Mawrth / March 2007 Lord Carey delivers the last J C Jones Lecture

HIS year’s lecture, given by more who think faith has no link love with God who will do his work. Partly by “acting with the saints”: TLord Carey of Clifton, was the with real life. What is our message In the midst of our secular in our diocese we have a great last in a series running for 50 years to those who have no time for society we see the growth of Islam heritage of holy men and women to commemorate Bishop J C Jones. Christianity? Lord Carey suggested and Lord Carey showed us the who transformed this nation. We Originally from Ferryside, John that our response should have two importance of valuing our Muslim also need to engage with our culture Jones was Principal of Bishop strands. Firstly, an intellectual neighbours. It is easy to stigmatise and be active in new developments Tucker Theological College in underpinning of our faith and other faiths but this is not the way in mission and evangelism – Uganda, later becoming Bishop of message. Modern preaching is to truly communicate the gospel. Venturing in Mission! Then there is Bangor. becoming experiential and im- Rather, we need to honour all that a need for courageous leadership: Lord Carey reminded us how pressionistic and fails to address the is good in Islam while remaining “only wounded hands can bless.” J C Jones faced tensions between mind. Preaching should be cutting true to our own principles, “The Kingdom of God is greater cultures in Uganda during the time edge and grapple with the questions especially the uniqueness of Christ. than the Church and faithful, loyal of the East African Revival: for of belief in the modern world, with True dialogue will lead to com- and unswerving commitment to the Christians today the big challenges the faith being commended rather munication and understanding and task of living and proclaiming the are those of secularism and the than taken for granted. need not mean backing down on good news of Jesus Christ will growth of Islam. Then we need to deepen our life important aspects of our faith. ensure that the church of St David There are some people in of prayer. Vigorous churches will be How can we strengthen the will not be without its witnesses and Lord Carey: modern Britain who actively deny those firmly anchored in the faith of Church in Wales to continue its saints.”– Ian Aveson Two Cultures One Mission the existence of God: there are many the church – it is people who are in mission with confidence and hope? MajorMajorMajor EventEventEvent ininin 2008?2008?2008? BishopBishop says:says: “Catalyst”“Catalyst” isis Coming!Coming!

HE Diocese is gearing up for schools will be held at the event. Ta major event next year for It is hoped this will attract entrants thousands of people. The bishop from all church schools as well as hopes that in excess of five others. A massive choir, drawn thousand, and hopefully even from all the diocese’s church more, will come for the day to the choirs will practise beforehand on Carmarthen Showground. A plan- a local level before leading ning group has already met on a worship at the end of the day. couple of occasions under the There will be, in addition, a wide chairmanship of the archdeacon of range of worship workshops and St Davids and has set out an experiences drawing on a wide ambitious programme. Provision- range of traditions. The day will ally entitled “Catalyst” (a name have a resource and informa-tion that implies something that helps function with a wide variety of things to change), the event should stall holders expected. inform, inspire and resource It will also give opportunity for mission and growth. It should also diocesan engagement with celebrate what is emerging from pressing social and political issues. the Venturing in Mission direction. A “Question Time” panel will The exact shape of the day will address questions posed by the depend on budgetary constraints, audience. There will be a but it is hoped to include a number “soapbox” feature for people to put of well-known speakers and con- a particular point of view about an tributors on a wide range of issue. There will also be seminars The Dean places Canon Jo Penberthy, the diocese’s first female Residentiary Canon, in subjects that are of interest to on subjects as diverse as getting her stall – see page 10 church members and would-be grants for building work and how members. to run a midweek children’s club week: “I look forward to seeing a hope it will become a valued part 2008 but as bishop Carl says, There will be a range of activ- or a Menter course. A cinema area showcase for the diocese as well of church life here too. . . .” If the “This is a bit of an act of faith. ities during the day for all the will show DVD’s, including those as something that will inspire us event is successful the hope is that First we need to see what we can family, with the possibility of a currently in production from the to break new ground. Churches in it may be repeated at five or six afford, but my hope is to see follow-on event for youth. The final diocese. Germany have long recognised the year intervals. The showground is thousands of people at a stages of a quiz competition for Bishop Carl Cooper said this importance of this kind of event. I provisionally booked for the 5 July worthwhile event on that day.” St Davids declared Fairtrade Diocese – page 2 Am ddim Free 2 Pobl Dewi, March 2007 St Davids gains LittleLittle lovelove lostlost atat ‘Fairtrade Diocese’ status! VVValentine’alentine’alentine’ss DDDay meetingmeetingay by Vic Millgate

VER 60% of the Churches of this diocese have now pledged to HE recent meeting of the by Siôn Brynach religious correspondent of The Osupport and promote the use and sale of Fairtrade products and to TPrimates of the Anglican Times, Ruth Gledhill, notes, the serve only Fairtrade tea and coffee at their meetings and events. Communion held in Tanzania (14 conservatives and liberals will be proposed Covenant’s “wording St Davids Diocese has now been awarded a Fairtrade Diocese Certifi- and 19 of February) may have been able to stay within the same throughout is so general as to make cate by the Fairtrade Foundation. the toughest yet in view of the time Church”. a problem for which discipline is Our diocesan campaign began of the final press conference – 11pm. The meeting began contro- deemed necessary to be almost after a talk given by Ian and Amelia As Archbishop Rowan Williams versially with the Primates of the impossible to define.” Gardener to the Diocesan Council noted in a recent article (Daily Global South arriving four days early Nonetheless, even those for Social Responsibility about the Telegraph 23 February) “In some to discuss their strategy with one Instruments of Communion seem principles of Fairtrade and Trade people’s eyes keeping the Anglican Archbishop reported to have boasted somewhat shaky. When asked at the Justice. Therefore, it was very fit- Communion together as a “This isn’t an alternative closing press conference whether ting that Amelia Gardener was able worldwide institution looks like headquarters. It is the head- ECUSA’s House of Bishops could to be in the cathedral on 1 March, prolonging the life of a quarters”. expect an invitation to Lambeth St Davids Day, when the Fairtrade dysfunctional or abusive marriage; However, while the outcome is 2008, Archbishop Rowan could only status of the diocese was announced isn’t it more honest and humane to depicted by many as having been bad confirm this was “under to the media. head for the divorce courts? Why news for liberal Anglicans, the consideration . . . that’ll have to be During the evening, at the should we be mortgaged to other Global South’s Primates did not have discussed.” St.Davids Day Choral Eucharist, people’s prejudices – if we’re liberal it all their own way – their demands A key factor in that decision will Bishop Carl Cooper received the – or other people’s irresponsibility that the Presiding Bishop of the be the response of the House of Fairtrade Foundation’s official cer- – if we’re traditionalist?”. Episcopal Church (ECUSA) be Bishops of the Episcopal Church to tificate from Ann Dixon, who has Despite Archbishop Rowan’s barred being rejected, and Katharine the Primates’ latest demands – that been a tireless worker for Fairtrade hope, that “there might be a Jefferts Schori in fact being elected ECUSA undertakes not to consecrate for many years. worldwide Christian Church that to the influential Standing another bishop living in an active Fairtrade has become a natural promoting an initiative to help the could balance unity and consent” Committee of the Primates meeting. homosexual partnership nor approve part of Christian witness for towns, cities and counties of Wales the Church Times’ report of the The Primates spent much of their the blessing of same-sex unions. congregations throughout this to gain Fairtrade status. meeting notes that “Speculation meeting considering a report from They have until the end of September diocese. Becoming a Fairtrade Could your local Church become about the future of Anglicanism is the Covenant Design Group. It to give those undertakings – no Church is a practical way of involved in this wider movement as nowhere near ended. The wording recommends that those churches means a foregone conclusion. helping to ensure that the people part of your ongoing Fairtrade of the communiqué, together with who “choose not to fulfil the Divorce may have been averted at we depend on to provide for our witness? the publication of a draft covenant substance of the covenant as Dar es Salaam. Whether anything daily needs receive a fair reward If yours is one of the growing on which the Anglican Communion understood by the Councils of the close to ‘bonds of affection’ can be for their labours. The tea and coffee number of Fairtrade Churches please might one day be structured, has left Instruments of Communion” be rekindled within the Anglican we serve at our church events let us know what you are doing to alive the question of whether the disciplined. However, as the Communion remains to be seen. should be an outward sign of our promote Fairtrade in your area. concern to see fair play for farmers Do you have a registered and producers everywhere. Fairtrader in your congregation? Ynghyd ym Mhrydain ac A great range of Fairtrade goods If not, have you considered Yr Wythynos Weddi dros Iwerddon (CTBI) yn cyhoeddi is available at many different outlets becoming one? Any profits could llyfryn bach ar gyfer yr Wythnos and, wherever we buy, the Fairtrade then help your church. Weddi. Mae’n adnodd i ddal mark tells us that the grower or Further information & news: Undod Cristnogol – gafael ynddi. Codir tâl o ryw 60c producer has received a fair price. Fairtrade Foundation am bob copi, ond gyda threfn The Fairtrade movement is www.fairtrade.org.uk gwerth ei chadw? gwasanaeth ar gyfer bob dydd growing all the time. The Fairtrade Traidcraft plc www.traidcraft.co.uk ynghyd â gwybodaeth gefndir Forum for Wales aims to make www.fairtradewales.com ddefnyddiol a chyfoes, mae’n bris Wales a Fairtrade Country, and is www.masnachdegcymru.com The Week of Prayer for Christian Unity in the parishes of gwerth ei dalu. Eleni o Umlazi, Llanddarog and Llanarthne encouraged inter-church Lenten De Affrica y daeth y testun, a study using the diocesan Menter course. Hywel Davies geiriau o Efengyl Marc yn thema i wonders if ecumenism is as lifeless as is sometimes thought glymu’r holl ddeunydd ynghyd: Being a Parish Churchchch “Y mae’n gwneud hyd y oed i LENI eto bu eglwysi a chapeli tro. Eleni y pregethwr gwâdd yn y fyddariaid glywed ac i fudion Eplwyfi Llanddarog a cyfarfod gyda’r nos oedd Mr Siôn lefaru”. NE of the challenges of being Llanarthne yn amlwg eu Rhys Evans, brodor o Langefni fu Mae sôn weithiau fod y Oa parish church is that cefnogaeth i’r wythnos bwysig ar staff eglwys nodedig Bourne mudiad ecwmenaidd wedi everyone likes to do things chwythu ei blwc – ac efallai nad hon. Wythnos o wyth diwrnod yw Street yn Llundain cyn ei benodi ^ differently! People are wonderfully hi mewn gwirionedd yn cychwyn yn ddirprwy ysgrifennydd oes yr un brwdfrydedd ynglyn â’r diverse in the way they like to ar 18fed Ionawr ac yn dod i ben ar CYTUN yn 2006. Ym Methlehem gwaith ym mhobman bellach. worship, the type of music that y 25ain. Yr arfer yw i un o Porthyrhyd, capel y Bedyddwyr y Ond mae’r dadleuon o blaid pobl appeals to them, and their preferred eglwysi’r cylch fod yn westai i cynaliwyd y gwasanaeth pregethu yr Arglwydd yn dathlu’r undod environment. Often, the parish gyfarfod pregethu unedig, eleni, ac fe’n croesawyd yn sydd eisoes rhyngom a’n gilydd church has very stylised, traditional dwyieithog, tra bod capeli/eglwysi gynnes gan weinidog y capel a’r yng Nghrist yr un mor ddilys a and ritualistic ways of organising eraill y cylch yn cynnal aelodau. llawn perswâd ag erioed. Ac its services, which is fine for those gwasanaeth y Foeol Weddi yn eu Bob blwyddyn mae Eglwysi mae’r buddsoddiad yn talu ar ei who like that. But what about those ganfed. Cawn y fraint eleni eto o who want something different and gael rhannu ein cwrs Garawys have drifted away from the gydag aelodau capeli’r cylch wrth traditional services? The parish music. They have called it ‘The yet it retains the elements of praise, The Vicar, Revd Don Mac- i ni gwrdd bob yn ail wythnos yn Anglican Church is for all, so at St Other Service’, or ‘TheOS’ (Greek penitence, the word, and intercession Gregor, commented, “It’s a modest yr eglwys neu’r capel. Caiff pawb Mary’s Church Fishguard, they for ‘God’), and it has a different as in traditional services. step, but it provides something ddewis ai yn Gymraeg yntau yn decided to venture in mission by theme each month. The four services so far have different, involves young people, Saesneg mae nhw eisiau dilyn offering something different once a There is usually some visual incorporated drama, poetry, group and introduces much more cwrs ‘Menter’ yr Esgobaeth, month, something that fitted more input with a digital projector to work, meditations, and silence. It flexibility and informality into gyda’r ddau grwp yn ail-ymgynull with modern culture. stimulate thought and prayer, and is seen very much as an experiment, worship than has previously been i ddod a’r noson i ben. Yr They identified three factors to they use a small repertoire of venturing in mission to provide an the case. It’s a journey into the Wythnos Weddi dros Undod be incorporated into a new monthly contemporary songs so that people opportunity for those who are unknown for us, but we are open to Cristnogol esgorodd ar yr arfer evening service: visual imagery, are able to learn them, as they are looking for something different in change and it will evolve and hon, a hebddi byddwn ar ein informality, and contemporary new to most. There is no set liturgy, worship. involve more people as we go.” colled. Pobl Dewi, March 2007 3 Silent Prayer Groups O you belong to or know of supported and encouraged as we answers in many weird and Da ‘silent’ prayer group that journey on. As Christians, we are all wonderful places. Surely, as meets in your area? If so, we very good at ‘doing’ and yet we know Christians, we can, and should, would like to know about it! As that our doing must come out of our present what is on offer from part of raising general awareness ‘being’ in Christ. Otherwise, we are our own tradition? Some con- about spirituality in the diocese, in danger of running dry, only living temporary contemplative/ we are doing a spot of network- and serving from the ‘shallows’, or meditative prayer movements ing, so that if people want to join going off at a tangent on our own include: Contemplative Out- a silent prayer group, we can pursuits. To come near to God in the reach UK, the Worldwide Dewch i’r Ardd, Maud! hopefully link them up to some- deep silence and stillness of contem- Movement for Christian thing near them. plative prayer is a rich path to follow Meditation, The Fellowship of gan Hywel Davies In Fishguard, we have as we seek to grow and mature as Contemplative Prayer, and, of recently formed a monthly Christians. It has always been part course, the Julian Prayer Christian Meditation Group. We of the Christian tradition, but in more Groups – inspired by the Chris- As a Venturing in Mission initiative, the parishes meet together one afternoon a recent times there has been a tian mystic Julian of Norwich. of Llanarthne and Llanddarog have been month for some teaching on the rediscovering and re-visiting of this If you know of, or are part instrumental in setting up Sunday afternoon Christian Contemplative tradi- ancient way. Not reserved for the of, a local group which meets, services at the National Botanic Garden of Wales tion of prayer, followed by 25 cloisters, but open and available to please let us know – it would minutes of silent prayer. all for the spiritual journey, it be good to make the ENTRWCH!” Dyna hwnnw yn wasanaeth ar ffurf y Afterwards, over a cup of tea, becomes part of our pilgrimage information available to all. – “M gymhelliad yr Esgob i’r gymuned Taizé. Nid y gaeaf yw’r we share views about the deeper into God. Jayne & Don MacGregor, plwyfi. A ‘Mentro Mewn tymor mwyaf hwylus i ddenu spiritual journey, contemplative In our society today, there is 01348 872895, Cenhadaeth’ yw’r penawd i bob ymwelwyr i’r Ardd ar y Sul, prayer and other issues. This is much interest in, and hunger for, [email protected] hysbyseb neu gyhoeddiad sy’n efallai, ond gyda chefnogaeth of the Spirit and just be – feeling ‘spirituality’. People search for ymddangos yn enw’r Esgobaeth ecwmenaidd barod, gosodwyd y dyddiau yma, – o’r ‘Church seiliau addawol i’r fenter. Yn sgîl Times’ i’r Western Mail. y cyfarfod cyntaf hwnnw, Hwyrach fod ambell i blwyf yn cawsom addewid o groes Taize ei gael yn haws na’i gilydd i fel rhôdd gan Brifysgol Llanbedr fentro i feysydd newydd. A oes, Pont Steffan, trwy garedigrwydd Breaking New Ground tybed, ragor o gyfleoedd yn codi cyfeillion yno. Bellach dy’n ni’n mewn pwlyfi trefol na chefn cyfarfod yn yr Ardd bob trydydd REAKING new ground” gwlad? Ddyw flynedd yn ôl, Sul y mis am 2.30pm am “Bare words which should bellach, cyhoeddwyd y llyfryn wasanaeth sy’n gyfuniad o siant, sound familiar to everyone reading lliwgar, ‘Mentro’, yn awgrymu darlleniad, myfyrdod, this newspaper. They come, of nad felly oedd hi bob amser. distawrwydd a gweddi. course, from the Venturing in Mis- Mewn plwyfi oedd yn amrywiol Trwy ganiatâd caredig y sion Prayer. They also form the title iawn i’w gilydd cafwyd Cyfarwyddwr newydd, Mr Kevin of a new diocesan resource, in the enghreifftiau niferus o ffyrdd Lamb, mae’r Ficer hefyd yn form of a DVD, which we think will newydd o genhadu – o wneud yr ymweld â’r Ardd Fotaneg bob make a significant difference to con- Eglwys yn bresenoldeb yn y wythnos gan feithrin cysylltiadau gregations who are committed to gymuned. gwerthfawr yno. Mae’n amhosib venturing in mission Ymhlith y syniadau yr gwybod beth fydd pendraw neu The DVD is the result of work arbrofwyd â nhw yn ddiweddar werth y cysylltiadau hyn, ond undertaken by the Communications ym mhlwyfi Llanarthne a mae yna rywbeth cyffrous wrth Team and will be available towards Llanddarog yw’r bwriad o fentro i dir newydd. Felly, os the end of March. It will allow in- feithrin perthynas agosach gyda dych chi ar ymweliad â’r Ardd y dividuals, PCC’s and others to think Presenter Andy John in action on the new DVD Gardd Fotaneg Genedlaethol gwanwyn hwn, beth am daro and pray about the scope, shape and Cymru, sydd, yn ddigon cyfleus, heibio i’r gwasanaeth ar y content of their own Action Plans. what do the things which we are This is a resource for those who yn pontio’r ddau blwyf. Trefnwyd trydydd Sul yn y mis? Bydd actually mean for us If we are to break new ground hearing ? have made a start and want to think y cyntaf o wasanaethau prynhawn croeso i chi yno – boed eich enw resourcing and make a real difference, a Planning and any at- through their plans and also for those Sul yno nôl ym mis Tachwedd, a yn ‘Maud’ neu beidio! number of things will need to hap- tempt to venture is vital if we are who have struggled. Our hope is that pen. It will mean listening – to to turn hopes into actions. “Break- everyone who uses it will be encour- God, to the church and to the com- ing New Ground” gives examples aged to be courageous, to have a go munity. But it will also involve of churches which have done some and to take risks. – Andy John some refining and reflecting – of these things.

WFH: Working From Hammock

OW was your holiday by Stuart Bell Island, New Zealand. During his “H then, Rector?” they ask episcopate he had pastored the repeatedly at the church door. growth in these countries are fastest growing diocese in the “Sabbatical study leave, please”, I breathtaking. Koinonia Church in ‘western’ world. Over a 10 year reply. “We weren’t on holiday”. Patan, Kathmandu, was estab- period their churches grew in their However, it is increasingly hard to lished 25 years ago and now has attendance figures by an insist on that now they’ve seen the 39 daughter churches with a total astonishing 47%. picture of the hammock in Hawaii, membership of over 5,000 people. The most clear lesson for us from which we visited when homeward In Xinzhou, Shaanxi province this sabbatical tour is the fact that bound. in China, we visited a brand new visionary leadership is one of the The idea of the sabbatical was to church building which seats 1,000 keys to growth. Wherever we found do some research into the growth of people and is full twice a Sunday. the church was making real progress we were away was to visit Mao’s preaching in a church on the out- the church in the third world in Nepal, They have 120 smaller home there was a prayerful, energetic, mausoleum on Tiananmen Square skirts of Kathmandu and asking my in the second world in China and in churches in the area which come thinking leadership team at the helm. and see the respect given to his interpreter, ‘How many of these peo- the first world in New Zealand. This together for worship. Last year they It seems that praying for growth and mummified corpse including the ple have been converted from Hin- gave us the opportunity to travel baptised 300 new members. planning for growth creates an at- presentation of chrysanthemums in duism?’ His reply was, ‘All of them’. literally right around the world and It was exciting to meet Bishop mosphere where growth can take front of his statue. Idolatry is alive Idolatry is a thing of the past for to do it in 83 days. Derek Eaton, who had just retired place. and well for atheists! them. Some of the statistics on church as the Bishop of Nelson, in South One of the worst moments whilst One of the best moments was 4 Pobl Dewi, March 2007

cyffelyb yw’r Wcrain – gwlad a brofodd y ‘chwyldro Oren’ The Abolition of Etholiad ar y gorwel ychydig amser yn unig yn ôl. Gofid arall, wrth gwrs, yw y bydd hyn hefyd yn rhwystro rhai Slavery AE Cynulliad Cenedlaethol fydd Aelodau’r Cynulliad yn ymgeiswyr cryf rhag cyrraedd y Marall bron ar ben, ac gwireddu ac yn gweithredu’r Cynulliad - Cynulliad, yn ôl rhai, by Nigel Yates etholiad ar y gorwel. Fodd bynnag galluoedd hyn mewn ffordd sydd eisoes yn ysgafn o ran gallu er 2003 bu rhai datblygiadau ystyrlon ac effeithiol.” deallusol gyda rhai o enwau URING 2007 we shall be commemorating the two-hundredth diriaethol – cwblhau adeilad y Dichon hefyd y bydd natur y mawr y gorffennol megis Cynog Danniversary of the abolition of slavery in what was then the Senedd a phasio Deddf gynrychiolaeth yn medru cael cryn Dafis a Phil Williams bellach yn United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and its colonies Llywodraeth Cymru 2006 ymhlith ddylanwad ar y ffordd y bydd absennol o’r rhengoedd. overseas. The campaign for the abolition of slavery had taken a yr amlycaf. Deddf Llywodraeth Cymru 2006 “Rhyw ffurf o lywodraeth Gwireddu Deddf Llywodraeth yn cael ei gweithredu a’r long time before the relevant legislation was passed by Parliament glymbleidiol sy’n ymddangos yn Cymru fydd yn ddiau un o rhagolygon mwyaf tebygol ar hyn in 1807. fwyaf tebygol wedi’r etholiad” yn sialensiau pennaf y Cynulliad o bryd yn ôl y gwybodusion, yw ôl Dr Non Gwilym. “Ar hyn o We tend to think of the cam- interests would be severely damaged Cenedlaethol pan fydd yr aelodau parhâd o’r sefyllfa bresennol – sef bryd nid yw’n glir pwy yn union paign being run largely by Evan- by its abolition, which included not – rhai wedi bod yno ers amser ac yr un blaid â mwyafrif aelodau fydd yn ffurfio’r llywodraeth er y gelicals, such as William just merchants in ports like Bristol eraill yn newydd – yn ymgynnull dros y gweddill. Cwestiwn tebygrwydd yw taw Llafur fydd yn Wilberforce, MP for Kingston- or Liverpool, who were involved in o gylch cerflun gwydr Alexander allweddol yw a fydd nifer yr dewis partner er mwyn ceisio upon-Hull, who has sometimes the transportation and selling of Beleshenko ar y 7fed o Fai yn aelodau sydd gan bob plaid yn ffurfio clymblaid. been credited for achieving this slaves, but also many landed fam- Siambr y Senedd. Yn ôl Dr Non newid. Ers yr etholiad diwethaf “Iechyd ac ail-strwythuro’r objective almost single-handed. In ilies who owned sugar plantations. Gwilym, Cyfarwyddwr Cwmni mae’r ffiniau etholiadol wedi gwasanaeth iechyd fydd un pwnc fact the campaign brought together Among the archives of the Earls of Materion Cyhoeddus Stratamatrix, newid rhyw gymaint ac mae’n llosg amlwg yn ystod yr ymgyrch Christians of very different theo- Romney are lists of the slaves the “Mae i’r Ddeddf gryn rym bosib y bydd hynny’n cael effaith etholiadol” yn ôl Dr Non Gwilym. logical beliefs including two Welsh family owned in the West Indies. It deddfwriaethol ac mae ar gydbwysedd cynrychiolaeth y Mae sicr bron y bydd yr bishops of the time, Thomas was these major landed families that posibilrwydd y gallai’r Cynulliad pleidiau yn y Cynulliad. amgylchedd hefyd yn cael rhyw Burgess of St Davids and Richard put pressure on the British Govern- fabwysiadu cyfrifoldeb eang dros Newid arall, wrth gwrs, yw’r gymaint o sylw. Mae cwestiwn yr Watson of Llandaff. ment to resist the passing of feysydd datganoledig os fyddan’ cymal o fewn Deddf Llywodraeth arweinyddiaeth yn mynd i fod yn Nevertheless the role of Wilber- measures for the abolition of the nhw’n dewis gwneud hynny. Er Cymru 2006 sydd am y tro cyntaf fater cryn drafod hefyd â chymryd force in Parliament, and other slave trade. enghraifft, gallai’r Cynulliad alw yn rhwystro ymgeiswyr rhag sefyll taw Llafur fydd â’r nifer fwyaf o ar i’r Cyfrin Gyngor roi am sedd ac ar y rhestr aelodau wedi Mai’r 3ydd. Mae gorchymyn yn rhoi cyfrifoldeb i’r gynrychiolaeth gyfrannol. Rhodri Morgan bellach yn hyn^ Cynulliad dros bob peth yn Beirniadwyd hyn gan Roger na’r oed ymddeol statudol. Mae’n ymwneud â phlant – a fuasai’n Scully o Ganolfan Gwleidyddiaeth bosib, fodd bynnag, na fydd dewis cwmpasu addysg, iechyd, Ryngwladol Prifysgol Cymru ganddo. Wedi’r cyfan, trech gwlad gwasanaethau cymdeithasol, Aberystwyth mewn cynhadledd nac arglwydd!” diogelwch ac yn y blaen. Y ddiweddar. Nododd taw’r unig cwestiwn allweddol yw pa un ai wladwriaeth arall â chyfyngiadau St David’s Cathedral Labyrinth Holy Week, 1-8 April

OME young Christians from the porated them into their forms of can be represented in the language William Wilberforce, campaigner for the abolition of slavery SDiocese are creating a Labyrinth worship. and imagery of the here-and-now. prayer path in our Cathedral to be Through Holy Week young God meets us in the stuff of every- Evangelicals in the production of In fact, as modern historians open to everyone through Holy Christians are creating a contem- day life, in the real world. tracts on the topic, should not be have discovered, the slave trade was Week this year. porary version of a cathedral The labyrinth will be open daily under-estimated. One of the Evan- far less beneficial to the British What is a Labyrinth? – labyrinth which combines ancient from 10am-4pm, so why not make gelicals involved, John Newton, the economy than politicians had been Labyrinth designs are found all Christian tradition with contem- a trip to St David’s, perhaps with a hymn-writer and Vicar of Olney, had led to believe. Had this been realised around the world, in many cultures porary music, meditations, art, small group from your parish, dur- been, before his ordination, actively at the time it is likely that abolition and civilizations. The earliest media and activities at intervals ing Holy Week. Support the efforts involved in the slave trade as an measures would have been passed designs are about 3,000 years old, along the path. of our young people and create officer on the ships transporting much earlier than they were. The but their development is shrouded space for God to speak to you slaves from their African homelands passing of the 1807 Act did not, in mystery. However a labyrinth through this unique prayer experi- to the British colonies in the West however, end slavery around the was a feature in many medieval ence. Indies, where they worked the sugar world. It was to be another sixty cathedrals: perhaps the most If you would like more informa- plantations. Newton’s evidence on years before it was abolished in the famous and well preserved being tion please contact the maltreatment of slaves during United States and then only after a Chartres in Northern France. How does Labyrinth work? – Revd Michael John, their passage across the Atlantic Civil War. In other parts of the world It’s not a church service, but an tel: 01834 844330, resulted in growing support for the it lasted even longer and there are interactive environment with [email protected]. campaign of the abolitionists. still parts of Africa where slavery, visitors coming and going as they There was, however, a strong unofficially at least, is tolerated as please during opening hours. The next edition of Pobl Dewi lobby in support of the trade, which a necessary part of primitive However, this offers more than an will be published on 8 July argued that Britain’s economic economies. Praying the Labyrinth – aesthetic experience – it takes you 2007. Labyrinths were a symbol of the on a spiritual journey. Articles, which should not Christian way, representing the path It involves a series of ‘stations’ exceed 400 words, should be Cyfraniadau i Bobl Dewi of the soul through life. People used with simple, yet profound activities sent to the lead regional editor, Croesawn erthyglau diddorol gan ein darllenwyr, ac yn to walk it on the eve of their bap- en route. You listen to spoken medi- Revd Hywel Davies, arbennig rhai Cymraeg. Bydd yn dda gan y Parch’g Hywel tism or confirmation, as an aid to tations with music in the back- [email protected] by 15 Davies, prif olygydd y rhifyn nesaf, dderbyn eich erthyglau contemplative prayer in Holy Week ground on a personal mp3 player or June. trwy e-bost ([email protected]) Y golygyddion and as an illustration of Christian follow the route at your own pace This edition’s lead editor was rhanbarthol eraill yw Tessa Briggs ([email protected]), life and of the life of Christ. around the Cathedral to each sta- Tessa Briggs, y Parch’g Nicholas Cale ([email protected]) Contemporary Labyrinths – tion with a leaflet. [email protected]. a’r Parch’g Don MacGregor ([email protected]). In recent years labyrinths have been It blends the ancient practice of To contact us by post please Fel arall, gellir anfon erthyglau at Swyddfa’r Esgobaeth, rediscovered as a Christian spiritual labyrinth-walking with ‘icons of the address correspondence to: Abergwili, Caerfyrddin, SA31 2JG mewn amlen wedi’i nodi tool. Some of the ‘alternative present’ – music, televisions, com- The Editor, Pobl Dewi, St Davids ‘Y Golygydd’. worship’ groups in the UK and puters and things from everyday Diocesan Office, Abergwili, throughout the world have incor- life, aiming to show that the holy Carmarthen SA31 2JG Pobl Dewi, March 2007 5

ent from the previous time – a slightly more complete image, as it Primary Theology were, as we will be slightly more complete people. This change is pri- Richard Wood gives us his latest update and mary theology. It is likely that it goes reflection as he continues his training for the ordained unnoticed, much as a drop of water ministry at St Michael’s Theological College, Llandaff on a stone appears to make no im- pression whatsoever. But over time, S part of my training for something other than what we im- the stone is smoothed, shaped and Aordination at St. Michael’s agine it to be. Jesus promised us that very definitely changed. College, Llandaff, I’ve been taking “whenever two or three of you come This isn’t to suggest that the for- a course which is optimistically together in my name, I am there with mal liturgy that is used today in the entitled ‘Understanding Christian you.” (Matt. 18:20 – CEV) So, to Church around the world is any ‘bet- Worship’ (but we have decided gather together to worship is to come ter’ than that which has been used something like ‘Getting a Vague Idea into God’s very Presence, and that in previous centuries. Rather, as in- About a Small Part of What Makes has considerable and significant im- dividual and corporate worshippers 10 years of Women Priests Up Christian Worship’ might be plications. It might not seem like it, we are changed, and our liturgy is more appropriate!). In our reading but as we meet week by week for gradually adapted to suit. and discussion we have come across the Eucharist or Evensong or what- Why, then, is this disturbing and Reflecting on the Past – a concept that is new to us, which ever form our corporate worship helpful? we have found incredibly thought- takes, we are putting ourselves “at It is disturbing inasmuch as it Imagining the Future provoking, disturbing, helpful and the edge of chaos” (Urban Holmes), challenges the casual approach to by Mandy Williams-Potter challenging all at once. It is called for we are coming before that which corporate worship that is all too easy primary theology, and can be found is Infinite and entirely ‘Other’. to fall into. However formal or in- (amongst other places) in the work To encounter Almighty God is to ANUARY 2007 marked 10 years ministries now, as he himself formal our church services may be, since women deacons in Wales affirmed: “Ever since the ordination of Aiden Kavanagh – particularly in be gradually changed by Him into it is easy to get ‘used’ to it, and to J On Liturgical Theology (Pueblo, the likeness of His Son (2 Cor. 3:18). were ordained to the Priesthood. A of the first women priests in 1997 it forget what it is we are doing. Pri- very special service was held at St has been my privilege to minister 1984). However much we notice this hap- mary theology reminds us that as we Primary theology is, according pening or not is largely irrelevant if Davids Cathedral with 21 female with a number of close, female bring before God our insufficient priests con-celebrating with Bishop colleagues. The last 10 years have to Kavanagh, what happens when we hold it to be true. Having been praise and adoration, in His grace He Christians meet together to worship drawn into the very throne room of Carl. The guest preacher for the demonstrated that our Church has blesses us in so many ways – some service was Revd Jenny Wigley, one been enriched, blessed and made God. That doesn’t sound much like God, the next time we gather in His we see and others we don’t. To for- theology, but maybe theology is name is bound to be slightly differ- of the original 12 women ordained more whole by women’s priestly get this would be a great loss. in 1997, and over 200 clergy and ministry. It now feels as if the But it is also helpful by remind- laity had gathered for this act of Church of the past was incomplete . ing us of the great privilege of wor- celebration. . . . What of the future? Despite the ‘Plygain’ in the Deanery ship itself, whatever form we choose In conjunction with these cele- decision to ordain women priests, to use. It encourages us to continue brations, Bishop Carl spoke publicly we still have some way to go before worshipping even when we don’t of his ‘change of heart’ 10 years ago. we can claim to be a fully represen- of Lampeter and Ultra Aeron feel like it – reminding us that God “When the Church in Wales first tative Church. There are now works behind the scenes, and that He considered the possibility of ordain- women in very senior parochial HE ‘Plygain’ is an ancient has been something of a revival works through process. And that is ing women to the priesthood I was posts. We have women serving as Tservice of the Christmas in the story of the Plygain in recent a wonderful thing. one of the most vocal opponents. Cathedral Canons and Area Deans. season, and peculiar to Welsh- decades, though the services are Yet, O Lord, you are our Father. For reasons of theology and However, the Church in Wales has speaking Wales. Originally held at now held largely in the evenings. We are the clay, you are the Christian Unity I was convinced that yet to appoint a woman Archdeacon parish churches between 3 and 6 The Deanery of Lampeter and potter; we are all the work of your it would be a disastrous decision . . or Cathedral Dean, and it still o’clock on Christmas morning Ultra Aeron has been a part of this hand. (Isaiah 64:8 – NIV) . . Why did I change my mind? There prevents women from becoming (the name deriving from the Latin revival, the first such service [email protected] are three reasons: 1) My own bishops. Later this year we will “pulli cantus”=cock crow), it taking place at Christmas 1993. Church decided to ordain women to begin the process of deciding developed from the old Midnight The most recent was on 5 January the priesthood. Either members of whether or not to allow women to Mass of the Roman Catholic 2007, at St John the Baptist’s Mae’n braf fod y Plygain the Church in Wales believe that our be bishops. I am convinced that this period. An abbreviated form of Church, Ystrad Meurig, (a village wedi cydio yn nychymyg Church is competent to discern will happen, hopefully sooner rather Morning Prayer would be of no little significance in the ein deoniaeth mewn God’s will for us, or it isn’t. 2) I came than later. It will have my un- followed by groups of people history of the Welsh Church, on modd mor ardderchog, to see the inconsistencies in the reserved support.” singing carols in traditional style. account of the renowned 18th gan fynd o nerth i nerth theological standpoint I had A glimpse of what this might The churches were adorned with century grammar school situated gyda threigl y blynyddoedd. espoused and proclaimed. However, look like was seen in the Provincial candles for the occasion, and the there.) A lively and appreciative Roedd hwn, y 14eg o’n no theological standpoint is ever Conference and Celebration which light was, of course, thought to be deanery congregation filled the plygeiniau, o bosib yn perfect and without flaw. 3) The ‘No’ took place later in January where the symbolic of the Light of Christ. A church, and nine groups of singers uchafbwynt, gyda naw o vote in 1994 brought home to me the key speakers included Bishop large number of Plygain carols from the various parishes led the bartïon, ac amrywiaeth o pain and anguish we were causing Christina Odenburg of Sweden and was composed between the 17th devotions, following the Rural garolau digyfeiliant to our sisters in Christ. I could no the Venerable Joy Tetley, Archdeacon and 19th centuries, resulting in a Dean’s word of welcome and a traddodiadol, fel a ganlyn: longer justify denying the validity of of Worcester. Bishop Christina significant body of music and short service of Evening Prayer Gartheli/Llangeitho (‘Cloch their calling.” delighted us with humorous and literature focussing on religious conducted by the Vicar, Rev Philip Erfyl’), Cwmann (‘Beti The women priests in this poignant stories of the struggle for and philosophical themes. There W. Davies. – Aled Williams Brown’), Silian (‘Difyrrwch Diocese are very aware of how women clergy in the Church of Gwwr Caernarfon’), difficult this statement was to make Sweden. Food for thought for a Ystrad Meurig (‘Ar Dymor and rejoice in their Bishop’s church about to debate Women Possibly your last chance . . . Gaeaf’), Llanbedr Pont unequivocal support of their Bishops. to sing under the baton of Cathedral Organist Timothy Noon, Steffan (‘Y Tir Grisialaidd’), as he conducts Stainer’s oratorio The Crucifixion in St Mary’s Llanybydder/ Llanwenog Church, Fishguard on 31 March. Taking part – whether as a (‘Duw Gadwo’r Brenin’), singer or a listener – costs £5, payable at the door. Rehears- Llanddewi Brefi (‘Mab a als start at 1430, with a performance at 1900. The event forms Roddwyd’), Llanllwni part of St Mary’s 150th anniversary celebrations. (‘Mae Gwahoddiad i Ni St David’s Cathedral Choir has been invited to take part in Heddiw’), Tregaron (‘Wele the Royal School of Church Music Celebration Day in Llandaff Gwawriodd’). Cathedral on 12 May. Other affiliated choirs have also been Diolch i bawb am eu invited to contribute: details from your choirmaster. hymroddiad, i Eglwys The RSCM’s popular series of training days for organists Ystrad Meurig am y of all standards is to be expanded this year. While ivory-ticklers croeso a’r lluniaeth, ac i are being schooled in the Cathedral organ loft, a choir training Mrs Ann Arch am ei day will be under way in the undercroft. The event – on 12 chyfeiliant i’r carolau June – will finish with Evensong sung by a guest choir from St cynulleidfaol. Mary’s, Swansea. Further details from Simon Pearce Hir y parhaed y Plygain [email protected] yn ein broydd! 6 Pobl Dewi, March 2007

This conveniently brings us a hundred years on to 2007, a time Profitable Arts Who do you think lives here? when the present Bishop of St Davids still perplexes churchgoing HURCHES in West Wales have by Mandy Williams-Potter and non-churchgoing folk alike by Cbeen profiting from the continuing to live in Abergwili, activities of the Arts in Churches OU’D be amazed at how many Carmarthen. He no longer resides Charity ARCH. Most of the profit is Ypeople think the Bishop of St in the “Big Palace” but more measured in artistic and spiritual Davids lives in St Davids itself. modestly and without (many!) terms – the intangible benefits of Maybe you are one of them? But servants at Llys Esgob, neigh- enjoying artistic events in a sacred have you seen the Bishop’s Palace bouring the grounds of the Old setting. But there’s also a financial there? Despite recent renovations it Palace, now the Museum. gain: ARCH concerts and exhi- would still be a bit drafty. In fact the Bishop Carl, like his predeces- bitions contributed £512 to rural Bishop of this Diocese has lived in sors, has found living in Carmarthen church coffers over the last year. Abergwili, Carmarthen since 1541! to be a convenient location for the The stained glass workshops Perhaps the change of address got whole diocese, which covers the three under the direction of Louise Diggle lost in the post? counties of Carmarthenshire, proved such a success last time that The Bishop lived in the original Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire. a further series is to be held by Palace in Abergwili from 1541 until popular demand at Llys Myrddin, 1972, now the home of Carmarthen- The Bishop’s residence at Abergwili Efailwen, on 13 and 15 March, shire County Museum. Life in this starting at 7pm. Palace was a far cry from Llys gardens, as well as the groom and rebuilt the Bishop and his family Other events in the ARCH Esgob today. There is a delightful coachman who had to be dismissed relocated to Middleton Hall. In calendar include a Festival of the account of life in the Palace by because they were spending too 1907 the rebuilding was complete Creative Arts in Meidrim Church Gwenonwy Owen, daughter of much time gambling. and the chapel (originally built by over a weekend in June, which it is Bishop Owen who lived there from Gwenonwy also gives an Bishop Laud between 1621-26) was hoped will include a concert by the 1897. account of a great fire that broke out enlarged and re-consecrated. A dynamic singing group Tempus, “My first impression of in the Palace in 1903. centenary service to mark this re- including an exhibition of work by Abergwili was wonderful,” she “I was startled to be woken one consecration will be held at local painters and sculptors says, “It seemed like fairyland in the morning before six by loud banging Carmarthenshire Museum on 17 Jonathan and Melissa Cox, together grounds. The housekeeper, Mrs and could hear someone calling, April by the Right Revd Carl with a display of church embroidery Banting, was there to welcome us. ‘Tân, Tân!’ There was a horrible Cooper, Bishop of St Davids. and vestments. Then on the Sunday We had a great number of servants smell of smoke everywhere. The Despite its change of purpose the evening there will be a Sung in those days: a butler, a footman thick baise doors kept the fire and Old Bishop’s Palace is still Eucharist with St Cledwyn’s and bootboy, also a cook and a smoke back a bit.” recognised as having a significant Singers performing a setting by kitchen maid, three housemaids and No lives were lost but a lot of place in the history of this diocese Jonathan Copus, including the two nurses.” She goes on to the family’s clothes and possessions and with the expert help of Museum Entrance to the Bishop’s Palace, haunting duet Dona Nobis Pacem describe others who tended the huge were. Whilst the Palace was being staff its history is kept alive. now the County Museum and (unusually) his Te Deum for choir and orchestra.

As you can see from the example above the decision to award is quite Child Friendly Church Award complex. If you are not sure whether you would qualify send in your VER 200 self-assessment by Lynn Chambers work relies on the hard work and questionnaire anyway. Members of forms have been circulated enthusiasm of two people and O the Diocesan Children’s Team can across the diocese. The Diocesan without them the mid-week club then discuss your responses and Children’s Team is eagerly awaiting and youth group would be un- either recommend the award or make your response and looking forward sustainable. Lack of practical suggestions to help your church to making the first Child Friendly support also means that the size of work towards it. Church Awards. Will your church the group has to be limited. Could Still not sure? Go on, dig out the be one of the first to display the red this be a major item for discussion self-assessment form from your in- and yellow Child Friendly Church at the next PCC? tray. Put Child Friendly Church on logo? If the PCC decides to address your next PCC agenda and you have Not looked at the self-assess- children’s and/or youth work. this issue and make plans to identify already taken one giant step forward ment form yet? The group have met twice so far, and train new leaders, the Child in raising awareness and develop- Not sure how to get started? working through the questionnaire Friendly Church Award could still ing a church environment where This is one church’s story: After with one person acting as scribe. It be given to this church as it shows Tongues of Fire by Susan children and young people can be initial discussion at a PCC meeting has been a positive experience and that children and young people are welcomed. Price, produced at an ARCH the Church Council decided to do a revealed a church committed to firmly on the agenda. stained glass workshop child friendly audit using the Child prayerful and financial support for If, on the other hand, the PCC Jesus said, Friendly questionnaire. children’s and youth ministry. decides that nothing needs to be ‘Whoever welcomes a little child Newport Parish Church is the A sub-group of the PCC was But it has also shown that there done, this shows a lack of vision for like this in my name welcomes venue for It’s a Hymn Thing, an appointed with representatives from is little practical support. Regular children’s work and immediately me.’ Matt. 18.5 interactive exploration of popular the PCC and others involved with and ongoing children and youth fails one of the criteria. hymns led by the broadcaster and hymnologist Hugh Ashley. Anyone taking part will be able to order a CD of the proceedings, which take New Vicar in Llanilar place on the evening of Sunday, 15 The Revd Richard Newall, KIDZ 4 GOD ROADSHOW July at 7pm. Further information from the former priest in the parish of If you missed the Party at the Cathedral, Newborough in the Diocese of Revd Anthony Bailey, 01437 532430 don’t worry Bangor, was inducted as [email protected]. Vicar to the parish of Llanilar the Party is coming to a venue near you ! with Rostie & Llangwyrfon The first of a series of Kidz 4 God Roadshows with Llanfihangel Lledrod & Final copy date will be taking place at Llanwnnws on Monday 29 for the next issue January at Llanilar Church. Llandysul Village Hall of Pobl Dewi is The service was conducted on Saturday 22 September 2007 by The Right Revd Carl with lots more fun, activities, music and worship June 15th Cooper, Bishop of St Davids, Lead regional editor is The Venerable Andy John, for children Archdeacon of Cardigan and Mark the date in your diary now, Revd Hywel Davies Revd Brian Thomas, Area and watch out for full details coming soon [email protected] Dean of Llanbadarn Fawr Pobl Dewi, March 2007 7 Eisteddfod Yr Urdd Sir Gâr 2007 People will not come to give, Sulwyn Thomas looks forward to the Urdd Eisteddfod 2007 which will be unless they receive held at the Carmarthen Three Counties Showground from 28 May to 2 June (Laity questionnaire response – May 2006) RDD Gobaith Cymru yw prif cylch a sirol wythnosau cyn hynny. hynny, ac yn ôl pob argoel Ufudiad ieuenctid Cymru. Er Mae’n w^ yl gyffrous ac yn llwyddwydd i wneud hynny. by Chris Stephens 1929, pan gynhaliwyd yr digwydd ar faes Sioe’r Tair Sir yn Mae yna fwrlwm mawr ar Eisteddfod Genedlaethol gynta yng Nant y Ci Caerfyrddin. Fe fydd draws y sir i godi arian a llu o T’s not easy being an IIM-TIM! ing the group discussions on the Nghorwen, llwyfannwyd cyngherddau, pabell arbennig i’r weithgareddau wedi eu cynnal i IThat’s an Investing in Mission previously circulated topic. Indeed, eisteddfod bob blwyddyn ac erbyn Dysgwyr , sioeau ac adloniant byw gwrdd â thargedau pwyllgorau Team member – someone who the feedback was so wide-ranging hyn dyma’r w^ yl gystadleuol ar y maes. Y ffaith syfrdanol yw lleol. Bu cannoedd yn blasu bwyd apparently can not only find his or that it needed a good winnowing, gelfyddydol ieuenctid fwyaf yn nad oes angen iaith i gystadlu yn Indiaidd am y tro cynta fel un her way to the Diocesan Office, but not necessarily to separate the wheat Ewrop. Ac eleni mae’r cyfan yn hanner y cystadleuthau erbyn hyn. ffordd o godi’r arian! can also find a way to understand from the chaff, but rather to allow digwydd yng Nghaerfyddin. Mae’r Urdd i bawb., Yn ôl pob sôn gall Eisteddfod the intricacies of the Ministry Share, the IIM team to process the range ^ Fe fydd dros 15,000 o Nid dyma’r tro cynta i’r Wyl 2007 fod yr orau erioed gan and the annual Reports of both the of views and suggestions. gystadleuwyr a 100,000 o ddod i Gaerfyrddin wrth gwrs. gymaint yw’r brwdfrydedd yn y sir Diocesan Board of Finance and the Having ‘fact-found’ the views of ymwelwyr yn tyrru i Sir Gâr. Dros Cynhaliwyd Eisteddfod yma ym a’r diddordeb gan bobl busnes, Governing Body. Then come up laity and clergy, at both parish and wythnos hanner tymor y Sulgwyn 1935 mewn pabell, a’r tro hwnnw rhieni, athrawon a phobol yn with bright ideas on how to make conference level, the team now feels (27 Mai – Mehefin 3) fe fydd oedd y tro cynta i’r Steddfod gyffredinol. people understand that giving is more able to develop a strategy, or a plant a phobl ifainc o bob oedran gynnwys Cymanfa Ganu yn Bydd y dre yn cael ei haddurno important and a reflection of one’s process which meets the needs and yn mwynhau cystadlu mewn 400 o rhaglen y tridiau. Y tro diwetha yn lliwgar, ac fe fydd yna gyfle i commitment to Christ! the wishes of all church members in gystadleuthau i gyd – canu, drama, oedd 1967 pan gynhaliwyd y cyfan chi ddangos eich cefnogaeth drwy Bishop Carl Cooper’s inspira- the Diocese. Consequently, besides dawnsio gwerin, dawnsio disgo, ym Mharc Caerfyrddin gyda roi poster arbennig yn eich ffenest tional presentation at last October’s moving ahead with the DVD, which celf a chrefft. phabell yn dal 12,000 a deng mil ffrynt. Diocesan Conference clearly laid we hope will feature not only Bishop Penllanw’r cystadlu, wrth o’r aelodau ym gorymdeithio drwy Pam na wnewch chi ddod am out the true nature of the challenge Carl but also a whole range of church gwrs, yw’r wythnos ei hun. Fe ganol y dre cyn yr eisteddfod. ddiwrnod neu ddau, neu hyd yn before us in terms of Investing in members, we are exploring the ^ fydd yn agos i ddeugain mil o blant Mae’r Wyl wedi symud ymlaen oed am yr wythnos i fwynhau’r Mission, and the significance of establishment of a supporting ^ a phobol ifainc dros Gymru gyfan erbyn hyn ac yn costio £1.2 wledd a hwyl yr Wyl. giving within the parish context of network for parishes and benefices. wedi bod yn brwydro eu ffordd i’r miliwn. Roedd disgwyl i’r worship and belief. So moved were In the coming months we will be Genedlaethol mewn eisteddfodau Pwyllgor Apêl godi chwarter we by the message, that we have contacting individual churches once persuaded him to feature in a pro- again, inviting you to nominate a motional DVD which can be Parish Giving Officer, who will whoever he or she might be, will viewed by individual parishes and provide a link between Treasurers, Moving OnOnMoving continue to promote the RSCM in groups – and used as a starting point PCCs and the Investing in Mission West Wales. for reviews of giving and commit- Team members. Yet another string by Richard Stephens Unfortunately, I was unaware ment, not only of hard cash, but of to our already extended bows, as we when I resigned that Timothy Noon time and talents too. That’s some- hope to follow up requests for T the end of 2006 I decided to (RSCM Chair) was leaving St thing we hope you will receive in advice and really link in with parish resign my position as West A Davids to take up an appointment the fairly near future. concerns. And what will we be Wales Area Secretary for the Royal at Liverpool Cathedral – if I had The Conference itself high- called then I wonder? IIM-TIM- School of Church Music (RSCM). known then maybe things would lighted a variety of issues, follow- LINs perhaps! I first joined the RSCM area have been different. Thanks must go committee in 1993 and have held a to Timothy for his enthusiastic variety of posts until, latterly, that Richard Stephens support of the RSCM. I wish him of Area Secretary and I would like every success as he moves north, Leaving Port to take this opportunity of thanking brokeshire and for bringing so many and, of course, Liverpool is gaining all those who have helped make my people into contact with choir fes- a brilliant Director of Music. Reverend Chris Barnes, Post role so rewarding over the past 13 tivals, chorister awards and the I would also like to thank all Chaplain at Milford Haven since years. RSCM’s work generally. members of the West Wales area 2004, is leaving the parish of Burton During this time I have also met Of course I will miss my RSCM committee for their loyalty and and Rosemarket to take up a full- some wonderful people, many of involvement greatly, as I have thor- enthusiasm over the years. I will time post with the Mission to whom have become friends. oughly enjoyed every minute of it, continue to support their work Seafarers in Japan. The Haven is set I will always be very proud of but there comes a time when one whenever I can but, in the to become one of Britain’s busiest the fact that I was instrumental in has to take on other projects and I meantime, wish them every success ports with the arrival soon of LNG bringing John Rutter to Pem- have no doubt that my successor for the future. (Liquid Natural Gas)

offered by this move to the North between Anglican and Roman three, and finally as Secretary for the Musicians Bow Out West are very exciting.’ He says he’s Catholic liturgy; and not least, past six years. looking forward most to the working in the vibrant city of Most notable among Richard’s by Jonathan Copus opportunities presented by having Liverpool. outstanding achievements was daily practices and professional lay Two other musical bodies will be perhaps to tempt composer John ATHEDRAL Organist Timothy Noon is on the move. After five clerks; making music in the feeling the effects of his departure: Rutter to stage no fewer than two Cyears of masterminding the musical side of daily worship at St Davids wonderful space that the cathedral the Dyfed Choir loses its musical events in Pembrokeshire in recent and the prestigious annual Cathedral Festival, Tim is to leave Britain’s is; learning about the differences director, and the West Wales Area of years, drawing between them over smallest city for one of its largest conurbations, taking charge of the the Royal School of Church Music 1,000 participants. Richard was also music at Liverpool’s Roman Catholic Metropolitan Cathedral from the will be looking for a new chairman. very largely responsible for beginning of September. Tim’s contribution to the work of that organising the annual Area Festivals It’s not the first time an Anglican enhanced by large-scale concerts and organisation is to be recognised by in the Cathedral, bringing together has held the post of Director of broadcast performances. the award of an ARSCM Diploma singers from all over the Diocese – Music at the centre of the Roman Tim’s wife Sarah will also be at the Celebration Day in Llandaff as did the ever-popular Come and Catholic Archdiocese, affectionately missed, not only as an oboe soloist on 12 May. Sing events which he arranged. He known as ‘Paddy’s Wigwam’ from but also as a lay clerk in the Coincidentally, West Wales also played a large part in the its distinctive architecture and Cathedral Choir and Head of Music RSCM is also bidding farewell to its formation of the Music Development Liverpool’s large Irish community. and Curriculum Co-ordinator at Secretary, Richard Stephens, who is Team, and the smooth running of the Perhaps music is the food of Ysgol Gyfun Emlyn. She, too, faces passing on the baton after many RSCM’s Awards programme. ecumenism, as well as other kinds new challenges, as Senior years’ sterling service in order to Richard isn’t exactly dis- of love. Curriculum Co-ordinator at the pursue other facets of his active appearing form the music scene, During Tim’s tenure of office, world-famous Chetham’s School of musical life. though: in addition to his demanding music at St Davids has come to be Music in Manchester. Richard has been a leading teaching and organ-playing schedule ranked alongside that of cathedrals ‘As a family, we’ll be extremely committee member since 1993, he’ll be kept busy conducting his much better resourced, while the sad to leave St Davids,’ says Tim; serving as Treasurer for two years, new ladies’ choir, The Cantabile profile of the Festival has been ‘but the opportunities for us all Timothy Noon Education and Training Officer for Singers. 8 Pobl Dewi, March 2007

‘Pilgrimage’ Centre for the Cathedral PrayerPrayerPrayer-pebbles and Post-its T DAVID’S has been a centre Calixtus is reputed to have decreed search of the inspiring scenery of the by Mike Chambers Sfor pilgrims since the Middle that two pilgrimages to St David’s peninsula, the amazing architecture Ages, and David himself was rec- would be equal to one to Rome and of the cathedral, or for that spiritual ognized officially as a saint by Pope that three would be equal to one to ‘something’ that they find in the Calixtus in 1123. At that time Rome Jerusalem! As a result, pilgrims place. So the cathedral, as part of was becoming a bit over-popular came in their thousands to St its ‘Cloisters’ project, has included with pilgrims – so much so that David’s, which grew as a city an area for their use. It will be, in some of the bridges in the city had around the cathedral. part, an Education Centre to cater to be made one way. To solve the Today, St Davids still gets thou- for the groups of schoolchildren over crowding problem Pope sands of ‘pilgrims’, this time in who visit the cathedral, but will also be available for Christian groups to use who may be coming on retreat or want to hold a Quiet Day. The Dean of the Cathedral, The Very Revd Wyn Evans, explained that initially the area would be for visiting groups to book and use but eventually the cathedral would like to be able to run its own courses using the wealth of local ability and knowledge that exists. Current timetables indicate that the Cloisters should be fully open by the time this edition of Pobl Dewi HE little church of Llanfihangel Rhos-y-Corn has been a place of regular is published. TChristian worship for over 700 years. More information can be found It was built in the 13th century People come and place a pebble in at www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk/ by local hill farmers for themselves, the pool representing someone or cloisproj.htm their families and labourers, and also something they are offering up in the charcoal burners living in the prayer. On Sundays these pebbles surrounding woods. As such it has a are collected up and offered at the beautiful simplicity with none of the altar with our intercessions, hear that the vicar may be captured ornate plaques and monuments to together with their “post-it” prayers. Church Celebration and held to ransom by the local Sea the local gentry so often seen in We find up to a couple of dozen of Cadets, posing as pirates! The Revd churches endowed by the local land these stones to include in our Don MacGregor said “I don’t really owners. Sunday worship. N Fishguard, the congregation of know what they’ve got planned, but The future of this little gem has This feature does not produce any St Mary’s Church has decided to I they reacted very enthusiastically to been under threat for eighty years great income, however, we feel it is make something of the 150th anni- the suggestion! I’m pretty sure it will ever since the local landlords sold important to offer something back to versary of the current church build- involve me ending up very wet, and their farms to the Forestry Commis- the community whose forebears ing. Although there has probably there is a rumour that I may be ‘walk- sion and the tenant farmers were created this little oasis of peace and been a church on the site since about ing the plank’. I’m not sure what I’ve evicted. Thus, at a stroke, the con- tranquillity, now much appreciated by the early Middle Ages, the plaque in let myself in for!” gregation all but vanished. so many with hectic, pressured the current building, announces that Other events being planned are However it has found a niche in lifestyles. The post-it prayers and it was consecrated on the 22 July a Victorian Service, a Children’s the 21st century. “The little church comments in the visitors’ book 1857. On 31 March, they are running a Storytelling day, a Youth event on the holy mountain” as it is encourage and sustain the current, In developing their Venturing in ‘Stainer’s Crucifixion from Scratch’ and various other musical affectionately known, is open 24 small but enthusiastic church family. Mission action plan, the church with the help of the RSCM and the events in collaboration with other hours a day seven days a week all Recent initiatives proving popu- members decided to use the oppor- cathedral choirmaster, Timothy organisations in Fishguard. The aim year round. It may only have half a lar are Blessing of the Animals serv- tunity to raise the awareness of St Noon. Over the May Bank Holiday is to show that the church is active, dozen or so in its regular Sunday ices, Taize Healing, Meditation serv- Mary’s in the community by having they will have ‘History with Flow- vibrant and a place where anyone congregation but many people come ices and a tradition of music, whether a whole range of different events ers’, coinciding with the Fishguard is welcome. unseen during the week for prayer concerts of local talent or a Cymanfa throughout the year. They started Folk Festival, and on the actual an- Full details of all the events can and quiet reflection, knowing it will Ganu, (Welsh communal singing). with a Songs of Praise Service in niversary date Bishop Carl Cooper be found at www.ukvillages.co.uk be open. We have encouraged this In the future we plan to reclaim January, at which nearly 150 people will be coming to a special service. and go to Fishguard noticeboard – by setting up a prayer pebble pool part of the church field in sympa- sang their hearts out to hymns and Around the August Bank Holi- or ring the vicar on 01348 872895. surrounded by an illuminated thy with Mother Nature and provide songs chosen by the congregation. day and the Fishguard Carnival, we display of images and prayers. an outdoor sanctuary for quiet re- flection, which will include a laby- rinth. Inside, we will be creating an HE seaside village of Penally, reputed to be the 6th century birthplace area of relaxation and respite for the Tof St Teilo, attracts visitors throughout the year, especially during the many hill walkers who pause here. spring. It is popular for holiday and retirement homes but most properties Bottled water and Fairtrade energy The PenallyPenallyThe are unaffordable to young people. bars will be available free of charge. Penally has a village store and The events will take place from It is good to help people coming to post office, train and bus services, 26-28 May at St Nicholas and St our church to feel refreshed, both in ExperienceExperienceExperience a military camp, three pubs, a Teilo’s Church and the exhibition is body and soul! nightclub and an outstanding and an important point of contact as we popular hotel. The village hall bridge the gap between Christianity project and appeal to improve and culture. ‘My Church, My Chapel’ facilities and widen our links with We have had to appeal outside Competition 2007 the community have been well the immediate church family for Following last year’s supported. However, the recent financial help in restoring the successful competition loss of the village school has churchyard and a generous gift from run by the Saints and affected this balanced community St Mary’s Tenby will help meet the Stones Group, the theme (population 700). cost of £3,000. for this year is ‘Our Patron The 13th century church on the We have a story to tell as we Saint and Founder’. The village green, with its Celtic celebrate our gifts – do come and competition is open to crosses, is much loved and now meet us. groups and individuals of church members, led by Iris Taylor, For further information please con- all ages.Closing date for will present an exhibition of local tact Revd Christopher Lunn on entries is 25 May. arts and crafts, guided walks to 01834 845277 or email him at Full details from Anne explore historic Penally and music [email protected]. Eastham: 01348 873316. St Nicholas & St Teilo’s – the heart of the Penally experience by local enthusiastic performers. Pobl Dewi, March 2007 9

the natural world and were filled with a sense of awe. Lenten Reflection It is useful to reflect on these Mission in Central Asia moments and notice our feelings. This by Patricia Campion Dennis Wight writes about life changing experiences might well be a time when God is and suggests two prayers for the Lenten journey hoping for a response from us – a chance for him to be seen and HERE have been many instant I was standing up, surrounded recognized again, in the midst of pain Texamples of religious conver- by a warm bright light. I was dancing, or wonder. These kinds of experience sion or what some have called “a full of joy. In the space of a minute, have been called “life-changing” defining moment” in their lives. despair had vanished, replaced by because they have brought about a Lent is about many things and boundless optimism. change in us. With them has come a clearly part of its meaning to all of us “What had happened? I had never new type of resolve. Not the kind of is to allow for periods of reflection. had any great faith, despite a church assurance that states from now on These may include finding out where upbringing. But I felt that I had to give everything in the garden will be fine; we are and how we are with God. thanks. It gave me great strength to rather a desire to work with God to Sometimes the best way to do this is carry on, and, more importantly, a build a better world, or a deep sense to remember from your life a moment huge renewal of hope – I was going that he is with us – whatever happens! or a situation that helped you to to survive. Throughout my captivity In the light of the above it will be understand that God was with you. (which lasted another two years) I good to recall two prayers: Even those who would not con- would take comfort from this The first three verses from Psalm sider themselves as religious have experience.” 139: “O LORD, you have searched been given moments of recognition These moments in our lives me and you know me. You know that God was with them. John have tremendous emotional and when I sit and when I rise; you McCarthy, for instance, writes of his psychological significance. Like- perceive my thoughts from afar. You time as a hostage in Lebanon: “One wise, they will have deep spiritual discern my going out and my lying morning these fears became un- significance. Not all of us will have down; you are familiar with all my bearable. I stood in the cell sinking had that particular experience but ways”. into despair. I felt that I was literally, we may have found ourselves Secondly, a prayer from Julian of sinking, being sucked down into a despairing at raw cruelty, injustice Norwich (1342-1443): whirlpool. I was on my knees, and oppression experienced by “God, of your goodness give me gasping for air, drowning in hope- others or ourselves. yourself for you are sufficient for me. lessness and helplessness. I thought However, there may have been I cannot properly ask anything less, that I was passing out. I could only other occasions when we recognized to be worthy of you. If I were to ask think of one thing to say: ‘Help me the presence of wonder, for instance less, I should always be in want. In please, oh God, help me.’ The next those times when we contemplated you alone do I have all.” Boxing Day 2006 Walrus Dip The family in everyday Tajik dress T seemed like a good idea on a by Sian Jones I hot July day, when I spied the Y YOUNGEST daughter, Both Philip and Nancy are advert in a local paper. Excellent, I The atmosphere on the beach was MNancy, who grew up on our learning to speak Tajik, which is thought, the Rectorial Benefice of great: the band played ‘Men of farm near Whitland, is currently liv- similar to Iranian Farsi, and, in turn, Llanelli needs funds, and as their Harlech’ as they marched in the water ing and working in Central Asia. are teaching family doctors English new Rector, what better way of while the hundreds of participants She, her husband Philip and their so that they can read western text supporting them in their endeavours representing their favourite charity four children have just returned to books. than by doing the Walrus Dip? charged towards the enemy – the cold Tajikistan for a second two-year The three girls, Rosie (10), December arrived. I was de- water. stint, having completed their first Naomi (8) and Hannah (6), go to a lighted with the mild weather induced Daphne and I decided that contract in April 2006. nearby English speaking interna- by global warming. However, with sticking a toe in was not sufficient and Tajikistan is roughly the size of tional school, which is attended by one week to go, a cold snap hit and we are proud to say we swam, even if England with a population of ap- about seven children in both the in- my enthusiasm for cold water waned! it was only four strokes! A wave proximately 7 million and is bor- fants and juniors. Nancy has been Daphne Davies, a parishioner from smashed over us leaving us dered, amongst others, by China teaching gymnastics, art and drums St Peter’s, Llanelli, came to the rescue breathless. The cold, which we had and Afghanistan. Two thirds of the at the school and deputises when and decided that she would join me not been aware of due to the country is mountainous whilst the either of the permanent teachers is in the water. adrenaline, was quietly sapping our remainder is mostly above 2,500ft, sick. Caleb (4½) attends a nearby A lazy wind welcomed us to the energy. As we emerged from the wave making it very cold in the winter English speaking nursery. beach on a cloudy winter’s day. A we both thought it was a case of (down to minus 20degC) and very Poor infrastructure cotton surplice is no match for winter “nearer my God to thee”, but we hot in the summer (up to 35degC). weather, believe me – our only source survived to tell the tale. We were, by It is poor in natural resources, apart Life in Tajikistan is not easy. of warmth came from the people of then, turning a pleasant blue and were The sponsorship came from far from an abundance of water which Electricity and gas supplies are in- the Benefice who had turned out to greatly amused when our supporters and wide and is still coming in, the is supplied free of charge to every- termittent, the infrastructure is poor support us – or to confirm suspicions were caught by the same wave, total being well over £1,000 to date. one, although it has to be filtered to and the government is not a democ- that we were completely mad! getting very wet feet. remove the silt. racy as we know it. However, the family is happy and has a good cir- Occupational therapist cle of friends – both Christian and As we begin this new triennial, Nancy is an occupational thera- Muslim. MU Commissioning Servicevicevice we must not forget those who have pist and Philip is a GP who used to Nancy and Philip have set up a gone before us and therefore we practise in an ethnically mixed area small English club at their home in N Sunday 14 January were read by new President, Ann thank Miss Nan Warlow, and all of Birmingham, so Muslim Central Dushanbe and when my husband Omembers of the Mothers’ Gill, and the Unit Co-ordinator for who served during her presidency, Asia does not seem so strange. They and I visited them in 2005 we Union, and their guests from across Faith and Policy, Val Petherick. for all the good work they did, were both trained, and continue to helped out with some of the lessons. the Diocese, assembled at St Before commissioning the remembering especially the Family be supported, by Church Mission Since my return I have been giv- Catherine’s Church, Brynaman, to officials, the Bishop, in his address, Day at the Showground in Society, although they actually work ing talks on life in Central Asia to attend the Commissioning Service challenged us to go out into the Haverfordwest and the Garden for the German-based missionary raise awareness of this largely un- of the new officers and committee world and help those less fortunate Party at the National Botanic organisation, ORA. known part of the world and the for the current triennial. than ourselves. Garden. In Tajikistan, Philip is teaching Christian work being done there. If The Right Revd Carl Cooper It was a pleasure to see the We look forward to a busy time current methodology and treatments you would like me to give a talk to officiated at the Eucharist, assisted beautifully decorated church filled as we continue our present projects to family doctors, many of whom your group or club please call me by Revd Bryan Witt, our Diocesan with so many well-wishers and and prepare to take on new are women and whose original on 01834 811047 or e-mail me at Chaplain, and Revd Adrian Teale, afterwards we enjoyed a buffet tea challenges. – Ann Gill training was learned under the out- [email protected]. Vicar of Brynaman. The lessons in the church hall. dated Russian system. 10 Pobl Dewi, March 2007 Eileen Bairstow awarded MBE Llandeilo Fawr Gospels ORE than 100 people gathered at Letterston Memorial Hall Mrecently to congratulate Eileen Bairstow on being awarded the MBE in the New Year’s Honours List. Teaching Pack Eileen, a Lay Reader in the St the age of nine upwards,’ said Eileen. by Geraint Davies Davids Cathedral Benefice, received Clients seek help on a wide range the award for her work with the of personal problems, such as rela- URING the autumn term Pembrokeshire Counselling Service tionship breakdowns, divorce, debt, D 2006 Mrs Wendy (PCS), which she co-founded 13 work pressures, redundancy, be- MacGarvie, a teacher from St years ago with Margaret Burnett, reavement and ill health. These are who was, herself, awarded the MBE just a few of the life-changing issues Aidan’s VA School, Wiston, two years ago. which can bring people to the edge Pembrokeshire was seconded to ‘We started off in a very small of despair and it is at times like these Trinity College, Carmarthen, to way and now have 25 counsellors that PCS provides a vital service. produce teachers’ resources and supervisors and a 10-member Counsellors are, however, seeing based on the Llandeilo Fawr management committee. We serve an increasing number of people with Gospels. the whole of Pembrokeshire and part early mental health problems, such These ancient texts, also known of Ceredigion, seeing anyone from as depression, anxiety states, miscar- as the St Chad Gospels, were riages, post natal depression and produced in the 8th century by an abortion. If necessary, clients are artist who had been strongly advised to see specialist counsellors influenced by the Lindisfarne at other, appropriate agencies. Gospels. In the mid-9th century Around 75% of the 300-350 they were brought to the altar of St clients seen by PCS at various ven- Teilo by a Welshman, Gelhi, who ues in West Wales every year are re- must have had considerable ferred by local practitioners, with the bargaining skills because he A page from Wendy MacGarvie’s interactive CD remainder coming through other obtained them in exchange for his health professionals, relatives or work, detailed lesson plans, available in English, plans are under horse! Not only do the Gospels friends. teachers’ notes, worksheets, way to translate it. Copies of the CD contain a record of Gelhi’s gift but Members of Pembrokeshire interactive computer activities, a are available from The Rev Dr Peter also, during their time in Wales, Counselling Service, as well as other collection of photographs to aid Bement, The Vicarage, 10 Car- their margins were inscribed with organisations with which Eileen is discussion and guidance on marthen Road, Llandeilo SA19 6RS. various transactions and legal associated, were at the party, as were undertaking an educational visit to Any primary school teachers matters. Amongst them is the representatives of St Davids Dio- the church. who are interested in being earliest example of written Welsh, cese, including the Dean, The Very Wendy presented a seminar on seconded to undertake a project and of Welsh handwriting, in Reverend J. Wyn Evans and Canon her project to a large group in which can be seen to be of direct existence. In the 10th century they Jonathan Lean. The Chairman of November. Her work was highly value to RE should contact Dr were taken to Lichfield Cathedral, PCS, Richard Packman, paid trib- praised by the teachers and repre- Geraint Davies, Faculty of where they have remained (with ute to Eileen, as did Stuart sentatives from Trinity and the Education and Training, Trinity the exception of a period during the Fletcher, former chief executive of Church in Wales who attended. College, Carmarthen, SA31 3EP. Civil War) for almost a thousand the Pembrokeshire and Derwent Although the CD is currently only years. However, they have been on NHS Trust, now head of the Welsh view to the public at Llandeilo Ambulance Trust. Church since last February in the Rev Dr Peter Bement, Vicar of Llandeilo Fawr, writes: The Pembrokeshire Counselling form of an electronic interactive Service can be contacted on 01437 During 2006, thousands of visitors were welcomed to the display. 541325. Llandeilo Gospels exhibition by an enthusiastic team of Wendy has had considerable volunteers from the parish. This year, with the help of a European experience in developing curricular IFund grant from Carmarthenshire County Council, the exhibition materials for schools. In 2005 she will be publicised by an attractively-designed leaflet to be First Woman Canon was the recipient of a Farmington distributed via tourist venues and information points. This should Fellowship and seconded to Trinity substantially increase the numbers of visitors, and develop the HE Revd Joanna Penberthy, College to produce materials based potential of the exhibition in promoting tourism in the Tywi valley. TVicar of Cynwyl Gaeo, on the Church in Wales syllabus for An informative 24 page full colour booklet about the Gospels Llansawel and Talley, has been ap- Religious Education. Following the will also be available for visitors to buy. pointed by The Right Revd Carl success of this project, she was An important part of the vision for the project is educational Cooper, to be the first woman invited to apply for another outreach. We are therefore particularly pleased with the new Residentiary Canon of St Davids Ca- secondment at Trinity, funded by the schools pack produced by Wendy McGarvie. The schools CD thedral. Bishop Carl was delighted General Teaching Council for is available to teachers intending to bring children to visit the that Jo had accepted the invitation Wales, this time to produce RE church both to see the Gospel Book, and to cover the KS2 to serve as a Canon, adding that she teaching materials on the Llandeilo curriculum relating to church/religion/worship. is an able, diligent and faithful priest Fawr Gospels. These materials are The Llandeilo Gospels Exhibition is at St Teilo’s Church, whose contribution enriches the lives designed to help KS2 teachers who Llandeilo, and will be open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am-4pm, of those with, and amongst whom, oured in this way and I am pleased intend taking pupils to Llandeilo to from Easter to 31st October. Schools and other large parties she ministers. After the service, to be able to play a small part in the explore the Gospel book. Her work, intending to visit should contact the Church Office on 01558 Canon Jo said: “I feel very privi- continuing life and witness of St which has been put on an interactive 822371 well in advance. leged to be the first woman to be hon- Davids.” CD, features a 12 week scheme of

science, and art, suggest a variety www.4learningenglish.com or Grandma’s Stories of activities and field trips and offer call 01550 720994. drama and discussion topics. They Nominated by customers via the RIENDS Valerie Wood-Gaiger than ever before, Valerie and Carroll even encourage the use of the Countryside Alliance website Fand Carroll Nunnerley, from identified a niche market and internet for further research and www.countryside-alliance.org, Myddfai in the Brecon Beacons devised ‘Grandma’s Stories’ – an learning. ‘Grandma’s Stories’ won the South National Park, were the South Wales educational programme to help On 1 March, ‘Grandma’s Wales section for Best Diversi- Regional winners in their category parents and grandparents make Stories’ launched a competition to fication. of the Countryside Alliance learning fun and memorable for find a Welsh-speaking granny to Other winners in the region were competition for Best Rural Retailer. children. What followed was a record their books for interactive Morgan’s Newsagents, Llandovery, This competition, first devised in series of 14 fictional stories based CD-ROM and whiteboard versions in the Best Village Shop/Post Office 2005, promotes the spirit and efforts on pan-European history which tell for schools. category, Owain’s Butchers, of rural people to keep their exciting adventures from the Ice For more information, or if Aberaeron, in the Best Traditional communities alive. Age to the Roman Empire. These you would like to invite Valerie Business category and Llwynhelyg With more grandparents stories provide opportunities to to give a talk to a group with Farm Shop, Llandysul, in the Best helping care for their grandchildren teach languages, history, geography, which you are involved, visit Local Food Retailer category. Pobl Dewi, March 2007 11 Putting Freystrop Holy Trinity Church, Pontargothi

N 1865, wealthy ship owner and on the Map Ibusinessman Henry James Bath of Alltyferin Mansion commis- by Beryl Davies sioned a new church at Pontargothi, Llanegwad. ISITORS can pass through Freystrop without noticing it. Gone Bath, an Englishman, did not Vare all the signs of its industrial past. Coal had been mined here understand the Welsh language for centuries but, by 1948, the last mine had closed and Freystrop services held at Llanegwad and de- became an agricultural community. The small, simple church, dedicated cided to have a church built on his to St Justinian, is on a hillside in Lower Freystrop and is often called a estate, where the services could be ‘little gem’. It was virtually rebuilt in the 1880’s on its original conducted in English. foundations, then refurbished some 100 years later, when seating Thus, Holy Trinity, designed by became available from a redundant church at Morvil. architect Benjamin Joseph Bucknall, The font is Norman, indicating about each church. The official was built on the banks of the River the church has been here for almost opening of the Riverside Route will Cothi. The foundation stone was laid 1,000 years – probably built on an be on Bank Holiday Monday 7 May, by Mrs Bath on 6 June 1865 but the older pagan site, as the ancient yew starting with a short service of church was not consecrated until 19 tree would suggest. blessing at Freystrop Church at July 1878. The delay was due to the Just beyond the church is Little 11am. Then, along the way, candles untimely death of Bath and to the fact Milford Wood, which belongs to the will be lit at each church. that Bath’s nephew, who took over One of the twenty-five wall paintings depicting Biblical stories National Trust. This is a popular Lunch will be available at responsibility for the project, also venue for hikers and dog walkers, Llanstadwell. Cars are to be left at died before its completion. The as being of “no particular style” – and was not licensed for burials. so it was decided to keep the church Neyland Marina and the last mile church was finally completed in their in fact, Bucknall used a combina- The foundations of a bridge, open to enable visitors to rest or will be walked following the cross. memory by Mrs Bath. tion of Romanesque and Gothic. which used to link Holy Trinity to pray. Tea and coffee-making It is hoped that a number of The west window shows the Decorated by A. Stansell of Bath’s house on the opposite bank, facilities are also available. people will join this pilgrimage and founder holding a model of the Taunton, under the direction of the can still be seen but the Mansion Under the leadership of Dawn that the route will prove popular church, another depicts the found- architect, the interior has a beauty of was demolished in the 1950’s. Harries, the ‘Riverside Route’ has throughout the summer. er’s wife, with the nephew being colour which makes it a masterpiece The quality of the architecture been formed along the western Other events planned by the shown in the third window. in its own right. The single nave has and interior decoration, coupled banks of the River Cleddau as a Saints and Stones Group for 2007 are: The rose tracery of the east win- a wooden barrel vault roof. Both tie with the tranquil setting found at branch of the ‘Saints and Stones’ 1 July: Havenways and Byways dow depicts Christ in Majesty and beams and vault are decorated. The Holy Trinity, must rank it amongst trail of North Pembrokeshire. All Pilgrimage, from St Madog’s three single-lighted windows show ‘I main walls have twenty-five pictures the best of its type, and the fact that the places of worship along the Haroldstone West to Walton West. am the resurrection’. The single-light illustrating Biblical stories while all it was built in rural Wales certainly route were invited to join and, to Contact Revd A. Johnson on 01347 windows of the nave show four Old other parts have abstract designs. makes it unique. date, Freystrop Church and Chapel, 781279 or Revd D. Wight on 01646 Testament Prophets on the south side The reredos was designed by The church is open Thursdays Hook Chapel, Llangwm, Burton 636255. and four Evangelists on the north. Bucknall, and the vaults under the between 2 to 4 pm, May to October. and Llanstadwell Churches have 17 August: Saints and Stones The walls are of sandstone with altar, constructed for the burials of the Contact the Church Warden on taken up the invitation. Annual Pilgrimage to St Davids Bath stone dressings. The Welsh- Bath family, have never been used, 01267 290670 or the Vicar on 01267 With a small grant from Brace’s from St Justinians, Freystrop, man of 2 August 1878 described it as the church was a Chapel of Ease 290142 for further details. Bread and donations from some of starting at 10am. Contact Dawn the Community Councils and the Harries on 01437 890291 or Revd National Parks, illustrated leaflets J. Goupillon on 01437 891317. have been produced showing a map There is also a website at Kigesi – Now and in the Future of the route and giving information www.saintsandstonesriverside.org.uk. ISHOP Carl Cooper will be by the Revd Philip Johnes by fetching water from, possibly, an Bvisiting Western Uganda in past and now has the reputation of infected source. late April, taking up an invitation being ‘Africa’s Friendliest Country’. The Church is the local social from Bishop George Katwesigye, a From the moment you land at service. The diocesan office includes name known to many in our Entebbe’s modern international a water department, offering advice diocese. airport, with its breathtaking equa- to the villages on how to protect their For it was back in 1990 that torial location on the shores of Lake springs as clean sources of water, Canon George K, as he was then, Victoria, it is clear that Uganda is and helping construct new supplies. came to the UK to do a Masters no ordinary place. The bright, Other departments include an Degree at St Michael’s College. modern feel of the capital Kampala orphans’ section. AIDS has wreaked Then, in the summer of 1991, he was reflects the ongoing economic havoc in the population and the temporary priest in charge of the growth and political stability that has church provides what help it can in parish of Lanfyrnach and soon characterised the country since 1986. partnership with international became a firm friend to many. So However, life in Kigesi diocese agencies. It must be said that Uganda popular was he, that an appeal raised is far removed from Kampala. is one of few African countries that is enough money to send George home Electricity is non-existent outside getting on top of the epidemic. for Christmas, with enough left to Kabale, the cathedral town of the An agricultural office provides bring his wife, Laura, over to the diocese. If you are lucky, water can cows to families who, in turn, pass degree ceremony the following year. be fetched from a safe source, on the calves to others, while income Uganda, with its population of otherwise you, literally, put your life from the sale of milk goes towards St Justinians, Lower Freystrop 26 million, has put behind its violent and that of your family into jeopardy educating the children. Micro money schemes allow women to break the hold of poverty by lending them simpler. Anyone interested in putting comprehensive register can be set capital to start up small businesses Help in TTHelp imes of Need their name on the register will be up and agricultural organisations to provide for their families. asked to complete a form – the informed that it exists. Bishop Carl hopes to see all N recent years there has been an younger generations move away information provided will be stored The church’s aim is to co-ordi- these schemes, and many more, and Iincreased need for short term help from the countryside in search of confidentially and only released once nate the scheme and be a link, it will be interesting to find out what on farms and in workplaces in rural work in towns, cities and, indeed, permission has been given. bringing help and love to all in need use has been made of the more than areas, particularly during the busy abroad. By the very nature of this type of in our rural areas. £3,000 contributed to Kigesi by St seasons or during a crisis caused by To help in these times of need, work, those on the register would For further information, or to Davids since 1999. illness. the Church in Wales is launching a probably need to be available at short request a form, please contact It is hoped that each of our Hopefully, families or project to compile a register of names notice and a fair wage would be paid Revd Eileen Davies, Rural Life Deaneries will donate at least £100 neighbours will lend a hand at these of people who would be available to for any work undertaken. Adviser, Diocese of St Davids, on towards the ongoing work, and difficult times but, as we are provide assistance on a short term The success of this scheme 01559 384248/mobile 07814 272998 future projects, in Kigesi. frequently reminded, neighbours basis. depends on as many people as or [email protected]. Please pray for this visit and give are becoming increasingly scarce as Joining the scheme couldn’t be possible knowing about it, so that a generously. 12 Pobl Dewi, March 2007 Reviews

spiritual writing) combines simplic- Creation to Consummation Whilst he has respect for reader to think further about the ity with depth. Obscure technicali- Through the Bible–Through the year people who have ordered our day’s particular Bible passage. For ties and obfuscating jargon are by John Stott church services, and given us a example, in week 32, which may avoided, and the recommendations £12.99 from all bookshops three-year cycle of readings so as be used during Holy Week (the for further reading that are gently ISBN-13: 978-1-85985-658-1 to hear more of the Bible than we week before Easter), John faces slipped into the letters are admira- DEDICATED to Francis Whitehead, might have done, his concern has biblically and squarely the ble (any friend of Brother Lawrence John’s secretary for fifty years, his been to produce daily reflections on question: “why did Christ Die?” is a friend of mine). most recent book will prove its Bible passages from Genesis to The cross is the central Christian Kate is quietly introduced to a usefulness with the passing of Revelation. His handling of the symbol, no longer a symbol of whole variety of ways of prayer, while time. John’s life has been focused story of salvation as given in the shame as in Roman times but her godmother also gives her sensi- on making known the reality of Bible is concise but by no means rather as a sign of forgiveness and ble counsel when faced with the prob- God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit thin. In its 364 reflections, sub- love. lem of suffering and the aftermath of as revealed in the Bible. He has divided into 52 themed weeks, you The title of the book means a relationship that doesn’t work out. preached, taught and written about will find a brief introduction about what is says: Through the Bible - The poems provide a counterpoint the Christian faith using his par- what will be learned. Each Through the Year. But don’t through which Kate’s own feelings ticular experience of his Saviour reflection contains an explanation despair! This does not mean and reactions are succinctly revealed. and this book is no exception. that will inform and encourage the through the whole Bible in the year. Don’t just buy one copy of this The Bible truths are presented, extremely readable book – buy sev- generally in the order that we find eral. If you have teenage or slightly in its pages. John’s skill has been older daughters or goddaughters or to give us a thematic way of Letters to Kate friends who are beginning a spiritual understanding “the life of Israel”, by Judy Roblin search, it would be worth leaving the “the life of Christ” and “life in the St Pauls, £4.50 book somewhere where they might Spirit”. I wish to commend this THIS delightful and thoughtful come across it. book highly for beginner and introduction to the life of prayer is The author’s writing reflects her experienced Christians alike. If you written as letters from Ailsa, a love of our part of Wales. It also puts have struggled to understand or married laywoman, to her student her in the tradition of all those even to take that Bible off the shelf goddaughter Kate, who responds to prayerfully down-to-earth lay spir- then this book is for you. them with poems. The combination itual guides who, from the days of – Dennis Wight of the two contrasting forms is the Desert Fathers and Mothers on- imaginative and effective. wards, have guided their soul friends Ailsa is a wise and sure-footed into a closer relationship with God Kim & Shelby Parmanand, guide, whose advice (like all the best in Christ. – Patrick Thomas pupils from Manorbier Church in Wales VC School help to The Enduring Melody celebrates a faith that is able to look bury a Time Capsule under by Michael Mayne disease in the face and, in Dag the new office extension at DLT, 2006 Hammarskjold’s words say, “For all Manorbier Vicarage. The Enduring Melody was launched that has been, thanks; to all that shall The capsule contains in September of last year, just three be, Yes”. As in all of Mayne’s books, Church Magazines, local weeks before the death of its author. The Enduring Melody is shot information, & messages It is the fifth book written by through and illustrated with his love from the children of of the created order, literature and the Michael Mayne (Dean Emeritus of Manorbier & St Florence to arts. In the postscript of the book he Westminster) who, in Ronald the children of the future. Blythe’s words, ‘belongs to the great says “however mixed our motives in priest-writers’. The first two chap- writing (or reading) books, in the ters of the book celebrate the cantus end, they are about our desire to firmus of life. Mayne reflects upon share (and learn more about) what it Visit WWVisit ales and the Notices received how Father, Son and Holy Spirit, means to be human and what mat- Regional TTRegional ourism Partner--- known to him personally particularly ters to us most, our desire ‘to speak shipsshipsships will be visiting the through prayer and the Eucharist, has what we feel, not what we ought to Liberty Stadium, Swansea Rutgers University Choir been the enduring melody which has say’. For those who write such on the 29th March – top from New Jersey, USA sung through him all his life. Fol- books, and nervously launch them Welsh food and drink will be giving a concert at lowing his writing of these chapters, into a critical world, they aim to be, suppliers will be exhibiting Mayne was diagnosed with cancer in short, a small, and sometimes alongside a range of Holy Trinity Church, Newcastle Emlyn of the jaw. What follows in the third quite risky, act of love”. business support organ- on Monday 21 May at 7pm chapter is a moving application of I recall Mayne in one of his pre- isations and trade bodies. the initial chapters to what he calls vious books claiming that his book- A chance to network and and at St Davids Cathedral ‘the questioning country of cancer’. shelves were crammed with what inspire visitors to your at lunchtime on 22 May Just like his book A Year Lost one might call ‘sound but dead the- church and village over the and Found (DLT, 1987) in which he ology’. This book takes its place on forthcoming summer. This internationally-renowned choir, led by Professor John reflects upon being laid up with my shelf as one which is full of Further details 0292047 Floreen and comprising some 50 members, has toured some M.E., this diary of living with a chal- sound and life-giving theology. 5283 rhys@cilycwm.com of Europe’s finest cathedrals including, in the past, Notre Dame, lenging and life-threatening illness – Paul Davies Chartres, Reims, St Paul’s and Ely. A warm welcome is extended to anyone who would like to attend either of these Mission Shaped and Rural: Many, especially in rural areas, saw for traditional and modern mission concerts. Growing Churches in the it as a criticism of community-based in a rural context or, as the current Countryside church life and therefore only jargon has it, “fresh” expressions Contributions to Pobl Dewi by Sally Glaze applicable to urban and suburban of church. It fails however to We welcome articles of interest from readers and, in particular, £7.99 Church House Publishing; parishes. Many in Wales would add mention how long some of these we would like to encourage submission of articles in Welsh. ISBN 0715140841 that the lack of Welsh context, initiatives have been going or the Revd Hywel Davies [email protected] is the lead editor IN 2004 the Church of England especially for rural areas, means the timescale it took to bring them to of the next issue and will be pleased to hear from anyone who launched the Mission Shaped book is irrelevant. fruition. would like to submit an article. Church initiative. Its main thrust The author has been in rural There are plenty of inspirational was that the church needed fresh parish ministry for ten years and is ideas but it makes the same mistake The other, regional editors can also be contacted as follows: ideas about how to engage more currently the Team Rector of a as the Venturing in Mission initiative Tessa Briggs [email protected], effectively with 21st century culture multi-parish benefice in Norfolk. makes in this diocese in that it Revd Nicholas Cale [email protected], and become more relevant and She uses a mix of theological doesn’t fit as easily in the rural Revd Don MacGregor [email protected]. successful. Some in the Church of reflection, sociological analysis, context as other books and courses Alternatively, articles can be posted to Pobl Dewi, The England saw it as another real-life case studies and personal might suggest. – Rhys Morgan Diocesan Office, Abergwili, Carmarthen, SA31 2JG, marked managerial blueprint for “success”. experience to explore ways forward for the attention of ‘The Editor’.