www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk www.facebook.com/pobl.dewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi Mawrth/March 2014 Women bishops: “Nothing must be lost”

Meetings across the diocese have sent a clear message to the bishops as they draw up a Code of Practice to cater for those who, in conscience, cannot accept the principle of female headship

HE Governing Body voted in September to allow the believed calling – “a gift from ordination of women as bishops one year on. And the God” – was more important and present Bench was required to bring forward “without feared creating a Church within T a Church. “We are a family,” she delay” a Code of Practice which would govern how opponents of said. “We have to live together or the measure could be accommodated. we will die together.” The Vicar of , Canon as the one appointed in 1996 when Rhoda Healey said that if Philip Wyn Davies, set out his stall women were first ordained into the priests were there to represent at the opening meeting in Aber- priesthood. the Bishop at the Eucharist, there aeron: “It must be acceptable to Elizabeth Arnold-Davies, a was no logical sense to oppos- have reservations about women’s Reader in the United Parish of ing women bishops, when women sacramental ministry, at least until , pointed to the Provin- already administered sacraments, the Anglican Communion as a cial Episcopal Visitor scheme in as priests. whole has taken a position,” he England, which seemed to work But Revd Stephen Edwards said. “There is no evidence that well. “We have to find acceptable (Priest-in-Charge, ) had a women [bishops] will bring anyone provision for all,” she said. “We stark message: “You either have into the Church and we can’t afford have no right to deny people access to take your conscience and go,” to throw anyone out. Nothing must to Christian worship in church.” Elizabeth Arnold-Davies he said, “or deny your conscience. be lost.” Another concern was the time- If you want priests with no But how? The most frequent scale. Would the Code be in place this was essential. And to what Others, though, did not believe conscience, then pity the Church.” suggestion was the re-introduc- before the first consecration? degree would whatever the bishops gender was an issue. Carol Grif- tion of an assistant bishop, such Fenella Strange () believed come up with be open to debate? fiths (St Tysilio’s, ) Following in St David’s footsteps Bishop Wyn has embarked on a three-year journey to visit every parish January storms and every church in the diocese IS purpose, he told Pobl HDewi, is to witness “all the good things in discipleship that are happening in every part of the diocese.” And, as he makes his way, he’ll have one eye looking forward, the other looking back. “I am always humbled by the awareness of the ministry and service our churches represent, and Marcus Zipperlen considers storms, floods, climate have represented from the days of their founders – some ancient, change and judgement some less so – to the present,” he J-D Laurence is impressed with the says. “I feel I am indeed treading where the saints have trod.” ’s response But he stresses his tour is not See page 6 Continued on page 17 All the best parties end up in the kitchen! FOCUS ON FAMILY LIFE UNDER PRESSURE – Pages 10, 11, 12 Am ddim Free 2 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 A shop window 10 years of Pobl Dewi for the diocese Issue 1 winter 2003 Tessa Briggs, Managing Editor of Pobl Dewi, thanks all contributors on behalf of the Communications Team and explains a little more about the paper’s production process Lead Article to follow on Nov 20th uefu web k dfv n;xioh kdjfi sern visd vies nvd sivh sifv na ms OBL DEWI (PD) is produced often written at the last minute, as Toj fise rnvisd viesnv dsivhs ifvnam snfeiuhbv fd nvjn vieyf nfei uhbv fd nv jnvi eyfe fnsd vnu ef uw ebk dfv n;xioh kdjfi dkjfsdfdkfPobl dfdks fdjf efns dvnuefu webkdfvn; xioh k djfi er nvis dvDewi ies nvd sivhs ifvn ue fuw.fuw ebkd fvn;xi fd nv jnv sernv isd vies nvds iv hsifvna msnfeiuhbv fdn vjn viey fe fn ieyf efns dvn uefu web k dfv n;xioh kdjfi sern visd vies nvd by the Diocesan Communi- we do try to ensure that the front sdv nuef uw ebkdfvn; xioh k djf iser n visd vie snvd sivhsif sivh sifv na ms nfei uhbv fd nv jnvi eyfe fnsd vnu ef uw ebk P vn amsnfeiuhbv fdn vjnv ie yfe fnsd vnue fu web kdfvn;xioh dfv n;xioh kdjfi er nvis dv ies nvd sivhs ifvn ue fuw.fuw ebkd kdjf ise rnvi s dvi esn vdsi vhsMenter ifvna iesEsgoboeth nvd sivhs ifvn Tyddewi fvn;xi. An fd nvinitiative jnv ieyf efns of dvnthe uefu Diocese web k dfv of n;xiohSt Davids kdjfi Rhif 5 – Rhagfyr 2004 Number 5 – DECEMBER 2004 cations Team, of which the much page news is as current as it can amsnfeiu hbv fd nvjnvi eyf efn sdv n ue fuw ebkdfvn;xioh sern visd vies nvd sivh sifv na ms nfei uhbv fd nv jnvi eyfe kdjfisernv is dvie snvd si vh sifv nam snf eiuhbv fd nvj nvie fnsd vnfuw ebkd fvn;xi fd nv jnv ieyf efns dvn uefu web k yfefn sdvnuef uwe bk dfv nvj nvie yfefn sdvnuef uwe bknvj dfv n;xioh kdjfi sern visd vies nvd sivh sifv na ms nfei uhbv smaller editorial team is a sub- be. The development of digital nvie yfefn sdvnuef uwe bk dfv sdvnuef uwe bknvjsdvnuef fd nv jnvi eyfe fnsd vnu ef uw ebk dfv n;xioh kdjfi er nvis dv uwe bknvj rnvi s dvi esn. ies nvd sivhs ifvn ue fuw.u ef uw ebk dfv n;xioh kdjfi er nvis Ixioh v kdj fis e rnvisd vies nvds ivhsi fv na msnfei uhbv fd dv ies nvd sivhs ifvn ue fuw.nvjn vieyfe fnsd vnuefuwebk dfv committee. The stated aims of PD, cameras has improved the quality nvjn vieyfe fnsd vnuefuwebk dfv n ;xioh kd jfisern vis dvie n ;xioh kd jfisern vis dvie snvd ef ns dvnu efuw ebkd fvn;xi which we always bear in mind, are of photographs we receive beyond Cansnvd ef ns dvnu efuw ebkd fvn;xi fd nv jnv ieyfPay efns dvn fd nv jnv ieyf efns dvn - Will Pay! (a) to be a shop window for the all recognition, which, in turn, has HAT’S THE MESSAGE the Bishop wants to hear as a result Tof Croeso,the Archdeaconry roadshows whichPobl have now beenDewi com- Contents pleted. Thiselcome new toinitiative Pobl Dewi, involved the new publication getting forall Stthe TreasurersThere will be four issues each year. Three of them will be diocese, (b) to facilitate discussion enhanced the appearance of the and Secretaries,David’s togetherDiocese. This with edition Wardens, has been putfrom together every by parishrelated to to Advent, Lent and Harvest. The fourth will be a Page 2 Wwww.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk www.facebook.com/pobl.dewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi hear presentationsthe Diocesan Communications from the Diocesan Team, who Secretary, hope that it willChairmanSummer of Edition which we hope will have a slightly different • Anglican ComunionMawrth/March 2014 soon have a valued place in the life of our Diocese. We want ethos and be of interest especially to the many visitors to our of important issues in church and printed copy. the Diocesan Board of Finance, and Chairman of the Provincial • Compass Rose Society visit Pobl Dewi to both reflect church life and resource it. We churches during the Summer period. The final copy date for • Family centre Churcheswant Committee, to provide a way about of helping the financial us to keep challengesin touch and of the theyears next edition is February 23. The Communications Team society, (c) to disseminate good We have recently set up a ahead.feel The connected meetings both were within planned the Diocese to andspell with out theHow the wider implications hasthe a wider remitbanner than Pobl Dewi, and has once it is up evolvedand Page 3 of the church.Rowe ObviouslyBeddoe it’sReview’s quite difficult proposals, to embark ifon implemented.a project running All our hope is to hand it over to an editorial group • Go on ask him for something this like this from a standing start and Pobl Dewi should begin who will be responsible for producing it. If you have skills or Christmas practice, and (d) to encourage dioc- ‘PD Extra’ page on the diocesan the meetingsto develop were a life wellof its own.attended, It will best and do a that video if you was send made us ofenthusiasms the in this area do let us know. If you have not latest, at Fishguard Church Hall, for those parishes which would • A light to lighten the nations your views about it, and your contributions to it. received this edition on Advent Sunday please let us know. • Profi’r plygain yn esgobaeth Tyddewi esan identity and fellowship. website, where you will find addi- like to giveThere the will iss beues one a section wider in Church the paper airing. each edition The climaxfor ofThe each success of the venture depends very much on swift meetinglocal was snippets the Bishop’s which you address.can simply send to us. If you have distribution and we want to identify problem links as soon Page 4 an interesting idea for an article let us know about it first so as possible. He said that there were two ways • Goleuadau Nadolig that we can discuss how best to present it. Photographs will PD has moved from an 8-page tional or expanded articles for of approaching the financial situa- by John Holdsworth • Y ficer a archebodd y Nadolig Cymreig be welcome, but please make sure you have the appropriate • Cathedral Choir Tour 20-28 of October, tion in thepermission church. of One those was pictured. to say: Large groups tend to be 2003 publication published three times a which there was no space in the what haveunsuccessful. we got, so Pictures what whichcan we involve a small number of afford? people,The other or an was individual, to say: whatdoing somethingmeet financialare best. We demands.have One • Christmas & Advent Celebrations at St do we want and so howAn are we go- important vicar said, “It’s more Davids tool Cathedral decided that the paper will be free and will not therefore year to a quarterly, 20-page publi- paper, as well as translations of ing to paycarry for adverts. it? The We first shall approach be pleased toa advertisequestion church of, if eventswe could pay we • Midnight Candle would leadthough. to decline.Correspondence The second on currentwould issues pay,is welcome but we and can’t see where • FCM weekend was theshould dynamic be sent way to to the approach Diocesan Office.the money’s going to come from.” cation. This, alone, is testament to some Welsh articles (http://stda- the challenges of the future. He All those who addressed the Page 5 asked the fundamentalDaeth Archesgobion question: o bob is rhan o’rroadshow Cymundeb meetings Anglicanaidd believe that the • Friends of Cathedral Music all those who so willingly contrib- vids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/ it that we can’tat eupay, gilydd or isym it Mhalas rather Lambethonly ym long mis term Hydref answer ar gyfer is numerical • No Bonnets or Tambourines is proofed up, then, the day we go that we won’tcyfarfod pay? Hebrys believed i drafod dyfodol that y Cymundebgrowth, and Anglicanaidd that means yn engaging • Breaking The Cycle of Crime we can and wesgil should,penderfyniad if we esgobaeth are se- Newwith Hampshire the Venturing i gysegru Genein Mission ini- • Sir David Rowe-Beddoe Robinson, sy’n ddyn hoyw, yn esgob. ute, regularly or occasionally, to print, the editorial team meets pobldewi/) We are always sorry rious aboutfor maintaining levels of communicationstiative as fully as possible (see arti- • Afif Safieh Photo courtesy Jim Rosenthal/Anglican World clergy and church buildings. cle page 5). A Diocesan response to Page 6 The mind of the meetings was the Rowe Beddoe report will be and we are immensely grateful to that not all articles can be accom- • Cersillo and reads through the entire publi- to meet the challenge, but some completed by the end of the year. Jane Hutt AM was the speaker at a special World• Aids Light Day Up service A Life at Llanddarrog church on December 1st smaller churches have expressed The Governing Body will vote on Yr Esgob Wyn sydd wedi bod yn edrych yn •ôl Mothers dros Union General hen meeting rifynnauPhoto: Roger Hughes everyone who has written articles modated in the paper but hope you fears about their future ability to its recommendations in April. cation, making final checks on A oes dyfodol i’r Cymundeb Anglicanaidd? • St. David’s Diocesan Mothers Union visits or, simply, sent in photographs will visit the website to read the Pobloes dyfodolDewi i’r Cymundeb Anglicanaidd?ac yn Dyna fu’rdweudAnglicanaidd cymaint ac i geisio hefyd ddod i gasgliadauo fraint parthed datrys a Scotlandphleser yw hi i nodi content and layout. AMerchedcwestiwn llosg yn ystod yn y misoeddesgobion diwethaf wrth yn i’r Eglwysproblemau Loegr o’r math cyn y nodwyd bo ynhir? ystod cyfarfod yr ArchesgbionThe NextPage 7 Edition . . . drafodaeth parthed ordeinio pobl hoyw i fod yn esgobion yn yr oedd un o’r pethau mwyaf adeiladol i ddeillio allan o’r • Christmas services look down the DECHRAU mis Tachwedd, Yn y bôn, mae’r adroddiad yn with captions. Some articles are additional material that is available diolcheglwys boethi fwyfwy.o waelodBu cysegru Canon Gene Robinsoncalon yn cyfarfod.i bawb Bydd y comisiwn sydd - sy’n cynnwys sawlyn aelod o gysylltiedigGymru, centuries ag ef ac sydd Over the past few years, we cyhoeddwydEsgob New Hampshire adroddiad ar yr ail o DachweddThis ynis anddigwyddiad article about thegan gynnwysmynd Archesgob i’r afael Barry â Morgan, thri chwestiwn: Yr Athro Norman DoeThe next edition of Pobl communications team D • Theological Society public lectures gweithgorallweddol, sydd wedi gyda bodrhai yneglwysi Anglicanaidd,recently megis Nigeria published a Churcho adran y gyfraith„A a fuasai’nchrefydd ymiawn, Mhrifysgol mewn Cymru CaerdyddDewi will be published on can be sent to the chair: serious and informative, some have developed a ‘Focus’ section, there. ymlafniowediKenya, dan gadeiryddiaethyn cyhoeddibod wedi esgob hynnyyn nad oeddentofgysylltiedig England bellach yn report ystyried entitleda’r Canon Gregoryegwyddor,ag Cameron, efi ferched cyn-gaplan dros fod yn Archesgob Rowany deng6th MarchPage 2005, 8 [email protected] anturus esgobion? Rochestereu hunainy Gwir mewn Barchedig Cymundeb gydag Eglwys“Women Esgobol yrBishops UDA. in theWilliams pan oedd yn Archesgob Cymru a sydd bellach yn Mothering• A Sunday. Land of Contrasts The deadline for the Michael Nazir-AliDyfodol y ers Cymundeb 2000. Anglicananidd oedd y pwnc dan sylw gyfarwyddwr„ materionOs taw eciwmenaidd ‘buasai’ yw’r o fewn ateb, y Cymundeb Church of England?” Articles• intended New Ministry for Teams Shownext editionthe Way for are more light-hearted and all are which highlights matters of interest It is a huge privilege to work Amcan ynyr ystodadroddiad cyfarfod yw brys ystyried o Archesgobion y Cymundeb a alwyd Anglicanaiddyna - yn aidiwethaf cychwyndyma’r aramser ei waith iawn yn i gynnar yn y publication• Reflections should be on sent St David’scommissioned Diocesan articles is goblygiadaugan Archesgob cael esgobion Rowan Williams ar ydrafodaeth. 15ed ar 16eg Fel o Hydref y dywed ym flwyddyn newyddEglwys dan Loegr gadeiryddiaeth ordeinio Archesgob merched Robin Eames. to the leadVocations regional Dayeditor benywaiddMhalas o fewn Lambeth Eglwys yn Llundain. Loegr, Anoddcyflwyniad credu ar gychwyn yr adroddiad, y “maeHolwyd i’r comisiwnyn esgobion? gyflwyno’i gasgliadau erbyn mis Hydref February 19. Please let treated equally. We receive pieces with so many of you to produce for the •next Diocesan edition: conference Revd and concern, and, to date, feed- ac fe gychwynwydcyfarfod, a oedd y broses wedi ei o ddisgrifio ganllais rai yr fel Ysbryd cyfarfod Glan i’w glywed2004. „Os taw dyma’r amser iawn, us know if you’d like to ganlyniadTargyfwng, i gynnig,is y gellid a gyflwynwydindeed fod wedi cynhyrchu trwy datganiada leisiau’rprivilege y gallai’r holl rai holl hynny sy’nDichon and ysut bydd ddylid y traddodiada cyflwyno Anglicanaidd esgobion o ymhyfrydu ynNicholas Cale write something. Don’t from a wide range of contributors, back on this has been very positive. what we hope is a ‘good read’. gan ArchddiaconArchesgobion Judith gytuno Rose ag e’ i ond fe lwyddoddcyfrannu gr_p i’r bach, drafodaeth. dan Hebyr amrywiaethbenywaidd o’i mewn aca phao amrywiaeth ddarpariaeth barn yn cael ei [email protected]. just send it at the last Synodpleasure, Eglwysarweiniad Loegr Archesgob ym mis Barry both Morgan drafodaethaui lunio on datganiad my o’r o’r math fath. own yng ymestyn behalf i’r eithafddylid yn eiystod wneud y 12 armis gyfer nesaf. y Eto rheini i gyd, ‘dyw hi This edition’s lead editor minute as that may lead GorffennafEfallai 2000, taw ynsefydlu galw comisiwn am i ystyriedngoleuni’r natur y Cymundeb Ysgrythur, traddodiadddim ar benna ar allant,y Cymundeb ar sail Anglicanaidd egwyddor, eto. was Tessa Briggs: to disappointment. from parishes large and small, from Lead articles, such as those about Please continue sending in your I Pobl Dewi page 1 “astudiaeth ddiwinyddol ar natur a rheswm, bydd penderfyniadau dderbyn eu gweinidogaeth? [email protected] Many thanks as andrôl esgobion that gan ganolbwyntio of the ar diocese,yn cael eu gwneud ar tosail thank Byddall yr adroddiad hwn yn assuming that always for the all around the diocese and beyond. the vote on Women Bishops news and getting in touch. E-mail: y materion hynny y dylid eu credoau’r rhai hynny’n sy’n dal awr yn mynd i’w drafod gan responsibility for the first contributions of Siôn whohystyried wrth have baratoi ar gyfer been,safleoedd and o awdurdodare, a associatedgrym o Synod Eglwys Loegr ym mis time. Brynach and Andy Taylor. trafodaeth ynghylch esgobion fewn yr Eglwys ac fe fydd y cyfle Chwefror 2005 ac yn cael ei Additional contact If you want to write a As soon as the deadline for (September 2013) and Growing [email protected] drafod ymhellach yng nghyfarfod benywaidd yn Eglwys Loegr”. ar gyfer derbyn dirnadaeth details for other members ‘letter to the editor’, it will Wrth gyflwyno’r adroddiad ehangach yn cael ei golli.” Nod yr Gorffennaf o’r Synod pan fydd y with Pobl Dewi and to congratu- of the editorial team are be welcome, and should pwysleisia Esgob Rochester taw adroddiad felly yw darparu corff hwnnw yn penderfynnu pa each issue has passed, the paper Hope (December 2013), are very [email protected] be sent to the address nid dogfen o blaid nac yn erbyn deunydd er mwyn galluogi i’r un ai i gychwyn ar y broses o gael late the Communications Team on [email protected] above. Snailmail esgobion benywaidd mo’r drafodaeth fod yn un ar sail gwared ar y rhwystrau cyfreithiol i [email protected]. adroddiad ond yn hytrach adnodd gwybodaeth gan gyflwyno’r ordeinio merched yn esgobion. Nid communications can be Any queries about artheir gyfer astudiaeth efforts ddiwinyddol overwybodaeth the hynny last mewn fforddten years.yw’r pwnc hwn ar y gweill gan yr made through the bellach er mwyn gosod cynsail hygyrch i’r gynulleidfa ehangaf Eglwys yng Nghymru ar hyn o the wider work of the Diocesan office. ddeallusolHappy ar gyfer Birthday! cynnal y posib. bryd.— Siôn Brynach LookingThe Bishop’s back over Christmas the numbers message: see page 4 Am ddim Free of Pobl Dewi in the Llys Esgob A changed culture of Archive is a salutary and humbling experience. So much achievement; such a wide variety of activity over life together as a diocese. It has the past ten years; and so attrac- always been a paper of optimism communication tively recorded by the Pobl Dewi and ideas. I am very pleased at John Holdsworth considers how Pobl Dewi has evolved over the past 10 years Team: all human life – at least in the number of contributors from the – is there. across the diocese and beyond; ISTORY may not judge out what they were! The whole Pobl Dewi has made a signif- indeed, I have enjoyed reading HBishop Carl Cooper kindly Communications Team edited icant contribution to the life of news about new initiatives from in some respects, but it would the first editions. Then we iden- the Diocese of St Davids and has parishes – be they large or small be churlish to overlook his tified a team of three who took it become a vital tool in commu- – as all have an important role to undoubted gifts in the field of stra- in turns. Eventually it devolved nicating knowledge and news. I play. tegic planning, and his passion for to the one we presently have, know we live in electronic times From its first headline “Church communicating the Gospel. His who could not have been a better when we are encouraged to have in Pioneering Project” to the most first and main instruction to me, choice. We improved procedures as a paper-free environment, but, recent “Hope is Growing”, Pobl when I became Archdeacon of St we went along, working at getting personally, I prefer to have a news- Dewi shows a church family on Davids in 2003, was an update of contributors from every parish and paper in my hands. Furthermore, the move. Venturing in Mission, Matthew 28: do something about identifying and using the gifts and in a diocese like ours this is quite Catalyst, and Growing Hope – the communication. What he had in skills that exist. It has always been important, because so many people strategy arising out of our diocesan mind implied no criticism of those difficult to get articles in Welsh. We who live in rural locations struggle gatherings – have all been reported already employed in the field. It had a grand design to get every- with their internet speeds or have in the paper. There have been so was more a recognition of the need thing translated for the web version difficulty accessing the internet at many articles which have made me to harness those gifts and attempt (which was itself a development) all. Therefore, I am pleased that a proud of being part a family which a cultural change in the diocese. but that proved beyond us. paper like this is readily accessible has so much talent. We needed a stronger sense of debate was about the title. Every- I believe that the success of and available to all. Pobl Dewi also began with individual parochial worth and one was happy with the choice Pobl Dewi has not only been to When I was Dean it was always the aim of making it accessi- identity. We needed a more urgent of the Welsh version of David’s achieve the status of the best dioc- an important vehicle to report on ble to people who don’t normally appreciation of the need for inter- People – the question was how esan paper in , but rather that news of the mother church of the come to church. I believe this has connection and realisation of how to spell it. The Bishop’s view it has contributed to a changed diocese; you will recall when we happened. I have even seen it in my the diocese as a family adds value prevailed. What we wanted was culture of communication which began the refurbishment of the barber shop! to parochial ministry. And we a user-friendly tabloid that would has seen advances in many ways: cloisters. This was in the early days Ten years ago, we wanted a high needed a more energetic approach compare in technical quality with not least in the appointment of of the paper. Pobl Dewi has moved quality paper which the diocese felt to presenting ourselves to the non- commercial newspapers. a designated Communications a long way since then and how time it owned. We have achieved this. churched, both in the diocese and We were convinced that there Officer. Congratulations on this flies! Therefore, you and I are most grate- the wider world. Pobl Dewi was an would be lots of stories, but also 10th anniversary. Long may Pobl Looking through the back ful for the commitment of the team attempt to contribute to that. (and we were proved correct) that Dewi continue. numbers we can see how it has which produces it on our behalf. In the early days the main initially it would be hard to find become a useful snapshot of our Long may this publication continue! Pobl Dewi, March 2014 3 Appointments

Revd Paul Boyle Priest in Charge of Camrose, also serving as Chaplain of Pembrokeshire College Revd Gareth Reid from 1 December 2013 Revd Patrick Mansel Lewis Priest in Charge of Revd Dr Rhiannon Johnson Revd Canon Sian Jones NS Associate Priest, Rectorial w Bangor Teifi w Henllan w to remain as Priest-in-Charge Rector & Acting Area Dean, Benefi ce of Llanelli; appointed Llanfairorllwyn w Llangynllo, of Walwyn’s Castle but also Rectorial Benefi ce of Llanelli; NS Associate Priest in the also serving as Diocesan now full-time Diocesan Course appointed Priest-in-Charge Parish of Llanelli, Warden of Ordinands Director for Exploring Faith, of the Parish of Llanelli & to 5 January 2014 from 1 January 2014 1 January 2014 remain as Acting Area Dean, 5 January 2014

New role for town vicar

HE Vicar of Haverfordwest, tant post on the Bishop’s staff and Revd Canon Geoffrey TRevd Fr Paul Mackness, is I look forward to working more Gwyther leaving to take up an appointment closely with Bishop Wyn and to Rector of Prendergast w as Chaplain to the Bishop of St bringing what skills I have to assist Rudbaxton, Canon St Davids Davids, Rt Revd Wyn Evans. him in his ministry and to minister Cathedral; to continue as He has served the town for four to him as his chaplain. Rector of Prendergast w years as vicar of the United Parish, “I am at the same time sad to which covers the town centre leave Haverfordwest, which it has Rudbaxton and serving as Revd Dr Adrian Furse church of St Mary the Virgin, St been a pleasure to serve as parish Prebend/Canon Treasurer St appointed Minor Canon at Martin of Tours and St Ishmael’s in priest for the last four years.” Davids Cathedral St Davids Cathedral and Haroldston St Issells. Fr Paul will also be relinquish- from 23 January 2014 Team Vicar in the Benefi ce Revd Marianne Osborne, Fr Paul said: “I am both ing his seat on the Town Council of Dewisland; Installed at the appointed Priest-in-Charge humbled and honoured to have and his role as Secretary to the Revd Christopher Brown, cathedral 23 January, of St Issell’s & w appointed Priest-in-Charge, been asked to take up this impor- Gild of Freemen of Haverfordwest. Licensed at Solva Crunwere & Marros, Fishguard w Llanychar However he will continue to serve 25 January 2014 6 March 2014 & Pontfaen w Morfi l & as Clerical Secretary to the Diocese Llanychlwydog, of St Davids, a post he has also 25 April 2014 held since 2010. He takes over the role from Ven Dennis Wight, the Archdeacon of St Davids, who has been Bishop’s Llyfr Gweddi Gyffredin Chaplain since 2010. Cymraeg 1664 yn Llundain. Bishop Wyn paid tribute to Fy Annwyl Garedigion . . . Defnyddiwyd y llyfr hwn Archdeacon Dennis for his “hard am ryw dri chan mlynedd work in the post. I look forward to Lyn Lewis Dafi s marks the 350th anniversary of the publication of gan eglwyswyr Cymraeg having Paul working with me.” the Welsh version of the Book of Common Prayer in 1664 eu hiaith yn gyfrwng addo- R ei bod hi’n anodd yn mynd. Mae pen-blwyddi liad cyhoeddus a phreifat. Y ecredu hynny weithiau, a dathliadau yn gyfl eon inni Llyfr Gweddi a ddysgodd i Thyddewi wrth gwrs) ynghyd gweddi newydd sbon yn 1984 nid amgueddfa yw’r eglwys wneud hynny yn aml iawn ac genhedlaeth ar ôl cenhedla- ag esgob Henffordd oedd – er ei fod yn tynnu’n helaeth ac nid yw ei haddoliad i fod eleni rydyn ni’n cofi o cyhoeddi eth o Gristnogion Cymraeg trefnu’r cyfi eithu ac roedd copi ar yr hyn a aeth o’i fl aen – o ddiddordeb dim ond i’r rhai fod y cyfuniad o sacrament, i’w osod ym mhob eglwys ac mae’n gwasanaethau yn hynny sy’n dwli ar hen bethau. gair a gweddi yn un all feithrin mewn plwyf lle’r oedd y dal i gael eu diweddaru. Eto Mae addoliad yn rhywbeth a chynnal unigolyn a chynul- Gymraeg yn cael ei siarad, a mae’n werth edrych mewn hen deinamig sy’n perthyn i hanfod leidfa ar eu taith ysbrydol. hynny erbyn mis Mai 1665. gwpwrdd yn y festri i weld a ein bywyd fel Cristnogion, Bu Eglwyswyr Saesneg eu Mae’r llyfrau hynny, yn oes ’na gopi’n cuddio yno a hebddo ni allwn fyw yn hiaith yn dathlu ddwy fl ynedd ogystal â chopïau diweddarach throi o un gwasanaeth i’r llall ysbrydol. Trwy ein haddoliad yn ôl gyhoeddi Llyfr Gweddi ohonynt, wedi eu hen symud o i weld cymaint yw ein dyled rydyn ni’n gwneud beth rydyn Gyffredin 1662. Cyhoed- bob eglwys erbyn hyn. Cafodd o hyd i’r “hen” lyfr gweddi. ni’n dweud ein bod yn ei gredu, dwyd y llyfr hwnnw ar ôl ryw yr Eglwys yng Nghymru lyfr ac yn dangos i’r byd pwy ydyn ddeng mlynedd ar hugain, pan ni. Wrth gwrdd â Duw mewn oedd wedi’i wahardd o dan addoliad rydyn ni’n cael ein lywodraeth Oliver Cromwell, ar gwneud yn bobl iddo ef ac yn adferiad y brenin Siarl II. Bu’n Ar ddechrau’r fl wyddyn cafodd Eglwys St Cristiolus, cael ein newid yn barhaus i rhaid i ni siaradwyr Cymraeg Eglwyswrw, noson o gymdeithasu yn yr Hen Ysgol lle fod y bobl mae e am inni fod. aros am ddwy fl ynedd arall daeth nifer fawr o’r aelodau a phlant ynghyd. Ar ôl cael Eto i gyd y mae’n bwysig i gael eu fersiwn hwy. Nid gwledd o fwyd cafodd y plant eu cyfl wyno â thocyn anrheg inni gofi o o ble y daethon ni yw rhai pethau’n newid! o Siop Awen Teifi er mwyn inni efallai gael gwell Gwaith esgobion Cymru syniad i ble y gallen ni fod (Bangor, Llanelwy, Llandaf, a 4 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 Strategy update Growing hope Grants available from the Local in prayer for Lent Ministry Area Initiative Fund The Venturing in Mission grant scheme ceased on 31 December 2013 and has been The diocesan ministry team has produced a series of prayer replaced by the Local Ministry Area Initiative Fund since 1 January 2014 resources for Lent based on the strategy for growth HE aim of the Local Minis- Galwad yw hwn i chi weddïo gyda’ch gilydd yn ystod y Grawys; Ttry Area Initiative Fund is to adnodd wedi ei anelu at unigolion a grwpiau yn yr esgobaeth make grants available to support initiatives which move forward ESIGNED for use by individ- • Restructuring the Diocese the mission of the Local Ministry Duals or groups, the bilingual • Revitalising Churches Areas. Examples of possible eligi- guides offer Bible texts, refl ections • Rejuvenating People ble projects could be and prayers for the fi ve Sundays • Reimagining Ministry • Start up funding for a new in Lent as well as Ash Wednesday, • Looking Out congregation/church plant Palm Sunday and Easter Day. • Discovering New Life meeting in for example a “Prayer is at the heart of Grow- “We often meet in groups school hall. ing Hope,” Director of Mission during Lent for discussion,” • Resources for a team of chil- & Ministry Ven Dennis Wight Dennis says. “This year, we hope dren’s youth workers to told Pobl Dewi. “So we thought it these groups will focus on the huge improve provision within a would be good if we could all join changes taking place in diocese. Local Ministry Area. forces by using the same thoughts We envisage there’ll be less discus- • Costs of an Evangelistic and words; everyone – literally – sion and more listening to and mission. praying together. refl ecting on people’s comments, • Costs for running a Christian Each sheet includes the rele- receiving them as a gift.” foundation course. vant Bible texts, refl ections on the Growing Hope in Prayer, • A one off event such as a Local various aspects of life and work in produced for the Diocese of St Ministry Area children/youth In the past we have supported starting a kids club, youth group the diocese, and intercessionary Davids by Revd Christopher Webb day. a scheme undertaken at St Peter’s and developing close links with suggestions, each based on a differ- and Ven Dennis Wight, is availa- • Costs of a community outreach Church, Llanelli which entailed local schools. This initiative would ent theme related to the season ble free from the Diocesan Offi ce initiative. furnishing the new community fi t the criteria for the new Local – and the strategy: or via the website: http://stdavids. • Enhancement funding for area at the back of the church. This Ministry Area Initiative Fund. • Committing to Prayer churchinwales.org.uk/lent2014 Sunday schools, youth group area is now being used for vari- Applicants are invited to use • Finding Strength in Weakness and new worship methods. ous activities engaging the local their God-given imaginations to community and creating an oppor- discover new and creative ways of tunity for outreach. St Peter’s has growing the 21st century Church. started a midweek coffee morn- The full grant-making crite- ing to encourage fellowship with ria for the Local Ministry Area New Year celebrations for Enfys the local people. The new space Initiative Fund can be found on St is already being used for Bible Davids Diocesan website. A new Ministry Area serving seven parishes in south Pembrokeshire has been launched with a study and as a meeting area. They For further information please service of celebration, as David Thomas reports also intend re-connecting with the contact Mrs Nia Evans at HE parishes of Begelly, Carew, younger generation and introduc- [email protected] TCosheston, East Williamston, ing them to the Christian faith by Ludchurch, Nash and Redberth will in future be served by a Minis- try Team of two priests, Reverend Canon Sarah Geach (pictured left) and Reverend Shirley Rayner (right), with support from a number of lay people. The new grouping of churches is to be called Enfys – the Welsh word for rainbow –with the seven colours of the rainbow representing the seven parishes which make up the new Ministry Area. Canon Geach explained, “In the Bible, the rainbow is given as a sign of God’s promise and faithful- ness to humankind. We felt it was an appropriate symbol to express the hope and challenge facing the parishes in this new grouping. The seven churches have been work- ing together for several months and already there is a strong sense of RSCM courses friendship and mutual support.” The move is part of the The Royal School of Church Music (RSCM) is running a changes taking place throughout new range of courses for church musicians and worship the Diocese of St Davids and is leaders in 2014 designed to meet the challenges for In addition to its already popular courses for organists the Church in the 21st century. and choristers, there will be new sessions for cathedral and Enfys came into existence on collegiate organ scholars, worship leaders, and churches 1st January and a service of cele- dreadful weather, there was a the congregation lighting a candle with no choirs. A course for music group leaders is also bration to launch the new Ministry large turnout representing all of as an expression of hope and being offered. Area was held at East Williamston the seven parishes. The service commitment for the future. For more information go to www.rscm.com/courses Hall (on 8th January) when, despite concluded with each member of Pobl Dewi, March 2014 5 The wider language – one small step! Enid Morgan invites anyone interested in improving their Welsh so that they can lead bi-lingual services with confidence to join a group of like-minded clergy and readers in Llanbadarn Fawr Deanery T was a freezing Sunday morn- in Welsh for a community using we’ve started a weekly liturgi- years. Doing it together in a like- Iing in church when Meri Davies, two languages isn’t just a matter cal drill so that the phrases which minded group is perhaps more fun. rubbing her hands, remarked to of civic rights, or political correct- form the back-bone of our liturgies All have made various stabs at my husband “Mae nwylo’i siarad ness; it is a matter of cultural can be used expansively and musi- learning Welsh, and don’t want to Saesneg” – my hands are talking respect and a way of loving people. cally and the Welsh that is spoken cause wincing in their congrega- English. What one earth did she I’ve been asked to write or sung at least sounds right! (A tions. Whereas younger clergy and mean! For her, English was a cold about a modest experiment we’ve professional singer learns how best leaders need to commit themselves on 20th February, 20th March and language full of s’s, it was yr iaith embarked on in Llanbadarn Dean- to enunciate the words in a song to learning the language properly, 15th May at 4.30pm. fain, the narrow language that you ery where we have a number of by Schubert, and knows what the these are learning to open their All the classes are at Rhiwlas, don’t need to open your mouth to clergy and readers who are not words mean. And the song would mouths broadly for vowels, and Cliff Terrace, Aberystwyth. speak! It takes a leap of imagina- Welsh speakers, who confess that sound OK even though the singer to enjoy their ll’s and ch’s. If you’d like to join in you’re tion, a sort of conversion even, to they are unlikely ever to become wasn’t a German speaker.) There There were six weekly classes very welcome – please just call grasp how difficult it is to worship Welsh speakers, but would still like are lots of members of congrega- at 2.30pm-3.30pm on Wednesdays 01970-624648 or e-mail in a language that is not really your to be able to lead bi-lingual services tions who have been doing work until 26th February, followed by [email protected] own. The need to provide worship with generosity. Accordingly, like this with individual clerics for a three-session hymnology course

have been to the Cursillo weekend) identify those who are active Chris- A springboard to the tians and witnesses to their love for Christ, and invite them to the weekend. Those attendees, known Fourth Day as pilgrims, are given an outline of what to expect and assisted in Following enquiries as to what Anglican Cursillo is, Judy Webb preparations for the event, which gives a brief introduction to the movement is a springboard to the practice of the Baptismal Covenant in the URSILLO is a movement are well-grounded in faith; it Church life called the Fourth Day. Cacross many countries and isn’t a conversion experience but The weekend, led by laity with creeds helping those in the Church an enriching of what is already clergy as spiritual advisers, brings understand their calling as Chris- there, providing new insights into together a diverse group of Chris- tian leaders. This leadership may our faith and fostering ministry tians to share the richness of many be exercised in all life’s areas amongst laity. Many say Cursillo modes of worship and broaden and does not mean power over makes them feel like newly-made their appreciation of our Church. others. Rather, it means influence Christians, with purpose and The three days are filled with talks on others, because everyone can support. and discussions emphasising the doctrines of grace, sacrament, and exert a positive influence on those It is patterned on Jesus’ own Pilgrims and team, Cursillo weekend 2013, at Coleg Trefeca around them. example and exemplified by our the Cursillo tripod: piety, study and Cursillo’s goal is the Church’s Cursillo three-day weekend; Jesus action. There is fellowship, laugh- developing a bonding that insti- Spanish – Cursillo means a short goal – to bring all to Christ; led called a small group of potential ter, singing, good food, and time tutes a very strong support group course. You will find further infor- by informed, trained leaders and leaders and trained them by word for privacy. The Eucharist is cele- for life. An ‘Ultreya’, usually held mation on the website of British supported by others who are simi- and example, inspiring them with brated daily. bi-monthly, brings together Cursil- Anglican Cursillo larly committed. It helps renew a vision then sending them out to At the heart of Cursillo is a listas from across the Diocese. www.anglicancursillo.co.uk/ and deepen Christian commit- bring the world to Him. small group of Cursillistas who Cursillo began in Majorca in or contact Hazel on 01239 811115. ment and presumes that pilgrims Sponsors (Cursillistas who meet regularly in their home area, 1944. Many of the words used are Why not come along and meet us?

A great gift of nothing drive to Lampeter to experience Contemplarium. You can experi- At last year’s New Wine Christian Conference, the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby spoke ence it wherever you are. very powerfully about the power of prayer – “There has never been a renewal of the Church in Find out how on the Western Europe without a renewal of prayer and the life of religious communities. Never. And if we Contemplarium Website. want to see things changed, it starts with prayer.” http://www.contemplarium.org/ Jenny Kimber HAT could well be the moti- gious communities. saw them as a sign of the presence Tvation behind a new venture The service has attracted a of Christ’s light in their homes. which is rapidly gaining support number of people from outside the The service contains a fifteen at St Peter’s Church, Lampeter. church’s normal congregation and minute period of silence. That It’s something called ‘Contempla- Chris hopes many more will join in. can take some getting used to but, rium’, a made-up word. Just as an Candlelight always features as one person commented, “That aquarium is full of water, a Contem- prominently in Contemplarium, fifteen minutes of silence in the plarium is full of contemplation. It even more so in February, since middle wasn’t at all like I expected. happens at 6pm on the first Sunday it coincides with the Feast of the It seemed so short. It was over so of each month and offers a chance Presentation, or Candlemas. That’s quickly.” to experience a period of reflection the time when we remember Jesus That may be because the silence on scripture, an extended period of being brought into the temple and has a way of drawing you in, and silent prayer, and a chanted monas- recognised by the prophets Simeon although it can seem daunting from tic-style Vespers service at the end and Anna (Luke 2: 22-38). It’s the outside it’s quite marvellous of the hour. also known as Candlemas because from the inside. The chance to sit It’s led by the Parish Priest, people used to bring their candles to in God’s presence and just be . . . Revd Chris Webb, a member of the church to be blessed by the priest, You don’t have to pray or articu- Benedictine Community, who sees stirred by the idea that Simeon had late any very noble thoughts. It’s a it as a way to help people engage called Jesus “a light for revelation great gift of nothing and a deeply more meaningfully with prayer and to the Gentiles.” When they lit their refreshing experience. the way of life experienced in reli- blessed candles every night, they You don’t necessarily need to 6 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 With knowledge comes Community in adversity J-D Laurence is staggered by the devastation caused by the new year storms in Aberystwyth and impressed with the community’s responsibility response Marcus Zipperlen, a member of the Provincial committee Church Action on Sustaining the Environment, considers storms, floods, climate change, and judgement

atural’ disasters often activities one might conjecture flooding. Our deforested uplands Nmove people to enquire would evoke God’s judgement: our shed water more quickly and ‘where God is. Recently a certain greed, overconsumption, wasteful- increase flood-risk downstream. UKIP councillor proclaimed this ness, and rapacious exploitation Draining wetlands has a similar January’s storms were God’s of forests, obliterating God’s good effect. Building on floodplains is a judgement upon our coun- Creation. gamble. Some of these things have try for entertaining the idea of But is climate change to blame been done in the past in ignorance Gay Marriage. Now, whatever for recent storms? On scientific of consequences, but with knowl- the merits or otherwise of that evidence, we have to say we can’t edge comes responsibility, and we proposed development, interpret- be sure. We know rainfall in Brit- know now. ing disasters as evidence of God’s ain has increased marginally over So is recent storm damage specific punishment upon people is recent decades (a warmer atmos- judgment on our misdoings in all misguided theology of a type our phere carries more water), and these areas? That’s more cred- Lord teaches against: rather, disas- global sea-level is rising around ible, but what is certain is that if ters await all of us unless we each 3mm per year. Research by the we would see God’s judgement repent (Luke 13: 1-5). Intergovernmental Panel on active in this winter’s storms and So, we shouldn’t point the Climate Change links an increase their aftermath, then it is judge- finger. But is there still some trac- in some types of extreme weather ment on how we respond. Do we tion in the ‘judgement’ argument conditions (certain hurricanes and blame others, or do we reach out to if applied more universally? Were droughts) with man-made climate help? And if we have global warm- the storms the result of ‘climate change. But no studies have yet ing on our conscience, we should N the first Friday of this board up windows, even offer- change’, itself a more oblique been undertaken that directly remember the worst effects will not ONew Year I wandered down ing beds on Facebook groups. judgement on our misuse of Crea- link climate change with extreme be experienced by us, but by those to the seafront to clear my head About 200 people were evacuated tion? Certainly global warming weather in the UK. who have contributed least to caus- in preparation for working on and there was a palpable sense of is being exacerbated by the burn- Yet focus our gaze a little closer ing it, the poorest in developing my sermon: such are the privi- community as people looked out ing of fossil fuels, and agricultural to home and we see human activity countries. leges of living and working in for each other and supported the practices. There are aspects to these directly worsening the effects of Aberystwyth! I had heard some council, police, fire brigade and fairly high winds during the night coastguard in their efforts. but nothing prepared me for the Several days later, the freak jaw-dropping scene of devasta- combination of unusually high tion that met me when I emerged tides and gale force winds had from the covered passageway into subsided sufficiently for the clean- the open light of the promenade. up effort to begin. Again, there I have never witnessed first-hand was a tremendous sense of soli- such destruction; it looked like an darity and purpose as people of Eastern European war zone. It was all ages and backgrounds helped very difficult to believe that water one another. There were so many alone had ripped cast iron rail- volunteers who had offered their ings out of the ground and thrown help to the council that one Satur- them across the road, snapped solid day morning found a large crowd wooden benches like matchsticks, shovelling sand back onto the and punched holes in rock-hard beach under the supervision of the concrete. Windows the other side professionals, sustained by free hot of the road had been broken, base- drinks from a local business. ments flooded, and what was Today the prom is walkable, once a road had become a rubble- though by no means fully repaired covered beach extension with the yet, and the town has by and large sand several feet deep in places. returned to normal. Adversity That night we received an auto- sometimes shows what truly lies mated flood warning telephone within, and I was proud to see the call. Evidently the drama was not strength of community spirit that over; there was more to come. My emerged. Times like this offer son and I took to the streets and the Church both an example of found many town residents pitch- community and an opportunity to ing together to fill sandbags and be part of it as salt and light. Pobl Dewi, March 2014 7

be a ‘show and tell’ session at the Group Eucharist on the fifth Sunday of the month, achieving the Tracing Private Thomas Holy Grail of ‘all-age worship’ in one hit. Jonathan Copus takes a fresh look at the Church’s ministry As for potential projects, how among children and young people about linking up with a school HO was Private Thomas? sheep’s clothing – draws young and in Uganda, say, by Skype, and WWhy is his name on the old, regular and ‘fringer’, into a swapping everything from life- war memorial in Crymych? communal activity. So the question challenging experiences to jokes? Where did he live? naturally arises: if project work is Technology-travel is great fun and Those were questions pre- so blatantly successful, why don’t informative. In a wider perspective, sented to young people in the we do more of it? prejudice and misunderstanding Crymych Group of Churches, and In response, the Group’s cannot survive without the oxygen the answers formed the core of the nattily-named Children and Young of ignorance. Group’s Remembrance Sunday People’s Ministry Team decides And just think: no more clashes service in November. But along on a bold change of direction. In with rugby practice, no more business-speak it would be called despondency about lack of prem- Video calls are a great way to keep in touch with other parts of the way, many others became the global village involved: parents were intrigued; a switch from a process-based to ises where the kids can be banished older folk were delighted to be a project-based model. In plain – sorry, can indulge in appropriate thirty for a 20-minute recorded entation, so let’s meet up again at asked for their reminiscences; and English, they would stop colouring and meaningful activities – while Skype, which Llion can edit with Rob’s on Wednesday after school. the exercise eventually involved in the Good Samaritan at Sunday the adults enjoy peaceful worship. his Mum’s help. Callum can write In secular education, project- a sizeable proportion of the local School and hearing how Baalam’s The Uganda school may only the intro, and the rest of us can put based learning is nothing new. In community. donkey wasn’t quite such an ass have electricity for a few hours together a pin-up display of photos Sunday School circles it is still a Similarly, the traditional Nativ- after all, and embark on a series of a week. So here, it’s everybody the Ugandan kids have emailed us. relative novelty, and may prove the ity Play – complete with sheep in projects instead. The result would round Lily’s on Thursday at four- We’ve got ten days till the pres- answer to many prayers.

Melys yw cwsg Farming Community Rhiannon Rowley enjoys combining her organic bed business with ministry Network N union fel nad oes ’na bob blwyddyn ar draws y byd, a Yamser perffaith i gael babi, gall y dipiau organoffosffig sy’n Chris Coe introduces himself as the new Regional Director of this does ’na ddim amser perffaith cael eu defnyddio i olchi defaid Christian charity and appeals for volunteers to help famers and chwaith i ddechrau eich busnes achosi problemau niwrolegol their families in times of need eich hunan! Ond mae Duw yn i ffermwyr a’u teuluoedd. e have heard the stories rhoi amser i ni ar y ddaear hon, Bydd y rhan fwyaf o bobl Wand even seen the results. a chreda’ i mae ein lle ni yw yn mynd i’r gwely bob nos heb The headlines read, “Local farm- defnyddio’r amser hwnnw yn y syniad lleiaf o’r gymysgedd ryfedd ing family devastated by suicide”. ffordd fwyaf gynhyrchiol posib. o gemegau y maen nhw’n treulio’r Or the sign on the farm gate that Mae pob munud yn werthfawr, nos yn eu cwmni, ac er fy mod i’n reads “Farm Sale here Saturday hyd yn oed y munudau hynny pan deall y daioni sy’n dod o noson 10am” Behind these stories, and fyddwn ni yn cysgu, a dros y deng ‘lân’ o gwsng, doeddwn i ddim countless others, there are tales blynyddoedd mae’r busnes wedi mlynedd diwethaf dw i wedi bod wedi sylweddoli y byddai’r busnes of sorrow, loneliness and despair. tyfu i fod yn fenter lewyrchus yn ceisio sicrhau fod ‘na ddewis hwnnw yn dod yn weinidogaeth We all know that farming is inher- sy’n cyflogi hanner dwsin o bobl. ar gael i’r bobl hynny sydd am i mi. Bydda i’n siarad â llawer ently a risky business and is very Mae ’na lawer o bethau da yn i’w cwsg fod gyda’r iachaf posib. o bobl yn feunyddiol sydd wedi dependent on the weather. National dod o weithio yn y sector organig, Enw’r busnes dwi’n ei darllen digon i fod yn ymwybodol crises come and go, whether they a hynny ar gyfer pobl a’r blaned redeg yw Abaca, ac rydyn y gallai eu problemau iechyd gael relate to animal or crop health or fel ei gilydd. Mae cynhyrchu ni’n cynhyrchu ac yn gwerthu eu hachos gan eu matresi; y fam the weather. matresi organig o bob lliw a ffeibr yn organig, boed hynny’n ifanc a’r mam-gu a’r tad-cu, yr un However, even without major lambs were lost, and we, together llun. Ym mhob un matras ceir wlân neu’n gotwm, yn bendant sy’n dioddef o ganser neu alergedd incidents, such is the nature of with other agencies, are still working haenen ar haenen o wlân organig yn ddewis iachach ar gyfer y neu sensitifrwydd i gemeau. Gall farming that many individuals and with the families affected. o Gymru, deunydd sydd yn cynhyrchwyr eu hunain. Mae’r y drafodaeth honno fod yn un families get into great difficulty The good news is that the naturiol yn medru gwrthsefyll cemegau sy’n cael eu chwistrellu hir a chythryblus, ac mae’n rhan and need help. This is where The Welsh Assembly Government tân. Golyga hynny nad ydyn ar gnydau cotwm confensiynol i o’n polisi fel busnes fod pob Farming Community Network has given funding for a Regional ni’n gorfod ychwaengu unrhyw ladd chwyn a phryfed yn achosi unigolyn yn cael yr amser sydd comes in. The Farming Community Director for Wales. I started in post gemegau i wneud hyn, a dros y marwolaeth rhyw 20,000 o bobl eu hangen arnyn nhw i esbonio eu Network, (FCN) formerly Farm on the 1 November 2013, and one hamgylchiadau hwy eu hunain. Crisis Network, was started during of my first objectives is to increase Wrth imi fod yn rhan o’r the first Foot and Mouth outbreak our numbers and the awareness of trafodaethau hyn mae Duw gyda to bring some relief to the farm- the service we offer. As such I am mi, a bydda i’n aml iawn yn ing community. We are a national actively seeking Christian people holi pobl a ydyn nhw am imi Christian Charity and today we still of all ages and abilities who have weddïo gyda nhw. Weithiau mae’r walk with, and bring comfort to, some experience of farming to join ateb yn un digon syml, mae’n many in the farming community. our teams of volunteers throughout “ie” neu’n “na” a dyna ni. Ond Last year we responded to around Wales, as well as be part of the new weithiau mae’n fwy cymhleth, a thousand calls for help. Some teams I am seeking to establish. mae’r ateb yn fwy ansicr “A of these calls involved little more If you have a basic knowledge of fyddai hynny’n gwneud unrhyw than being a voice on the end of the farming, or you are a farmer your- wahaniaeth achos dwi ddim yn telephone, whilst others involve self, if you are lay or ordained, rhywun crefddol?” Mae’r ateb us in being friends and a constant and you have some time to give to sydd gen i yn un a roddwyd imi support, or “walker with” as we those who are in need I would love flynyddoedd yn ôl bellach “Does refer to our volunteers. to hear from you. dim angen inni boeni ar hyn o Over the last few years the farm- Revd Chris Coe, bryd a ydych chi’n credu yn Nuw, ing community in Wales has had a 2 Pentrosfa Road, y peth pwyisg yw gwybod ei particularly bad time. We all remem- Llandrindod Wells, LD1 5NL. fod yntau yn credu ynoch chi.” ber the snows of last winter, snows Tel: 01597 824304; www.abacaorganic.co.uk that followed a long, very cold and 0742 9251 960; 01269 598491 dry period. Thousands of sheep and [email protected]. 8 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 St Twynell or Gwynog, son of the History Man St Twynell was also known as Gwynog, Gwynauc and at least another eleven versions of his name, so tracking his story has been somewhat confusing, writes Mary Baker in her latest article about our ancient saints S with most of our other early porary, or almost so, with many of in Glamorganshire (church of three Asaints it is St Twynell’s family the characters and wars against the saints) along with St Illtyd and St history that sets him apart from the Saxons that he describes. Tyfodwg. crowd. In fact it is history itself that Gildas became a cleric, as Many of our saints were of owes a great deal to his father, the seemed a fashionable choice for royal blood and travelled from the famed Gildas. royal princes at the time, and his Clydeside area of Scotland appear- Gildas Ap Caw, as he is known texts were written in the form of ing in Wales during the 6th century. in some texts, was of royal blood sermons. Early medieval priests Gwynog is another such and, like from North Britain (today’s Scot- and monks married and brought his contemporaries, appears to land). His work the “Ruin and up children whilst continuing their have travelled to holy sites prob- Conquest of Britain” is the most calling and Gildas appears to have ably preaching and spreading important source of written knowl- had children, including Gwynog. Christianity. St Twynell’s was edge from the post-Roman or All that we know of Gwynog probably already a holy site for “Dark Age” era. Gildas is some- is that he was a holy man based the pagan population as there are what polemic and the works consist in Wales. His feast day is 26th two springs, or wells, that may of many criticisms of kings and October but his connection with have been sacred. The early saints clergy but he does name names and St Twynell is unknown. He has favoured these places and incor- give us clues about important fami- churches dedicated to him in Mont- porated the old religion into their I, for one, would like to know the shadow of his famed father and lies and battles. His work is dated gomeryshire and Breconshire and own, even borrowing and Chris- more about St Gwynog but it seems be known merely as Gwynog son to about 540 and so he is contem- is said to have founded Llantrisant tianising special days. that for now he must live forever in of Gildas. Welcome to Peaceful Places Suspended Coffee The fascinating heritage of North ’s sacred landscapes is being brought to life and What’s that? . . . Mike Chambers provides the answer celebrated by Peaceful Places – a new tourism trail launching in June this year HILE away on holiday, we about who is eligible for a free HE trail follows a collection of ture, art and craftsmanship. amidst the beauty and tranquil- Wpopped into a little corner coffee, but most cafes have decided T14 churches and chapels, from Peaceful Places is not a faith lity of the landscape. café in a Manchester suburb for a that if someone is asking for one, the bustling coast at Aberystwyth trail in the traditional sense. Its The trail takes in Eglwys- coffee and sandwich, and stumbled they are probably in need in some to the wild uplands of Llantrisant, purpose is to increase the acces- fach, featuring the renowned poet across “Suspended Coffee”. way. People are also concerned telling the story of each in the sibility and appeal of churches R S Thomas, as well as the area We were surprised to find this that hordes of homeless people will context of its surrounding land- and chapels to a wider audi- around Devil’s Bridge, including global tradition started in Naples, swarm coffee shops, making them scape and community. Along the ence in new ways – as places of the fascinating church at Hafod Italy, 100 years ago. The custom uncomfortable for regular custom- way visitors will discover oppor- inspiration and meditation; as and the surrounding villages, with of “caffé sospeso” or “suspended ers, but that doesn’t seem to be tunities to explore and learn about opportunities to “do something their historic lead mining connec- coffee” is when a customer pays the case. People are not judged by natural and cultural heritage, different” and to enjoy a change tions. Each of the partner churches for an extra cup of coffee, which appearance – one café owner said family history and tales of human of pace; as destinations where is being supplied with interpreta- someone in need can claim later. “it may be a single mother with events, embellished with architec- “quality time” can be savoured tion materials and will be linked It’s a graceful and easy way of seven kids who just needs a coffee by a trail map and a website (www. showing generosity, as donors and to get her through the day, or a man peaceful-places.com), giving infor- beneficiaries never meet. in a business suit who is in his 16th mation on what to see, where to The scheme operates in 18 week of job hunting”. stay and how best to travel. countries, and although the tradi- I haven’t come across any in Church, recently tion waned over recent decades it Wales, but wonder if it is something adapted as a visitor information has now made a comeback in these that churches that advertise coffee centre, forms a hub for the trail, challenging financial times for in their halls, or a dedicated area together with St Michaels, Aberyst- many people. In the UK more than in church during the week, could wyth, and St Padans, Llanbadarn 150 cafes have joined the movement participate in. Just add the supporter Fawr, with its striking exhibition with word spreading by internet and logo to your notice board and watch of Welsh saints. Promotion and social media. It’s not just restricted that gentle flow of generosity begin. marketing of the trail, by consult- to coffee, as anything a café serves This isn’t just about coffee. It ants Countryscape and Creu-ad, is up, from soup, biscuits, a simple is about getting people to support now underway, managed by Roger sandwich right up to full meals can each other again, to show compas- Haggar of Treftadaeth Llandre be “suspended” for a needy person. sion, love and empathy. Building Heritage. Says Roger: “Peaceful In China, nine cities are now offer- community. Places is a fantastic opportunity to ing suspended noodle dishes! See the BBC video at: www.bbc. celebrate these special and some- Comments on suspended coffee co.uk/news/magazine-22267613 times hidden places for the benefit websites suggest that people worry www.coffeesharing.com of both local people and visitors. There is much to be done before the trail is officially launched in early June and we welcome the involvement of businesses and communities in helping to ensure its success”. Peaceful Places is being managed by Treftadaeth Llandre Heritage, supported by Cadw, using investment from the European Regional Development Fund, the Welsh Government and several donor organisations. Pobl Dewi, March 2014 9

which is still a work in progress. Shaping Europe What kind of Europe is still up for The Hywel Dda discussion and hard negotiation. Just a trading block, or a group of On 22nd May, the people of Wales elect the four Members of countries that wish to share more the European Parliament to represent us in the European Union. than trade – legal systems, demo- Gardens and Jeremy Martineau considers some of the issues and encourages cratic forms and processes, cultural everyone to vote traditions and common ways of supporting essential industries? HE UK has 73 MEPs and elec- How far should harmonisation go? Interpretive Centre Ttions are held every five years. What about shared policing Whatever one’s view of the EU, practice and a common border to The Hywel Dda Gardens and Interpretive Centre at Whitland the four Welsh MEPs have a great manage the pressure of immigra- was officially opened on the 29 June, 1985, by the late Right opportunity to further the causes tion? What should be the balance of Honourable Lord Elwyn Jones, the former Lord Chancellor. The which we hold dear. Visit this power and responsibility between Centre recalls and celebrates the achievements of Hywel Dda website for impartial information Brussels, and ? The (Hywel the Good), during the first half of the tenth century, and on who’s who: www.elections2014. arguments about federal and state the Code of Laws named after him known as “The Laws of Hywel” eu/en responsibility continue to reverber- (Cyfraith Hywel). Ken Rees gives more information Britain’s place in Europe has our wits, skills and hard work to be ate in the greatest union of states always been half hearted, but able to continue to feed ourselves – the USA. These are some of the HE early manuscripts state that we are, in Putin’s words, a small and keep warm and healthy. We issues that will concern those we THywel called a great assembly “. . . A rich cultural offshore island distant from other have a great Christian heritage elect in May. of lawyers, clerics and leaders from friends. The old Empire has long that we share with other European We need to meet them, share all over his kingdom to the “Ty and heritage since gone and Britain has to work countries, and are one of the best at ideas with them and pray for them Gwyn-ar-Daf” (The White House hard to maintain a place at the integrating newcomers. in this great responsibility. And we on the Taf) now known as Whit- experience . . .” “top table”. We have few natural We continue to play an impor- need to vote on 22nd May. land, to study the laws and customs garden. The building is designed resources left, and so we rely on tant part in the shaping of Europe, of the various provinces and to on the same structural principles as devise a system of law that would the early medieval house. be suitable for the whole country. With the support of the National “The Laws of Hywel” remained Library of Wales (NLW), we have in force throughout Wales until a permanent exhibition in the Peni- NEXT TOURISM DAY IS . . . the Act of Union with England in arth Room of unique illustrations 1536. from the 13th century manuscript Have we got news for you! “Peniarth 28”. The NLW also WHEN? 10am – 4pm Saturday 10 May 2014 “. . . Canolfan recently presented the centre with a facsimile copy of a 14th century WHERE? Model Church in Wales Primary School, College Road, Carmarthen SA31 3EQ wych yn manuscript of the Laws of Hywel, written in Welsh, and known as the WHAT IS IT ABOUT? How to communicate information about our churches “Boston Manuscript”. Last summer adlewyrchu and churchyards our visitors and communities the original was sold at Sotheby’s by the Massachusetts Historical ein treftadaeth SPEAKERS - Andrew Lloyd Hughes, Digital Tourism Consultant - Society of Boston, USA, and is Simple Technological Tools for Promoting your Church (QR codes, Trip advisor and Google maps gyfoethog . . .” now kept at the NLW. This manu- and other innovations in in the field of digital information) - script has a fascinating story with a David Hammond-Williams - The Memorial Garden was Pembrokeshire family connection. Getting the Best out of the Press - Jenny Kimber - On the wall - Off the wall designed by Peter Lord from Aber- ystwyth, and includes a garden and Please bring lunch with you – tea and coffee will be provided an Interpretive Centre. The garden “. . . A unique and your own laptop if you wish . . is divided into six smaller areas, The day is FREE, with its own distinct character and garden – an but limited places so please register symbolic tree, each representing by contacting Revd Canon Sarah Geach: 01834 812078 / [email protected] a separate division of the Laws. undiscovered or Caroline Evans: 01267 202305 / [email protected] Examples of the Laws have been cut on slate plaques illuminated jewel . . .” If required, directions to the Model School can be provided when you register with enamels in and around the As the Centre is entirely run and garden. These provide a fascinat- managed by volunteers it is only ing insight into medieval society, open during the summer months reflecting the customs of the Welsh and Bank Holidays. However, pre- people, their way of life and values. arranged guided tours are welcome ART ON THE FAITH TRAIL 2014 The Interpretive Centre was throughout the year. Will be on throughout the month of July at designed by Dafydd Thomas of Telephone 01994 240867 the Prys Edwards Partnership [email protected] St Davids Cathedral St Aiden’s Church, Solva and extends the symbolism of the St Rhian Church, Llanrhian St Hywel, Llanhywel St David, Llanychaer St Peter, Little Newcastle St Gwyndaf’s Church, Llanwnda St Mary’s Church, Fishguard St Nicholas, village of St Nicholas, St Brynach, Pontfaen nr Strumble Head

and will feature the work of local artists including Raul Speek, Nigel Sutton, Heather Nixon, Heather Bennett, Richard Blacklaw-Jones, Deborah Withey, Robert Jakes, Rod Williams, Eliot Baron, Ellie Morgan, David Perkins, Buzz Knapp-Fisher, Miriam Scott (poet) and a number of musicians The Trail for 2014 will be launched at St Davids Cathedral by Bishop Wyn at 4pm on Tuesday 1st July Come and enjoy a diversity of artistic talent in a variety of sacred places Further details from Revd Canon Sarah Geach at [email protected] or phone 01834 812078 10 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 Focus on family life under pressure

with what we have and, conse- Ceredigion Team quently, having to work harder and ‘I want . . .’ longer to fulfi l this materialistic need. Around The Family Marianne Osborne looks at today’s culture of instant gratifi cation Our children are a prime exam- and makes a plea for love to remain at the heart of family life ple of this learnt materialism Children, young people and their families sometimes need – ‘must have’ the latest technology a little extra help to have happy, healthy and successful lives. OCIOLOGICALLY the family while bringing up their children. and the best designer clothes. What Mari Jefferis, Team Around the Family Co-ordinator for North Sunit has changed radically Dads these days have to share the happened to earning pocket money Ceredigion, outlines some details of the services which are over the last fi fty years, from the role of care-giver and mums are and saving up for things? As chil- available from the agency 1950s apron-clad housewife with fl uent in the language of DIY, deco- dren, earning the money to pay husband arriving home from work rating and gardening. Gone are the for an item was a drag but it gave to fi nd tea on the table and shiny stereotypical parents of yester-year us a sense of achievement; hard EAM Around the Family access to fi nd employment and do well-scrubbed children ready and in are the multi-tasking, multi- work pays off and is a lesson worth T(TAF) offers advice, help homework; support to address the for bed, to the couples of today talented and ‘tired’ heroes of the learning, unlike the ease of instant and support to families in need. If housing issues; strategies to reduce who fi nd themselves slaves to the here and now. gratifi cation without the thought of anyone contacts us with concerns neighbour confl ict and take posi- payroll in order to make ends meet. Life generally has become consequence or expense. about a child, young person or tive action in the community. An No longer do we take for granted more complex since those post- As a child of the seventies family, then we discuss these alternative education plan was also the stereotypical families of mum, war years, perhaps, as my mother and eighties I know the value of concerns with the family. put in place which included one-to- dad and 2.5 children. The family would say, ‘we’ve made a rod for extended family. A gran teaching Together we look at ways to one literacy and numeracy skills; a has evolved into many different our own backs’! We no longer baking and mending, a dad taking help and a small number of indi- catering qualifi cation; an outdoor and varied forms. choose to make do, we are contin- time to show his child how to use viduals and agencies who we think activities programme; a home Along with the changes in ually being pressurised by the a saw or paint a wall, a Saturday can also help are invited to be part improvements qualifi cation. the family unit has come a defi ni- media and others into convincing shopping trip with the treat of a of the support team. We work with The parent is now in work, the tive change in the roles of parents ourselves we want more, never new Ladybird story book if there the family to draw up a plan and housing arrears have been paid, who struggle to balance family life allowing ourselves to be satisfi ed were a few pence to spare. Would a nominated person will make the home décor improved and the I change the way I grew up if I sure the plan is followed. This is family has been able to move on; could? Not a chance! I value the a voluntary process and the family one young person returned to full simple things in life, time spent can withdraw at any time. time education and has become with my family, working hard to To give a fl avour of how we a member of the Youth Commit- save for that annual holiday, being can help, the following are brief tee for The Forum; the taught that working hard can bring details of a successful case. other young person has greatly you closer to having good things in Support was requested for a reduced their smoking; regular life. single parent family with two teen- internet access, support and advice Whatever guise we fi nd our agers. The parent was unemployed, will continue via Cantref Housing families taking we should hang one child was a smoker and the Association. on tight to those ageless family other had not been to school for I would like to thank the values: full tummy, warm bed and fi ve months. The family had hous- members of St Anne’s Church, an inexhaustible supply of love! ing arrears and was threatened with Penparcau, who are very support- We should work hard at counting eviction due to a neighbour dispute. ive of me, personally, and our the blessings in our lives and try, They are a close family who were work, for example the funding of wherever possible, to avoid the willing to be supported to make some essential items for families temptations that cause longing for positive changes. The allocated and the use of the church hall for things that are beyond our grasp. Lead Professional was provided by meetings. Youth Justice Service. Please don’t hesitate to contact Several agencies were involved us if you think we can be of help. and TAF co-ordinated support Tel: 01545 572649 Become a member which included enabling internet

with your local youth service and of YOUR Credit Union setting up an exciting new project West Wales Credit Union is going from strength to strength. supporting fi nancial education in Music for This is community banking at its best, says Vanessa Owens our secondary schools. We are supported by volun- a Summer E now cover the three to housing association and county teers and, where possible, there are Evening Wcounties of Ceredi- council tenants to support budget- opportunities for volunteering and gion, Carmarthenshire and ing and help manage their money. up-skilling. at Pembrokeshire and work closely With the recent welfare reforms and Please contact us if you you’d with partner organisations to proposed introduction of Univer- like to know more about setting up St Tudwal’ s Church, support people in our communities. sal Credit our Jam Jar account can your own local branch of the credit Llanstadwell We currently have £533,329 make the change easier. union. The 2014 series of in shares, and junior savings of Rent accounts are available for Joining the credit union is easy, concerts starts on private landlords and tenants visit our website www.wwcu.co.uk £145,269 –local people saving in as well as Christmas Savings Club. 20th April and ends on Loans up to £7,500 with fl ex- to assist in supporting tenancy and apply online or phone us at the their community bank; and in the 7th September. last fi nancial quarter we made 135 ible options at competitive rates agreements. Cardigan offi ce on 01239 621408. loans totalling £146,632 with a on a reducing balance, all loans Fuel Budget account which We have service point offi ces Tickets: £5 per concert total lending of £332,851. have free life insurance. We can allows you to spread the cost of in various locations throughout or £25 for all 6 concerts. We offer a wide range of reschedule existing debt where your oil purchases; we also support the diocese and access to your For full details call 01646 accounts and services: appropriate. the setting up of local fuel syndi- account balances, statements and 602464 or e-mail Jam Jar accounts linked with a cate bulk purchasing schemes. online applications is easy via our Savings accounts to suit your [email protected] needs with no minimum deposits prepaid debit card are available This year we will be partnering website. Pobl Dewi, March 2014 11 Poverty and Christian responsibility

Carol Wardman, Bishops’ Adviser on Church and Society, reveals some shocking statistics and urges us all to take action

CCORDING to the standard of how benefit changes and sanc- been wrongly penalised by bene- out parcels to families with empty Adefinition in the UK (living tions had affected her family was fit changes: charities and Rhondda cupboards faster than statistics can on less than £15,900 per year, or ill at the last minute. It took Oxfam MP Chris Bryant estimate the full keep up. below 60% of the average wage), all of an hour to find a selection of numbers affected are likely to be Following a consultation on one in four Welsh citizens lives replacements. “The poor you have 40-50,000. priorities for Wales, the National in poverty. The Joseph Rown- always with you”, Jesus pointed Since 2009, there has been a Lottery is now looking to India for tree Foundation warns that child out. [Matt 26:11] 40% increase in borrowers driven examples of best practice to tackle poverty is now regressing in Wales During the first six months after to loan sharks, according to Wales the problem of poverty. towards the level of 10 years ago, the ‘spare room subsidy’ abolition, Illegal Money Lending Unit. ‘Anyone unwilling to work with no local authority in Wales tenants at Community Housing Between June 2012 and March should not eat’ [2 Thessalonians having succeeded in removing Cymru alone racked up £1m in 2013, Welsh households struggling 3:10], St Paul warned Christians children from the measure. rent arrears. Just one advice line in to pay fuel bills nearly doubled, tempted to give up their jobs and oped countries of the modern When the Church in Wales and Wales recouped £750k in unpaid to one in five. Two-year-olds in wait for the Kingdom of Heaven; world. No matter what causes it, Oxfam Cymru launched the Welsh benefits during 2013. A Freedom of households suffering long-term but the churches he knew also or whether you choose to tackle it version of the report Truth and Lies Information request, representing unemployment are on average an handed out food-parcels to anyone through practical action or through About Poverty/Gwirionedd a chel- results from only one-third of local inch shorter than their peers; by age in need (Acts 1-3). Shockingly, campaigning, there is no Christian wyddau am dlodi last December, authorities in Britain, revealed 7, they may be irretrievably behind such actions are still required, mandate for ignoring the problem a speaker invited to share stories that close to 15,000 people had in school. Foodbanks are handing in one of the most highly devel- of poverty.

greatest change in our families We offer reassurance and our belief is at the very heart of our work in them and an understanding of Practical solutions for alongside them. We share in their forgiveness, so that our families celebrations as well as their anxi- can grow and discover hope and eties. We listen and encourage the courage to transform their lives. struggling families new friendships, offering them To find out more visit the opportunity to create support www.plantdewi.org.uk Plant Dewi is the diocese’s very our own children’s project, where families matter. We believe in networks and encourage families e-mail [email protected] strengthening families, nurturing children and building communities. Our projects are available to to care for and support each other. or phone 01267 221551 help parents, children and young people to receive the local support they need. Plant Dewi has over 50 projects which take place in the heart of communities across the three counties of St Davids Diocese – Ceredigion, Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire. Sue Fletcher outlines one area of Plant Dewi’s work – family support projects HE family support projects, badly on many of our families who calities of raising a family we see Topen to all families, aim to are already in, or at risk of, poverty. not only a physical and emotional provide the support required to Poverty not only affects the fami- strengthening but also a spiritual do one of the hardest jobs in life, lies’ ability to provide the basics in reinforcement. bringing up children, and are of life but it also affects the families’ We provide healthy lunch particular benefit to those who spirit, confidence and self-esteem. clubs, outings and Christmas are struggling and those who are We are able to provide courses toys. We are able to find specialist lonely. We recognize that nurturing on parenting, budgeting, debt support to deal with specific issues. families cannot be done in isola- management, cooking on a budget, At times of acute hardship we are tion without addressing the wider how to handle difficult relations able to introduce our families to socio-economic issues the families and so on, and these help tremen- food banks and provide them with are facing, in their homes, in their dously with practical solutions. By food parcels. community and in society. helping the families to cope with However, where we impact The recession has impacted every day stresses and the practi- most and where we have seen the No-one should live in fear Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone, yet the problem is often ignored, denied or excused. When the abuse is emotional and verbal, rather than physical, our experience shows that many people will suffer in silence because they think that no-one will believe them or that they are to blame. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone, at any age and from any background. No-one should live in fear; abusive behaviour is never acceptable and help is at hand.

ARMARTHEN Domes- ‘Drop In’ at 5-6 Queen Street and The refuge house in Carmarthen Ctic Abuse Service (Formally we are open weekdays 10-1pm is spacious and comfortable it Carmarthen Women’s Aid) has (01267 238410). Other services contains 5 bedrooms (some can been providing support to women include floating support, counsel- sleep 5 plus cot) each with an and children escaping domestic ling, child work and refuge en-suite bathroom and tea-making abuse for 35 years. We changed our Our refuge provides emer- area. There are also commu- name to CDAS to reflect the fact gency accommodation for women nal areas such as kitchens, a cosy that we now also support men. We and children where they can feel modern sitting room, a playroom, also provide specialist programmes safe and secure and get support a brightly coloured teenage room that support people in dealing with and practical help. If Carmarthen is and a utility room. their experience such as Freedom not a safe place we, or the Domes- We hope anyone accessing Programme and The Recovery tic Abuse Helpline, can help find a ours or similar services will have An area for young people in the Carmarthen refuge Tool Kit. Many groups have simi- place in one of the other refuges in increased safety, greater confi- lar services where people can the UK. Locally there are refuges dence and improved mental health tic Abuse & Sexual Violence with experience of domestic abuse discuss their worries and concerns and support services in Cardi- and being able to plan and enjoy Helpline provides a 24 hour, or sexual violence. and what options they have. No gan, Aberystwyth, Haverfordwest, their life in the future. bilingual information signposting Contact: 08088 010800 appointment is necessary for the Llanelli and Ammanford. The All Wales Domes- service, to help and guide people 12 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 PATCH – “Pembrokeshire people helping their neighbour in need” The community has embraced PATCH in an incredible way, writes Tracy Olin

EMBROKESHIRE Action to We keep food parcels in various PCombat Hardship (PATCH) locations throughout Pembrokesh- is an independent representation ire. If your church would like to of churches of all denominations hold a few parcels, or you would working together to help those like more information, please tele- who are experiencing hardship. we gave food parcels to 3,000 indi- phone 01646 699275 or e-mail PATCH has its roots in a similar viduals (a 100% increase on the [email protected]. charity in Southampton, where one previous year) and clothing to over of our founders gained eight years’ 600 people. experience. To buy the food that we give Since June 2008 PATCH has out it costs us approximately £42 to been giving free food parcels, buy five days of food for a family clothing and household items of four and £19 to buy five days of to those in financial crisis in food for a single person. Pembrokeshire. We work closely We also hold an annual Christ- with our referral agencies to help mas Toy Appeal where, again those who are experiencing hard- through the generosity of the ship, perhaps because of a delay people of Pembrokeshire, we are in benefits, fire, theft and escaping able to give new gender – and age- emergency situations. related gifts, with chocolates, art When a referral agent issues material and wrapping paper, as a client with one of our vouchers, well as a family interactive toy to they can bring it in to any of the each 0-17 year old referred. Last basic bank venues when they are year we gave to 500 children, in open, to exchange it for up to five 180 families, with Pembrokeshire days of food for the people on the Frame delivering them for us. voucher. This will be a mixture of Our opening times are: Milford tins, packets, boxed food and fresh HQ: Mondays, Wednesdays & vegetables when available. All the Thursdays 10-2 & Fridays 10-12 food, clothing and other items are noon; Monkton: Tuesdays 10-2. donated by very generous people, We are hoping to reopen in Haver- businesses, churches and schools fordwest very soon. from around the county. In 2013

ate, to engage with fathers and football match or opportunities to If you would like to access assess their potential to contrib- support community ventures such the project or need any further DadVenture ute in a way that will benefit their as building a sensory garden in a information please contact us on children. school. Trips are also organised for 01437 770020 or by texting “dad” The Plant Dewi fathers’ project, DadVenture, was developed As well as cooking and eating fathers and children together, and to 07805 078967 or visiting and in response to growing narratives in policy and legislation that together on a weekly basis, dads camping, beach adventures and messaging us on our Facebook page highlighted the specific need to support fathers and promote the can expect the odd fishing trip, other activities are on the agenda. – www.facebook/dadventureuk. important role they play in the lives of their children. DadVenture seeks to fulfil this aim in its broadest sense, as Peter Arnold explains adVenture has grown consid- issues and a range of associated Derably and is open to anyone problems. in the fathering role. Fathers, At the heart of DadVenture is who are welcome to attend with the belief, backed by evidence, our without their pre-school chil- that when fathers assume a posi- dren, access the project for many tive role in their children’s lives reasons, but primarily to meet then the outcomes for their chil- other fathers, some of whom have dren are greatly enhanced. A the sole parenting role. sense of belonging, healthy Fathers may be experiencing self esteem, positive educa- conflict in the parenting role due tional outcomes, good relational to relationship difficulties, issues outcomes and a positive ‘go get around contact with an ex-wife/ it’ attitude are just some of the partner, or seeking support for a powerful influences for good that variety of other reasons. a father can bring to the parent- The opportunity to cook, child relationship. eat a meal and socialise on a The project recognises that weekly basis with other fathers fathers, as well as mothers, have who are experiencing the same potential to influence nega- concerns is sometimes all the tively, however family services encouragement fathers need to are generally tailored to support manage these issues, however mothers. In situations where extra support and advice around family life has broken down, few parenting and associated issues attempts are made to seek a posi- is available. Workers will also tive contribution from fathers. support fathers to access other One role of Dadventure is to agencies that can help with contribute positively in these debt, housing, drug and alcohol situations, and, when appropri- Some DadVenture fathers at the Annual Christmas Brunch Pobl Dewi, March 2014 13 Parallel lines David Hammond-Williams meets a man who, while chasing his dream, rediscovered faith HIS is a story about a journey. So instead, when he made it to “I’d attended church as a boy,” TThree journeys, actually. Cardiff College of Art, he went to he recalls. “But then the teenage The first one is known to us all the other extreme and for the next hormones kicked in and, well, you and, as we approach Easter, rather twenty years studied, practised know how it is . . .” timely. It’s the Stations of the Cross – and taught – industrial and archi- Now though, as he nurtured his and it is the subject of an exhibition tectural design – a far cry indeed artistic style and reputation, Nigel of paintings on show in the Clois- from the highly abstract style for also found himself drawn to – and ters Gallery in St Davids Cathedral which he is now best known. into – the congregation that had from March 24th to April 6th. Eventually, though, the urge fortuitously crossed his path. The artist is Nigel Pugh. The became too strong. He packed in Today he’s a church warden, other two journeys are his alone the job and headed west in search while his artistic work hangs on and they run along rather parallel of somewhere in which to real- the walls of private collections the lines. ise the dream. The place he finally world over. And for him, the two “I’d always wanted to be a found was a small studio amid the go very much together. painter,” he tells me when we meet tranquil scenery of south Cere- “Good art is not so much about at his home overlooking Cardigan digion, not far from the village skill,” he says, “but aesthetic, feel- Bay, “even when I was a lad.” But church. Little did he realise when ing. And following faith is much it was not to be. Not yet. An artist? he arrived that the third journey the same.” And for Nigel, one That’s not a proper job. was about to begin. informs the other. “You might not always be able to see it,” he adds. “But it’s there if you choose to look. And you’ll find it if you want to.” “It’s very unfashionable to produce overtly Christian art,” Nigel observes. “Yet it has inspired some of our greatest masterpieces. But I’ve never cared much for what critics say; I’m more inter- ested in the reactions of ordinary people, and they’ve been very encouraging.” So much so that he and a group of fellow artists – all enthused by the idea of exhibiting together on faith/art themes – have formed The Wildgoose Arts Group (www. work yet, and uncharacteristically “There’s always something of wildgooseartsgroup.co.uk) and the narrative and figurative. “This was the unknown – and the unknow- Cloisters exhibition will be a joint new ground for me,” he admits. able. And, of course, the doubt affair. “You never quite know when you about whether it will work out. But Nigel’s Stations of the Cross start a painting where it’s going to it’s OK to doubt. Faith teaches you are his most overtly ‘religious’ lead. that.”

Celebrating 30 years

N Sunday 26th January Oover 100 people gathered in St Katharine and St Peter’s Church, Milford Haven, for Family Mass at which Mr David Woodham celebrated the 30th anniversary of his ministry as a server within the life of the parish. David began serving at the age of 7 when the then curate, Fr Paul Davies, encouraged him to undertake this valuable ministry. During the service, prayers of thanksgiving were offered for David’s ministry, and following Mass a celebratory lunch was held in the Church Y Gwir Barchedig Wyn Evans, Esgob Tyddewi yn cysegru drysau Hall, where presentations allanol Eglwys y Plwyf Llangeler er cof am y diweddar Graham a were made to David by the Delyth Rees, Y Gorlan, Pentrecagal. Lluniwyd y gwasanaeth gan Vicar, Fr Harri Williams, Left to r: Fr Harri Williams, Mr David Woodham, Mr Steve y ficer, y Parch Ddr John Gillibrand Roedd y plant Aled a Catrin on behalf of the parish. Traynar and Fr Paul Davies gyda’r crefftwr Wyn Williams yn bresennol 14 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 St Davids Cathedral Inventory George Middleton describes 13 years of painstaking work

HEN we buy a house we Wtake out insurance and list all the contents. This is easy for a new house – we keep all our receipts WHAT’S ON AT ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL . . . and have a permanent record of all March 17th 10.00am Healing and Wholeness retreat day at Tŷ’r Pererin the items. Cathedrals are different especially if, like St Davids, they – 2pm led by Bishop John Saxbee are more than 800 years old. Over 22nd 7.00pm Riding Lights Theatre present Inheritance the years there has been damage, at St Davids Cathedral. A free event for people of all ages destruction and alteration and it is 28th 7.30pm Tideswell Male Voice Choir Concert rare to fi nd written details of this. So it was, almost 13 years April 1st – 11th Tŷ’r Pererin Experience Easter Schools Programme ago, The Church in Wales asked please email [email protected] to book cathedrals to update or create their 6th 6.00pm Passion Sunday. Music & Readings for Passiontide inventories. The Dean called a meeting of 13th Palm Sunday volunteers and a record was made 8.00am Holy Eucharist of every single thing in the cathe- 9.15am Procession of Palms followed by Cymun Bendigaid dral – its name, its location, who Examples of items recorded: & Parish Eucharist celebrated by the Bishop made it and when, sizes and mate- Two Wardens’ Staffs rials used. 11.15am Choral Mattins Somebody pointed out that down and taken to Durham for 14th Monday in Holy Week the A4 records would form a pile major restoration, the cloisters 8.00am Morning Prayer several feet tall and it was decided were completely rebuilt and a 10.00am Holy Eucharist & Reading of Passion that records should be computer- refectory and new choir practice ised. All the existing reports had to room created. Most recently the 6.00pm Choral Evensong be transferred to the new system. shrine to St David was completely 15th Tuesday in Holy Week The teams had access to the cathe- restored. 8.00am Morning Prayer dral library and books on special As I write this I realise it has subjects. One such book even taken about 13 years and about 20 11.00am Chrism Eucharist for Diocesan Clergy celebrated by the Bishop had photographs of sixty carved people to reach a point where the 6.00pm Choral Evensong heads in the quire which the casual inventory for the cathedral and 16th Wednesday in Holy Week observer would not have noticed! bell tower are fi nished. So we have The further back we went the less about 4,000 photographs displayed 8.00am Morning Prayer information was available and the in over 2,500 separate records. 10.00am Holy Eucharist & Reading of Passion authors didn’t always agree! The complete print-out occupies 6.00pm Choral Evensong Many problems arose. Things 29 ring-folders, although the elec- 17th Maundy Thursday that appeared to be the same were tronic version fi ts comfortably onto not, and individual records were a DVD, and we believe that our 8.00am Morning Prayer needed for tiles, chairs, vestments, inventory is probably unique. 4.00pm Evening Prayer kneelers and windows. Another I fi nish with one word of Latin: 7.00pm Choral Eucharist of the Last Supper with Washing of Feet, problem arose when items such as circumspice – look around you. Stripping of the Altar & Watch of the Passion freestanding candles were moved If you have found this arti- from one team area into another as cle interesting, you might like 18th Good Friday required for church festivals. to consider joining us. Please 8.00am Morning Prayer, Litany & Ante-Communion By now, other changes were phone Michael Slaney on 01437 10.00am Good Friday Family Service taking place, the organ was stripped 720804. 12 noon The Way of the Cross: A longer version of this article can be found on St Davids Cathedral A dramatized walk of witness through the city website at www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk/index.php?id=960 2.00pm Devotions at the Cross 6.00pm Choral Evensong 19th Easter Eve St Clement’s Church, Neyland 8.00am Morning Prayer, Litany & Ante-Communion 4.00pm Evening Prayer The Way of the Cross Choral Eucharist with Confi rmation & Lighting 7.00pm A journey through the work of the Paschal Candle 20th Easter Day of local artists from the 7.30am Morning Prayer & Litany Upper Room to the empty tomb 8.00am Holy Eucharist Exhibition in the Church and Cymun Bendigaid gweinyddir gan yr Esgob 9.30am refreshments in the Church Hall 9.30am Family Eucharist 11.15am Choral Eucharist celebrated by the Bishop Tuesday 15th, Wednesday 16th, 6.00pm Choral Evensong Thursday 17th April: 10.30 to 4.30 May 23rd – June 1st Cathedral Music Festival Good Friday 18th April: 2.30 to 4.30 For further information about the above services and events please contact the Deanery Saturday 19th April: 10.30 to 4.30 Offi ce on 01437 720202 or email [email protected] See our website www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk Find us on Facebook and follo w us on Twitter For more information: Phone 01646 602464 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 15 Returning favourites Covenanted Churches and new ventures Eucharist This year’s St Davids Cathedral Festival is from Friday 23rd May to Sunday 1st June Every year, on the first Sunday of January the congregations of Gosen (Presbyterian) and Seion (Independent) Chapels, HE St Davids Cathedral Festi- Llandybie, join the congregation of the Parish Church for a united Tval is an annual celebration of service. music set in the stunning surround- HIS tradition began in the year for everyone at Llandybie, and the ings of the cathedral. This year, T2000, as a celebration of the freshness of the language made us we hope to delight you with some new millennium, and has contin- think anew about the meaning of returning favourites as well as ued ever since, being held in each the words. Rhiannon Rowley, a numerous new ventures. of the buildings in turn. Members trainee Reader from the Cathein- The festival began in 1979 as of the chapels and the church iog Group of Parishes, helped us the Bach Festival and, in 2014, we take part in the bilingual service, to look at the familiar story of the are returning to our roots. The John announcing the hymns and reading visit of the wise men in a new way S Davies Singers will perform a the lessons. in her sermon. wonderful programme of Baroque This year it was the turn of the The text of the Covenanted music including works by Handel, Parish Church to host the service, Churches Eucharist may be down- Vivaldi and Bach. led by the Vicar, the Revd Ann loaded from the Cytûn website In keeping with our Baroque Howells, using the Holy Commun- www.cytun.org.uk (click on The roots, we are very pleased to ion service produced for use in the Gathering 2012 and then on The announce an entirely new venture © Robert Workman Covenanted Churches in Wales Order for the Holy Communion). for the festival. We will be joined Acis and Galatea and launched at The Gathering in The World Mission and Ecumen- by Mid Wales Opera who will treat Aberystwyth in October 2012. One ism Team would like to encourage us to a performance of Handel’s recognition of the centenary of the advantage of using this service the use of the service and have 100 Acis & Galatea. We are thrilled Great War, and the Festival Chorus in an ecumenical setting is that it copies available to borrow (contact to have this opportunity to see an will thrill us with not one, but two doesn’t belong to any one denom- Ann Howells). opera staged in the cathedral. works: Haydn’s Nelson Mass and ination. It was a new experience Another new undertaking is Mozart’s Requiem. the appearance of regency guitar Old friend of the festival, Alex- duo, Dodici Corde, who perform ander L’Estrange, returns to launch in regency costume on period the week. Alexander will conduct instruments, greatly enhancing the his new cantata Ahoy! Sing for An invitation to singers musical experience. the Mary Rose. This wonderfully At a cathedral festival, one entertaining piece features numer- The Royal School of Church Music will be celebrating what would thing you can expect to experi- ous sea shanties and other songs have been the 80th birthday of William Mathias by planning ence is a choral concert. We are to celebrate King Henry VIII’s a concert of his music on Saturday, 1 November 2014 at St delighted to welcome stunning flagship. Alexander will also be Davids Cathedral. Simon Pearce would like to hear from anyone vocal ensemble Stile Antico to the performing as part of the duo interested in joining the choir for this event festival. The Cathedral Choir will L’Estranges in the Night with his perform a poignant programme in wife, Joanna Forbes L’Estrange, E will be performing Matthi- Was’s relatively unknown L’Estranges in the Night – cantata St Teilo which was written Alexander L’Estrange and in 1963 for the Llandaff Festival. The mixed chorus will be made up of spaces and we ideally need a Joanna Forbes L’Estrange of members of the John S Davies spread of the voices, so the offer which is sure to be fantastic. Singers, Côr Dewi Sant and the is on a first come, first serve basis. Other firm favourites present Royal School of Church Music Applications will be accepted from once again include the Boys’ Choir, (RSCM) West Wales Choir; the both affiliates and non-affiliates. the Choral Scholars and Vicars combined forces should give us a The choir carries a £10 subscrip- Choral, the John Armitage Memo- total of 100 singers. tion rate for this one off event as rial Trust and the BBC National As yet, the RSCM West Wales well as £5 for the hire of the score Orchestra of Wales. The BBC Choir has not been formed. We are – the subscription will be payable NOW will be performing Messi- looking for members from among at the first rehearsal. aen’s L’Acension, and Mahler’s the singing community and affili- The rehearsals will start on 8 fourth symphony. ates of the RSCM to make up the September 2014 at Haverfordwest. We hope that you will enjoy the other half of the combined choirs. Details of the exact location of the 2014 festival as much as we have So far, we have planned for rehearsals will be given nearer the enjoyed planning it. 8 rehearsals starting in Septem- time. If you are interested in apply- For more details, or if you ber at 2 locations. We would like ing for a position in the choir, I ask wish to be added to the mailing successfully auditioned members that you leave your name, contact list, please contact the Festival of the RSCM West Wales Choir to details (e-mail and telephone Administrator, Sophie Davies, at attend 4 rehearsals in either Haver- number) and voice part that you [email protected] or fordwest or Carmarthen, with a would like to sing, and we will be phone 07970 206153. joint rehearsal planned in October, in touch shortly to arrange an audi- Also, see our new website: hopefully in Narberth. tion for the choir. www.stdavidscathedralfestival.co.uk I am, therefore, asking initially Please e-mail all requests for for people to sign up to this membership to commitment; then we will contact [email protected]. I you to arrange an audition for the look forward to hearing from you choir. There are a limited number all. Final Copy Date Riding Lights Passion Play for Lent for the June edition of The Way of the Cross 22nd March - 7.00pm Pobl Dewi is Exhibition of local artists’ work at St Clement’s Church, Neyland ST. DAVIDS CATHEDRAL, St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6RD 15-19 April, times vary Free Admission (donations welcome) May 16th ridinglights.org/inheritance For more information call 01646 602464 16 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 100 years of MU in Llanllwch On Tuesday 19th December a Service of Carols and Celebration was held in St Mary’s Church, Llanllwch, to mark the centenary of the Mothers’ Union Branch

T had been decided by the esan President, Megan-Hopkin within the Diocese and wherever Icurrent members to hold the Thomas – Archidiaconal Vice Pres- the MU works worldwide. service during Advent to show how ident and other diocesan officials. Mia Peace, the guest soloist, important it is to celebrate and give After the processional carol sang two carols after which Brenda thanks for a Mothers’ Union (MU) and presentation of the branch Evans congratulated the branch on branch which has met for 100 banner, Ann Gill and Brenda Evans reaching its centenary, wished them years. The church was full with lit the Christ Candle and opened well for the future and presented parishioners, MU members from the service with prayers. Branch Elvira Jones with a certificate of the six branches in the Deanery of Secretary Eiryth Thomas and long service which she accepted Carmarthen, and members of Llan- Deanery Leader Wendy Evans led with great pride. The branch was fihangel Abercowyn Branch. the congregation in the interces- also congratulated by Archdea- A wonderfully moving and sions when prayers were said for con Roger Hughes on behalf of the inspiring service was led by Canon past and present members, thanks Diocese. Illtyd Protheroe (Vicar) in the pres- were given for the inspiration of Bishop Wyn ended the service ence of Bishop Wyn, Archdeacon Elizabeth Marsden who started the by giving the Blessing after which Llinos Jones and was cut by long- everyone who was involved in any Roger Hughes, Canon Bryan Witt – branch and for all the acts of Chris- everyone retired to the hall for est-serving member Elvira Jones. way in this Service of Celebra- Provincial and Diocesan Chaplain tian care given down the years refreshments prepared by the We ask God for His guidance tion – those who came, those who to the MU, Ann Gill – Provincial which has helped to change lives branch members. This included a and love as the branch moves on took part and those who sent good President, Brenda Evans – Dioc- within the community in Llanllwch, beautiful celebration cake made by into the next centenary and thank wishes.

a timely manner and e-mails are sent Church stalwart Keeping in touch in such a way as to ensure that recip- ients’ names and addresses are not Some years ago, the Diocesan Communications Team set up available to others. enjoys the an electronic mailing list to enable dissemination of information If you are not sure whether directly to parishes. Tessa Briggs encourages all parishes to check anyone in your parish is on this mail- that they have someone on this list and, if not, to get in touch ing list, or you would like to receive “Walrus Dip” occasional e-mails from me, on N general, we try not to send out 95% of recipients are laity and behalf of the Communications Team County Council Chairman Terry Davies, MBE, Verger at St Imore than 12 or 15 e-mails a year the information may be used as and its sub-committees, please get and the information they contain soon as it is received in the way the Lleian’s Church, Gorslas, braved the elements to take part in in touch. There are currently about includes items such as the Bish- addressees think appropriate (unless the annual Carmarthen County Council “Walrus Dip”, which took 75 recipients on this list across the op’s Christmas, St David’s Day specifically instructed otherwise), for diocese – make sure you and your place at Cefn Sidan Beach in Pembrey Country Park on Boxing and Easter messages, forthcoming example in newsletters, displayed on parish are part of it! Day. Winsey Taylor reports training days and diocesan events. noticeboards and generally made E-mail: N a beautiful, sunny, cold Following the “dip” all partici- Recently, Bishop Wyn’s message available throughout your parishes [email protected] Omorning Terry opened the pants received a signed certificate of comfort following the January and communities. We make every Please note that this is an event and led a brave army of of authenticity. storms was circulated in this way. effort to send out the information in e-mail, only, list. “dippers” into an incoming tide Many charities benefited from and an enjoyable wetting was had the event. Terry’s chosen charities by all. were The British Heart Foundation Terry thanked the RNLI and and Teenage Cancer Trust and his Bishop plot failed St John’s Ambulance members as sponsorship for the day amounted without their presence the event to over £2,000. An attempt by Revd Jonathan Copus (pictured centre) to become Wales’s first woman bishop failed could not have taken place. when he forgot to shave off his beard. He and his co-conspirators, Paul Edwards (left) and Adam Legg escaped censure by pretending to be Three Little Maids from School in a charity performance produced by Angela Edwards, with costumes by Lynn Burnell. The Quiz Nite and Cabaret netted over £500 for the Crymych Group of Churches Pobl Dewi, March 2014 17

south side space. Here it is: “It was a pleasure to work with the church, The Walls of St Mary’s and be a small part of the renova- tion project. One young member Repairs and alterations to St Mary’s Church, Fishguard, of our team enjoyed rebuilding the provide historical interest and opportunities for the future, plinth for the font as both he and as Dick Russill explains his mother were christened in it. It meant more to him than just a job. HE walls of St Mary’s Church ing those who provided finance: This gives a feeling of continu- Thave heard worship for 150 the Heritage Lottery Fund; All ity to the community of Fishguard years but, in the case of the south Churches Trust; the Church in and the threads of church life that wall, it’s only nine months! That’s Wales, and local folk who had run through it. We as a building because a recently completed raised or bequeathed money. Cost- company enjoy working on old project stripped off the internal ing nearly £150,000 it was not a big property and studying how previ- plaster, rebuilt it, repointed exter- project but it did make the biggest ous craftsmen left their mark, and nally and redecorated throughout impact on the church interior since where the materials came from. . . . all to deal with a 40-year old it was built. Why? Because it also The old timbers in the pews and damp problem. Regular congre- involved removing the south-side elsewhere would have been slow- gations decamped to Fishguard’s pews to create room for a variety grown either in the Baltic or Town Hall for worship whilst the of uses such as meetings, exhibi- Canada and were probably shipped church was full of dust and debris. tions and socialising after services. in by one of the sea captains that Behind the scenes were improve- The project’s place in St Mary’s plied their trade from Fishguard. that, with your endeavours, has and socialising. Just a better space ments to the heating. history was wonderfully captured So the history of building churches gained a further lease of life by to be in. Thank you for letting us be We are so grateful to all who in a letter from the local build- to a very high standard left a legacy creating inside a drier, warmer, and a part of the history and future of helped with this project . . . includ- ing company who transformed the of a brilliantly well-built St Mary’s more useful area for worshiping the Church.” Who can say more?

misinformed on sexual matters and encouraged to think only in terms Gender-based violence: a wake-up call of “conquests” or “prowess”, while the girls they rape are blamed if they Mothers’ Union Social Responsibility Officer Veronica Allen reports from the Diocesan Winter Council meeting become pregnant. Hence the need for parenting programmes and a socialisation process to re-educate HOSE who read the Mother’s abuse. International awareness and bring about a culture change; TUnion (MU) magazine Fami- goes back to the 1995 Beijing the goal is loving, respectful and lies First will have noted Lynne Platform for Action which flourishing relationships. Tembey’s emphasis on following sought advancement in women’s However, what of Britain? Drug Mary Sumner’s example, in the education, healthcare, economic related problems are not confined context of our objectives, by acting empowerment and protection from to cities and also reach West Wales. in our communities to sustain violence, particularly at times Violence at home continues; we family life. We also hear much with “16 days of Activism Against female relationships (equality; of armed conflict, and against know there is still illiteracy here from overseas in our six-monthly Gender Violence”. loving our neighbour as ourselves) rejection of the girl child. In 2000 and we read of human trafficking MU resource, Families Worldwide, Visit www.mothersunion.org/ have been distorted. In this goals were adopted to be reached into servitude. but it was a wake-up call when we get-involved/campaign/16-days- context we were challenged at our by 2015, but we are a long way off. The message for our branches were invited to join forces with activism-against-gender-violence Diocesan Winter Council meeting Margaret gave us examples is “Go to the ant, you sluggard; British secular societies to support where a scriptural analysis shows by Margaret Jones, former Welsh of gender-based violence against consider its ways and be wise!” White Ribbon Day in conjunction how God’s intentions for male/ MU President, speaking from her girls and women across the (Proverbs 6: 6). Love God and love experience of lobbying on this globe. She also explained that, in our neighbours. matter at the United Nations. many cultures, males receive the As a start we are approaching Worldwide, 30% of women education and are not expected to Women’s Aid centres offering our A first in over 10 years! experience mental or physical do any chores. Moreover they are support. On Sunday 8th December the Bishop came to celebrate Mass Continued from page 1 and to administer the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation at St Katharine and St Peter’s Church, Milford Haven. This was the about buildings, but people. So, first time a confirmation had been held in the church for over 10 Diocesan Legacy much of his time will be spent years. Three adult candidates were baptised and 15 candidates meeting the people in the pews and were confirmed. Speaking of the service, Fr Harri Williams, the At its meeting on 17th February the Diocesan Board of Finance celebrating with them. “This journey is really about all Vicar of Milford Haven, said: ‘This was a wonderful day in the life Executive was informed of a substantial legacy which the diocese of you who worship in our churches, of the church in this place and we pray that we may continue to has just received. In her will the late Mrs Margaret Hazel Jones- however ancient, however modern, grow in faith and in number in the years to come.’ Olszewski left to this diocese a sum somewhat in excess of £2.5 million, to be used for the charitable purposes of the diocese Sunday by Sunday and during the week. It is about the diocese of St EMBERS of the Board was to invite ideas from members Davids and all the good things in Mwanted to register their of the diocese about how best to discipleship which you have been gratitude for this unexpected and make use of this legacy. telling me about over the past five exceptionally generous bequest. If you have ideas about this years.” They also realised that this legacy please pass them to the Diocesan First on Bishop Wyn’s list are gives us a once in a lifetime oppor- Secretary, Mrs Val Hockey (e-mail: the benefices served by the Area tunity to do something creative for [email protected]; Deans, and the programme has God’s work in the diocese of St post: St Davids DBF, Abergwili, already begun, in Tenby, and he Davids. Carmarthen SA31 2JG), by 30th will then visit Llanarth, Llanelli The Board made a number June. and Llanbadarn Fawr. of decisions about the use of this Your suggestions will be And, as he travels, he will be money. One was to keep Mrs Jones- discussed by the Board’s sub-group recounting his experiences in a Olszewski’s executor informed and recommendations from that new Bishop’s Blog, which can be about our plans, as a mark of our group will go to the Board meeting found via the Bishop’s page on the appreciation of her generosity. A on 15th July. Whatever suggestions diocesan website. second was to set up a working you have, please submit them – all Follow in his footsteps at group to consider how to use this will be considered, even if not all http://stdavids.churchinwales.org. magnificent opportunity. The third can be put into practice. uk/bishopsblog 18 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 Reflection

breaking into the world and into our lives in the present, thus creat- Escape to victory ing in us the faith and the hope that We must not make the mistake of defining the Resurrection as he will do so in the future. In the an event entirely in the past, cautions Peter Lewis gospels the disciples are told the risen Lord “is going ahead of you”. N my gap year I occasionally other languages so the connection Thomas Merton cautions us Ihelped a prison chaplain take between resurrection and escape is that to concentrate on the Holy Bible studies in the jail. One course much more fundamental. Sepulchre is to focus on “the place which he arranged included such When we speak of an escape, where Christ is no longer found”. incidents as the crossing of the are we thinking of it as liberation We need to be willing to move on Red Sea, St Paul being lowered from something or somewhere, or from there, both to follow and to in a basket out of the window in more in terms of an entry into a seek him where he goes before us. Damascus, and the Easter story. new way of life? Merton continues “So we are called These and others were advertised Initially at least, when we not only to believe that Christ once on a poster as “The Bible’s Great- speak of the Resurrection as an rose from the dead, thereby prov- est Escape Stories” together with a escape it’s inevitable that we think ing he was God; we are called to quotation from Psalm 28 “with the of it as escape from death. experience the resurrection in our help of my God I shall leap over ’Tis the spring of souls to-day; own lives by following Christ who the wall.” Christ hath burst his prison, lives in us” Singing traditional Easter and from three days sleep in death It is a mistake to define the hymns in English, I have often as a sun has risen . . . Resurrection as though it were been struck by the references in But it is also an escape to some- entirely an event in the past, on the them to imprisonment and captiv- thing, away from the past with its first Easter Day. What happened ity. I thought at first this was, in restrictions, limitations and imper- then is what happens now and part at least, because the word fections and a movement towards a will happen again and again: God Stick with Foncho . . . “prison” provided a convenient better way of life with the hope of breaks in and reverses our expec- rhyme with “risen”. Many of these even better yet to come. The Resur- tations, day after day joy abounds. . . . and buy Fairtrade bananas. Amelia Gardner highlights the hymns, however, are of ancient rection is not just Christ bursting It’s the inescapable truth. need for fairness in the production chain of this popular fruit origin, and are translations from out of the tomb once in the past, but E have just had the twentieth little they can’t always afford to put WFairtrade Fortnight. The first enough food on the table or send one was held in 1995 and, since their children to school. They sit then, the Fairtrade Mark on certi- at the end of tough supply chains fied products has been increasingly where every last penny is squeezed Cyfnod caled yn creu undod recognised by people of all ages. out. One of the main causes of this Churches and chapels in Cil-y-cwm to join together for a festival at Eastertide Fairtrade is now on many is the many supermarkets offering school curricula. It is exciting to us cheap bananas. It’s a bruising ae pwysau ariannol y cyfnod hwn yn dod ag eglwysi a chapeli at ei gilydd i godi arian a learn that there are over 1,000 Fair- business – one that risks the lives Mchalonnau gyda’r un diben. Ym Mlaenau Tywi Uchaf bydd Eglwys Sant Mihangel a Chapel trade Schools in the UK where and livelihoods of millions around Tynewydd, Cil-y-cwm yn cynnal Gŵyl y Gwanwyn dros benwythnos y Pasg eleni, 19-21 Ebrill young people learn about the way the world. Things have to change. 2014. Cynhelir arddangosfa trefniadau blodau ac arlunio gan bobl leol yn Eglwys Cil-y-cwm, a trade works and how we can make That’s why, this Fairtrade Fort- bydd Capel Tynewydd yn agor ei ddrysau i ymwelwyr. Yn ogystal darperir llwybr tywys lleol ar it fairer. Schools use and promote night, a man with a plan came over gyfer ymwelwyr a bydd lluniaeth ar gael bob dydd yn ystod yr ŵyl. Fairtrade products and take action from Colombia. Ceir rhagor o fanylion a’r newyddion diweddaraf am yr hyn sy’n digwydd ar y wefan, www. for fair trade in their local commu- Foncho is a banana farmer who cilycwm.com. Cofiwch ymweld â’r wefan er mwyn cael gwledd o wybodaeth am bentref Cil-y- nities. Children tell their parents works long hours on his farm to cwm, yr eglwys, y capeli ac enwogion lleol. Ym mhlith yr enwogion y ceir sôn amdanynt mae’r and grandparents about it and point make his business work. He under- emynydd Morgan Rhys (1716-1769). Ef oedd awdur yr emynau adnabyddus “O agor fy llygaid i out the Mark on the food they see stands the difference a fair price can weled”, “O gariad, O gariad anfeidrol ei faint”, a “Gwnes addunedau fil / i gadw’r llwybyr cul”. Bu in the shops. Children are very make because he sells most of his yntau hefyd yn athro gydag ysgolion cylchynol Griffith Jones.also a teacher with the Griffith Jones aware of fairness. How often do bananas as Fairtrade. But he knows circulating schools. they moan, “It isn’t fair!” So they it’s not the same for other farm- easily relate to Fairtrade, which ers who are often forced to work has been described as “a people’s in dangerous and difficult condi- movement for justice”. It isn’t fair tions without adequate protective refreshments will be available. that people who produce some of equipment. So Foncho hopes we For more up to date details, Hard Times – Creating Unity our basic foods sometimes don’t can abolish unfair bananas from go to the web site: www.cily- even earn enough to cover their the UK. We need to petition the cwm.com Here you will also inancial pressures, in the Easter Weekend (Saturday costs. government to work with super- find a wealth of information Fthese times, are bringing Sunday & Monday, April 19, 20, This year the focus for Fair- markets to treat all banana farmers about Cilycwm village, the churches and chapels together, 21, 2014). trade Fortnight was, once more, and workers fairly. church, chapels and local char- raising funds and hearts with There will be an Exhibition of on bananas. We love bananas and Find out how you can get acters such as Morgan Rhys one purpose. Floral Arrangements and Artwork munch our way through over five involved at stickwithfoncho.org. (1716-1769) the hymn writer In the Upper Towy Valley, by locals at Cilycwm Church, and billion a year. But, though busi- uk. And do make sure that all the who was also a teacher with St Michael’s Church and Tynewydd chapel will be open to ness is booming, not everyone is bananas you buy display the Fair- the Griffith Jones circulating Tynewydd Chapel Cilycwm are visitors over the weekend. enjoying its benefits. Many banana trade Mark. schools. holding a Spring Festival over A trail finder will be compiled; farmers around the world earn so

Cyfraniadau ar gyfer Pobl Dewi Follow Pobl Dewi on Y mae croeso i erthyglau oddi wrth ddarllenwyr, ac yn arbennig www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk cyfraniadau Cymraeg. Dylid anfon erthyglau at y Golygydd: Tessa Briggs [email protected] neu fe ellir postio ffotograffau ynghyd â 50 o eiriau at: Pobl Dewi, Swyddfa’r Esgobaeth, Abergwili, Caerfyrddin, SA31 2JG www.facebook.com/pobldewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi wedi’u nodi at sylw ‘Y Golygydd’ Pobl Dewi, March 2014 19

members of the Brotherhood and not for any ability, with disastrous Postcard from Egypt consequences for the economy. The president was plotting secretly This is a time of optimism for Egyptians of every creed, as in ways that did not serve Egyptian Ven Dr John Holdsworth, Executive Archdeacon in Cyprus interests he confides. Like most and the Gulf, learns Egyptians I have met, patriotism is highly prized, and its opposite AM 29,000 feet above a desert. view per se. He explains that in despised. I Nothing unusual about that: Luxor, for example, there is no And what about respect for the much of our diocese is desert and support even among Muslims for democratic process I ask. He snorts I spend a fair amount of time in the Brotherhood. Their strict rules in derision. It’s obvious the elec- planes, but today is slightly differ- and the disruption caused by the tion was rigged. When people saw ent, because this is Egypt. With an demonstrations have led to ruined their country brought to its knees Egyptian colleague, Faraj, I am businesses and empty hotels in this and the aims of reform abandoned travelling to Luxor to try to arrange tourist town. We expect a good deal they came to the streets. That was a clergy and wives conference for for our conference. the true democracy, he says. And the Province of Jerusalem and Why, I ask, did the people elect what of the future? If there are the Middle East, of which we are them in the first place? He shrugs. elections in April as rumoured, the a part. The Egyptian referendum It was a combination of corrup- front runner, a definite Muslim, result has just been announced and tion under the last regime, and who heads up the armed forces, is Faraj is happy. desperation brought on by poverty, favourite. How would Christians Like most Egyptian Chris- manipulated by promises bring- view that? No problem, he says. I tians I have spoken to, he regards ing false hope. The real aim was think he is a good man. the army’s intervention as tanta- to rid the middle east of Christians I trust such conversations more where the sugar cane has been places for terrorists and kidnap- mount to an intervention by God altogether, he says. People were than western media, who have a mown back 200m from the sides pers. We had a great room rate for himself. This is not a sectarian appointed just because they were bad name here. In Luxor we see of the roads so as to restrict hiding the conference. A message from the Diocese of Aotearoa and Polynesia On Christmas Eve 2013, a warm summer’s night, Anthony Jenkins, Diocesan Registrar, and his wife stood in shirtsleeves, and, to the music of the Sussex Carol, sang of “. . . the coming, beneath the Southern Cross, of our summer child, on Christmas morn.” If that wasn’t enough, they did so beneath a roof of steelwork wrapped in brown paper, which is the Transitional Cathedral of Christchurch, New Zealand, otherwise known as the Cardboard Cathedral

E were there to visit our for long the centre of life in ble to spend $100m when there are Wdaughter and her boyfriend, Christchurch, was destroyed. still inhabitants of this city sleeping who are working as doctors for Ponder carefully, therefore, in their cars? Should the old cathe- 18 months in that once beautiful when next you worry about your dral be restored or is this a unique city which was devastated by the own church restoration and the opportunity to create, at far less earthquake on 22 February 2011. state of your tower, how you would cost, a modern building? One hundred and eighty-five cope with the task of completely The Dean, Very Revd Lynda people of all ages lost their lives, rebuilding a cathedral. Not only are Patterson, describes cathedrals few were left unaffected, whether there financial questions, but also “as buildings which usually stand emotionally, psychologically or ethical ones facing our brethren in as enduring monuments to human economically and the cathedral, Christchurch. Is it morally accepta- skill and inventiveness and magnif- icent pointers to the presence of feels inclined to contribute to the Jenkins at the Diocesan Regis- God among us.” However, as she Christchurch Cathedral Restora- try, Abergwili, Carmarthen SA31 further observes “Christchurch tion Fund, please contact Anthony 2AW. Cathedral is different as it is the only one made substantially of cardboard.” The Christmas message was delivered by Bishop Victoria Matthews. However, the joy of receiving Communion from Dean Lynda and accepting the Word from Bishop Victoria made us reflect, with sadness, on the strug- gles which persist in our own Church about the place of women in the Priesthood and the Episco- pate. Do we need an earthquake to bring us to our senses? The resil- ience of the people of Christchurch is extraordinary. We have much to learn from their courage and deter- mination. Although much of the central area of the city still lies in ruins, there are signs of regen- eration. Above all else there is a feeling of hope, and that price- Carmarthen Town Council held its Civic Service at St Peter’s less commodity – the Transitional Church, Carmarthen, on Sunday morning, 29th December. The Cathedral – stands as an enduring guest preacher at the service was Rt Revd Wyn Evans, who is beacon. pictured with Carmarthenshire County Council Chairman Terry If anyone reading this article Davies MBE 20 Pobl Dewi, March 2014 Book Review

expressed stridently, and he includes a diverse range of opin- Highly recommended ions on the subjects he covers. However, his Christian faith Attitudes to ageing and himself, he does not disparage the underpins his own perspectives dying elderly as an economic problem; throughout, and it is plain that By Dr David Powell as a retired doctor and patholo- there is a caring human being at the gist, he gives an informed account heart of the medical professional. Pub: The Powell Charity Trust; of the medical profession’s views 2013 In spite of all his experience, he on the care of the elderly and the writes movingly of his own pain ISBN: 978095623662 terminally ill; and as a Christian and confusion as he watched his Price: £7.50 he is positive and life affirming in first wife’s final days as she died of Copies available from: his response to the situations he cancer. As he says, ‘All the relative www.hiskeyltd.com/bookwords describes. fripperies of worldly diversion, or directly from the publishers, The subjects he includes are and even doctrinal nit-picking in 7 Maes Brynglas, Peniel, highly topical and often contro- the Christian Church pale into Carmarthen SA32 7HF; versial: the whole issue of how irrelevance when we face God and tel: 01267 221198 the elderly and dying are cared eternity.’ for is frequently in the public eye. This is a book to be highly The title did not promise well for Dr Powell believes ageism to be a recommended; it is not at all bed-time reading over the Christ- modern phenomenon, and quotes difficulty of defining death ina explains the differences between depressing – quite the reverse! mas season! But such fears were from a World Health Organisation world of advanced technology; palliative and terminal care, and Significantly, Dr Powell’s last soon dispelled. This book presents report that uses the term ‘geron- the pros and cons of the Liverpool draws the distinction between the chapter is entitled ‘Home’ and the processes of ageing and dying tological illiteracy’ to describe Care Pathway; the problems for decision not to prolong life, and the his final words are from the 23rd in a meticulously researched and attitudes to the elderly. Dr Powell both the medical profession and decision to actively end life. He is Psalm: scholarly way, but at the same time considers the implications of our families when loved ones are in a doubtful about the wisdom of the ‘And in God’s house for evermore remaining highly readable and modern reluctance to face the facts PVS (persistent vegetative state), Welsh Assembly Government’s My dwelling place shall be.’ accessible to all. of our own finite lifespan. or have dementia; and he discusses decision to legalise presumed Dr Powell writes from a three- Sensitive medical and moral at length the divisive subjects of consent for organ donation. Vanessa Hope-Bell, fold perspective: an octogenarian issues are explored in detail: the euthanasia and assisted suicide. He Dr Powell’s views are never Reader

Ffrindiau Tremain Friends

HANK you to all readers who will take place in Tremain Church, Offers of help at events would Thave in any way supported the near Cardigan, this year: be welcome. efforts to form Ffrindiau Tremain • Sunday 10th August – Saturday If your quilt or embroidery Friends (FTF). 16th August, 10am-4pm: Floral group would like to take part We are delighted that people art on the theme of “Angels” in the “2014 Tremain Textile are coming forward, not just with • Tuesday 19th – Tuesday 26th Challenge” please get in touch. suggestions for activities, but with August, 10am-4pm: Tremain We can also give illustrated genuine offers of help. Textiles Community Project, talks to local groups. No charges Due to such generous support including a display from Cere- are made but each group has given from a variety of sources we have digion Museum and exhibits of a voluntary donation to FTF planned the following events which modern textiles by local groups. towards future projects. Some groups are also planning on-site visits to Tremain Church. For more information contact: Brenda Howell, [email protected], or Helen Snelgrove, Revd R H Williams recently dedicated a new table which is to be [email protected] placed at the back of St John’s Church, Penrhyncoch. The table, Telephone 01239 810656 presented to the church by congregation member Mrs Copper Padgett, was made to specification in Gloucestershire oak by Mr John Walker, a local carpenter

Contributions to Pobl Dewi We welcome articles of interest from readers and, in particular, we would like to encourage submission of articles in Welsh. Articles should be sent to the Managing Editor: Tessa Briggs, [email protected] or photographs accompanied by a maximum of 50 words can be posted to: Pobl Dewi, The Diocesan Office, Abergwili, Carmarthen SA31 2JG, marked for the attention of ‘The Editor’

Disclaimer Pobl Dewi and the diocese of St Davids take no responsibility, liability or share the views or opinions of any articles contained herein. All information is the responsibility of the person or organisation submitting the article. Pobl Dewi take no responsibility for any errors or omissions.