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Contacts in the In this month’s magazine: Living in Love & Faith Crediton Benefice Community Page 3 Rector’s Notes The Reverend Matthew Tregenza  01363 894038 Page 4 PRIEST AT SANDFORD Churches Count on Nature Vacancy Page 5 LICENSED LAY MINISTERS Festivals Update Carol Price  01647 24468 Page 6 Sandra Collier  01363 777013 St Lawrence PARISH OFFICE Page 7 Parish Administrator: Gill Lee News from around the Benefice (Tuesday and Friday 9.30am – 12.30pm) Page 8 The Boniface Centre, Church Lane, Crediton, EX17 2AH Life Coming Out of Lockdown  01363 773226  [email protected] Page 10 Website: www.creditonparishchurch.org.uk Thika Link Report - April 2021 CLERK TO THE CHURCH GOVERNORS Page 16 Sandra Thresher Alcoholics Anonymous  01363 85467  [email protected] Page 21 CHURCHWARDENS Tours of the Churchyard Crediton: Sheila Ralph, Mike May, Peter Brewer Page 22 Sandford: Linda Bennett-Smith, Chris Tucker Crediton PCC Feedback : Rosemary Barber, John Lee Page 24 Yeoford: Carol Price (Licensed Reader) : Fiona Mortimer (Chairman), Ruth Vigers (Treasurer) Diocesan Synod Elections Page 30 DIRECTOR OF MUSIC (ACTING) Richard Stephens  01363 775170  [email protected] Congregation invited to join PCC Sub-Committees BELL TOWER Page 32 Tower Captain: Geoff Sparling  01363 776681  [email protected] Plus regular features: BONIFACE CENTRE BOOKINGS Choir Notes – Page 20 Robin Lavery  01363 772536  [email protected] For All the Saints – Page 14 Friends of Crediton Church – Page 7 CREDITON MOTHERS’ UNION From the Archives – Page 23 Anne Jerman  01363 772865 Mothers’ Union – Page 22 HOLY CROSS FACEBOOK PAGE Prayer Diary – Page 18 James Turner  [email protected] Reverberations – Page 7 PARISH MAGAZINE Rhymes and Things – Page 28 Editor and Advertising: Rose Grisman 9 Yeo Crescent, Crediton, EX17 3FL To all contributors to the magazine  07972 028069  [email protected] The deadline for items to be included Distribution: Kathleen Hughes  01363 777371 in the JULY 2021 edition of the magazine is If you would like a copy of the magazine delivered each month please contact Gill Lee or Kathleen Hughes SUNDAY 13th JUNE Thank you for your co-operation Annual subscription £9 ********** © ROOTS for Churches Ltd 2002-2013. Material in Prayer Diary Distribution of the magazine will be reproduced with permission www.rootsontheweb.com by delivery and email, and hard copies will be available at All articles and correspondence in this magazine reflect the Evans Newsagents from views of the writers and should not be read otherwise SATURDAY 26th JUNE

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JUNE SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE CREDITON SANDFORD SHOBROOKE Others 8.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 10.00 Family Church 6 June 9.30 Holy Communion POSBURY BEACON Trinity 1 11.00 Holy Communion 11.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 6pm Choral Evensong 8.30 Holy Communion 8.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 9.30 Holy Communion YEOFORD 13 June 11.00 Holy Communion 9.30 Holy Communion 11.00 Family Service 9.30 Holy Communion Trinity 2 6pm Evening Prayer at St Lawrence Chapel 8.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 9.30 Holy Communion POSBURY 20 June 11.00 Holy Communion 9.30 Holy Communion 11.00 Communion by Ext (BCP) Trinity 3 6pm Sacred Space at St Lawrence Chapel 8.00 Holy Communion (BCP) 9.30 Holy Communion 9.30 Holy Communion YEOFORD 27 June 11.00 Holy Communion Trinity 4 11.00 Holy Communion or Matins 9.30 Family Service 6pm Compline Sunday Worship at Crediton Parish Church The easing of Covid-19 restrictions which have been announced and take effect from Monday 17 May make no difference to the current arrangements. Holy Cross is open for public worship with services at 8am and 9.30am (repeated at 11am). Precautions continue as we are mindful of the need to stay safe as the lockdown eases and the vaccination programme continues to roll out. Please let Anne Jerman know (01363 772865 or [email protected]) if you are seeking to change the time you attend church; or will not be attending a service for some reason; or will be returning to church for the first time since March 2020. Please do not to attend church if you have any of the symptoms of Covid-19 and people in the clinically extremely vulnerable category are advised to continue to exercise caution in their social contacts. The 9.30am service will continue to be live- streamed via the church Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/CreditonParishChurch/ . It will then be available to view at any time. The readings for the week are available on the services page of the church website. If you have downloaded the NHS Track and Trace app to your mobile phone, please note the necessary QR readers are on display at Holy Cross, St Lawrence Chapel and Holy Trinity Yeoford.

Contact and Pastoral Care during Covid-19 Restrictions Gill continues to work in the Parish Office but due to Covid-19 working restrictions, please don’t call at the office but continue to make contact by telephone (773226) or email [email protected]. There is also lots of information and the resources for the Sunday services on the church website – www.creditonparishchurch.org.uk And don’t forget the Holy Cross Crediton Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ CreditonParishChurch/ where you can also view the Sunday service. You don’t need to have a Facebook account to view the posts that have been made. There are Pastoral Care arrangements in place. Do contact the Pastoral Care group by email: [email protected] or phone Matthew (01363 894038) or Stella Stephens (07960 388198) if you, or someone you know, needs some help or would appreciate a phone call. Please use the same contact details to offer help. There are a small number of people where we are helping with shopping in particular and the team are also maintaining telephone contact with the church family. 2

Living in Love & Faith

Throughout 2021, everyone in the is invited to take part in a conversation about sexuality and gender. The tells us “This is crucial for the church’s direction in the coming years. The outcomes could have far-reaching consequences for the mission and unity of the church but this is a conversation that has been going on already for many years. Sadly, in the past, this has not always been a helpful conversation and has sometimes been conducted in confrontational ways and with polarised views. We can do better. If we are committed to listen to one another, to articulate our own views with love and respect, and to make space for voices we have not heard thus far, we could have a really fruitful encounter. To help this conversation, the Church of England has developed Living in Love and Faith, a set of resources and a call to talk, listen, and feedback. The resources include a book; a website and learning hub with videos, podcasts, and more; group material to guide the conversation; and ways of feeding reflections back. It is important that you take part. This process will contribute to decision-making in the Church of England in 2022. We can be certain that there are loud voices who wish to be heard during it. We need other voices also to contribute, so that we have as broad, inclusive, and grace-filled listening as possible. Please join in.” The intention is to run a 5 week course later in the year for the churches in Cadbury and feedback from the course will be passed on to General Synod. Further details on the course will follow.

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Rector’s Notes Lewis's 'Welcome Fund'. The generosity of spirit of so many people has been a June 5th real joy to see. June the 5th is of course, St Boniface Day and there will be the customary Hospitality prayers at the statue of St Boniface in The kindness and welcome which you Newcombe's Meadow at 1pm. Following have shown to Lewis, even before his this, from 2pm onwards, it is really good arrival in Crediton, has led me to reflect that we'll be able to have a variety of on the idea of hospitality and all that activities at Holy Cross to celebrate this goes with it, such as generosity of spirit special day. cream teas will also and welcome - especially to the stranger be on offer ... go on give in to temptation in our midst. just this once! Hospitality. It's rather a nice sounding Lewis Eden virtue, but what is it? I like to think that There is much excitement as we prepare it makes our lives and the lives of others to welcome our new assistant curate, more comfortable. However, it is much Lewis Eden, this month. Lewis hopes to more than just a nice virtue. It is arrive on June 5th and when I reminded essential! him that it was also St Boniface Day, he If we look around, we are given precious was delighted with his sense of timing! glimpses of the hospitality of God when Lewis will be licensed as a lay worker we perceive all that God provides for us by Bishop Robert at the end of June and through the created world. He gives us this will give him the opportunity to the gift of life, with our bodies, all our learn something about the life of the senses, and all our talents and abilities. Mission Community prior to his Then, hopefully, he gives us the sun to ordination as deacon on 11th warm us, water to refresh us, food to September at 3pm in the cathedral. I'm nourish us, a family to belong to, friends very much hoping that many of us will to stand by us, along with music, the be able to be present at that service, arts, laughter, and all that is good and restrictions permitting of course. beautiful. It is very exciting and a great privilege Jesus was a master of hospitality, as a for us to be able to contribute in this look through the Gospels shows us. He way to the formation of a new provided wine for the wedding feast at generation of clergy. I am especially Cana. He fed the five thousand that looking forward to working with Lewis came to hear him preach. After the as a colleague, and as learning is a two- resurrection we find him cooking way process, I am sure that we shall breakfast for the apostles on the beach. learn from him too, and that he will Hospitality involves more than food and contribute new insights to the life of the drink ... it involves a whole host of other Mission Community. things, such as: On Lewis's behalf I'd like to thank those I was ignorant so you taught me. who have donated furniture and those who have kept the garden of the curate's I was lonely and you listened to me house at Beech Park looking tidy. Also, I was misunderstood and you thank you to those who have donated to appreciated me

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I was scared and you made me feel safe, Churches Count on Nature I had self-doubt and you believed in me. Saturday 5th June I was shy and you paid attention to me." As one of the activities during the I'd lost my way in life and you gave me a St Boniface Devon Day celebrations, you good example. are invited to join in the Count on Hospitality includes feeding the mind Nature. This is intended to bring people with truth, providing the soul with together to discover the wildlife in their beauty, nourishing the heart with local church yard, recording the species patience and forgiveness, and serving they find and combining their results those who thirst for love. with others which will be collated on the National Biodiversity Network At the Last Supper, Jesus took bread and (NBN), a nationwide database of said, “This is my body given up for you.” wildlife in the UK. He took a cup of wine and said, “This is my blood poured out for you.” Then he The count will take place between 2pm said, “Do this in memory of me.” Do what and 5pm. The Churchyard Treasure in memory of him? Give up our body and Trail will also be available – thanks to pour out our blood for others. He was Peter and Debs Bunn for this. Please talking about sacrifice ... giving without wear sensible footwear and children counting the cost. Hospitality involves a must be accompanied by an adult. There lot of dying to self, and that makes us is uneven ground throughout the Christlike. churchyard and there will be stewards around. May the virtue of hospitality continue to abound in our community and, in so doing, may we continue to become more Christlike! Your friend and Rector Matthew Tregenza St Boniface Day Celebrations a poem by Claire Duthie Come one FROM THE CHURCH REGISTERS Come all OF THE BENEFICE 2021 In groups that are small Funerals Mingle with groups of one to six May 5 Martin Wreford No hankies in our midst May 14 John Brown No Coronavirus around us Do have a jolly Eat and drink your fill Accommodation wanted Without a care or a worry Professional female, Pursue our bric-a-brac looking for accommodation Perhaps have a snack in Crediton near the town centre. Maybe silently hum along Please contact May on 07759 439558 To a song.

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Festivals Update Items would need to be delivered to the As this Parish Magazine comes out at the church on Monday 19th July and then end of May I hope you are either looking collected on Monday 26th July in the forward to or have enjoyed the morning – we may be able to organise a St Boniface Devon Day activities that collection service so please get in touch. are/were planned in celebration on the If you would like to get involved in setting Saturday 5th June 2-5pm. As I am up the displays, we are always interested writing this in mid-May we do not know in hearing from YOU. what July will hold however we are Look forward to seeing you on 5th June planning another celebration. ‘Rainbows and then again over the weekend of the and Lockdown Hobbies’ will run from 23rd July to 25th July, if not before. Friday 23rd July to Sunday 25th July – Stella Stephens there will be more details in the July On behalf of the Festivals Team Parish Magazine but please put the dates in your diary not only for coming and enjoying what we are planning but we will also need wonderful teams of volunteers. So more about how YOU can be a part of Festival Catering making the July event... ‘RAINBOWS AND There is to be a mini festival on the LOCKDOWN HOBBIES’. weekend Friday 23rd – Sunday 25th We are in need of your lockdown projects July. In preparation, there will be a – what have you completed – a jumper, a meeting of caterers on Wednesday 23rd picture? Have you learnt a new hobby – June at 2pm in the Boniface Centre. woodworking or needlecraft perhaps? Please come if you would like to be Would you be willing to loan us your involved in the Cafe in any way. New project to display? If so, please contact people very welcome! Stella who will pass your details on to the relevant member of the team – either by If you are unable to attend, please contact phoning 07960 388198 or preferably me on 01363 772536 or email email [email protected]. [email protected]. If you could let us know by 1st July we Sue Lavery would be very grateful. If you have been too busy for a project we are also in need of ‘artefacts’, ‘household decorative items’ in a single plain colour in the colours of the rainbow (Red, June Anniversaries Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo and Violet). Hope that makes sense – so for Happy Birthday to: example an orange tablecloth or indigo Keith Barker, Jean Cope, Rose Grisman, vase. Also if you have any redundant Sue Lavery, Jenny Stallard and Matthew technology - laptop, phone for example. If Tregenza. you could let us know again by phoning Happy Wedding Anniversary to: 07960 388198 or preferably email to Gill & Simon Lee, Rose & Mike Grisman [email protected] by 1st and Stephanie (ne e Heard) & Christopher July we would be very grateful. Archer.

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St Lawrence Reverberations The garden is looking good with the from the Tower amount of rain it has received during Picking up from last month’s early May! Reverberations the 11th bell was tolled Both May services, Evening Prayer and immediately prior to the funeral of Prince Sacred Space were well attended, with Philip. capacity numbers, due to the social From May 17th we are able to ring 6 bells distancing. The dates for June are: at both Crediton and Shobrooke although 13th - Evening Prayer the advice is that masks should be worn. That is not particularly comfortable when 20th - Sacred Space ringing for more than a couple of Please continue to book in with either the minutes. So, by the time you are able to Church Office, or Sandra, 777013, read this we should have rung for two [email protected] Sunday services at Crediton and for 3 Advance notice of the Patronal Weekend: weddings, 2 of them at Shobrooke. Saturday 7th August - an Open Afternoon We look forward to being able to ring with teas, but not the usual stalls, due to continuously from then on and to get space in the event of bad weather. back to weekly practice nights, but the Indian variant may have other ideas! Sunday 8th - Patronal Evensong at 6pm. Robin Lavery 2021 sees the 100th Anniversary of the reconsecration of the Chapel for Worship. With this in mind there is to be an Open Day on Saturday 18th September, where the new handrail will also be dedicated. Further details nearer the time. Friends of Crediton Church Please contact Kathleen, 777371, (Registered Charity) [email protected] if you Membership: We are delighted to would like to become a member of, the welcome Eve Kingdom as a new member. friends of St Lawrence Chapel. Just £10 Eve is new to the area and we trust that per annum or £15 for a couple. members of the Friends and of the congregation will make her feel at home. AGM: This is going ahead on Tuesday 15th June at 7.30pm in the Boniface Centre. Numbers are limited to 30. The usual cautionary measures will be in place and contact phone numbers or addresses will be asked for. Please look at the weekly notices in the meantime to check for any late changes. Contacts: Marilyn Daw (Secretary): 01363 877238 Mike Beskeen (Membership): [email protected]

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News from around the Benefice Staying Connected, which was Sandford reinforced by readings by some of the with Upton Hellions young people, as well as adults. Happy June! Even though Covid restrictions prevented us from singing, some At the time of writing this piece, we’ve congregation members were seen just heard that things will be opening up gently swaying to the contemporary from 17th May, and, hopefully, from 21st songs. The music was inspirational and June, we’ll be largely out of the woods, upbeat, which added energy and Covid-19-wise, albeit with some rules liveliness to the proceedings. At the end remaining, no doubt. we had a thought-provoking quiz about At St. Swithun’s we’re happy to say that, key words to do with the service’s despite having to say goodbye to Paul message, and everyone was offered a and Tracey, our congregation has chocolate when departing. Perfect! The remained loyal and buoyant, with guest 45 minute communal worship flew by, clergy continuing to ensure that we with people agreeing that the service have inspirational and spiritual was very spiritual and uplifting. worship, usually with 30 or so people We’re so pleased to offer St. Swithun’s attending the regular Sunday services, Family Church to the community, and which is similar to pre Covid times. we hope that you might give us a try. We’re also now having a Family Church Whether you have children or not, service on the first Sunday each month, you’re welcome to join us for this which takes place at 10.00am (rather service on the first Sunday every month than the 9.30 start time for all other for an informal, enjoyable way to Sundays). We hope this is a more connect with God and our community! convenient time for families to join us. Remember, our regular services start at Jean Hope has been working hard with 9.30am, and Family Church starts at Laura Armstrong, Lay Chair of Cadbury 10.00am. The next one is on 6th June. Deanery, who lives in Kennerleigh, and, We hope you’ll join us in the future. together with the help of Jean’s Please feel free to spread the word to daughter, Emily, put together our first your family, friends and neighbours. Family Church service on 9th May. It was most entertaining and worshipful, Linda Bennett-Smith with 28 adults and 10 young people Churchwarden involved. Shobrooke A friendly group of teenagers welcomed Shobrooke Church was re- opened for people when they arrived, and the services on Easter Sunday which was service included joyful music, joyous! Since then we have continued to complemented by YouTube footage on a hold a service on the second and fourth large white screen, creating a lively and Sundays in the month and that will engaging atmosphere. The theme was continue for the time being. On Jesus saying he was the Vine and about Rogation Sunday led by Sandra Collier

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37 of us met in Shobrooke Park with the St Luke’s Posbury kind permission of Clare and Jack At the first Service in May which was Shelley and we enjoyed celebrating the taken by Revd David Francis, we held beautiful countryside which surrounds our Annual Meeting, the committee us and which also reminds us of the role were re-elected en bloc, and the we can all play in looking after creation. attendees heard about plans for this We walked down to the Holy Well which years work to protect and repair the was specially decorated with thanks to stained glass window in the Lindy Toms, our Guardian of the Well. church. The second service in May was We then went into the churchyard and led by Jack Shelley. We are continuing Lesley Browne spoke about the plans to consider fund raising activities for for maintaining our lovely churchyard, the summer as and when Covid before we went into the church for a restrictions allow, but we are planning short service. Throughout we were another litter pick in September in aid delighted by the singing and guitar- of Devon Historic Churches playing of Bec and Steve Gooding, and Trust. Watch out for more information. are so grateful to them, as well as to Geoff Sparling who played the organ for Fiona Mortimer us. Holy Trinity Yeoford Thanks to Sally Foot we now have We are delighted that Cafe Company is Welcome to Shobrooke packs which can opening on 17th May and continuing on be given to newcomers to the village. Monday mornings. We are looking The Foodbank wheelie bin outside the forward to seeing our friends again after Red Lion is being well- used. such a long time. As well as the cafe we Sadly Ron Woodgates, Bill Milford, are hoping to start a lunch club in a few Margaret Saunders and Stevie Fey have weeks. Don’t forget the library now in all died within the last three months the church as we have a good variety of and we send our sympathy to their books to borrow. families and friends and remember Services are still on the 2nd and 4th them in our prayers. Sundays and we are looking forward to On a happier note four weddings are welcoming more people as lockdown planned to take place in our church eases. within the next three months and we I will give an update on the building wish the happy couples every blessing. project next month. The church is still open for private Services for June prayer once a week on Tuesdays from Sunday 11th June 12- 1.00pm. Holy Communion at 9.30am Rosemary Barber Sunday 25th June Churchwarden Family Service at 9.30am Tel: 01363 773419 Carol Price Email: [email protected]  01647 24468

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Life Coming Out of reminder – send us your old passport; Lockdown we’ve received your old passport; we’re processing your application; your Life has certainly feels brighter and application has succeeded; we’re busier as the days lengthen and we enjoy printing your passport; your passport the sunshine while dodging the rain! has been sent to you; sign your new This month, I gave to talk to Sister Act passport as soon as you receive it; we’re about working for 38 years in the sending back your old passport’. I then Department for Work and Pensions and received a text purporting to come from its many predecessors. Looking back, I Royal Mail, wanting me to ‘click here’ to was particularly struck by the prevalence agree to pay £2.99 before they delivered of what were known as ‘common lodging a packet to me that had insufficient houses’ in the 70s and early 80s which postage. After talking to Bill, we decided provided bed & breakfast mostly for it was a scam and deleted the text. But single homeless men, struggling to find because receiving it coincided with accommodation. These have all but expecting my old passport back, I did disappeared now. Bill did some family consider responding. I now see online history research for a couple from Wales that this IS a whole new scam so beware. who couldn’t understand why Exeter City My love of eating out is back on the cards Council had registered the death of the with lunch at the Horner Tea Gardens on person they were seeking information Exmoor with a friend and lunch at the about. We recognised their last address Bridge Cafe , Winsford to come. Bill likes as a common lodging house so were able Dartmoor best but I find it a bit bleak to tell them all about this and how Exeter and prefer the softer landscape of City Council would undoubtedly have Exmoor. Bill’s dream would be to live in a arranged the funeral as well. The house at Belstone on the edge of landlady, Mrs Norah Andrews ran a Dartmoor but handy for Okehampton – number of lodging houses in Alphington I’ve told him he’d be moving there by Road, Exeter including Sydney House himself! Here’s a photo of Leedown Tor which was ultimately pulled down and on Dartmoor: provided the site for the McCarthy & Stone flats in Alphington Road. I realise this is no comfort to anyone who can’t access the internet but I’ve recently renewed both my Blue Badge and my passport online and it was So Simple. Bill took the photo of me at home so I was also spared the excitement of trying to get into a photo booth. It also meant that I didn’t have to pester Matthew with signing the back of a photo. There was I’ve also been going up to Share in the one downside – the Passport Office Square on Fridays as sister Beth and her certainly believe in keeping you husband Jack have been performing – informed of progress and there was a along with other local singers. There’s a barrage of emails. ‘We’ve received your lot of local talent out there! It’s a lovely application; send us your old passport; atmosphere and always enjoyable. To be

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honest, I hadn’t been going as I was the canon fire followed by the single bell worried there wouldn’t be a free table especially poignant. But I have to confess, but that’s not been a problem and as I fell asleep for about 10 minutes during others had told me, it’s a great place to the service and woken by the buglers, see people – and I always spot someone was somewhat perplexed to discover the from church. I met three people early on coffin had disappeared! Catchup revealed a very showery Saturday where the rain what had happened to it. Prince Philip gave a whole new meaning to ‘moist’ was Colonel-in-Chief of the Intelligence chocolate cake and helped cool my Corps and here he is in a photo taken by coffee! my sister Charlie (who served for 22 years in the Int. Corps) at the 75th anniversary Intelligence Corps Day in 2015:

Jack is the administrator at the Crediton Arts Centre which I support as a Friend. I’m surprised when I talk to people that they’ve never been to a performance or event at the Centre and would encourage everyone to give it a go. For the quizzers amongst you, there’s a great quiz every December. There is normally a varied programme but the Centre has been I Zoomed to the U3A meeting to hear all severely impacted (like much of the about Venice and the problems caused by performing arts) by Covid-19. But they severe flooding and huge cruise ships are in rehearsal now for an outdoor and to hear actor/comedian Hugh production of Shakespeare’s ‘The Merry Dennis in conversation with Revd Lucy Wives of Windsor’ with three Winkett. His father was a vicar and later performances in early July in a Bishop so it was interesting to hear Newcombes Meadow. More information about his vicarage childhood. Tickets for and tickets are available on the website - this were sold in aid of the National https://www.creditonartscentre.org Churches Trust, the grant-making body Like many people, I watched HRH the which Holy Trinity Yeoford are applying Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral but always to for a grant towards the cost of their watch such events on the BBC Red proposed kitchen and toilet. I’ve also got Button where there is no commentary. I online tickets to hear Jay Blades of ‘The enjoy hearing all the military band music Repair Shop’ talking as part of the and watching the general moving around Stratford Literary Festival. Online without interruption. The whole event opportunities to ‘attend’ something like and service was very moving – I found this are a benefit of the current situation!

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On TV, the return of ‘The Great British video clip of our hedgehogs scrapping Sewing Bee’ is a delight. ‘Line of Duty’ with each other available to view. Just was a challenge to understanding as phone 01363 772865 to book your usual with all the references to previous evening of spiky fun. With the lighter series that pass me by. I’m not sure I’m evenings, we’ll probably have to suspend convinced that Buckells is ‘the Fourth ‘Hedgehog Watch’ over the summer and Man’. I like snooker but was so restart in the autumn. disappointed after ‘Rocket’ Ronnie Anne Jerman O’Sullivan was knocked out that I didn’t watch it again until the final. And there, I was rooting for Sean Murphy and he got beaten! Finally, I saw a news item on BBC Breakfast about ‘classic’ cars from the 60s and 70s. This certainly sparked Church Governors some memories as when I was 16, I The Governors have recently been able to spent a week travelling around and make the following grants (amongst camping in Yorkshire with my mother, others), from the charities they brother Ian (the driver), and two administer: younger sisters Rose and Charlie (aged 14 and 8) in Ian’s Mini – 99 KOJ. It was £5000 to Age Concern, Crediton (ex Kelly an exciting trip but a tight squeeze in Trust (Crediton)) the car! Ford Cortinas also got a £500 to Age Concern, Crediton (ex mention – I drove Rose’s when learning Charity of B W Cleave) for the second time (having failed 20 £1000 to Crediton Foodbank (ex Charity years earlier) and passed my test 25 of B W Cleave) years ago this month. I always feel that I passed first time really considering the Sandra Thresher enormous gap. I knew that I was Clerk destined to fail on my original test as I mounted the kerb reversing round a corner and was heading for a wall at speed when the examiner jumped on Recipe for the dual controls! June We have hedgehog activity nearly every Potato salad night with about 6 of them constantly coming and going from 9pm. At last, as New potatoes are good as a salad. Covid-19 restrictions relax, we are Boil the potatoes in salted water with offering Hedgehog Watch evenings to 1 mint. Drain, and when cold slice or dice. or 2 people at a time between 9pm and 10pm each evening. Although we can’t Add a generous helping of chopped guarantee their appearance, you’d be chives and finely chopped radishes. unlucky not to see any. Donations Season with freshly ground black invited to raise funds for the Devon pepper and mix with mayonnaise and a Historic Churches Trust where 50% of splash of cider vinegar. the total raised comes back to the PCC. Paul Cleave Tea/coffee and biscuits provided and a

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For All the Saints Levite, of the tribe of Levi, and so Here are this month’s offerings, courtesy charged with Temple duties. I suppose he of Revd Caroline Luff, one of the Exeter was the equivalent of our licensed lay Diocese Mothers’ Union Chaplains:- ministers. So it's remarkable that someone so involved with the Jewish 9 June – St Columba religious system had come over to the Columba was born about about 521 into followers of the New Way. an Irish royal family but preferred the His real name was Joseph, but he'd been religious life. He lived in monasteries given the accolade Barnabas, which under the guidance and instruction of means Son of Encouragement - what a several notable teachers including St. wonderful designation! Being from Finnian. After a battle for which he felt Cyprus, Barnabas had grown up in a some responsibility, that of Cul-drebene, pagan environment, just like Paul, so it's he fled the country with a small group of perhaps not surprising that it was he monks as "a pilgrim for Christ" and who introduced Paul personally to the fetched up on Iona. He founded a Apostles, who were understandably a monastery and became abbot. It was trifle wary of Paul's commitment and from there that missionaries travelled intentions - a real act of faith in God's around Scotland and eventually, via purposes in calling Paul. With that Lindisfarne, brought the faith to England. background too, he was sent to Antioch Columba established links with Pictish to help the Jewish Christians work out kings and chiefs, so had considerable their relationship with those Gentiles influence and is venerated by Scots to who were being converted - and we this day. When failing health precluded know from what had already happened journeys, he transcribed books of the in Jerusalem that the differences in Gospels for the monks to use as they background could cause friction. travelled around. He died on this day in Barnabas accompanied Paul on some of 597. His Collect: his missionary journeys, but eventually Almighty God, who filled the heart of returned to Cyprus, where tradition has Columba with the joy of the Holy Spirit it that he was martyred in the year 61. and with deep love for those in his care: His Collect: may your pilgrim people follow him, Bountiful God, giver of all gifts, who strong in faith, sustained by hope and one poured your Spirit on your servant in the love that binds us to you; through Barnabas and gave him grace to Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is encourage others: help us by his example alive and reigns with you in the unity of to be generous in our judgements and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. unselfish in our service; through Jesus Amen. Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and 11 June – St Barnabus reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. We first meet Barnabas in Acts 4, where we learn that the young Christian Church 16 June – St Richard of Chichester was pro-active in caring for the needs of St. Richard (1197 – 1253) was born near those in distress, so much so that they what is now Droitwich and worked hard were contributing very generously to a with his father, a yeoman farmer, to common pot. Among them was restore the family fortunes. Then he went Barnabas, who sold an estate and "laid up to Oxford and later to Paris and the proceeds at the Apostle's feet". He Bologna, studying ecclesiastical law - apparently came from Cyprus and was a

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another reminder of the international his new-found faith, was marched up the character of learning. He returned to hill and beheaded, becoming the first England in 1235 and became Chancellor known martyr of Britain. We are of Oxford and then to the Archbishop of speaking of a time over 250 years before Canterbury, Edmund of Abingdon. After Columba and nearly 300 years before his appointment as Bishop of Chichester Augustine, both credited with "bringing he devoted himself to his clergy and Christianity to Britain". There is a people - a model bishop. He travelled tradition that the executioner's eyes round the diocese on foot and it became dropped out after striking the fatal blow, known that he was available to any who but that may be medieval sought his ministry. He was particularly embellishment! His Collect concerned for the disadvantaged. He Eternal Father, when the Gospel of Christ encouraged his clergy to study and first came to our land you gloriously insisted on worship being conducted in a confirmed the faith of Alban by making seemly manner and the sacraments him the first to win a martyr's crown: administered with no payment - so we grant that, following his example, in the can see there must have been areas of fellowship of saints we may worship you, Church life in need of reform. He died the living God and give true witness to while on a recruitment campaign in Kent Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord, who is for the Crusades and his remains were alive and reigns with you in the unity of transferred to Chichester on this day in the Holy Spirit, one God now and for ever. 1276. Amen. 22 June – St Alban 29 June – St Peter and St Paul Sometimes referred to as the first British Today we celebrate St. Peter and St. Paul. martyr, St. Alban was presumably an St. Paul has a second Feast Day - 25th Italian as he was part of the Roman January - when we remember his occupying forces, stationed at miraculous Conversion but they are Verulamium, the Roman name for the celebrated together today because it is city, where you can still see stonework believed they were martyred at roughly from their buildings in the green area at the same time in AD 64, both in Rome. As the bottom of the hill on which the a Roman citizen, which he had proudly Cathedral and Abbey stands. asserted, so had been sent to Rome for We are talking of the year 250 and trial, Paul was beheaded. Peter was persecution of the Christians had crucified - reputedly asking to be hung reached this island. Alban courageously upside down, feeling unworthy to share gave shelter in his home to a priest who his Master's image. Here is the Collect for was fleeing for his life. This would imply the Day: to me that he was an officer, because the Almighty God, whose blessed apostles bulk of the troops would have been in Peter and Paul glorified you in their death barracks. He was impressed by the as in their life: grant that your Church, priest's disciplined prayer life and his inspired by their teaching and example, faith, so asked to learn more and came to and made one by your Spirit, may ever believe himself, but had not been stand firm upon the one foundation, Jesus baptised. However, when the arresting Christ, your Son our Lord, who is alive and personnel drew near, he disguised reigns with you in the unity of the Holy himself as the priest and surrendered. Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. Under torture, he refused to renounce

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Exeter Thika Link Report - April 2021 General news The short rains in October were somewhat inadequate and now the long rain season has begun with much prayer that the rain will be sufficient for a good harvest in Thika. Following a very long lockdown all the schools returned in January, but Covid numbers have risen sharply resulting in a new lockdown in five counties. This means no travel between counties, which cuts Thika in half, making life very difficult there at present. Lockdown means a night-time curfew, restrictions on gathering, schools are closed again and church services are on-line only. Medical facilities are over- stretched and the vaccine roll-out is moving slowly. Our prayers are much needed at this time for our friends, who continue to trust God and encourage one another, but life is tough. Thungururu ‘Farming God’s Way’ Project Hot sun in January and February helped with drying the crops produced by the project farmers, with one farmer saying she harvested nearly four times the amount she managed in the past. The farms of the trained farmers had a remarkable difference in crop performance which has attracted many other farmers to join the training scheme. The field officer is now seeking to widen operations and has held community meetings in three new areas where new farmer groups or ‘Freedom from hunger’ groups have now been formed. Thanks to some great donations towards the project, the field officer will continue to be employed with our help for most of the current year. He is encouraging tree planting and planning to involve school children in environmental conservation. Natural pesticides are being made and community saving for water tanks is ongoing.

Maize planted in a piece of land using zai pits as Maize planted in a piece of land (same day) way of moisture and fertility conservation using the normal way.

A farmer tends her tree nursery. In the A farmer happily displays bananas (harvested background are container vegetable gardens for in the dry period) grown after harvesting intensive kitchen gardening water in trenches 16

Umoja Project (Church and Community Mobilisation) Through Umoja bible studies, the participating churches are awakened to see that they can meet their own needs without outside help, and that they can also reach out to their community and enable sustainable development in a great variety of ways. Benson is the Umoja coordinator in Thika Diocese and the project has now been running for nearly six years with remarkable results. Benson says he is well aware that funds mobilization may be difficult this year, with the phasing out of support from Tearfund and the Devon-Thika Umoja Project. They had earlier thought Umoja funding would be integrated in the general diocesan budget (mainly quota allocations across all ). However, the parishes are already struggling to raise their normal allocations. In fact, he says, the bishop has been so gracious to the parishes by reducing the targets due to COVID (which they are still struggling to raise). He planned to have a forum with the Bishop, Administrative Secretary and all in March to deliberate on sustainable Umoja management and resource mobilization and hopes to have fruitful discussions that will speak to the future of Umoja in Thika. Umoja implementation is being moved from local church gatherings to the prayer cell level. Prayer cells are home based fellowships where Christians within one locality from a certain local church meet for deeper prayer and the word during weekdays. Here, there is more time for Umoja bible studies and taking grassroots actions. Benson has identified five key people to train as ‘Trainers of facilitators’ and their training is going ahead. He has held reflection meetings with the facilitators in each of the Umoja parishes and continues to mobilise the ‘Common interest groups’ which are mainly doing poultry keeping. Rev Leah, the children’s minister at the Cathedral, is working on a manual for Umoja with children and youth. The plans to launch Umoja in each of the four Archdeaconries in April may have to be put on hold for the moment, but the aim is for the Bishop to envision each Archdeaconry Council and task them to implement Umoja in all their parishes. This, together with the training of the five ‘Trainers of facilitators’, will make the spread of Umoja possible in many new areas and ultimately right across the Diocese. No stories or pictures for you this time, but we hope you will feel as excited as we are at the strategies Benson is putting in place for the future. The Devon-Thika Umoja Project can be justly proud of what has been achieved in our partnership over the six years it will have been running by the end of 2021, when our commitment to support comes to an end. Of course it would not have been possible without our generous supporters and the working partnership with Tearfund which enabled it all to happen. Meanwhile, for the rest of this year, we need to continue to give as much financial support as we can, to help Thika get over the serious problems caused by the pandemic, so they are in a position to take Umoja forward sustainably into the future. Parish Links Several Devon parishes are communicating with their linked parishes in Thika using Facebook, WhatsApp or other media platforms. These tend to work better than emails but there’s nothing like a phone call or SMS for instant communication. It’s so good to know how to pray and also to be upheld by the prayers of our friends who certainly know the power of prayer and live every day trusting in God’s strength and protection. What about visits? As we said in the last update, with the Lambeth Conference postponed to 2022 we are just wondering whether it might be possible to invite some folk from our linked parishes next year - maybe in September 2022. Of course we have to wait for now to see how things go, but those linked parishes which indicated that they would like to be involved might be able to continue to make preparations and we will get in touch when things become clearer.

For more information see the Overseas Links page on www.exeter.anglican.org or contact Thika Link Secretary [email protected]

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Prayer Diary for June 1st – This is National Volunteers Week. Give 17th – Open Doors – Pray for Christians in India thanks for all the local volunteers and support who are socially boycotted in their villages and not groups that have helped in so many ways during the allowed to get water from the community tap. Ask pandemic. God to provide for these believers, and soften the 2nd – Ask for God’s blessing on our all sidespeople hearts of their neighbours especially at this time and stewards, especially Mandy Tomlinson as Head during Covid-19 pandemic. Sidesperson. 18th – Ask for God’s blessing on your neighbours 3rd – Corpus Christi – Lord Jesus Christ, we thank and all the residents in the street where you live. you for the wonderful sacrament you have given us as 19th – Tomorrow is Father’s Day - pray for fathers the memorial of your passion: grant us so to everywhere, especially those unable to see their reverence the sacred mysteries of your Body and children for whatever reason. Blood, that we may ever know within ourselves and 20th – 3rd after Trinity – The Spirit came as your show forth in our lives, the fruits of your redemption. word foretold, with dreams and signs, visions and Amen. wonders. 4th – Ask for God’s blessing on tomorrow’s St 21st – Pray for continuing progress in dealing with Boniface Devon Open Day, the oganisers, the Covid-19 as hopefully, the legal restrictions are volunteers and those attending. lifted and as we begin to consider welcoming 5th – St Boniface – God our redeemer, who called tourists and visitors once more. your servant Boniface to preach the gospel among 22nd – St Alban – I am called Alban and I worship the German people and to build up your church in and adore the true and living God who created all holiness: grant that we may preserve in our hearts things. that faith which he taught with his words and sealed 23rd – Pray for those attending either of the two with his blood, and profess it in lives dedicated to meetings taking place today – the Mothers’ Union your son Jesus Christ our Lord. and Flower Festival Catering Planning. 6th – 1st after Trinity – The Spirit came and your 24th – Birth of St John the Baptist – Almighty God, Church was born, in wind and fire and words of by whose providence your servant John the Baptist power. was wonderfully born, and sent to prepare the way of 7th – Pray for Lewis Eden as he settles into his new your Son our Saviour by preaching repentance: Make home and prepares to begin his ministry amongst us so to follow his teaching and holy life, that we may us. truly repent according to his preaching; and, 8th – Pray for magistrates and judges and all those following his example, constantly speak the truth, that help administer justice. boldly rebuke vice, and patiently suffer for the truth's 9th – St Columba – Be a bright flame before me, O sake; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen. God; a guiding star above me; a smooth path below 25th – Pray for all the staff and pupils at Sandford me and a kindly shepherd behind me - today, tonight and Yeoford Schools. and forever. 26th – This is Armed Forces Day. Pray for all those 10th – Pray for all the members of Sister Act as they serving in the armed forces at home and abroad and meet this evening. for peace where there is conflict. 11th – St Barnabas – Grant, O God, that we may 27th – 4th after Trinity – The Spirit came and is follow the example of your faithful servant Barnabas, here today, to feed the hearts of a world that hungers. who, seeking not his own renown but the well­being 28th – Pray for all who feel lonely and isolated. of your Church, gave generously of his life and 29th – St Peter and St Paul – Almighty God, grant substance for the relief of the poor and the spread of that your Church, instructed by the teaching and the Gospel. example of St Peter and St Paul and knit together in 12th – Give thanks for the wisdom and quiet unity by your Spirit, may ever stand firm upon the reassurance of Queen Elizabeth II on her official one foundation, which is Jesus Christ our Lord. birthday 30th – Prayer of the Month 13th – 2nd after Trinity – The Spirit came blowing Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all fear aside, and in its place weak hearts were be holy; stronger. Act in me, O Holy Spirit that my works, too, may be 14th – Pray for members and supporters of our holy; local badminton, squash, swimming and cricket Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit that I love but what is clubs. holy; 15th – Remember tomorrow’s meeting of Crediton Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit to defend that is holy; PCC and pray for all its members. Guard me then, O Holy Spirit that I always may be 16th – Richard of Chichester – Day by day, dear holy. Lord, of these three things I pray: to see thee more St. Augustine of Hippo (AD 354-430) clearly, love thee more dearly, follow thee more nearly, day by day. All the Sunday prayers courtesy of [email protected] 18

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and hearing aid, not to mention a Choir Notes microphone that persistently jumped out of its holder with the alacrity of a gazelle Maintaining choral support for the who had just spied a lion, proved to be a weekly Sunday Worship has remained bit tricky! But... having heard the the choir’s primary task, despite the playback we were more than just pandemic’s consistent efforts to disable passable, albeit I attribute that success this! Each week, Acting Director of solely to my peers John and Paul, Music Richard Stephens has put on call particularly Paul who sang a masterful a duet, trio or quartet of choristers for a solo verse for the anthem. It proved to be Friday evening practice and to sing for better second time round – for the record the Sunday Services and other mid those of us on duty cover both the week commitments, including 9.30am and 11am services complete with Ascension Day. He has taken care to two sermons and sets of prayers – I do spread the load fairly and just about hope the Almighty has taken notice of everyone has taken part or will take this! part at some time or another. Things don’t always go to plan – my good lady I’m writing these lines on a very wet wife Jenny found herself singing solo Sunday afternoon, having just witnessed when the other three microphones our oldest and most senior member, Jane failed, something she tends to avoid Jewitt, along with fellow altos Sandra almost as much as me! Herein lays the Thresher, Marianne Connors, and positive side in that singing in such soprano Sarah Tiley, take their turn for small groups leaves little room for error this morning’s services. I must emphasize and (most of us...) gain considerable to the readership to appreciate that confidence having been pleasantly singing hymns, especially well known surprised when the live streaming is hymns almost universally in unison is not played back. I do not count myself an easy task for an alto or for that matter, amongst this advanced set! Having said a bass! Apart from holding the notes, that, I received an electrifying (Jenny there is a huge temptation to lapse into called it ‘electrocuting!’) phone call mid- the bottom line! At least Richard had not week from Richard asking me to attend thrown in any Top Cs, but I have to a practice on the coming Friday evening commend this morning’s quartet for their with my fellow basses John Wakefield faultless singing whilst maintaining the and Paul Evans. Well... you will have melody line on two of the best known heard of the ‘three tenors’ – now you harmony hymns in the book. will not have heard of the ‘three basses’! So, albeit more like a winters day outside, Between the three of us we must have we move into the English summer and some 200 years of knowing the hymn hopefully a less restrictive scenario in life. book rote and Richard bless him, still The choir has laboured on extremely well managed to find one we have not sung during the repeated lockdowns and there before! For good measure he also will be much rebuilding to do come decided to rewrite the music for the autumn, especially among the trebles. But anthem ‘Ubi Caritas’ into plainsong, I am glad to say that the membership has assuring us that this would be much not dwindled and we should hopefully all easier. This might be so, but as I have be able to sing all together in the not too said – things don’t always go to plan! distant future. Perhaps Parry’s ‘I was Singing a new piece whilst trying to Glad’ would be a good starter! marry up a mask, together with glasses Philip Stallard

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Holy Cross Treasure Hunt ‘Hearts and More Hearts’ display made by Report that was in the Crediton Courier the church’s junior choristers; it was also the ‘Good Friday’ station for CTiC’s Easter Congratulations to Glen Chudley and Nell trail. Watch out for more information Hodgson who were the joint winners of shortly on how it will feature in the St the Holy Cross Church’s post-Easter Boniface Day celebration on 5 June! “Treasure Hunt” competition. This was based on identifying various churchyard locations photographed from unusual angles, finding the appropriate letter matching the clue for each location, and then solving the resulting anagram. Alcoholics Anonymous On 12th April local AA members gave a presentation (on Zoom) to local churches on how AA works and how to signpost individuals to AA if necessary. This was followed by 3 recovering alcoholics sharing their stories of recovery through AA and one Al-Anon member (the organization for families of alcoholics) sharing her experience. Twelve people attended from local churches and from churches in Exeter. The session was Glen and Nell receiving their prizes from Matthew followed by questions and answers. Glen, who describes himself as a keen AA and Al Anon meetings have carried on England cricket fan, is a former pupil of throughout lockdown both through Zoom QE College. He is looking forward to using and in person, both in Exeter and his share of the prize - a Crediton Crediton. The Tuesday AA Crediton Community Bookshop token - on a meeting is hoping to become “live” once history book, while Nell’s active interest more when a suitable venue is found. in drama may influence her choice. Posters and contact numbers have been sent to the Church – this includes the Revd Matthew Tregenza, Rector, said national and local helpline numbers. “Following the contemplative pre-Easter town trail devised by CTiC, we wanted The local helpline (telephone number something a bit different but 01752) is open 365 days a year and the complementary, and which would appeal National number is free phone 0800 917 to all ages. We know lots of people had 7650. fun attempting it but congratulations to Local meetings and whether they are live Glen and Nell for correctly solving our or on Zoom can be accessed on cryptic challenge.” www.devonaa.org.uk. Holy Cross’s churchyard is a much loved Further information can obtained from community resource which has had some Jennie Ford, Health Liaison Officer more creative uses because of the Central Devon, by email at constraints on indoor events during the [email protected] or by telephone pandemic. Before Easter it hosted the 07967 121274

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[email protected] 01803 843452 for details.  Saturday 18th September – Celebration of 150 years of Melanesian At our April meeting, Ann Leigh spoke Mission in Cathedral - Archbishop about ‘Behind the Scenes at Justin Welby will be preaching. Watch Oberammergau’ which gave a different this space! perspective on attending from the point of view of a party organiser. I’m sure Midday Prayers – members of the MU much of what she said would have who don't have access to the internet at resonated with Ted Staite and John home can hear our MU midday prayers Wakefield who arranged a Parish trip to thanks to the Church of England's Daily see the Passion Play. At our May meeting, Hope line. Just call 0800 804 8044 from a we welcomed Anna Venables who spoke UK mobile or landline and press option 4, about the Tree of Life and its many then option 8. representations throughout time and Anne Jerman across cultures – from the Egyptians to the Victorians and beyond. Not surprisingly, St Boniface got a mention! Our next meeting is on Wednesday 23rd June – a little later in the month than Tours of the Churchyard normal - when Keith Barker will speak about the Buller Memorial. I’m hopeful Later this year in July, August and that the meeting can be held in person at September Bill Jerman will be offering the Boniface Centre following the further tours of the Holy Cross churchyard with lifting of restrictions under the donations invited in support of the Devon Government roadmap. We have also been Historic Churches Trust. Tours will need able to draw up a programme until the to be pre-booked and groups of up to four end of the year. I’m aware I don’t mention in number can be accommodated but it this often enough but anyone interested should be noted that the tours are in the Mothers’ Union – both locally and unsuitable for those with limited nationally – who might be interested in mobility. joining only has to speak to me. Bill is planning to produce a digital In other news:- version of the tour. The tour will cover lost buildings, paths, trees, walls, gates  Connected – the first edition of the and railings, and some of the more new membership magazine interesting individual and family burials. ‘Connected’ has been received by the These include former clergy, a well members. Any feedback on format, known Dartmoor writer, war graves, a style or content can be given to me to victim of a submarine disaster, the pass on; partners of Dart and Francis, former  Monday 13th – Thursday 16th organists, a Victorian antiquarian and September – Diocesan MU Retreat – those associated with Winswood House subject to potential Covid restrictions, from around 1800 through to 1930. this will take place at Millhouse Anyone wishing to book a tour or starting on Monday afternoon through wanting further information should until Thursday morning. please contact Bill on 01363 772865. Please contact Ruth Collop 22

From the Archives 90 years ago - June 1931 From the Cadbury Deanery Magazine: Crediton – the work associated with the office of Rural Dean seems to be growing in scope and importance and makes considerable demand upon the Rural Dean’s time and services (Ed – no change there then!). The opening of the Playing Field was great day for Crediton and we are grateful to our Town Council for their foresight and energy in effecting this happy result. It will prove a great blessing to us in every way (Ed – further research reveals this was Newcombes Meadow). Please keep June 3rd free for the Fete in the Vicarage Garden. A very attractive programme has been drawn up: we promise you enjoyment. Anything over £60 will be allocated to the Electric Lighting Fund. It does not need a great deal of imagination to realise that the installation of electric light will add considerably to the beauty of our splendid Church. Sandford-Hellions – the Chancel and Nave roofs have been very carefully and effectively set right by Mr. Albert Hatten and his assistant, and a very long-standing leakage appears to be quite corrected. Shobrooke – the Parochial Council have decided to do some very necessary work on the outside of the church. Painting iron work, cleaning and renovating the lych gate and other things. There are many things waiting, but money is need. The Council will gratefully receive donations large or small from those who love their Church.

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Feedback from the Crediton Parochial and prayerfully at how to move forward. Church Council Meeting on 12 May 2021 This was not just as a parish but also as a Elections and Co-options resourcing unit for the Creedy Ministry  Secretary – Anne Jerman was proposed Hub. He proposed a PCC Away Day at Lee (Penny Little), seconded (Glenda Hills) Abbey and would begin by gathering a and all agreed to elect as Secretary. small group together to plan for this.  Treasurer – Glenda Hills was proposed Holy Trinity Yeoford – the application for (Matthew Tregenza), seconded (Mike a grant from the National Churches Trust May) and all agreed to co-option to PCC was being made and their permission had and election as Treasurer. been obtained for the first trench to be dug.  Co-option – Ernie Heard was proposed Normally, no work could be done before an (Peter Brewer), seconded (Matthew application was decided but this had been Tregenza) and all agreed to co-option as necessary to prevent the planning Governors’ Representative and Health & permission from lapsing. There had been Safety Representative. prayers and photos at the trench digging.  Sidespeople – these were elected en Services were again being held in church bloc. There were thanks recorded to Ted and the Monday cafe would reopen on 17 Staite and Enid Clifton who were May. stepping down after many years of St Lawrence – recent services at the chapel valued service and to Steve and Sandra had been fully booked. The 100th Collier, Antonia Tregenza, Helen Tuffin anniversary of its return to use as a chapel and Eileen Brassington who had helped would be celebrated with an open with stewarding needed as a result of afternoon on 18 August with the patronal Covid-19. festival on 8 September. There was a Membership of PCC Sub-Committees – the proposed visit of U3A members and there list of the current sub-committee member did seem to be renewed interest in the had been issued prior to the meeting. The chapel. PCC membership was revised and Anne St Luke’s Posbury – the church had would write to the current congregation reopened for services with Communion by members to see if they wished to continue Extension at Easter. There was a lovely and also appeal in the Parish Magazine for Paschal candle and new candlestick with anyone interested in joining the Worship, the church looking spick and span. Ministry, Missions & Charities or Restoration Committees. Finance Report – there was £7853.95 in the current account. Glenda had claimed Lewis Eden, Assistant Curate – Lewis and received £890 under the Gift Aid Small would move into Beech Park on 5 June, be Donations Scheme (GASDS) which would licensed as a Lay Worker on 1 July and normally be sent to the Diocese towards ordained as Deacon at 3pm on 11 Common Fund. She was holding the money September. Volunteers were kindly looking for now because cashflow was tight and after the garden until Lewis’ arrival. Lewis there were the Standing Orders and would be based at Holy Cross and there Diocesan Fees to be paid. Plate collections were plenty of opportunities for mission remained low but there would be income and ministry. from wedding fees this year. Emerging from the Covid-19 Pandemic – Creedy Ministry Hub – progress continued Matthew felt strongly that the Holy Spirit to be made with the clergy staffing for the was stirring us up, not to just return to Hub and the Netherexe Mission how we were before but to look seriously Community. Revd Robert Gordon’s

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licensing was in July at either Morchard Bishop or Colebrooke. There would be two adverts in July for Netherexe and North Creedy East with interviews in September. Safeguarding – Anne had drawn up a revised Equal Opportunities (Recruitment) Policy which reflected the current Diocesan policy. It was agreed to adopt the revised policy which would now be signed and displayed. Health and Safety – Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service had visited the church to confirm and update the information they held about access and the layout of the church, the salvage list and the key holders. St Boniface Devon Day – this would take place from 2pm to 5pm on Saturday 5 June to honour St Boniface. There were a variety of activities in the church (live music, bric- a-brac, church shop, plant sale, treasure trail) and churchyard (treasure trail and nature count) with Devon cream teas and cakes served in the Boniface Centre throughout the afternoon. Funds raised would to the PCC. There would a shorter, simpler Flower Festival in July. C of E Digital Labs Conference – the next online conference in June would look at questions such as:-  How does digital fit into the mission of our church?  What are sustainable strategies for onsite and online worship?  As a small church, how can I use my time and money most effectively?  How can digital help us to be more inclusive?  How can we use digital to evangelise to our local community? Anyone else interested was invited to register for the event.

For any further information on any of these subjects, contact Anne Jerman, PCC Secretary on 01363 772865 or email: [email protected].

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2021 Finances discussion at  planned giving, gift aided wherever the Crediton Annual possible, was very important; Parochial Church Meeting  it was dangerous to rely on one-off donations; (APCM)  people would be encouraged if they As promised, this is some feedback on knew and understood better how the discussion at the APCM about the their giving was used. PCC finances in 2021. It began by looking back at 2020. During 2020, the The Church of England Giving Team PCC was very grateful for some were currently running a whole series generous one-off donations; there had of webinars on ‘Generosity’ (not just been savings of around £11,000 from financial) which contained much useful lower utility bills, reduced staff costs and information on the subject. How and lower Rector’s expenses during the this might all be used will be considered church closure but this had been later in the year. In the meantime, a matched by loss of income from fund- common theme was that many givers raising, church hire, wedding fees and don’t recall being thanked very often for other miscellaneous income. The their giving. The PCC are very grateful challenge for 2021 was that there would for the continued, wonderful level of not be the same level of savings but giving over the years which has been opportunities for fund-raising were maintained throughout the pandemic. likely to remain limited for much of the year. The following points were made THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR during discussions:- GIVING TO SUPPORT THE MISSION AND MINISTRY OF  our average income was £10,100pcm and our average expenditure CREDITON PARISH CHURCH £10,500pcm. But there were fluctuations and variations each month;  there had been a 10% shortfall in the Common Fund paid for 2020 and this was likely to be repeated in 2021;  based on 145 participants (this was the number of church members used by the Diocese to calculate our Common Fund), if each person could give £15 per week, we would be in a much more comfortable position. But no-one should give more than they could afford and it was recognised that many people were already giving all they could;

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Rhymes and Things by Bert Jewell June In the garden at night, when it’s quiet and dark, The slugs and the snails all leaving their mark As they glide to the banquet of fresh green shoots, While the vine weevils gorge on the underground roots. And the mole on the lookout for a worm or two, Leaving hills here and there as it tunnels on through The soil that lies beneath your well kept lawn, I’ll get that blighter, I hear you warn. As the runner beans race to the top of their canes, Helped on by the occasional shower of rain, The blackfly appear, they are holding on tight, Did they really turn up under cover of night? Now the carrots, they’re looking the best they have been, With the leaves all ferny, healthy and green, But is there carrot fly below? Will the crop be a waste Or will they leave just a few, at least for a taste. So, are we off to the shops to see what they sell To control these pests that we know so well Or give nature a hand in helping us grow The plants that we love, the seeds that we sow. Things to do in the June garden Firstly, I must tell you that we have permission to extend the bungalow. The plans were passed in mid May and maybe, just maybe by the time you read this magazine we will have started knocking down the old flat roofed kitchen. We have to get the gas and electric meters moved as well, that could take time, fingers crossed all will go well. Now my poem this month is based on pests in the garden, and for me slugs and snails have to come top of the list. This is the time of year when they do the most damage, on freshly planted bedding, new shoots on perennials like Hostas for example. I find the best way to grow Hostas is in containers. A nice sized pot stood on feet to keep the bottom off the ground with a ring of Vaseline smeared around the bottom 2”, should keep the plants slug free. There are also nematodes available that will control slugs in and on the soil, but they are not so effective against snails. There is also a nematode for vine weevil, the adult is a small dark brown beetle with a Y-shaped nose, responsible for nibbling notches out of leaf edges. If you see one of these beetles you can be sure that somewhere in the garden you will have the larvae. The larvae are white, maybe with a light brown head and are always in the shape of a C. They eat the roots of many plants, including Polyanthus, Heuchera and the corms of Begonias and Cyclamen.

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If you grow any sort of bean, the chances are they will attract blackfly, one of the many aphids. These can be dealt with on runner beans by gently running your finger and thumb along the affected stem. It is usually the growing tip on broad beans that is affected, so these can be pinched out. I have been asked if ants kill aphids, the answer is no, they actually farm them. Aphid droppings are sweet (honeydew). A lot of people no longer grow carrots because of carrot fly, but there are things that can be done to help keep the roots clear. I grow either Risistafly or Flyaway and I start them off in toilet roll centres, three seeds per centre, this makes thinning easy. The crushing of the leaves is what attracts the fly. As soon as the seeds germinate I remove the two weakest plants and plant the remaining one, centre and all in the garden. Because the flies only fly about 2’ above the ground, a barrier of fleece could be fixed around the carrot bed. Try to encourage wildlife into the garden, like hedgehogs, blue tits, robins and ladybirds. These all help to control pests in and around plants. Plant of the month “Crataegus Prunifolia” One of the Hawthorn family, with showy white flowers in spring followed by large red berries, it also has very good autumn colour. It will grow in most soil and weather conditions. Grows to between 15’ and 25’ depending on conditions. Enjoy your gardening

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Diocesan Synod Elections meetings over 3 years is a serious one and electoral candidates need to be clear that 2021 they can give sufficient priority to this role Cadbury Deanery is allocated places for 2 lay throughout their term of office. representatives on the Diocesan Synod. A lay person is qualified for election as a member Members occupy a pivotal role not only in of the diocesan synod (by the house of laity taking decisions but also in ensuring good of a deanery synod) if the person is an actual quality communication throughout the communicant aged 16 or over whose name Diocese. They are also members (but not is on the roll of a parish in the deanery. So trustees or directors) of the Diocesan Board anyone who meets this criteria can be of Finance and financial business necessarily nominated. People often believe you have to takes up a proportion of Synod’s time. be on the PCC or Deanery Synod to be Members’ responsibilities include: nominated – this is not the case but anyone  Keeping their Deanery Synod informed of elected to Diocesan Synod becomes an Ex diocesan policies, discussions and Officio member of their PCC and the Deanery decisions. Synod. If you are considering standing for election, as well as the information below,  Keeping themselves informed, in you might also want to speak to the current particular through their Deanery Synod, of representatives, Jack Shelley and Pamela opinions and events in parishes. Larcombe. The election takes place during  Discussing matters raised by Deanery June and July when nomination forms will be Synods and Parochial Church Councils. made available. The proposer and seconder For their period of office, members of must be a lay member of Deanery Synod – Diocesan Synod are also ex officio members currently Amy Bright, Anne Jerman, Carol of their Deanery Synod and PCC, which Price and Jack Shelley in Crediton; Jean Hope implies a further commitment of time above and Carole Web in Sandford; and Rosemary and beyond the meetings of Diocesan Synod Barber and Lesley Browne in Shobrooke. itself. They also become eligible for election What do members of Diocesan Synod do? to a range of other bodies (such as the Bishop’s Diocesan Council) which assist in Diocesan Synod meets to: the running of the Diocese.  Consider matters concerning the Church Within meetings, the Synod benefits from of England and make provision for these having as members those people who matters in relation to the Diocese of consider issues prayerfully, listen to others Exeter. attentively, are willing to speak clearly and  Consider and express an opinion on succinctly and are able to make decisions for matters of religious or public interest and the good of the Diocese as a whole. Tact and on any matters referred to it by General a sense of humour also help! Synod. New members are offered the possibility of  Advise the Diocesan Bishop on matters on having a mentor (an experienced member of which he may choose to consult. the Synod from within their own House) Meetings normally happen on two Saturdays who can offer support on how to be an per year (although members could choose to effective participant in the workings of meet more often); the first in March or April Diocesan Synod. and the second in mid-October. The Synod’s For further information, you can also usual venue is the Council Chamber of contact: The Synod Office, The Old Deanery, County Hall, Exeter, although this may alter The Cloisters, Exeter EX1 1HS, e-mail: for particular reasons from time to time. [email protected], tel: 01392 Although not overly burdensome, the 294931. commitment to prepare for and attend 6

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Crediton Arts Centre presents The Merry Wives of Windsor The rogue knight Falstaff is in love…with two women! Or is he? Is he just, once again, looking out for the main chance, on the make, tricking and conning his way to someone else’s wealth and property? Shakespeare’s only comedy set in England, this clever and funny play is one of his cleverest, with elements of farce, intrigue, revenge, fairy magic and a hint of tragic sentimentalism mixed in. The characters are amongst the best-drawn in the canon - from Falstaff’s lazy rapscallion followers Bardolph, Nym and Pistol to Sir John Falstaff, himself - the con-man conned, the hunter turned prey, his come-uppance all the sweeter for his knavish arrogance. Crediton Arts Centre present their adaptation for green spaces in rural areas, set in the 1920s with an Art Deco set and period costume and music, with a cast of fifteen plus two musicians. Audience are encouraged to bring picnic blankets (and picnics), folding chairs etc. Saturday 26 June 4pm Jack’s Acre, Cheriton Fitzpaine Sunday 27 June 3pm Sandford Millennium Green Friday 2 July 7pm Newcombe’s Meadow, Crediton Saturday 3 July 4pm Newcombe’s Meadow, Crediton Sunday 4 July 2.30pm Newcombe’s Meadow, Crediton Saturday 10 July 3pm Newton St Cyres Arboretum Sunday 11 July 3pm St Andrews Church, Colebrook Tickets at £5 each (Children under 12 free) available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/creditonartscentre

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Congregation Members Invited to Join PCC Sub-Committees The PCC has a number of sub-committees operating in several areas of church life. We like to include members of the congregation on some of these committees and would be delighted to hear from you would like to join any one the following sub-committees and get involved. Here are some details of their responsibilities:- Worship Committee (meets three times a year)  Advise and organise the programme of services  Review participation of lay people in worship  Review conduct of worship  Review requirements for the printing of all service books Ministry Committee (meets three times a year)  Review ministerial needs at the church  Promote appropriate lay involvement in ministry  Plan and review courses, groups and training  Work in liaison with Christians Together in Crediton and Cadbury Deanery as necessary Mission and Charities Committee (meets three times a year)  Promote, look at and assist with the church’s mission and charity work  Recommends charities for support to the PCC  Maintains the Mission & Charities noticeboard  Corresponds with Link Parish of Makongeni Housekeeping Committee  Look at ways of making the church a more comfortable and better-presented building  Arrange working parties for small jobs and special requirements  Keeps the church tidy  Be responsible for church health and safety (working with Governor’s Representative)  Make any proposals for church reordering  Awareness of Equality Act 2010 Restoration Committee  Identify, prioritise and organise work needed to maintain the church, churchyard and car park  Help raise the funds needed for this work – mainly through the June and Christmas Festivals  Responsible for the church shop The Restoration Committee is a sub-committee of the Governors, made up of Governors, PCC members and congregation members. It is in particular need of additional members who do need to be ’doers’ but as with lots of things in life, many hands make light work. And it is good for any committee to have new people with fresh ideas and input. If you would like any more information, Anne Jerman can put you in touch with an existing committee member. We do understand that people are busy but if you are interested in joining one of these committees, please let Anne Jerman know on 01363 772865 or email: [email protected].

32 Crediton Parish Church Music Endowment Fund Registered Charity 1136033 President : The We aim to raise a capital sum of at least £250,000. The interest from this sum will be used in the following ways: To help pay for existing or newly created choral and organ scholarships To provide financial assistance to children in the choir or music groups to pay for instrumental tuition To supplement Parochial Church Council expenditure on music staff salaries To enhance singing tuition within the choir We hope not only to maintain our standards but to broaden our musical range and outreach How You Can Help: By making a one off donation or a regular direct debit gift, by making a donation under the Gift Aid scheme or becoming a Patron or Supporter

The Choir of Crediton Parish Church

Due to Covid-19 restrictions there are currently three choir practices for three different groups - please contact Richard Stephens for details.

Further information available from the Acting Director of Music

Richard Stephens Ever thought of joining a tradition dating back 400 years?  01363 775170  [email protected] Why not become a bellringer and join the ultimate team activity? or visit the choir section of the Crediton Parish Church website If you are aged ten or over and would www.creditonparishchurch.org.uk be interested in learning here at HOLY CROSS CREDITON we would very much like to hear from you. For a no obligation enquiry please contact the Tower Captain Geoff Sparling  01363 776681  [email protected] Practice Night Tuesday 7.30 – 9pm at Crediton Boniface Centre Church Lane, Crediton A flexible, multi-purpose hall suitable for 10 – 200 people Ideal for: Business meetings Fund raising events Private functions Training seminars Well equipped kitchen Hearing loop/public address system Level access Free parking within 100 metres Premises licence for public entertainment and sale of alcohol For bookings please contact: Robin Lavery  01363 772536 email: [email protected]

THE FRIENDS OF CREDITON PARISH CHURCH President: The Bishop of Crediton Registered Charity no: 268236 Founded in May 1937 Have you ever considered becoming a ’Friend’ to help secure the future of our magnificent church? You can become a ‘Friend’ from as little as £5 per annum or you can become a ‘Life Member’ for a one-off payment of £125. Should you be a UK taxpayer we would encourage you to Gift Aid your contribution. For further information why not pick up a booklet at the church or have a look at the ‘Friends’ section at www.creditonparishchurch.org.uk Marilyn Daw (Secretary: 01363 877238) Mike Beskeen (Treasurer/Membership:

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