors of the recent Hurricane Matthew in Haiti put on their Sunday best Sand picked their way through the debris to pray in ruined churches. At least 900 people died after the storm tore through the poorest Caribbean nation with tens of thousands of homes obliterated. But on the next Sunday, families packed what remained of the churches and many sat in pews under open sky, because the hurricane had ripped away roofs and even walls. At least one church was so badly damaged that worshippers set up an altar and prayed outside. Elise Pierre, 80, said she believed it was a divine miracle that she and her loved ones survived. "If God wasn't protecting us we'd all be gone today, blown into the ocean or up into the mountains," said Ms Pierre. She sustained a wound on her forehead when her sheet metal roof collapsed during the storm.

The Lampedusa Cross he Lampedusa Cross was made in 2013 Tfrom the wreck of a refugee boat sunk in the Mediterranean. The boat carried 500 refugees from Eritrea and Somalia, but only 151 people survived. The overcrowded boat caught fire, capsized and sank. Some of the survivors were Eritrean Christians fleeing from persecution in their home country. Francesco Tuccio, who lives on the Italian island of Lampedusa, met some of the surviving refugees in his local church. Though unable to help them in a concrete way, he collected wood from their boat and made each of them a cross as a symbol of hope. The carpenter made a cross for the British Museum and for Pope Francis to carry at a memorial service.

Speaking of boats: We are organising the Bleddfa Christmas Eve event but instead of the usual crib etc we have decided to have a refugee theme and are looking for a rowing boat/dingy/raft/inflatable etc. Size is no problem as long as it fits on the back of a pick-up! Can you help please? Contact David 01547 510637 or Graham 01547 550309

- 24 - Whitton Voices at Bleddfa

Whitton Voices, directed by Sue Harris, delighted a good crowd at a Bleddfa Evensong. Their unique style of delivery with callers and echoes used luscious harmonies in the beautiful space. It all had a rhythmic gospel flavour with even a Jewish piece for our one world. They brought meaning to the message of Christian light in a dark world, with even a song about lighting a candle in the midst of trouble.

- 25 - December Notes for Knucklas Local Church Activity: By the time that you read this we will already be into the Christian season of Advent, a time of personal and communal preparation for the celebration of GodÊs earthshaking intervention into the life of this planet, through the coming of Jesus into a small corner of the world. Newly appointed Baptist minister, Revd. Kevin Dare, together with his wife Judith, has already visited Knucklas several times and has held a combined service in the Chapel, the message of which was: God is faithful, therefore have faith in Him. On Dec 3rd, in Knighton, he is leading a service of reflection on Âthe reason for the seasonÊ (of Advent). Local churches, including Heyope, gathered at Llangunllo for the joint Act and Service of Remembrance of those who gave their lives in the two world wars; also of determination, with the help of God, for us all to find better ways of resolving conflicts. St DavidÊs also held a leisurely Pudding ÂnÊ Punch Evening at the Castle Inn recently, including Christmas craft demonstrations and a delightful musical entertainment by professional musician, Stevie Yeomans. All this was achieved using local talent. We will be holding our Christmas Carol Service at St DavidÊs on Sunday 18th December starting at 3pm, with its usual attractions. Revd Linda Watson had barely started working in our Benefice before it was announced that, as from January, she is being re-deployed to help look after the rural areas around ; we shall miss her. Helping out our local ministry team, from that time onwards, we are expecting Meinir, a trainee for the priesthood. We all look forward to meeting her. Across the Teme, the Llanfair Singers are rehearsing for a very busy December with a highlight of their programme being the Annual Charity Concert and Supper in the Everest Hall, Llanfair, on the evening of Saturday Dec 3rd. Other Activity in the Area: The Bleddfa Centre has made a promising new start under its recently appointed director, and has hosted the ÂMade in KnucklasÊ art and craft exhibition as well as offering regular yoga and meditation sessions. Just recently, its founder, James Rhoose-Evans, returned to give a talk and take part in a celebratory weekend, finishing with a Choral Evensong. A Year of the Great Outdoors! In many ways this characterises the past year, with an ever-increasing number of people seeming to appreciate the life- enhancing properties of being out and about enjoying the fresh air and sunlight of the natural world. Caused partly by terrorism abroad and also by a fall in the value of the pound vis-a-vis other currencies, more people than ever have taken

- 26 - short and longer breaks in the UK. It has certainly been noticeable around here. Indeed, the tourist season seems to scarcely end before it begins again and it is a joy to see so many visitors, some of whom join in such activities as our Short Mat Bowling whilst staying in B & Bs, caravans etc. We now have yet another long-distance footpath traversing the area so that, along with the ever- developing Knucklas Castle Community Land Project and our regular ÂFolk down the TrackÊ sessions, we have a lot to offer visitors. We enjoyed another, even more, successful Apple Day in and around the Community Orchard at the end of October with, yet again, the weather being kind to us. Worldwide, the climate was warmer than ever before recorded and we ourselves had a very warm September and a dry October, which enhanced the sugars in the leaves of deciduous trees and bushes, giving glorious autumn colours way into November. But the outdoors means much more than that. Farming research and development continues to progress in the urgent quest for more productivity from less cultivated land. This means better soil nutrition and structure, economical use of water, more wildlife-friendly patches, strips of wild grasses and managed woodland. It is always heart-warming to learn of so many peoplesÊ enthusiasm for the natural world, including around here, expressed through bird- watching, rambling, observing the sea-life in Cardigan Bay, becoming wardens in specially protected areas etc. Near Abergavenny, naturalist Charles Foster went a step further; to find his Âinner animalÊ he and his young son spent a summer living like badgers. It was a punishing experience but he says; „To thrive as a human being, I needed to be more of a badger‰! With power stations failing, both in Britain and in France, there is increasing demand for electricity generated by natural sources such as wind, sun, and water and bio-digesters. The wind farm above Felindre is soon to start generating power as the necessary cables have been laid including through Lloyney, Knucklas and the Racecourse en route to the Knighton sub-station. Well done, Judy Thornton of Castle Hill, having made a courageous recovery from a knee operation; she is fully active again.'. Eileen Heather of Glyndwr has also made a promising improvement following a difficult illness.

Robert Forbath

The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are. - Joseph Campbell

- 27 - Pump Chambers, Submersible and surface mounted Pumps, ALL Sewage Treatment Plants repaired and serviced, Sales, Servicing and Breakdowns covered. Bore Hole Pumps, Filters & UV Systems. CCTV Drain Surveys. Home Buyer/Seller surveys of sewage systems & septic tanks .

Local company with over 10 years experience in sewage treatment plants and pumps. Please call Dave or Gavin for enquiries or to arrange a visit. 07779-592750 01547-520910 / 01568-610091 Specialist Engineers in Pumps and Sewage Treatment Plants covering Powys, Herefordshire and all surrounding areas. Unique Finishing Touches Event and table décor available to hire complemented by beautiful floristry

Catherine: 07813 083392 & Karon: 07854 950478 / 01547 550301 [email protected] UniqueFinishingTouches.co.uk Unique Finishing Touches on Facebook

- 28 - King Saul with his soldiers David with harp

Carrying Ark of the David’s soldiers hiding in a cav e Covenant

Open the Book – King David Stories „Best Friends‰ told the story of the friendship of Jonathan and David when King Saul, JonathanÊs father, pursued the young David in a jealous rage. And yes, King Saul was our priest, Melia, while the harpist was Rosemary Hanna. The next story, „Run For Your Life‰ continued SaulÊs assault on David where he hid in a cave. And then „King David Dances‰ told how David, now the King, brought the Ark of the Covenant containing the 10 Commandments to Jerusalem. He and the actors danced and rejoiced.

The prayers of the humble pierce the clouds!

- 29 - The packed audience

Knighton school children presented their petition to Councillor Brown.

Brian Osborne presents the case for older people

- 30 - Why ever would you close our pool? he Community in and around Knighton (including Shropshire and THerefordshire) came out in force to support the Knighton Leisure Centre at a Consultation Evening on November 1st. Those representing various aspects of Powys County Council explained the reason for the proposed closure: tightened financial straits. They made the point that Knighton was small; what could we expect? As the evening progressed, they agreed with most of the following comments from the floor. First, Knighton school children on the school council spoke eloquently about the Charter for ChildrenÊs Rights and the need for basic swimming ability when growing up near a strong river like the Teme. Then they presented a petition signed by 1800 people to Councillor Graham Brown. Others at the opposite end of the age spectrum, made the health case for swimming and exercise and its knock-on benefits to the National Health system. Both old and young lamented the difficulty in transport to the Presteigne pool, which could not cope with the increased use. Historically, many remembered when the community paid for the pool and kept it going by volunteering their time. Can we continue to help keep it open? Several spoke passionately about the demoralising effect on the community of closing our Leisure Centre, on top of closing schools, our police station and the threat to our library. Others, who had done a fair bit of homework, discovered that despite its size Knighton had a higher ÂfootfallÊ than other places where one would expect more users, for example . The precise numbers in school children using the pool was impressive. Freedom Leisure, who have a fifteen year contract to run the Centre, were praised for their hard work and success. Councillor Graham Brown drew applause when he announced that the budget was improving and he hoped that the Leisure Centre would not close. The obvious support and huge turnout sent a clear message to those in charge. From Mayor Sally Vaughn on her Facebook page: Wow thank you thank you thank you, what a great turn out, Knighton you came together tonight you stood your ground you were dignified respectful forth right passionate & honest. You were well read well informed & the questions you asked were well thought out & above all you cared & it showed. Fantastic we could not have asked for more, I am so proud of each & everyone of you. Well done KNIGHTON you make us proud that's why we love you & will carry on the fight !!!!!

- 31 - MEDLICOTT SNOWS Solicitors General Country Practice Lawyers

Specialising in: Commercial and Residential Conveyancing Wills, Probate and Lasting Powers of Attorney

Please telephone to discuss or arrange an appointment with one of our Qualified Lawyers

Local Knowledge, Local Interests for Local People

Offices at: 7 Wylcwm Place, Knighton 01547 528332

- 32 - Children’s Page LOTS OF LOVE Time to make some Christmas decorations? Cut out two shapes like the pattern below, one in red card, one in green card. Don’t forget to cut the slits. NATIVITY PLAY To see the story of the first Christmas through the eyes of little children makes it fresh and new. I like the story of the little boy who so wanted to be Joseph but was picked as the inn keeper instead. All went well until the nativity play started and Mary and Joseph arrived at the inn. The boy playing the innkeeper greeted them with ‘Come in Mary love, there’s Interlock the 2 shapes by plenty of room for you, but Joseph weaving the strips under and can get lost!’ over their opposite Mary may insist that her teddy is the colour. This will give Baby Jesus, the angels may trip over you a heart shape. their robes made from sheets, but Use a little glue to hold every nativity play shows the wonder them together if of the story of the first Christmas needed. Punch a hole in the top when the son of God was born a at the centre and thread with baby, like us. Tea towels used as cord to hang your decoration. shepherd’s headdresses and angels’ You can make lots in different haloes made from wire coat hangers colours and decorate them with only serve to underline the humanity sequins or stickers too. Nice of it all. A baby born in a stable – a symbols of love to decorate your simple story that changes the world. Christmas. The Cat's Christmas Hymns: Oh, Come All Ye Fishful Silent Mice Joy to the Curled The First Meow

- 33 - FARM & GARDEN PAUL N ORTHWOOD MAINTENANCE Fencing & Gardening Central Villa, Llangunllo, Hedge Trimming Knighton, Powys LD7 1SR Grass Cutting & Strimmer Work 01547 550284 Chain Saw Work Experienced maker of Tree Planting distinguished furniture David Eaton Restorer of antiques 01547 550161 Period Joinery 07931697694 Carving and wood turning

Just Decor Female team of Plans drawn to Local decorators Authority Approval City & Guilds Qualified óóó Conversions óóó New Home Design All types of ó Extensions ó Farm Buildings Painting & Decorating For free estimate call www.inklinesltd.co.uk Beryl or Sandy 01588 6409099 01544 260470 or 07899 961920 07814 229809 [email protected]

Alan Jones Tree Surgery Professional Specialist Tree Care and Estate Management Foot Care Practitioner All aspects of tree work undertaken Home visits Fully insured and NPTC Qualified Knighton and Presteigne areas FIREWOOD FOR SALE Sarah Scott, MCFHP MAFHP For a Professional service at Tel: 01547 528549 COMPETITIVE PRICES Call Alan Tel: 01544 260448 Mob:07854 773267 Mobile: 07817 066316 [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Please support our advertisers as they support us!

- 34 - Llangunllo W.I. Annual Meeting n 1st November retiring President Isabel welcomed 10 members to the Ohome of Shirley Brown for the Annual Meeting of Llangunllo WI and also welcomed as a visitor WI Adviser Marilyn Thomas. The Minutes of last year's Annual Meeting were read and signed and it was agreed to continue next year with 2.30pm meetings in the winter months from November to February with evening meetings at 7pm for the rest of the year. The Officers reported that it had been a happy and successful year and we had continued to take part in many County events with improved results. An important highlight of the year had been the planning and completion of a beautiful and striking Banner by a small group of skilled needlewomen among members under the able direction of Anne Newton. In May members were delighted to achieve first place in the popular annual County Quiz, which as usual was devised by Ken and Carwen Maggs. All members were proud that Isabel starred as Robyn in a County pantomime "Robyn of Radnor" which was put on by our Federation when they hosted this year's Welsh Conference held at Llanelwedd. Recently Isabel was elected as Vice Chairman of our Federation to succeed Anne Davies who had to step down due to ill health. Following that news we heard that our Secretary Shirley Brown had been co-opted to serve on the Board of Trustees and they were congratulated on their appointments. At the election of Officers for 2017 Anne Newton was unanimously elected as the new President to succeed Isabel who would be in Anne's old position as Vice Chairman. The rest of the committee remained the same and it was agreed that the post of Minute Secretary next year would be shared by members of the Committee. Anne Newton chaired the monthly meeting that followed the Annual Meeting and thanked Isabel for all she had done for the WI in her time as President and hoped she would be able to serve as a worthy successor. Plans were finalised for the Christmas dinner which this year would be a lunch at the Riverside Restaurant at Aymestry on 13th December and menus would be circulated in good time to decide on choice of meal. The new programme was announced for approval and copies would be circulated at the Christmas meal. Members were asked to let the Secretary know if they wished to attend any events listed on the Newsletter. The first meeting in 2017 would be a festive tea party at 2.30 on 2nd January at Bryn Afon, home of Jenny Williams. Visitors are always welcome at Llangunllo WI and for details of our activities please contact our Secretary on 01547 550 555. Carwen Maggs

- 35 - Homefix Plumbing & Heating New to the area We are a local family business based in Powys who pride ourselves on professional workmanship and excellent customer service. We can provide you with the following: • All Plumbing and Heating work • Complete bathroom re-fits, including tiling, plastering and flooring • Oil Boiler Installation, Service and Repair • Installation of Solid fuel fires and stoves No call out fees, free quotations Please call Vanessa to make an appointment on 01588 620250 or e-mail homefixplumbing @yahoo.co.uk

- 36 - Llanfair Waterdine WI News A quiet month this month with our AGM when we were all delighted that Mary Morgan has accepted our Presidency for another year. The AGM is always an interesting time to review achievements and activities over the past year. We have had some excellent speakers, successes in various shows and events and lots of fun and friendship. Our December meeting is a musical event with Jane and Shaun Millward, piano and cornet, with some audience participation. So if you would like to come and join in they would be delighted. It is an early opportunity to sing some carols. Friday 2nd December 7.00pm. Our institute has an 85th Anniversary this year and we our planning to make our Christmas Party a special event. It will be on 6th January 7.00pm in the Everest Hall. Cost £7.00 and we would welcome visitors. Catering „Ourselves‰ so it should be a lovely meal! All our meetings begin at 7.00pm in the Everest Hall, Llanfair Waterdine on the first Friday of the month and we are always pleased to welcome visitors to share our evenings and our suppers! For further information contact Mary Morgan (01547 528429) or Ann Harroway (01547 528477). Ann Harroway

Llanfair Singers The Llanfair Singers together with MigÊs Band are giving a concert of Christmas music. On Saturday, 3rd December at 7.30pm in the Everest Hall in Llanfair Waterdine. Tickets are £10 for this concert, to include supper after the performance. All profits from this concert go to charity. Tickets are available from Knighton Fine Art (01547 528052). Please telephone or visit to reserve your tickets in advance.

Music in New Radnor Belshazzar’s Feast Stocking Fillers Saturday 10th December, 7.30pm New Radnor Community Hall Christmas-themed show. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30 start. Tickets £8 from 01544 231732

- 37 - Knucklas Community Hall Book our newly built hall for parties, meetings, events, weddings, funeral teas, courses, movies. Book on-line at: www.knucklascommcentre.org.uk Or ring 01547 520384 ó Main hall (80 comfy chairs, 10 circular tables) ó Full DVD projection system, surround sound, microphone ó Audio loop system ó Fully equipped kitchen - large oven, place settings for 100 ó Committee room (separate entrance) with table and chairs ó Fully wheelchair accessible ó Ample parking

- 38 - Support and companionship just when you need it Are you looking for affordable Sheltered Accommodation with your main meals provided in a homely environment? Abbeyfield House situated in Oak Meadow SY9 5PA close to the Town Centre of Bishop’s Castle offers all this, and independent living with a balance of privacy, support and security Please telephone 01588 630000 for more information

Independent Provident Society No. 27255R TSA Regulator of Social Housing No H4156

- 39 - Punch, Pies and Pavlova to a Beatles Tune lackbird Singing at the Break of Day‰ has been going through my head „Ball morning after Stevie Yeomans, professional musician recently arrived in Knucklas, sang and strummed for our Pudding ÂnÊ Punch. He treated us to other well known, toe tapping delights, like „Stand by me‰. Hard not to sing along and spoil it all! The aroma of Peter NorthÊs delicious homemade punch greeted us as we arrived, and the refills kept coming. The punch washed down several courses of homemade puddings – trifle, tiramisu, cake, pavlova, pies, bread and butter pudding, too many to name and eat them all. Gwlithyn Gough showed us an ingenious way of making a colourful cloth wreath from old scraps of cloth poked into a Styrofoam base. Eileen Everts made a very big Christmas hamper auctioned later by Harold Lewis. Along the way she taught us some wise husbandry for buying decorative papers and the method for making proper bows. We could all have a go at the same. Laura Woodside-Jones

There are going to be so many lovely things to see... Bleddfa Centre Christmas 2016 Crafts and Gifts Exhibition 18th Nov – 18th Dec. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays 11am – 4.30pm. Antique-style boxes, pottery and ceramics, baubles, blankets and cushions, pictures and prints, cards, glassware, vases, lamps, candlesticks... Things of beauty, things of wit, things that make an everyday object special - and everything original and handmade. The little shop has also recently been re-stocked with traditional children's games and lots of other gorgeous objects. The calm haven, the Reading Room cafe, will be open for freshly made coffee, teas, home-made cakes, soups, seasonal mince pies, and even a cheeky little glass of wine if that seems in order to calm your shopping nerves.

Llangunllo Table Tennis at the Community Hall: The last meeting in 2016 will be Thursday, 15th December. The club will restart after the Christmas break on Thursday, 5th January, 2017. New members welcome at any time. Enquiries to Maggy 550676 or just turn up on the night. Happy Christmas to all, Maggy

- 40 - Stevie Yeoman

Peter’s Punch

Gwlithyn

Puddings Galore

Eileen

- 41 - for the Whole Family at Beguildy Monday, Dec 19, 6.00pm Seasonal refreshments to follow

Christmas Celebration at Bleddfa Christmas Eve, 7.00pm Favourite carols, traditional readings, poems. Special items by the Christmas Choir Mince pies and Christmas grog

Sunday, 18 th December 3.00pm Special music, lessons and carols, poetry Mince pies and mulled wine

St Cynllo's Church, Llangunllo invites you to the Community Carol Service December 24th at 3.00pm All Welcome and Seasonal refreshments to follow.

- 42 - As we are confronted by images in the news of people fleeing violence, we remember how our saviour, Jesus Christ, was himself a refugee, forced to flee the persecution of Herod. Today, 65 million people are displaced, having fled their homes to seek sanctuary. Our Christmas appeal seeks to ease their suffering. To help promote our appeal, Christian Aid Wales staff and supporters will be walking a 140-mile sponsored walk across Wales this Christmas, from Bethlehem in Carmarthenshire to ÂYr AifftÊ (Egypt) in Denbighshire. We want to make the walk a very public show of WalesÊ support for refugees. Full details at: www.christianaid.org.uk/cymru/news/escape.aspx Your support could help people like Angelique, from the Democratic Republic of the Congo [DRC]. She was taken from her home by armed men, repeatedly raped and left for dead in the jungle. Her husband abandoned her. Today, Angelique and her two children are supported by Christian Aid partners in the DRC, who provide psychological support her recovery, a small grant so she can buy essentials, and training to start producing a sustainable income. £20 could provide a mattress £50 could buy seeds and tools to help a family grow their food £120 could pay for medical care and counselling for a woman who has survived sexual violence You may give a cheque or cash in the offering plate at church. Mark it „Christian Aid Christmas Appeal‰.

That coin in your Christmas pudding There is a tradition, which dates from the Middle Ages, of putting silver coins into Christmas puddings. The first coins used were a silver farthing or penny. After World War One, it became a threepenny bit and then a sixpence. Finding one was supposed to bring you good fortune, but probably more likely to break a tooth as you bit into the pudding. We now pay for most things with plastic or by tapping a mobile telephone. In future will people put old credit cards or phones in their Christmas pudding? Hope not. Other coins ÂappearÊ at this time of year. Chocolate coins are traditionally given to children at Christmas time, and in Jewish tradition during Hanukkah. It is said that one night Saint Nicholas climbed on a roof and threw a purse of money down a chimney, which landed in a pair of stockings that a little girl had hung up to dry. Good throw!

- 43 - A Cheeky ‘Way to Pray’ These days most of us pray very rarely, if at all, saving our occasional religious invocations for funerals, penalty shoot-outs and during severe turbulence in an aeroplane. Some of us haven't prayed since we were last in a school assembly. So if you're a bit rusty about the basics of praying, here's a step-by-step guide to getting the most from your Heavenly Host. 1. HANDS - Palms should be pressed flat together and pointing upwards, so that the prayers go straight up to Heaven out of the ends of your fingertips. None of this hands-clasped nonsense. Whoever saw a ball-shaped aerial on a walkie-talkie? 2. EYES - Keep your eyes very tightly closed while you are praying. If it helps, think of your eyes like an oven door and your prayer like a cheese souffle - If you open your eyes even for just a second, your cheese souffle prayer will fall flat and you'll have to start again. 3. POSTURE - For some reason God prefers prayers that are made whilst in a kneeling position. Obviously, if you are unable to kneel due to arthritis or rheumatism then don't worry. God will forgive you, as it was Him that gave you the dodgy knees in the first place. But if you can smile through the pain and suffer your infirmities with love in your heart, then it's highly likely that God will look more favourably upon your prayer. For as Mother Teresa said: suffering is beautiful, especially to the Lord. 4. WORDS - God receives upwards of 6 billion prayers a day, so keep yours short, snappy and to the point. Start with a couple of sentences about how unworthy you are and how great He is. Then get to the meat of your prayer and beseech Him for what it is that you want and tell Him how great He is again. Don't forget to finish with the word "Amen" so that God knows you've finished and can start acting on your prayer. Or not, as the case may be. Submitted by Gethyn Williams

Keep your eyes on the stars, and your feet on the ground. - Theodore Roosevelt

- 44 - December Readings Readers Dec 4 Isaiah 11.1-10 Carol Peregrine Advent 2 Romans 15.4-13 Sarah Sandford Psalm 72.1-7,18-19. Matthew 3.1-12

Dec 11 Isaiah 35.1-10 Judy North Advent 3 James 5.7-10 Robert Forbath [Psalm 146.5-10. Matthew 11.2-11] Bleddfa T.B.A. Dec 18 Isaiah 7.10-16 John Peregrine Advent 4 Romans 1.1-7 Phil Swancott Psalm 80.1-7,16-18. Matthew 1.18-25

Dec 24/25 Lessons for Christmas Eve and Christmas Christmas Day to be announced T.B.A.

Holy Days in December / early January 2017 Dec 1 World Aids Day Dec 2 Saints, Martyrs & Missionaries of Asia Dec 3 Francis Xavier (1552), Missionary Dec 6 Nicholas (c 342), Bishop Dec 7 Ambrose (397), Bishop & Doctor Dec 8 Cynidr (6th C), Bishop Dec 24/25 Christmas Eve/Christmas Day Possible burial tomb of Tathan Dec 26 Stephen, Deacon and First Martyr Dec 27 John, Apostle & Evangelist Saint Tathan, 6th C Abbot Dec 28 The Innocents St Tathan, was perhaps an Irish Day of Prayers for Refugees monk who sailed up the Severn Dec 29 Thomas of Canterbury (1170) seeking a place for a hermitage. Dec 30 Tathan (6th C), Abbot He founded a monastery in the Dec 31 John Wycliffe (1384), old Roman ruins in the Vale of Jan 1 Naming of Jesus Glamorgan. He was known for Jan 3 Morris Williams (1874), Priest & Poet his learning and called the Jan 6 Epiphany ÂFather of all GwentÊ. A burial was found in 1910 and re-buried in the church; it was believed to be that of St Tathan but this is not at all clear. In 1906 a pewter bowl with a faint Chi- Rho monogram scratched on it was also found. This is dated to about 375 and is the first direct proof that Christianity had arrived in Wales. It is now in Newport museum. Information from ‘The Saints of Great Britain and Ireland’ - 45 - Diary for December 2016/ early January 2017 December 2 Langunllo Hall Christmas Film „Whisky Galore,‰ Doors opens 7.30pm. Llanfair Waterdine W.I. at Everest Hall, 7pm. 3 Llanfair Singers Concert, Everest Hall, Llanfair Waterdine, 7.30pm, Advent Quiet Day at Norton Street, Baptist Church. 4 Welcome to Worship, St EdwardÊs Hall, 6pm. The Mellstock Band „Christmas Hearth‰, Knighton Comm Centre, 7.30pm. 7 Felindre W.I. Handbell Ringing. Felindre Village Hall. 7.30pm. 9 Flicks, ÂAbsolutely Fabulous the MovieÊ Knighton Comm Centre, 7.30pm. 10-11 Christmas Tree Festival at St EdwardÊs, Knighton. 13 Community Carols at St Edwards, Knighton, with Open the Book, 6pm. Llangunllo W.I. Christmas meal at the Riverside, Aymestry. Makers and Crafters, Knucklas Community Centre, 2pm. 15 Folk Down the Track at The Castle Inn, Knucklas, 7pm onwards. January 2 Llangunllo W.I. 2.30, Tea Party at Bryn Afon. 6 Llanfair Waterdine, Christmas Party, Everest Hall, 7pm. 8 Epiphany service at St EdwardÊs, Knighton, with Geoff Weaver choir, 3pm.

Services at Baptist Churches Knucklas: Nov 27 6pm Sue Wilson and friends Dec 11 6pm Revd Kevin Dare (new minister) Dec 18 6.30pm Joint Carol Service in Norton St with Llanfairwaterdine singers Dec 25 10am Joint service at Norton St. Pound: Dec 18 2.30 Carol Service

On a recent trip to the Neapolitan area of Italy I saw these marvellous nativity models in a church crypt. The birth of Jesus with attendant angels, shepherds and donkeys is shown side-by-side with Neapolitan village life in the eighteenth century. - Laura

- 46 - Mary, Jesus, Joseph A couple on the terrace

Family kitchen

Housewife shopping

Man and woman on their balconies

Carpenter

Delivery man with sacks & barrels

- 47 - Church Services in Dec 2016/early Jan 2017 Date Beguildy Heyope Llangunllo Bleddfa 2016 St Michael’s St David’s St Cynllo’s M Magdalene’s Dec 4 Purple 11am Holy Welcome to Worship 6pm 8.30pm Advent 2 Comm. *PC St Edward's Hall, Knighton Compline LW Dec 11 Purple 3pm 11am Holy Advent 3 Evensong MB Comm. MB Dec 18/19 6.30 Carols 3pm Carols Advent 4 Mon,19, LW Sun, 18, MC Dec 24 White 11.30 Midnite 3pm Carols 7pm Carols Christmas Eve Comm. LW MB + *MR LW Dec 25 White 10.30am Christmas Family Comm MC Jan 1 White East Radnor and Beacon Hill Benefices 8.30pm Naming of Jesus 10.30am Carol Service at St Edward's, Knighton Compline *MR Jan 8 White 11am at St David's Whitton, Bishop John Davies Epiphany 1 Ministry Area Inauguration Service & Farewell to Linda PC = Peter Cope MR = Meinir Ronicle, ordinand in training

Late Autumn Along the Wye

Please send material for the January Beacon by 20th December to: [email protected] 1 Heyope Road, Knucklas, LD7 1PT Tel: 01547 520266

- 48 -