Meithrin Gobaith Growing Hope www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk www.facebook.com/pobl.dewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi March / Mawrth 2017 CROESO • WELCOME

he enthronement of TBishop Joanna took place on February 11th in a packed St Davids Cathedral. After presenting her mandate to the Dean, The Very Revd Jonathan Lean, and swearing the oath, she was led into the Quire and taken to the Bishop’s stall, the Cathedra. “God, whose grace has called you to this office, be your aid and endow you with judgement, knowledge, purity, lowliness and patience.” She was then presented to the congregation in the nave to rapturous applause. After the service, outside the west door, more applause followed and many hugs, greetings and blessings; and children from local schools presented the Bishop with mementos and flowers. Altogether a joyous celebration of an historic day. More pictures can be found to view or download on the diocesan website: http://stdavids. churchinwales.org.uk/ bishop-joannas-enthronement There is also a video of Bishop Joanna’s address, which can be found at: http://stdavids.churchinwales. org.uk/bishopjoanna

Tir Dewi: ready with a listening ear, a helping hand T’S taken a while, but Tir Dewi ified – or can be trained – to answer Now 55, he describes his That home was found when Iis ready for full lift-off the calls. journey thus far as “eclectic”. A they moved to Hayscastle, near There’s to be a relaunch in Tir Dewi was the brainchild of survivor of the Aberfan disaster (he Haverfordwest, where Vanessa April, at which the diocesan- the Bishop’s Rural Affairs Adviser, was a pupil at the school in 1966), became part of the village chapel backed farmers’ support helpline Canon Eileen Davies, who secured he has been, variously, a teacher, community at nearby Roch. She will announce big steps forward in initial funding from the diocese an insurance salesman and a head- persuaded her reluctant husband to its work. and from the Prince of Wales’ hunter. He also ran a business give it a try as they sought to inte- There’ll be a dedicated free- Countryside Committee. writing wills for a time. grate into local society. phone number, a website plus an But the day-to-day organisation His path to faith was unusual They gave him a Bible. His enhanced presence on social media has now been entrusted to a too. And his wife, Vanessa, had wife also had a serious health – anything that helps farming fami- newly-appointed Co-ordinator, much to do with it. “I was an scare, but recovered against all the lies get in touch in times of trouble. Gareth Davies, who moved to outspoken atheist,” he admits, And the organisation is actively Pembrokeshire six years ago in “whereas she had a faith without a recruiting volunteers who are qual- search of pastures new. home.” continued on page 2 FOCUS ON WORKING WITH THE MEDIA – Pages 10 - 12 Am ddim Free 2 Pobl Dewi, March 2017

Appointments continued from page 1 odds. “I gradually came to realise that nothing makes any sense with- out God,” he says. She was also the one who spot- ted the ad for the job he now has in a farming magazine. Now, he’s excited by the chal- lenges that Tir Dewi off ers. “We are a listening organisation,” he says, “and a signposting service. We can’t fi x the car but we know a good mechanic.” In other words, its role will Revd Dr Matthew Hill be to identify the problem a farm- Priest in Charge of ing family faces and fi nd the best Llanfi hangel Ystrad & Revd Martin Cox person or place to seek a resolution. Cilcennin w Trefi lan & to serve as Priest in Charge And even though it’s in its Nantcwnlle, also appointed of the Grouped Parishes infancy, it has already made a Gareth and his Collie Diocesan IME Offi cer from of Narberth w Mounton w diff erence, with 46 cases dealt with. team are looking forward to doing 1 December 2016 Robeston Wathen & Crinow & Now, Gareth and his expanded much more. Minwear w Templeton, 27 November 2016 If you’d like to know more or consider volunteering, please contact Gareth on [email protected] or phone 07970180408

Revd Christopher Lewis- Jenkins to serve as as Priest in Charge of Laugharne and Llansadwrnen, 12 January 2017 Revd Mair Owen appointed Assistant Curate in the United Parish of Catheiniog and the Tywi Cothi LMA, 27 November 2016 A celebration of 20 years of women’s priestly ministry in Wales took place in St Davids Cathedral on 6th January, at which Bishop Joanna was the preacher. Gold scarves were given to each woman priest present that day and there were simultaneous services at all the cathedrals in Wa les

Revd Ann Howells to serve as Priest in Charge in the Benefi ce of Llanllwch with Llangain and Llangynog and Llansteff an with Llanybri and Llandeilo Abercowyn, 2 March 2017

Revd Nicholas Jones Revd Anthony Wintle to serve as Priest in Charge in addition to his Permission of Burry Port and Pwll and to Offi ciate role, to serve LMA Team Leader Designate as Interim Minister in the for Glannau Tywyn LMA, Chapter of Daugleddau, 21 March 2017 1 January 2017

Revd Matthew Baynham Revd Peter Lewis to undertake Pastoral Care to serve as Interim Minister of the Llangrannog Group in St Clears w Llangynin & alongside own responsibilities Llanfi hangel Abercywyn & with the Llanllwchaearn Llanboidy, 1 January 2017. On 29th January, more than 200 people attended Aberystwyth RNLI’s annual Service of Thanksgiving (Newquay) Group of This is in addition to his at Holy Trinity Church. This was a poignant occasion as it was the fi nal such service to be led by Churches, 1 October 2016 Permission to Offi ciate role Revd Ian Girling before his retirement Pobl Dewi, March 2017 3 Training essential for a safe church The open, loving and trusting nature of our Christian community is one that offenders could potentially seek to take advantage of. Lynn Rees, Safeguarding Support Officer, stresses the need for training and vigilance HE Church is a unique organ- the Diocesan Office in Abergwili: Tisation in that it has an open- from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 4 door policy, which welcomes March 2017; Saturday 8 April 2017 everyone. With this comes the Saturday 13 May 2017. responsibility on us all to ensure An abbreviated two-hour “Safe that our churches are safe places Church Awareness” course is avail- for those who are part of our able on a local basis for church church communities; therefore it is representatives, including PCC essential that we develop a culture members and Church Wardens. of informed vigilance. ‘Informed Ideally, such training events should vigilance’ is a fantastic term which be arranged on a Local Minis- sums up this responsibility very try Area or Deanery basis. Please well and clearly expresses what I contact me for more information, hope will be achieved by the ‘Safe is about knowing the warning signs or to arrange a convenient date for Church’ training. to look out for, and what to do if training in your area: Motions ‘Safe Church’ is the safe- you identify any concerns. [email protected] guarding course that has been I am prioritising delivery of As we read in Mark’s Gospel: • Do you ever think that there is an issue that the Diocese commissioned by the Church a comprehensive six-hour train- “Let the children come to me; do or the Church in Wales should be thinking about or in Wales from the NSPCC and ing course to Parish Safeguarding not try to stop them; for the King- making a statement about? delivered to all clergy across the Co-ordinators, Children and Youth dom of Heaven belongs to such as • Do you get frustrated by something in the Diocesan province. A key priority for me leaders and employed staff in the these.” (19:14) For me, this sums Structure and want to change it? now, as Safeguarding Support diocese, all of whom are expected up all that we are trying to achieve; Officer, is to deliver this training perhaps it could be updated to If the answer to either of these is yes, then why not submit to attend one of the sessions, and to members of the laity across the the following Safe Church Training include all of God’s people, includ- a motion to the next Diocesan Conference, suggests Paul Diocese of St Davids. The course Dates dates have been scheduled at ing those who are vulnerable? Mackness HE Diocesan Conference that it can be agreed by the Stand- Twelcomes motions from ing Committee to be in order and parishes and deaneries and even further help given if required. Each The Year of Legends 2017 individuals. It is the place where motion will require a proposer and issues and matters should be seconder, both must be members Caroline Evans, a member of the Diocesan Tourism Group and a Director debated and discussed. Last year, of the Diocesan Conference. But of Carmarthenshire Tourism Association, encourages us all to get involved via a motion that came out of a please note: Deanery Conference, a motion • Motions that relate to Liturgy AST summer you may have about age limits made it to the floor or Doctrine can only come Lnoticed in the news pictures of the Governing Body. Although from a Bishop of the Church in of a giant mirrored sign read- part of it was not passed, it did help Wales ing ‘EPIC’ popping up in various start an important debate in the • Motions that relate to Diocesan picturesque sites across Wales. Church and raise significant issues. Finances can only be advi- Four metres high by 11 metres So, if there is an issue that you are sory to the Diocesan Board of wide, settings included Cardiff, burning for the Diocese or Church Finance and not binding Worms Head, Abereiddy and Tint- in Wales to discuss please submit • Motions that require a change ern Abbey – it was all part of the a motion to the Joint Secretaries of to, or would contradict, the Visit Wales marketing theme for Conference (Canon Paul Mackness Constitution of the Church in 2016 of ‘Year of Adventure’ and or Mrs Val Hockey). They will be Wales would have to be passed the EPIC badge will be used in happy to help you with the correct by the Governing Body after 2017, too. In 2016 there was lots © Crown copyright (2017) Visit Wales © Crown copyright (2017) Visit drafting or wording of any motion. being passed by the Diocesan of press coverage of the new wave In order to ensure that a motion Conference. generator pool, the zip wires, lots visitor destinations onto it, which about our own churches and do we goes to the next Diocesan Confer- It is your Diocesan Confer- of wild swimming and other highly of course can include our churches. appreciate how unique and special ence, to be held on Saturday 7th ence and so if you wish to use the energetic activities. With a bit of a This theme is an excellent oppor- they can be. Got stories? Send them October, it should arrive in writ- democratic process, please submit sigh of relief, the theme for 2017 tunity to have a look at ourselves to us! ten form by the June Standing a motion. is the ‘Year of Legends’ – stories – do our churches tell our visitors Send your stories to me at Committee (29th June) in order about Wales and its people, not just our stories? Do we have a leaflet [email protected] from the past but the present. Visit with the history on it, on a Facebook (01267 202305) and/or Wales says “We’re bringing the page, a website? Do people in your David Hammond-Williams at past to life like never before, with community know about the history davidhammond-williams@ attractions, events and activities at of our local church, and the people? churchinwales.org.uk legendary locations across Wales. Do we ourselves know enough We’re also creating new Welsh legends, immersing visitors in our epic story, and making new legend- St Davids Diocese Lay Development Team ary experiences. This is our Year of Tîm Datblygiad Lleyg Esgobaeth Tyddewi Legends.” The theme has caught on in a big way and many organisations Taster Day A day of taster sessions to inspire & inform. are responding and working with Sessions will explain some of the work of: Visit Wales, such as Cadw and the National Trust. Carmarthenshire Worship Leaders - The Theology for Life Course County Council is working with The Fellowship of Vocation - Vocation Advisors Pembrokeshire and Swansea Bay Pioneer Ministry - The Lay Development Team on a digital, 3D walking map, due The Children & Youth Team to go live mid-February, with one Saturday 1st April 9.30 for 10am of its initial two routes based round Spittal School, Haverfordwest SA62 5QR the stories of Twm Sion Cati, and Contact: Louise O’Neill 01239 810383 the plan is to get further funding [email protected] after 2017 to add more walks and 4 Pobl Dewi, March 2017 The moments that matter in church wedding planning Sandra Millar, who led a recent Continuing Ministerial Development day in our diocese, writing with Ruth Green, considers church weddings for this second article in the series on Life Events

EOPLE love weddings! to church may find that difficult tion venues will help to reach those PDespite falling numbers of to articulate. They may say that in the early planning stages of a marriages nationally, Church of church feels more ‘proper’ for wedding. England research shows couples a wedding. What they’re really Even from the first moment a still have great respect for the saying is that it’s a special, spiritual nervous bride makes a call to the institution. It is seen as the gold place, and that’s important for their vicarage, ministry begins with a standard of a relationship that has wedding. warm “congratulations” and an already matured perhaps through Yet couples are often anxious invitation to meet her for tea or cohabitation and even through about asking for a church wedding coffee, along with the groom. having children. because they feel hypocritical. Warmth from the vicar is valued In contemporary society, when They may anticipate rejection above all. Being as accommodating marriage is no longer expected because they don’t go to church as possible to the couple’s choices of couples, exclusive roman- much, already have children or are for their ceremony, inviting them tic relationship, as proclaimed in divorced. Many of these fears are to church to hear their banns read, marriage, carries a high value – a unfounded. That sense of hypoc- sending a congratulations card on crown on a relationship that has risy may mean they never even their wedding day, are all gestures happy to hear from the church after ten and the church is there for them proved itself to be trustworthy and make an initial enquiry. that convey that warmth. their wedding. An anniversary card throughout their marriage. true. So extending a warmer, wider The relationship with the vicar lets them know they aren’t forgot- The research also showed that welcome to couples is crucial if is a potential gateway to a longer For more information see for those who choose a church churches are to reach and reassure term relationship with the church www.churchsupporthub.org.weddings, wedding, the sacred space of the them. Having a friendly presence too, so keeping in touch after the read about the research in The Church Weddings Handbook building is highly valued for such at local wedding fairs and building wedding day is important. And the by Gillian Oliver, ISBN: 978-0-7151-4287-5, and see the a special day. Those not used relationships with nearby recep- good news is, couples are really website for couples: www.yourchurchwedding.org

Welsh Women’s Voices Escape to Egypt MAECymru Spring Conference will take place on Saturday 18 March, 2017. Gaynor Ford provides more information

AECymru, a charitable shared for celebrations of the 20th Morganisation which promotes anniversary of women’s ordination gender equality and diversity at all to the priesthood in the Church in levels within the Church in Wales, Wales in January at all the cathe- had a full programme in its first drals in Wales. year including: This month the speakers at • an inspirational contribution the conference will be Revd Dr from Rt Revd Libby Lane, Manon Ceridwen James, Director Bishop of Stockport (and first of Ministry in St Asaph Diocese, woman Bishop in the Church celebrated writer and poet, and Between Sunday 4th and Thursday 15th December, hundreds of of England) to the May 2016 Dr Marian Loffler, Head of Post- Christian Aid supporters from around Wales put on their walking MAECymru conference; graduate Studies at University of boots to take part in ‘Escape to Egypt’. Alun Evans, a Curate • at the same conference, signif- Wales Centre for Advanced Welsh in Haverfordwest, joined the walk, which aimed to highlight the icant insights were provided & Celtic Studies who will address plight of refugees and raise money for the work of Christian Aid’s from both Hilary Cotton, the conference on the Identity, Christmas Appeal Chair of WATCH – MAECym- Nationality and Religion for Welsh HIS 140-mile walk, from appreciation for the support shown ru’s sister organisation in the Women TBethlehem in Carmarthenshire by people: “We planned this jour- Church of England, and Revd The meeting will be held in to Yr Aifft (Egypt) in Denbigh- ney to walk in solidarity with those Terrie Robinson, Director for Revd Dr Manon Ceridwen the main conference room at Plas shire, mimicked the Biblical story who are suffering and to raise Women in Church and Society James Dolerw, Newtown, on Saturday of Jesus’ family escaping to Egypt support for Christian Aid’s work

at the Anglican Communion 18th March, from 10am-3pm; from Herod. Amongst the support- that offers a brighter future for Office; Canon Joanna Penberthy as the lunch will be provided. There is ers were church members from the many lives worldwide. Along the • Diocesan meetings with Bish- next Bishop of St Davids, who ample free parking and all facilities Diocese of St Davids and I joined way we have shared stories with ops to explore how to support spoke about her historic elec- are available, including those for the second day of the walk between communities, churches and schools women’s ministry and address tion and her new role. Canon Jo disabled attendees. Talley and Lampeter, for the simple that offer a glimpse into the desper- some of the issues which reminded her sisters and brothers Those wishing to attend need reason that I wanted to help draw ate situations faced by so many and remain; to “please keep talking to me as to register their intention using a attention to the suffering of the 65 had the privilege to talk about the • the establishment of all-Wales Jo,” adding “people keep referring booking form available from million refugees in the world at the transformational work Christian Diocesan MAECymru groups; to me as a trailblazer, but I’m not, www.maecymru.org.uk moment. That is, shockingly, the Aid does to bring light and hope. the launch in the Swansea I’m a candle on the cake – and all largest number of people who have The humbling reality for us is that & Brecon Diocese was at of us are the cake!” Plans were also had to flee their homes because of the experiences of refugees are Brecon Cathedral where Ven conflict since the Second World worlds away from the experiences Peggy Jackson, Archdeacon War. We have got to keep these of our journey this December. We of Llandaff, celebrated the people, people like you and me, may never be touched by the same Eucharist. in our minds and in our prayers, as fear of violence. But the response At the first AGM on 5 November, FINAL COPY DATE well as doing what we can to prac- of Welsh communities to the it was reported that membership for the June edition of tically support them. appeal and the hospitality shown had exceeded 70 and there were In total, this sponsored walk truly reflects a welcome for all and positive indications that the char- Pobl Dewi raised over £31,000 towards Chris- a strong desire to play our part in ity was in good shape. There was tian Aid’s important work amongst bringing light to some of the dark- an event to celebrate the election 12 May 2017 refugees. Huw Thomas, Head of est places in the world today.” of MAECymru member Revd Christian Aid Wales, shared his Pobl Dewi, March 2017 5 Captivated by the Growing Hope Christmas story At the beginning of December, St Mary’s Church, Haverfordwest,

Gobaith Meithrin embarked on a new venture as part of a vision to build and ing Hope Grow strengthen links with children and local schools in the town. The success of this project, on several levels, has encouraged St Mary’s to run similar events in the future, says Alun Evans

Local and f ocal WO hundred and fi fty pupils by other church members. It was a Tfrom fi ve primary schools real team eff ort, with a total of 20 Judith Morton refl ects on her Commissioning Service as Focal Minister and looks visited the church over a three-day people being involved. But it was forward to the future period to experience ‘The story of clear that all enjoyed taking part Christmas’. Children, mainly from because of the impact made on VER a number of years, I develop the worshipping life of the the Foundation Phase age group, each child, as well as the inevita- Ohave had the support of the church, take responsibility for the had the chance to see members of ble fun that a group of adults had three congregations in the Benefi ce practical management of the church the church perform the nativity performing a nativity. of Llanllwchaearn and Llanina, in order to enable its mission, and story through a series of captivat- The project was also a success and, particularly, the members of grow their faith in God, their love ing tableaux. Through drama, because of the keenness of local Holy Trinity Cross Inn, during for Christ and their experience of music and pupil participation, the schools to come along. School staff Reader training and ministry, ordi- the Holy Spirit and serve the needs children were totally engaged in realised the value of taking their nation training and as an Assistant of the local community’. their journey through the church, children to a Christmas experi- Curate NSM(L), and now as Focal After the service, we shared which culminated at the stable ence, and afterwards they affi rmed Minister for Holy Trinity. refreshments before venturing into scene set up at the high altar. how benefi cial it had been for the The Commissioning Service as the December evening. The project was directed by Gill children. Following the success Focal Minister was on a windy, wet Members of our congregation White and she and I acted as story- of this venture, the intention is to Thursday evening last December Judith Morton are always willing to off er their tellers to lead the children through invite schools to a similar event and we were pleased to welcome a time and talents to sustain the life the story. At various stations telling the Easter story, as well as congregation including clergy from The Bible readings and hymns of Holy Trinity Church and share around the building, members of continuing to develop others ways Glyn Aeron LMA, the church- refl ected a theme of God’s calling, in ministry to one another and the church would appear dressed of building links with children and wardens and members of the our response and our concern for to those outside the Church. As a as characters from the nativity, schools. congregations of our benefi ce and people who are suff ering adversity. Priest and Focal Minister, my role while we told the relevant part of St Mary’s Church would like to from the neighbouring benefi ce Bernadette Farrell’s hymn ‘Christ is to share the Good News of Jesus the story. The senses of awe and thank the Diocesan Children and for which our Priest-in-Charge, be our light’ echoed words from the Christ and encourage discipleship wonder were further heightened by Youth team for their provision of Revd Dr Matthew Baynham, has Commissioning when the people of through prayer, worship, pastoral the musical accompaniment at each a grant towards this project, which recently undertaken pastoral over- the church and the Focal Minister care and mission. station, played by Pat Barker on the enabled us to purchase many of the sight. We were also delighted that stated that they believe they are My prayer is that the worship clarinet and organ. resources we needed. We would people from the village community called together to refl ect the light and fellowship we share in Holy As part of the experience, the also like to thank schools for their accepted invitations to attend the of Christ to those around them. Trinity will continue and that the children had the opportunity to participation. service. Three candles were lit to represent Holy Spirit will guide us in initi- take part in craft activities off ered The service was conducted by Holy Trinity Church, our benefi ce atives for sharing our Christian the Archdeacon of Cardigan, Ven and LMA all working together. The faith together and in our local Dr Will Strange, together with people of Holy Trinity promised to community. Revd Dr Matthew Baynham. work with the Focal Minister ‘to

tension between the fact that Being a greenhouse dioceses need to have a strategy for growth, and the fact that growth Swanwick in Derbyshire was the venue for a signifi cant conference is generated at the grass roots, and on diocesan strategies for growth, held from 6th to 8th February. not by centralised plans. It is food It was attended by teams from 34 dioceses, including four from for thought for those of us who Wales – and one from Australia. Will Strange reports are ordained that some of the most productive new ventures in church UR representatives were projects in parishes throughout the growth are led by lay people with OBishop Joanna and, from country. no formal training or recognition. our Parish Growth group, Emma One of the most informative Particularly interesting for us Whittick, Alan Chadwick and me. sessions was George Ling (Church from this diocese was informal Our own diocesan strategy, ‘Grow- Army) giving a very potted version discussion over tea about forming ing Hope’, was one of eight singled of the fi ndings of his huge survey rural ‘resource churches’, which out to be presented to the confer- of Fresh Expressions ventures. can act as centres for encourage- ence, and the only one from the Take-home ideas from this talk ment and growth. Watch this space! Church in Wales. Bob Jackson included his conclusion that church explained our vision and how he plants – though often very large has seen it bearing fruit, and Alan – actually have a smaller propor- Chadwick was able to fi ll in the tion of unchurched or dechurched picture of how focal ministry is people attending than some smaller making a diff erence in his part of ventures, such as Messy Church. the diocese. George also gave us the memo- It was an encouragement to rable image of a greenhouse realise that what we are doing – dioceses cannot create life and together is recognised nationally growth in parishes, he urged. The as something signifi cant, and that most a diocese can do is to provide what we are learning might help the environment, in which, as in others elsewhere. a greenhouse, life and growth can Presentations covered the take place. Pictured, left to right: whole range of church growth – The greenhouse image also Alan Chadwick, Emma from church plants with 1000+ expressed one of the challenges Whittick, Robin Gamble, attendance, to small Messy Church explored by the conference, the Bishop Joanna, Bob Jackson 6 Pobl Dewi, March 2017 St Davids Cathedral Festival: Gŵyl Eglwys Gadeiriol Tyddewi

Artistic Director Oliver Waterer has organised a diverse programme of music for the 39th annual St Davids Cathedral Festival, which will take place from 26 May to 4 June WHAT’S ON AT 2017. Hilary Rudge outlines some of the performances on off er ONCERTS take place in Cthe beautiful setting of the ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL . . . cathedral; at Ty’r Pererin (the cathedral’s Education Centre); Saturday 6th May St Aidan’s Church, Solva, and Y Milford haven Music Festival Concert, 7.30pm Tabernacl in St Davids. Friday 26th May - Sunday 4th June The festival will be launched St Davids Cathedral Festival on Friday 26th May at 6pm with www.stdavidscathedralfestival.co.uk the popular Children’s Festival Chorus, when young people from local schools, led by Val Whitlock and accompanied by The Little For further information about the above events City Swells, will give a rousing please contact the Deanery Offi ce on 01437 720202 performance of ‘The Journey’, a or email [email protected] work for young voices by Chris See our website www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk Hazell. Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter The BBC National Orches- tra of Wales make a welcome Chloe Hanslip return conducted by Alpesh Chauhan when the very talented Medelssohn’s Violin Concerto. Organ recitals will be given by violinist Chloe Hanslip will play The internationally renowned, Andrew Farr and Aaron Shilson former Royal Harpist, Claire and other regular favourites include Jones, will be performing music Live Music Now; the winner of the by Debussy and Handel and will annual Young Musician of Dyfed be joined by conductor/composer competition; Vox Angelica with Chris Marshall performing ‘Dylan’ the Choral Scholars and Vicars commemorating 100 years since Choral and The Cȏr Dyfed Choir, the birth of Dylan Thomas. Tene- joined by The Festival Chorus and brae will be performing ‘Path of British Sinfonietta, perform Verdi’s Miracles’ and the Cathedral Choir Requiem on Saturday 15th July. will join them in a new work by If you cannot attend any of Owain Park. The great Welsh folk the concerts tune in to BBC 3 on music tradition will be celebrated Wednesday 26th May when Choral by folk band Fernhill; the John S Evensong will be broadcast live Davies Singers will sing a Festi- from the cathedral. Other services val of Praise marking the 300th during the week will be sung by the 10 am - 4.30pm anniversary of Welsh hymn writer Vicars Choral, the Choral Scholars, William Williams Pantycelyn; Cathedral Singers and the Boys’ and YOU the audience can come Choir. A day of Latin for beginners and join in Gilbert and Sulllivan’s For more information visit with George Sharpley Val Whitlock HMS Pinafore. www.stdavidsfestival.co.uk Spend a day sampling classical Latin, with insights into lives of the writers; discover the Latin words behind english and Welsh ones, see how the language works, and hear Latin poems, all in a day!

One of the brightest lights of our emergence from Forthcoming Events at Tŷ’r Pererin the so-called Dark Ages was the introduction of Latin in Retreat Days: 10am-4pm the cathedrals of europe. From this grew schools and Thursday 1st June (in conjunction with the St Davids Music Festival) In Tune with Heaven universities, most of which have long since parted with how the Bible set to music through the centuries has enriched our bodies, minds and their founders. spirits, led by Right Revd John Saxbee Latin was the lingua franca of medieval europe, when monks and churchmen were trained to write Latin in order Friday 21st July – Through the eyes of children – Time to step back and wonder, see the to produce the religious, administrative and legal texts world afresh as a child does and respond to God, led by Mrs Catherine hammond required of the time. And when the day job was done, they (Donations of £5 for each day, which includes drinks; lunch may be taken in the turned to the earlier classical writings of Virgil, Ovid and Refectory or bring a packed lunch) others who refl ected values of a quite diff erent world; but Family Event they were too good to ignore. Stories of mischievous gods and whimsical goddesses were accepted as allegories. Tuesday 11th April, 2-3.30pm & Tuesday 18th April, 11-12.30pm & 2-3.30pm And now Latin is to be presented again in these wonderful Cathedral Explorers – An interactive cathedral trail suitable for children aged 5-11 and settings! Not only were churches responsible for teaching families. explore the cathedral, wonder at the structure, listen to the stories, collect your classical literature, they also preserved the books in their own tracings and make a treasure box. As you travel collect the clues to solve the mystery. historic libraries. (Suggested donation of £1 per child) More information and enrolment from More information & to book a place Tel: 01437 729151 The LATIN QVARTER [email protected] www.latinqvarter.co.uk tel: 01452 731113 www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk (or the education Centre: 01437 729151) Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter Pobl Dewi, March 2017 7 GrowingCathedral Hope stewards needed Would you be interested in being a steward at St Davids Cathedral? asks the Dean T can be easy for a modern the building and its surroundings, presence in the cathedral in order to Itourist to forget that this extraor- the ministry which our stewards provide this ministry of welcome. dinary place is not merely a series provide help to achieve our aim of If there is anyone who, on a regular of historic buildings in a beautiful ‘turning visitors into pilgrims’. weekly basis, could give two hours landscape. St Davids Cathedral, Several years ago we formed a of their time as a volunteer to assist is above all, a living church and guild of stewards whose main aim us in this ministry of welcome, a centre of faith that has attracted is: that would be greatly appreciated. millions of people for almost 1,500 • To provide a welcome in the There would be training provided years. Everything you see here is a name of Jesus Christ to all who so that stewards can provide infor- visible expression of the worship visit St Davids Cathedral. mation to visitors regarding the of God. Today, the cathedral lies at • To provide support to the cathe- history, purpose and activities of the heart of a vibrant community dral and parish for all services, the building. encompassing the city that bears concerts and events. The rewards of being a stew- its name, the nation whose patron • To promote fellowship and to ard are many; talking to people saint lived and died here. Here visi- develop a greater theological and teaching them the story of tors and pilgrims have found peace and historical knowledge of the the cathedral can be very fulfill- engage with someone local who with the cathedral office who will and a new sense of purpose in this cathedral and its environs. ing. You are likely to meet many has knowledge and experience of be happy to hear from you. place of prayer and contemplation. In recent years it has become very interesting people from all St Davids and its environment. Tel: 01437 720202 Thousands of people visit St Davids increasingly difficult to find enough over the world and many of them If anyone is interested in becom- [email protected] Cathedral and enjoy the beauty of stewards for there to be always a greatly appreciate being able to ing a steward please get in touch

Being a friend The Friends of St Davids Cathedral is an organisation which draws together individuals, corporate groups and parishes from across the world who wish to support the mission and ministry of St Davids Cathedral. Harri Williams, Secretary of the Friends, encourages us all to become members HE Friends of St Davids effects of the death watch beetle TCathedral was founded in 1932 upon the nave ceiling in the 1930s, with three main objectives: to supporting the restoration of the 1. To assist the Dean and Chap- cloisters during the first part of the ter of St Davids Cathedral in third millennium, the Friends have restoring and maintaining the been at the heart of furthering the Cathedral Church to the greater mission and ministry of our cathe- glory of God and in honour of dral church. St David the Patron Saint. Our work, however, is not 2. To subscribe to the fund confined to the fabric of the build- required from time to time for ing. In recent years the Friends have beautifying the cathedral and assisted in the payment of wages, for maintaining and improving established choral scholarships worship in the church. for gap year students to enhance 3. To organise the raising of their musical abilities following, or capital funds as required for before, university, and renovated any emergency that may arise a disused school building in order I would wish to invite all those Cathedral Shop and the Refectory. paying a subscription of £25 per which cannot be provided for that it might be established as Tŷ’r who read Pobl Dewi to consider Parishes can also become Corpo- annum. out of funds available to the Pererin, the Cathedral’s Educa- becoming a Friend. Subscrip- rate Members of the Friends by tion is available for a minimum Dean and Chapter. tion and Pilgrimage Centre. The If you are interested in joining the Friends please write to: Throughout our 85-year history, the possibility of supporting these and payment of £10 per year, and members receive: a copy of our The Secretary, The Deanery Office, Friends have contributed significant many other projects is only made The Close, St Davids, SA62 6RD. sums of money to the restoration possible through the generosity of Annual Report, an invitation to the Friends Festival held in Septem- Alternatively you can complete the enquiry form available at and enhancement of the cathe- the 1,300 members which we have http://www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk/index.php?id=675 dral. From assisting in tackling the around the world. ber, and 10% discount in both the

seven years of the successful Church Army – Merlins Bridge leading us in worship at the open- Invitation to Growing Hope 3 project ‘The Lab’ in Newport, Project; Andy Hughes of The Urban ing and closing of the day. “Growing Hope in a Changing World” where he also provides a lead for Saints (Workshops in English and The cost remains £3.00 per the missional hub for the Duffryn Welsh); Revd Marianne Osborne – person (payable at the time of Saturday 6th May 2017, 9.30 – 16.00 Estate in Newport. James is also Fellowship of Vocation Chaplain; booking), and in return you will At University of Wales Trinity St David, Carmarthen an ordained Pioneer Minister Revd Paul Boyle of Jefferyston; have: an inspiring, hope-filled and Fresh Expressions Associate A Representative from ‘The Lab’ day; refreshments at break times; “But you will receive power N Saturday 6th May, Univer- and Associate Pastor of St Pauls in Newport; Revd Heather Cale, a simple lunch; an opportunity to when the Holy Spirit comes Osity of Wales Trinity St Davids Church, Newport. Headteacher St Mark’s School, hear good news stories from across upon you. And you will be will once again be hosting the third Some of the speakers providing Merlin’s Bridge; Ven Bob Jackson, our diocese and beyond; and a in our series of Growing Hope my witnesses, telling people workshops on the themes of the day formerly Archdeacon of Walsall chance to renew acquaintances and conferences as part of the continu- will be: Claire Williams, the Dioc- Nick and Heather Cale will be to make new friends. about me everywhere – in ing Diocesan Strategy. The theme esan Children and Youth Officer; Jerusalem, throughout Judea, for the day is Pioneer Ministries. Revd Pat Rogers of Letterston; in Samaria, and to the ends Our Keynote Speaker will Revd Andy Herrick of Lampeter For booking enquiries please contact Mrs Lindy Wainwright of the earth.” Acts 1.8 be Revd James Henley. James with Maestir, Silian, Llangybi and [email protected] has been a key member for some Betws Bledrws; Sister Val Legge, 8 Pobl Dewi, March 2017 Godparents’ Sunday: Tom yn dweud mai perthyn yw’r peth 30 April 2017 pwysig am ganu mewn côr Tom Kendall, a member of the choir at Llanbadarn Fawr Church talks about the Clare Williams encourages churches to consider ways they can diff erent experiences of singing in the church choir and with Bryn Terfel in South Africa continue to engage with families following baptism AE Tom Kendall sy’n aelod gan ddisgwyl cael lle yn y corws; yn y côr er mwyn helpu eraill i ODPARENTS’ Sunday was an excellent place to start. Most o gôr Eglwys Llanbadarn ond cefais gynnig canu’r brif addoli Duw hefyd. Ond mae bod begun in 2016 by the Church churches in this diocese will have M G Fawr, Ceredigion yn dod o deulu ran. Roedd yn anhygoel. Profi ad yn rhan o’r gymuned yn beth of England as “a response to had a number of baptisms in the sy’n hoff o gerddoriaeth, fel yr gwych – dysgais i gymaint.” pwysig iawn i fi .” Dywedodd Ian, research undertaken . . . looking last year, three or fi ve years, and esboniodd, “Mae tad-cu wrth Perff ormiwyd y ddrama-gerdd ei dad, ei fod yntau mor falch at parent’s real experiences and can invite those families to come ei fodd yn canu, ac fe wnaeth yng Nghanolfan y Celfyddydau, o’i fab pan wnaeth e benderfynu expectations around the baptism and be part of Godparents’ Sunday Yncl Tom ganu yn yr Albert Aberystwyth adeg y Nadolig. ymuno â’r côr ac i Tom roedd of their child. One of the biggest as well as any other initiatives they Hall.” Ac mae Tom ei hun yn Ar ôl hyn ‘na i gyd fe wnes hefyd yn ff ordd o barhau â fi ndings of the research was that choose to undertake to support this dilyn ôl eu troed wrth iddo i fentro awgrymu iddo mai thraddodiad teuluol gan i’w fam godparents really, really matter to with Baptism Engagement as a gael llwyddiant gyda’i lais. rhywbeth ‘cyff redin’ yw canu fod yn aelod o’r côr hefyd. families. In fact, 91% of parents whole. Mae e’n diolch i’w athrawes yng nghôr yr eglwys. “Ddim o “Dwi ddim yn gwybod beth gave having godparents as a reason It is my hope that all churches yn yr ysgol gynradd am ei gwbwl!” oedd ei ymateb. “Mae’n sy’n mynd i ddigwydd – hoff wn for wanting to have their child in the diocese will take part in ddechrau ar y daith honno sydd beth cwbl wahanol. Does dim fynd ‘mlaen i weithio ym maes baptised. Godparents are part of Godparents’ Sunday in one way wedi mynd ag e’n bell yn barod. byd yn debyg i ganu yn y côr yn perff ormio, ond dwi’n gwybod family life for all the years ahead, or another. This can be from pray- Fel aelod o gôr Only Kids Aloud Llanbadarn. Yno dwi’n teimlo fy bydd y profi ad o ‘berthyn’ yng a relationship that will last into ing by name for those children and am ddwy fl ynedd cafodd y mod i’n rhan o deulu mawr, fy nghôr Llanbadarn yn bwysig i adulthood and beyond. So setting families who have come to the profi ad o ganu yng Nghanolfan mod i’n perthyn. Dwi’n mynd i’r mi am weddill fy mywyd.” apart a Sunday to celebrate and church for baptism in the past 1-5 y Mileniwm, Eisteddfod eglwys i addoli Duw, dwi’n canu pray for this special relationship is years, inviting all those who have Ryngwladol Llangollen, Saint a great opportunity to share with been baptised in that time to come Petersburg ac yn Ne Aff rica. families and ask for God’s bless- and be part of the celebrations, “Ydw, dwi wedi gweld lot ing on godparents and godchildren putting on a special event/service yn barod”, meddai Tom, “ac everywhere.” www.churchsupport- or launching a whole new approach efallai mai un o’r profi adau hub.org/godparentsunday to baptism engagement including gorau oedd canu yn y côr gyda There is a call for the Church preparation, follow-up and special Bryn Terfel yn Cape Town, De in Wales, and us, as a diocese, to events to build relationships. Aff rica. Roedd y cyngerdd yno support this initiative particularly Two resource packs have been yn rhan o’r gweithgareddau in relation to building up our work produced to aid this engagement. i ddathlu ugain mlynedd ers with children and young people. The fi rst is for use on and around diwedd apartheid ac roedd yn Many churches may feel they do Godparents’ Sunday. The second wych i fod yn rhan o’r peth.” not have the space, time, resources looks at taking that engagement Ond yn ddiweddar fe ddaeth or volunteers to off er a group for further and the impact this can cyfl e newydd iddo wrth i gynhy- children and young people. They have on regular attendance of fami- rchiad o Joseph and the Amazing may also be struggling to know lies. Find these resource packs and Technicolor Dreamcoat gael ei where to start, nor do they have look out for further information on lwyfannu yn Aberystwyth. “Pan any contact with children and our blog: www.stdavidsyouthand- weles i fod Joseph yn cael ei young people. Baptism is therefore children.wordpress.com wneud roeddwn i am fod yn rhan

o’r peth. Fe es i am glyweliad

which members also provide welcome food packs for visi- Faith in action tors, but, with the constant rise in prices, we are concerned as to Glenys Payne considers the Mothers’ Union theme for 2017 how much longer this venture can continue. We pray that our AFIA UR theme last year was project will continue even if the ‘Celebration of Faith’, when O holidays provided may be diff er- we gave thanks for God’s faith- ent. We still provide balaclavas fulness to Mothers’ Union (MU) over 140 years and acknowledged and jumpers for the Mission to that ‘Thus far the Lord has helped Sea Farers and pocket crosses for us.’ (1 Samuel 7:12) patients in hospital. With ‘Faith in Action’ as our At our Winter Council, theme for 2017, we now look to instead of the usual bring and the future trusting that God will buy we had a Christmas Bring to continue to help us as we share Give when gifts were brought for his love in the world through Plant Dewi, who distributed them our Christian care for fami- to those in need. lies and communities. We do The MU has produced themed this by actively putting our faith resources to strengthen our faith into action to serve God and his as the foundation for all we do, world. This is no new concept for and to explore how we move us as MU; rather it has always forward in practical ways. These been at the heart of our mission Glenys Payne resources are to be found at and outreach. So this is a year www.themorthersunion.org – do explore our website for more for us to highlight the ways we guidance and provision. ideas to live out our faith in action. do this; it is also an opportunity In our diocese, we continue ‘Let us not love with words or for us to consider new ways in to provide holidays for those in speech but with actions and in which to do so, being ever aware need through our AFIA (Away truth.’ (1 John 3: 18) of the changing needs of society, From It All) project. At present, and always looking to God for his these are caravan holidays, for Pobl Dewi, March 2017 9 Raising the roof Jonathan Copus describes a restoration project which defies definition

ROOF, n: the top covering of a building

ut in the case of the 14th- church, with matching new slates Bcentury church of St Dogmael, on the other. Mynachlog-ddu, the definition has However, removing the been extended – down to the ground, bottom slates on the south side in fact – thanks to a grant of nearly revealed what was described as ‘a £88,000 from the Listed Places of prime example of Victorian jerry- Worship Roof Repair Fund. building’. The church had been To reach the inside of a roof extended in 1888/9, the builders you need internal scaffolding – filling the core of the south and except that here the rotten floor west walls with rubble. While this was incapable of supporting more is a recognised means of construc- than the church mouse. So, Quin- tion in some circumstances, here it quennial Architect Frans Nicholas was said that if someone sat on one successfully argued, you need to wall and pushed his feet against repair the floor first. the other, it would end up in the A major problem with old graveyard – doubtless much to the buildings is that heating costs liter- annoyance of the local residents. ally go through the roof. Insulation So the walls had to be ‘tied’ is the answer, in this case ready to each other at the corners and for an improved, sustainable heat- then re-pointed. As of old, hot ing scheme when funds allow. But lime mortar was made by slaking installing insulation meant raising quicklime in intimate contact with the roof, by several inches. aggregate and sand, producing an Then it was discovered that authentic and technically superior the support timbers had long been mix. Fresh mortar just at the top held up mostly by air and prayer, would look odd, though: so the Lamphey’s lighting goes digital having virtually rotted away at pointing had to be extended down Saints Faith and Tyfei Church, Lamphey, was restored by Ewan Christian, architect to the Church the bottom. Specialist restoration to the ground. Commissioners, in the late 19th century, who created a simple but rather elegant church interior. contractors Tree and Sons scarfed From a conservation point However, like many rural churches, it has suffered from antiquated and unreliable lighting which did and pegged in replacement ends, in of view, the work could justly be no justice to its character and quality. All this has changed, says Jon Davies keeping with the building’s historic called a flagship project. A vener- character. able building has been preserved HURCHES are complex, very simple to use. On entering the We now have a quite stun- One of the most significant for generations to come, using Cmulti-functional buildings. church, you press a button on the ning church which feels bright achievements of the scheme was methods which the original build- Good lighting enhances their char- control panel, selecting the lighting and vibrant; a church which you salvaging a large number of the ers would have recognised. And acter, as well as the church services programme you want; the nave and want to be a part of and enjoy! now unobtainable Pembrokeshire the definition of ‘roof’ will never and other activities which take chancel lights then automatically The old lighting gave 50 years of slates, using them for one half of the be the same again. place there. A fortuitous encoun- adjust to the desired lighting levels. service. We are confident that the ter with a commercial lighting Currently four programmes are set new system will give equally good representative produced a suitable up: (i) normal church services, service . . . without ever needing to design for our church with three (ii) weddings, highlighting the change a light bulb! key elements: down-lighting in the wedding party at the chancel, For more information or to visit nave and chancel, providing good (iii) concerts and events, and (iv) the church please contact me on light for the choir and congrega- subdued lighting used, for exam- 01646 672907 or e-mail tion; frontal lighting, highlighting ple, during the Christmas carol [email protected] the altar and chancel arch; and service. up-lighting, illuminating the (rather lovely) ceiling. By the time we were ready to proceed, a revolution had taken place in lighting technology. Reli- able, efficient and high quality LED lighting had come of age and we needed to update our design. Following an extensive search we located OMS, based in Slovakia, who produced a range of archi- tectural spotlights, which could be discreetly fitted under the ceil- ing eaves. OMS’s UK agents were tremendously supportive and suggested we might like to consider DALI (Digital Address- able Lighting Interface). DALI allows the light- ing system to be configured and controlled digitally. All the nave and chancel lights are connected to a single DALI bus and managed by DALI controllers, without the need for circuits and switches. Sounds expensive and complicated? The additional cost of the DALI driv- ers and controllers is relatively modest, and, once it’s set up, it is 10 Pobl Dewi, March 2017 Focus on Working with the media

Not just the preserve of the few In today’s world of instant communication, we have unparalleled opportunities to get our message across. Used wisely, this can be a force for good, says Rt Revd Joanna Penberthy who, following her appointment as Bishop, found herself in the media spotlight

E live in a very public Instagram and Snapchat. Media By the political campaigns of 2016 Wworld. No longer is a cosy is not just the preserve of the few on both sides of the Atlantic this chat round the kitchen table the but the daily normality of most. has morphed into saying anything normal way we connect with The question is not so much “how you think you can get away with. Christian faith or our church face to face or through the most friends. Skimming across Face- can we use the media?” but how Christians are called to live community life. We can fulfi l the modern and up to date communi- book has largely replaced cosy do we conduct ourselves in these the way of the kingdom of God Lord’s command to us to make cation tools. Don’t use the media one-to-one chats on the phone. public arenas, what sort of people amongst our families and friends, disciples of all nations. The most to tell people things; see it as a Most of our interactions now are and communities do we reveal our colleagues and neighbours. We important aspect of our communi- space for community and relation- done publicly through social media ourselves to be. are called to live truthfully, respect- cation with others is what it reveals ship. Don’t be naïve: make sure sites. Young people often learn the Having to be “on message” fully, honestly and with complete about who we are. It isn’t just about the proper safeguards are in place hard way how public the communi- was something that came into our integrity. In all our interactions in getting our message across. We but then see it as a place to fulfi l cation they are having with friends politics in the late 90s. Politicians the public sphere of whatever sort are called to live out our disciple- another command of Jesus, “let really is. Media in the C21st is not stopped answering questions and we are called to live by these values. ship by being people of kindness, your light shine so shine before just newspapers, radio and TV, started seeing interviews as a plat- Through the media, we can compassion, truthfulness and men”. Like the rest of our lives, it’s it’s websites, Facebook, Twitter, form to get their message across. highlight various aspects of the integrity whether we meet people about who we are not what we say.

ber being canvassed for my opinion on a new ‘intimate clothing’ shop Showboat TV opening in the town! It’s important When in ministry, there are times when invitations land in Nicky to be friendly and professional; Skipworth’s lap that are just too good to be true. But she’s happy accessible, concise comment to report that, when it comes to doing ‘Sunday Thoughts’ for when deadlines are tight is much Showboat TV, based in her parish of Pembroke Dock, it was appreciated. Why not pop over to good and true Showboat TV and have a look? You can watch anywhere there’s BOUT a year ago, I had a broadened; I’ve just recorded on internet access (www.showboat.tv). A phone call out of the blue the themes of New Year’s Resolu- We have also fi lmed four Sunday from a local gentleman, John Rolls, tions, done a feature on the baptism Thoughts in St John’s Church, a who operates Showboat and he of adults, a short book study and the whole service of Nine Lessons and asked me to consider going along approach of Lent. I speak direct to Carols in St Teilo’s Church (which once a month to fi lm a series of camera without any written notes, was broadcast on Christmas Day) 10-15 minute sermon-like slots sometimes using props. and a wonderful choir concert at to be called, ‘Sunday Thoughts’. I have always enjoyed work- St Patrick’s Church. John leads a Being an internet channel, there is ing with the media but you have to team of paid and volunteer staff ; I no statutory obligation on Showboat keep your wits about you! When am often in the care of the lovely be important to me. I don’t expect about God and their own spiritual- to broadcast anything even remotely Community Missioner in High Matt the cameraman. hundreds of people lined up at the ity that will be wonderful. Every religious so I jumped at the chance. Wycombe, I had a monthly feature But why bother? Well, I’ll Vicarage door ready to embrace the segment I record contains words of Since then, I’ve made a monthly in the Bucks Free Press and was always be a Community Missioner. Lord, but if I can help just a few blessing and I often ask viewers to trip up to the studios and the range available for comment to the press Being truly seen, being vulnerable more ordinary people, in the privacy say the Lord’s Prayer with me. of themes covered has, of course, and broadcast media; I well remem- was important to Jesus, so it must of their own home, to ask questions

yn gryno iawn – ychydig dros Gorff ennais yr eitem drwy Peidiwch â phre gethu! hanner hyd yr erthygl hon. ddweud ‘Byrdwn neges Sally Wrth baratoi felly, byddaf yn Phillips oedd chwalu stereoteip Siôn Meredith, a churchwarden at Eglwys y Santes Fair, ceisio un ddelwedd neu linyn a negyddol a brawychus Syndrom Aberystwyth shares his experience of being a regular contributor fydd yn rhedeg drwy’r cyfan, a Down, ac amlygu’r bendith- to Munud i feddwl (Thought for the day) slot on BBC Radio Cymru dweud stori neu greu darlun. A’r ion. Gobeithio y bydd gweld myfyrdodau a gaiff yr ymateb pobl fel Olly [mab Sally], a in the mornings mwyaf gan y gwrandawyr yw Huw ni yn peri i rieni feddwl SIARS mae rhywun yn mynd i’r eglwys a gwrando ar rhannu profi ad personol. Cefais ddwywaith cyn colli’r cyfl e i Y ei gael gan y BBC wrth bregeth. Bydd gan y mwyafrif lawer o sylwadau yn Hydref gael y fath fraint. Gwell byd, ddarlledu Munud i Feddwl ar wybodaeth feiblaidd, ac mae’n Siôn Meredith (Llun: Jaci Taylor) 2016 pan wnes i fyfyrdod wedi byd efo Syndrom Down.’ Radio Cymru yw ‘peidiwch â debyg y bydd y gynulleidfa’n ei hysgogi gan raglen deledu A dyna fi wedi cael cyfl e i phregethu!’ Mae’n bosib bod rhannu llawer o’r un daliadau â’r y rhan fwyaf ddim yn mynychu gan Sally Phillips, A life without ddweud fy nweud ar radio cened- hynny’n seiliedig ar syniad arben- pregethwr. Nid felly ar y radio. capel nac eglwys yn rheolaidd. Down’s Syndrome. Rhaglen oedd laethol. Cyfraf hynny yn fraint. nig o bregeth. Bydd fy nhad yn Mae rhywun yn ei wahodd ei hun Rhoi rhywbeth i bobl feddwl hi ynghylch profi on newydd mwy A hwyrach bod mwy o debygr- dweud weithiau wrth mam, a’i i mewn i fyd y gwrandawr, a all amdano yw’r diben felly. Edrych dibynadwy a llai ymwthiol a allai wydd nag a feddyliwn rhwng dafod yn ei foch wrth gael ei ddiff odd y radio ar amrantiad. ar rywbeth o ongl arall, mynd arwain at erthylu llawer mwy o saernïo myfyrdod radio a llunio ddwrdio, ‘taswn i isio pregeth, Mae’r gynulleidfa’n eang ac yn o dan yr wyneb, ond gwneud blant â Syndrom Down. Rhoddodd pregeth ar gyfer y pulpud. byddwn i’n mynd i’r eglwys!’ amrywiol, ac os yw gwrandawyr hynny mewn munud a hanner hynny gyfl e i mi rannu profi ad Ond mae yna bwynt pwysig Radio Cymru yn weddol debyg i’r – a chlywais i erioed bregeth ein teulu ni o fyw â’n mab 14 oed yma. Bydd pobl fel arfer yn dewis boblogaeth yn gyff redinol, fydd mor fyr â hynny! Rhaid bod Huw, sydd â Syndrom Down. Pobl Dewi, March 2017 11 Something in the air There are changes afoot in the way we spread the Good News on the airwaves around the diocese OR the past eight years, Revd the whole of South Wales. strates, whilst being firmly rooted FPeter Lewis has been anchor- And there’s another reason. It’s within the community it serves. ing an hour-long programme popular. “It gets good ratings,” Peter “We aim to find common ground in on Radio Pembrokeshire called told Pobl Dewi. “There’s a signifi- matters of community and ethical Sunday Service, from their studios cant spike in audience numbers concerns,” he explains. in Narberth where, until last year, between 7am and 8am on a Sunday.” So whilst it is demonstrably he was Rector. And although most of the Anglican, it’s also interdenomina- But, since Christmas, the pro- studio facilities have moved to tional and ecumenical, and certainly gramme has aired not just in Cardiff, Peter’s is one of the few not exclusively clerical. Pembrokeshire but across the shows still made in Narberth. And now it’s universal, in dio- diocese, under its new title Sunday There has, however, been one cesan terms at least, and Peter is Matters. casualty. The daily Thought For keen to feature items and people The expansion has been made The Day slot that Peter also organ- from Carmarthenshire and Ceredi- possible by the fact that all the ised each morning has fallen foul gion as well as Pembrokeshire. local stations in the three coun- of the new schedules as break- So he’s appealing for contri- ties – Radio Pembrokeshire, Radio fast programming is now uniform butions – and contributors. “I’m If you have an event, a cause or a campaign then Peter Carmarthenshire and Radio Cere- across the Nation network, leaving anxious to reflect the concerns would like to hear about it – and you could be on the air to digion – are now part of the Nation no opportunity for local input. and interests in all three counties,” over 300,000 listeners. Broadcasting Group, which runs Peter is justly proud of the he says. “We need to cast the net Email him at [email protected] local commercial stations across diversity Sunday Matters demon- wider now.” Celebration Ian Girling reflects on working with BBC Radio Wales to produce two services for ‘Celebration’ from Holy Trinity Church, Aberystwyth

HEN we were first contacted hard in advance of the recordings Wby Stuart Robinson, the and had rehearsals both before and Producer of ‘Celebration’, in July after Christmas in our (rather cold) 2016, we readily accepted his invi- church. tation to record two programmes Reflecting on this project, I in the series: one for the Week of would say that it has been hard Prayer for Christian Unity and one work, especially as much of the for Easter Day, both to be recorded writing and re-writing happened on 9th January. during the very busy Advent and We have a well-developed, Christmas periods. However, it and friendly, relationship with has ultimately been very reward- members of other churches and ing and, although we will probably denominations around Aberyst- never know how listeners respond, wyth. Those we contacted were we hope that we will have reached keen to participate and preachers, some of the many thousands of a choir, intercessors and readers people who tune in to ‘Celebration’ were quickly recruited. on a weekly, or even an occasional, What we did not quite real- basis. Through this undertaking ise in the early stages was that we have also further cemented our every, single word would need relationship with those from other to be scripted for both services. churches and chapels in the Aber- This was, in fact, quite a large ystwyth area. task requiring several drafts and Thanks must go to everyone re-drafts working in conjunction who participated and I hope that with Stuart, who was unfailingly those of you who listened to the helpful and available to us, if we broadcast for the Week of Prayer needed to speak to him or contact for Christian Unity enjoyed it and him by e-mail. Stuart and I had that you will tune in to BBC Radio several long telephone conversa- Wales on Easter Day, at 7.30am or tions; he also spoke directly to 6.30pm, to hear the second service. Archdeacon Will (the preacher for Any churches interested in record- the Easter Day service) and Revd ing similar broadcasts should, in Roger Hides (from St Paul’s Meth- the first instance, contact odists in Aberystwyth, who was the Lisa Hawkins, preacher for the Week of Prayer for BBC Radio Wales, Christian Unity service). Broadcasting House, The musicians – choir and Llandaff CF5 2YQ organists, drawn from churches tel: 02920 322904 and chapels in the area – worked [email protected]

Articles which, unfortunately, could not be accommodated in this issue, plus translations of some can be found on the PD Extra pages of our website: www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ The floor manager with Vera Morris 12 Pobl Dewi, March 2017

teers come from all walks of life, and a gateway into the community listens to each other. and they volunteer with us for their for our listeners. We believe in a Did the thought of your favour- The healing power of music own various reasons. However, all community that is stronger when ite song bring a smile to your face? are brought together by a shared it comes together, richer when it is Are you listening yet? Patients and staff are not the only ones to benefit from Radio passion for delivering a positive inclusive of all, and calmer when it Bronglais FM, writes Al Frean, Charity Manager at the Aberystwyth message to our community, and hospital’s Radio and Befriending Service for being part of an organisation HAT’S your favourite piece thinking only of the memories that that wants to inspire people to feel Wof music? This is a question are flooding in as we listen. better. you can ask virtually anyone. It’s a Here at Radio Bronglais FM In an age when music is so read- question that engages people from (RB FM), we try to harness the heal- ily available through our phones or all walks of life, and one that each ing power of music; broadcasting online streaming services, a local individual might provide a different primarily for the patients and staff at radio’s place in the world can often answer to every time you ask them. Bronglais Hospital in Aberystwyth, be a little ambiguous. This is why Our favourite songs can change, but also to our wider community. it is important to have a vision; a depending on our current disposition. We celebrate our 48th birthday this clear and concise view of how we Music has an awesome influen- year, and our future looks bright. can have an impact on our commu- tial power over our minds – it can We are currently made up of around nity, and knowing when and where dictate your mood, evoke emotions, 35 volunteers, whose roles range it is needed. and alleviate stress. It can bring from providing our 24 hour FM and At RB FM we’ve established a people together, or allow you to online radio broadcasting service, desire to fill an ever-increasing void retreat from the world. It’s also got to fundraising, administration, or that has appeared in our social struc- a knack for provoking memories, acting as face-to-face befrienders ture between the demands of our sometimes to the point where we for staff and patients. lives, and our own health and well- don’t even hear the song; instead Like our listeners, our volun- being. We offer companionship Denis Bates and Molly Hutchings, Presenters of The Silver Show

yng nghwmni ac yng nghartref Priodas Pum Mil y Parchedig Robin Morris. Wedi wythnosau o law Delyth Morris Jones reports on Ysbyty Cynfyn Church’s central di-baid, daeth yr haul i wenu ar role in a television programme that challenged family and friends y briodas. Bu’r criw teledu yn to arrange a couple’s wedding and celebrations for less than brysur yn gosod eu hoffer yn £5,000 and how the church and community played their part in yr eglwys, ac ebychodd un o’r making it a great success aelodau wrth weld aderyn mawr yn hofran uwchben yr eglwys, R 30 Gorffennaf 2016 roedd drefniadau yn ddirgel gan fod heb sylweddoli mai “drone” efo A eglwys Ysbyty Cynfyn gymaint o bobl leol yn ymwneud camera oedd yno gyda’i lygaid yng ngogledd Ceredigion yn â hwy. Cafwyd ymateb parod craff. Dan chwyddwydr lens y ganolbwynt i briodas Llŷr a chyfeillgar gan gwmnïau camera gweinyddwyd y seremoni Lewis, un o feibion y plwyf, gwahanol, a phrofwyd bod calon yn fedrus gan y Parchedigion ac Emma Gorton o Lanidloes. garedig gan y Cardi, gan i lawer Margaret Le Grice a Robin Morris. Daeth y gymuned, ffrindiau a o’r nwyddau eu cael am ddim Hyfryd oedd gweld yr eglwys theulu ynghyd â chriw teledu neu am ostyngiad sylweddol. yn llawn teulu, ffrindiau a phlant i ddathlu’r diwrnod. Ymhen Yr unig ran o’r briodas a oedd yn ymuno yn y gwasanaeth. rhai misoedd byddai’r holl dan ddylanwad uniongyrchol Llŷr Cafwyd y wledd briodas wlad yn medru rhannu yn y ac Emma oedd dewis lleoliad y mewn pabell fawr dafliad carreg digwyddiad wrth ei wylio ar gwasanaeth a dewiswyd yr Eglwys o’r eglwys ar dir fferm Erwbarfe, raglen Priodas Pum Mil ar S4C. Ysbyty Cynfyn gan ei bod mor sef cartref Llŷr, gyda phawb yn Roedd Llŷr ac Emma wedi agos at galon Llŷr a’i deulu. Daeth hwyliog a hapus drwy gydol y arwyddo cytundeb gyda chwmni yr aelodau a’r gymuned ynghyd dydd. Mi fu’n brofiad newydd i teledu Boom Cymru a fyddai’n i gymhennu a pharatoi’r eglwys ni fel eglwys ond yn un positif gweld eu teulu a’u ffrindiau yn i edrych ar ei gorau, a chafwyd a phellgyrhaeddol gobeithio. creu priodas ar eu cyfer am lai pob cymorth gan y Barchedig Trwy groesawu’r cyfryngau, na £5000; ond nid oedd y pâr Margaret Le Grice wrth gydlynu roedd yn bosib i wylwyr yn eu hunain yn cael bod yn rhan dymuniadau’r teulu a gofynion y eu cartrefi rannu yng nghariad o’r paratoadau o gwbl. Roedd rhaglen. Bu’r pâr ifanc hefyd yn priodas, cyfeillgarwch teulu a yn sialens fawr i gadw’r holl paratoi ar gyfer eu haddewidion chefnogaeth cymuned ac eglwys.

Archbishop’s awards for We know that church members receive requests from time to time church music to help homeless people or those with accommodation difficulties. ORGANISTS and choir leaders who dedicate their time to keeping You can now access expert hous- music at the heart of services in churches and chapels, Sunday ing advice via the Shelter Cymru after Sunday, were presented with awards by the Archbishop of mobile app. The app contains a Wales on 7th January. wealth of free advice on housing Among those receiving the Certificate of Merit in Church Music, related problems, including home- which pays tribute to the talents and devoted service of musicians lessness, eviction, repairs and bad who are not professionally trained, were William Griffiths Cale, conditions, money advice and BEM, of Rudbaxton, who has been a church musician in several advice surgeries near you. parishes in Pembrokeshire for more than 75 years; Dr Geraint Visit https://sheltercymru.org.uk/ Rees of Narberth (pictured), who has been the parish organist for to download the mobile app to more than 40 years; Mrs Muriel Thomas of Llandyfaelog and her your device and receive hous- sister Mrs Eileen Jones of Capel y Groes, Peniel, who have both ing advice, whenever you need it. served as organists for more than 60 years. Shelter Cymru housing support and advice: 0345 075 5005 Pobl Dewi, March 2017 13 Easter celebration The poor who are rich

During a recent trip to Africa, Stuart Bell finds much to celebrate in an area in Muhumba Parish affected by material poverty

Roger Dirokpa, Chairman of the Link Committee in our Companion ave you had anything to eat yet today?’ That’s Diocese of Bukavu, looks forward to Easter ‘H not a question we usually ask HRISTIANS of the Diocese days and Saturdays, to put on a unless someone’s sick in hospi- Cof Bukavu are preparing to great performance for Easter. tal or they’re dieting and trying celebrate, with pomp, Easter on The Christians decorate the to get their weight under control. Sunday 16 April 2017. Easter, the interior of the church with green But it’s a regular question which feast that recalls the resurrection of banana plants and light effects; Bridget and Amos Bewick ask Jesus Christ. some painting with lime will also in the community of Mapona in In the Parish of Christ The be done. The Mass will be led by Zambia close to where they are King, Muhumba, in the Diocese of Ven Canon Bahati Ndimanya, Vicar living. They need to ask it because Bukavu, the different sections in of Muhumba Parish, supported by frequently the answer is ‘No’, and the church are preparing to make three assistant priests and a deacon. the only reason is because so many this a magnificent festival. The All these activities reflect the word people around them are not able to various choirs of the parish (Moth- of our Lord Jesus Christ, who eat every day. ers, Youth and Sunday School) commands us to live in unity for Bridget and Amos are from rehearse twice a week, on Wednes- the transformation of this world. Borth in Ceredigion and are members of the congregation of St Michael’s, Aberystwyth. For the past year they have been living and working in Zambia. They are doing missionary work in a most uncon- ventional way. They live close to the church and junior school, both of which were built some 10 years ago through the generosity of members of St Michael’s. They live in a small sparse bungalow with a corrugated iron roof and are involved in literacy work in both the school and the Bridget and Amos local community. In addition, they visit from house to house taking the people around them, includ- the adult Sunday School began at hope, encouragement and support ing growing much of their own 9am followed immediately by the to where it is genuinely needed. food. So their conversation centres main morning service at 10-12.30. Normally no-one would want on ‘Have you been in the fields It happened to be their monthly to go and live in a place like this. today?’; ‘When did you start work- Sunday of prayer and fasting so They have made huge sacrifices ing today?’ (Usually the answer is there was a comfort break until leaving behind the sea and the 5am.) 1.30 when the prayer service began mountains (this part of Zambia is Church life is vigorous and and continued until 4.30pm. They completely flat and featureless) and thrilling, much like Wales of 100 meet three times a week for inter- leaving behind regular employ- years ago. 65% of the population cessions at 6am and continue for ment and a secure income. This has attend church, and the services are an hour. And they are poor? Poor been God’s call on their lives. They long. One recent Sunday, when we materially maybe, but so very rich were visiting Bridget and Amos, spiritually. Jennie Annis meets Muhumba Parish MU are living from hand to mouth like

is usually cast out of her commu- Churches changing lives nity and becomes destitute. The women and children we met here Assistant Curate Gaynor Jones-Higgs reports on her recent had tragic stories but had found fact-finding trip to Uganda new hope in Jesus and, with appro- priate medical treatment, were N January 2017 I travelled with in Uganda I was able to preach rebuilding their lives in an accept- Ia group from St Denys Church, on Galatians, again speaking out ing and joyful community. Lisvane, Cardiff, to Uganda. This against witchcraft to a congre- At St Stephens Anglican was my first trip to Africa and I gation of over 200, and was also Church we met the inspiring was keen to see how Ugandans ‘do’ given the huge honour of helping Responsible Women’s Group. Church and community and what I to dedicate baby Elijah. They aim to liberate communities could learn from them. Churches are at the fore- from illiteracy, disease, economic You don’t really expect, in front of social action and building poverty and destructive cultural your first six months of curacy in communities in Uganda. We practices and they showed us some Wales, to have children brought to visited income-generating activity of the songs and dances they use to you with their mothers telling you projects, which enable communi- educate other women about such they are possessed, but witchcraft ties to rise out of poverty including issues. and child sacrifice are prevalent sewing workshops, goat ownership Some of the main problems in rural Uganda. I was pleased I projects, community beehives and facing Ugandan society – alcohol- had attended deliverance ministry tree planting projects. ism and domestic abuse – are also training, and was able to pray for Hope Ministries is a project prevalent in our diocese. Child these children, giving the strong which supports HIV positive abuse as a result of witchcraft is message to parents that sick chil- women and their children. Most of also on the rise in the UK, yet we dren should be taken to the hospital these women were infected with seldom hear about these issues and the best thing they could do for HIV by their husbands; polygamy from the pulpit. My visit made me these children was to love them and is legal and common in Uganda. reflect that perhaps it’s time we did. pray for them. On my last Sunday Once a woman is HIV positive she Gaynor with baby Elijah and family 14 Pobl Dewi, March 2017

happy. They look loved in fact. After the service, more than Postcard from 200 food parcels were distributed to local people who depend on them. The Mothers’ Union give Baghdad up their weekend to prepare them. In a city beset by adversity, Ven Prof John Holdsworth, Executive Today the two doctors’ clinics and the dentist will treat between 80 Archdeacon in Cyprus and the Gulf, finds much to celebrate and 100 people for free, as they T’S a strange thing about Chris- Last night, the main service do every day. Some employment Itianity: you feel closest to the of the day saw a packed church, is available to those who have the heart of what it’s about when you’re with people standing in the aisles, skills to make bed linen or clerical in situations of suffering and hard- and an overspill in a hall, well stoles – a small source of income to ship. Perhaps that’s why my heart over 300 people in all. Eleven them and to the church. lifts and my spirit is renewed by a busloads of people were among But in all honesty there is a visit to Baghdad. Somehow, being them. A Sunday School of over strong sense that what matters here reminds you what it’s all 50 children and around 40 youths most to the congregation here is about. Our Anglican Church here, assembled in the hall of the newly the liturgical ministry: the sense of St George’s, is known through- built kindergarten, on the campus. being prayed for and the space it out the western world through the The kindergarten offers pre-school offers to find communion with God regular news service offered on education to around 150 children. himself. It is humbling, as a priest, several media by Canon Andrew The staff are Christian but over to process down an aisle with men White when he was the Chaplain 90% of the children are Muslim. and women reaching out just to with people who can only point to sung in the ancient language of here. He has now left, permanently, Parents are desperate to get their touch the hem of your garment in where their cancer is, in a language Aramaic, that Jesus himself may and people are less sure what’s children enrolled here because it is a small gesture that continues to they don’t understand; to listen to have used. The Church is well in happening. trusted and safe. The children look give them access to hope; to pray the harmonies of a Lord’s Prayer Baghdad.

That is, until the end of last The elephant in the room year when I received an invita- tion to participate in a forum which Derek Davies, continuing his series of articles, finds love and brought together representatives compassion across faith traditions in the face of a difficult subject of different faiths to share their respective understandings of death. UITE a few Pobl Dewi read- the ethos which lay beneath Bede The weekend event was entitled Qers will, I’m sure, recall the Griffiths’ mission. Why? Because “The Elephant in the Room” and inspirational book The Marriage of here in West Wales we have an took place at a recently completed East and West by Bede Griffiths, in ashram – a Hindu and multi- hospice near Llandysul – a hospice which he recounts his experiences faith ashram which provides an established and now managed and of founding a Christian community inspiring example of those other operated by monks, nuns and lay in India, following the customs of universal virtues at the heart of all staff of Skanda Vale. Space does a Hindu ashram. In line with tradi- religions – love and compassion. not allow for further detail or tional ashrams, he established a Its original foundation, which dates acknowledgement of the credit due centre where people of different back to 1973, still functions as to individuals and organisations religious traditions could meet in its founder, Guru Sri Subrama- but a website search will readily an atmosphere of prayer and grow nium, envisaged, at Skanda Vale, provide further information. towards that unity in truth, which is but in recent times has outgrown What is of the utmost impor- a goal of all religions. this site. East now serves West in a tance to record is the unanimity Now, few of us will have the role which, I suspect, will not have of the contributors who, while imperatives of love and compas- those of the hospice team whom I opportunity to relocate to India but been noticed by many readers. I remaining entirely committed to sion. We all spoke, I believe, with met. Bede Griffiths’ dream lives on that need not prevent us from expe- confess to having been unaware of their respective traditions, spoke utter conviction but love, quite in West Wales. riencing at first hand something of it myself. with one voice of the transcending literally, shone on the faces of www.skandavale.org/

is to lay all before Him; self-pity I praise you’ is no sentimental and sin have to flee. Verses 3 & 4 wallow; it is war. A defiant position The lost language of lament show David being specific with his to worship, however and wherever In the warmth of the summer sun, it seemed strange to be thinking about the apparent request, and in 5 & 6 David turns to our walk with God takes us. melancholy of lament, but that’s what Sally Williams, from Goodwick, found herself trust and praise. Lament gives us a voice, allows doing at New Wine Summer Conference. Since then she has been exploring what part Sometimes lament can feel like us to vocalise our feelings to God. it has to play in worship today a battle, a fight to seek justice for Yet we choose to praise the one the oppressed, relief for the fallen, who is over all, the one who stands EW Wine Worship Leader and Praise often becomes our “go freedom for the captive. ‘Yet will secure and holds us in His hand. NVicar Chris Sayburn led us to” for sung worship, a comfort through why he feels lament’s lost zone, because to do otherwise isn’t language needs to be recovered. what church is about! But what Lament is not to wallow in one’s of those times when praise isn’t own self-pity; it is a language of appropriate? To find an outlet for passion, an expression of profound our emotion, being real and honest sadness, a cry of the heart for all with our Father when the deepest For more articles which, unfortunately, that is broken, all who are lost and places of our being are dark and could not be accommodated in this all that is wrong in our world. It is a painful is what being in relation- issue, plus translations of some, way of processing pain and verbal- ship is. ising it before the Father. Chris Sayburn took us through please visit the PD Extra page of our Lament was widely used in Old Chris Sayburn Psalm 13 as an example of how Testament times to express broken- David poured out his heart to God. website: ness to God – particularly through blessed in the Anglican tradition In verses 1 & 2 we see David’s the writing and use of the Psalms. to have such a wealth of history honesty. Chris said lament leads www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk/life/ The cry of “How long” echoes to learn from and seasonal liturgy us to “dangerous acknowledge- pobldewi/pdextra/ across the generations; broken- with which to worship, of which ment of how life really is”. Why ness again needs a voice. We are the Psalms are a key part. dangerous? Because being honest Pobl Dewi, March 2017 15 Beating the bounds Can an open church be secure? Ecclesiastical Insurance recommends that, provided your church has undertaken in West Roose a general review of security arrangements, you can keep the building open to the public during daylight hours. This will have no effect on your insurance premium. Diana Hoare invites everyone to participate in an ancient custom, Indeed, provided the right precautions are in place, Ecclesiastical would like to which, through prayer and social interaction, strengthens see as many churches as possible keep their doors unlocked community ties HE insurer recommends, where UR new Local Ministry breakfast and a Eucharist. Tappropriate, that churches are OArea (LMA) consists of We will then swing by Robeston kept open because of the positive nine churches, which reach from West to St Ishmael’s for elevenses. effect this has on security. An open Haroldston West in the north to Lunch will be in Dale followed church attracts more visitors and Dale in the south and Walwyns by a ride past Marloes to tea at St interest from the community and Castle to the east. Brides. On to Talbenny, where our generates increased ‘eyes and ears’ Rogation is traditionally the final Rogation act of worship will locally, and legitimate visitors deter time for beating the bounds of a be in a barn at Redlands Farm, theft and vandalism. While there is parish. Andrew and Rhiannon John- followed by supper. always a risk, this is outweighed by son and I, as the Parish Priests of Less fitmembers of our congre- the benefit of natural surveillance. this LMA, have decided to beat gations will be able to turn up and Tips for being open the bounds of the whole area. This share in the various hospitalities and secure will take the form of a pilgrimage on offer by car. We will stick to a ride (Sunday 21st May), walk, cycle strict timetable. The distance is 21 Kevin Thomas, Ecclesiastical’s Prin- and drive around the churches. Led miles, not a lot but my backside ciple Risk Management Surveyor, by Andrew and me on horses, we is already anticipating the pain! said: “We want churches to be open, are planning to visit each of the Please do come and join us by but in order to do that success- churches for prayer and hospitality. whichever means of transport takes fully you have to find the right Starting with prayers at Walton West your fancy and join our pilgrimage balance between accessibility and in conjunction with Haroldston we around this beautiful part of south security. If a church chooses to will proceed to Walwyns Castle for Pembrokeshire. open its doors in this way, it does have a responsibility to review its arrangements.” Security measures suggested by Kevin include:

• Review your existing arrange- ments – and identify any portable valuable items that could be easily stolen • Create a secure storage area in the church in which these portable valuable items can be locked away when not in use – for example the vestry • Consider if you can replace brass altar ware with wooden substitutes • Where possible use a padlock • Apply a forensic marking solu- Kevin added: “Some churches and chain to secure items such tion such as SmartWater to which have had a theft can be as valuable chairs or, if possi- help deter thieves and ensure uneasy about opening their doors ble, permanently fix items such warning signs that the marker but we’re happy to talk it through as oak chests to the floor has been applied are located with them and provide guidance • Make sure local residents in a prominent position at the about what they need to do to know that the church is oper- church. open.” ating an open door policy so that they can observe activity For more information, you can call Ecclesiastical on 0845 777 3322 at the building or pop in while or visit www.ecclesiastical.com/openchurches where there is passing more information and guidance about keeping your church open

New icon at Milford Haven On the Feast of St Katharine, a new parish icon was Cyfraniadau ar gyfer dedicated by Canon Dorrien Davies in Milford Haven. The icon, depicting the co-patrons Pobl Dewi of the parish, St Katharine & St Peter, was written by Sara Crisp (who wrote the icons in Y mae croeso i erthyglau oddi wrth ddarllenwyr, ac yn arbennig the shrine of the cathedral) cyfraniadau Cymraeg. and was given in memory Dylid anfon erthyglau at y Golygydd: Tessa Briggs of Mr David Barrat who died [email protected] in 2015, having served as neu fe ellir postio ffotograffau ynghyd â 50 o eiriau at: Churchwarden for 19 years Pobl Dewi, Pictured l to r: Swyddfa’r Esgobaeth, Abergwili, Caerfyrddin, SA31 2JG Canon Dorrien Davies, Mrs Viv Barrat, Mrs Sara Crisp, wedi’u nodi at sylw ‘Y Golygydd’ Fr Harri Williams 16 Pobl Dewi, March 2017

At a recent training day, some appalling stories were told, Beat the loan sharks including one man who targeted eight vulnerable members of his The Wales Illegal Money Lending Unit (WIMLU) is the government extended family for over 10 years agency which investigates and prosecutes loan sharks. Don’t be and charged an interest rate of up to a victim, says Naomi McDonagh 400,000%. Another example was a couple who targeted a vulnera- HE WIMLU is warning those explaining the terms of the loan, ble family for five years, and left Twho may be finding it diffi- and you have to keep paying them each member of the family just cult to make ends meet. Do not back until they decide you can stop. £5 a week to live on. These and make the mistake of turning to They may appear friendly when many other loan sharks have been loan sharks, who are even worse they offer the loan and when you successfully prosecuted by the than doorstep or payday lenders. pay; it’s when you can’t pay that WIMLU. These illegal lenders operate with- you see the other side of them”, Make sure that anyone offering out a consumer credit licence, and the WIMLU team explains. And to lend you money has a ‘Consumer prey on people who are vulnerable beware – more than half the loan Credit Licence’. If you are a loan – whether because of poverty, debt sharks prosecuted by the unit are shark victim, or think there may or difficulties in their lives such as female. be a shark operating nearby, phone addiction or health problems. It can get worse than just being WIMLU on the 24 hour Hotline: and the best decision you could loans can be arranged with flex- Loan sharks will rip off ripped off. Loan sharks use threats 0300 123 3311. The call may be take for your money. WWCU lets ible agreements to suit individual borrowers by charging extortion- and sometimes violence to make anonymous if you wish. people in the community come circumstances. ate interest (400,000% APR is not sure their victims continue paying Being a member of West Wales together to save and borrow money For more information contact unheard of), adding on penalty – the helpful person who offers to Credit Union (WWCU), cover- at low rates and is a safe place for 01239621408 payments as and when they want. lend you some cash may not be ing Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion individual financial needs. There www.wwcu.co.uk “Sharks don’t give paperwork such a good guy. and Pembrokeshire, is the easiest are no hidden costs or fees and

Community Connectors

The Community Connectors service is a two-year, pilot programme, providing a community & citizen centred approach to improving health & well-being in Pembrokeshire. This is a free, confidential service for people & families, as Gwyneth Jones explains HAT matters to you, matters Voluntary Services (PAVS) in meet identified well-being goals Wto us. Community Connec- partnership with members of the and needs. We can signpost appro- tors can support people living Preventative Services Board, priate referrals to organisations and in Pembrokeshire to take posi- Pembrokeshire County Council other services as swiftly as possi- tive steps to improve health & & Hywel Dda University Health ble, and promote and encourage wellbeing, social interaction and Board, meeting the requirements of volunteering and participation in help them enjoy life within their the Social Services & Well-being local neighbourhoods to encourage communities. After free, confiden- (Wales) Act 2014. the setting up of community-based tial conversations, we can offer We have appointed four activities. A referral could open a information, local services and Community Connectors to cover new door into a variety of activities activities to suit individual inter- Pembrokeshire. Liz Roach will or to becoming a volunteer; anyone service directories such as Infoen- [email protected]. ests and enable people to widen cover Fishguard & the north; can refer (self, family or health gine (www.infoengine.cymru), the uk their social networks, thus reduc- Tessa Fudge, the west, Haverford- professional). directory of third sector services If anyone would like further ing isolation and helping people west and Milford Haven; Andrea By working out in the commu- in Wales, and Dewis (www.dewis. information please call me on live independently for longer. Howard, South, Neyland and nity, through GP surgeries, church wales), which provides informa- 07595192 932. This is an exciting new Pembroke, and Angela Phillips, the & community halls, we can main- tion about local organisations and Follow us on Twitter & Facebook project, which is delivered by east, Narberth and Tenby. They will tain up-to-date information on services that can help individuals. @CCPembrokeshire Pembrokeshire Association of work with individuals, to help them local organisations using online Referrals can be made directly to 40 Years of service

HE inaugural meeting of the the Gorslas Senior Citizens Associ- TGorslas with Cross Hands ation, when some 60-70 members Men’s Society (GCHMS), led by from both organisations usually Revd Brian Thomas, Vicar of St attend. Proceeds from this event Lleian’s, was held on 2 Novem- go to a local charity each year and, ber 1976 in Gorslas Church Hall. since 1976, in the region of £4,000 The first officers were elected at the has been raised. meeting who included Canon W J On 2 November 2016 GCHMS Davies as President and George celebrated its 40th Anniversary Evans as Chairman. with a luncheon at the Cottage Inn, Since then monthly meetings Llandeilo. The guest speaker was have taken place on the first Tues- Revd Eldon Phillips who enter- day in every month at Gorslas tained members with an account Church Hall and, to date, over 320 of the life of Dewi Sant. Honoured invited speakers have addressed the Guests included Cllr Eryl Morgan, society; several founder members Chair of Carmarthenshire County of the society still attend regularly. Council, Cllr Huw Davies, Vice The March meeting each year takes Chair Gorslas Community Coun- Left to right: Cllr Terry Davies (Secretary), Graham Hunt (Chairman), Cllr Eryl Morgan (Chair the form of a “Cawl a Chan” at a cil, and Canon Illtyd Protheroe Carmarthenshire County Council), “Dewi Sant” (Revd Eldon Phillips), Ken Llywellyn (Treasurer), local hostelry and is shared with (Past Vicar of St Lleian’s, Gorslas). Cllr Huw Davies (Vice Chair Gorslas Community Council) and Canon Illtyd Protheroe Pobl Dewi, March 2017 17

In my view more pro-active in promoting what we have; we must get out while there is still a little time and shout from the rooftops that we are here, The village shop we must bring our churches up to date and make our services inter- Syd Smith, Vicar’s Warden at All Saints’ Church, esting; we must open our shops Llangorwen, responds to Richard Wood’s article ‘We must when folks can, or will, come in. cut out the dead wood’ (Pobl Dewi, December 2016) If we think we can do nothing, we will do nothing, if we do noth- N a small village in rural customers sit in uncomfortable ing, nothing will happen and our IWales or perhaps in a street seats for at least an hour while he churches will close. No church is in a busy town, there stands a tells them what he has to offer. But safe: look round your congregation, rather unusual building which no matter how good the products how many who attend regularly contains a shop which has a are, only a loyal few visit the shop today will still be well enough or special, gold-plated product except, perhaps, when a family strong enough to sit in our cold everyone needs and should member dies, then others use the churches in November 2021? have. However, the shop is shop and its products for a short Jesus did not hide his message only open once a week for an time. in a cold, uncomfortable church; hour and a half as the shop- Thousands of customers pass he opened the shop wide to all, he keeper has decided it’s best to the ancient door daily but they do made his message understandable carry out his business before not know the shop exists, or are and he preached in a way his audi- anyone gets up on a Sunday ignorant of the value of the prod- ence loved and they flocked to hear morning. ucts, and they prefer to shop for him. Because he is so confident other things that seem more attrac- We are The Church. As a con- everyone needs his wares he tive. In due time the shop inevitably gregation it is our responsibility to has not altered his shop for a fails and closes; no one notices. work with our clergy, even prod 100 years, nor does he adver- Richard Wood hits the nail on and push them into action if need tise, heat the shop properly the head: we have a duty to our be. It will be too late if we leave it or get rid of draughts, and his congregations and the public to be to one person.

Reflection Facts are facts Peter Ratcliffe reflects on the importance of the resurrection in a cynical age N the last year or so, we have to declare, ‘But in fact Christ has Iheard a lot about living in a been raised from the dead, the first- ‘post-truth society.’ As I write this fruits of those who have died’ (1 reflection, there is an argument Corinthians 15:20). raging in the media about ‘alterna- The truth of the resurrection of tive facts’ as opposed to real facts. Christ shows us that there is a God Actually, none of this is new. In of love who weeps at the grave of Lent, we remember the suffering every human funeral, at the heart of and Passion of our Lord. After He the universe, and this truth has so was arrested, Jesus said to Pilate, many implications I cannot cover ‘For this I was born, and for this them all in a short reflection. I came into the world, to testify to Two implications, however, the truth. Everyone who belongs to spring to mind. The resurrection is the truth listens to my voice.’ Pilate a solid comfort for those who have asked him ‘What is Truth?’ (John lost loved ones. Paul talks about 18: 37b-38a, NRSV). Christ’s resurrection being the first- The question is full of irony fruits of those who have died. The because Truth Incarnate was stand- resurrection of Christ is a guaran- The Garden Tomb, Jerusalem ing before Pilate and Pilate did not tee of our future resurrection if we recognise it or Him. When I was in are truly Christian. part of our testimony is our lives, a youth fellowship we used to have The second is this. Christians and if we are people who live lives a drama group and in one play a are called to be people of integrity, of godly love according to the faith cynical, atheist RE teacher asked people of truth who live accord- we profess. the same question as Pilate, ‘What ing to this resurrection faith. In his It is in following the One who is Truth?’ and the reply came letter to the Romans, Paul says, is the Truth that we can witness to back, ‘Truth is something which ‘Therefore we have been buried a God of love, in lives of integ- lasts forever and remains whether with Him by baptism into death, so rity and certain hope, because anybody cares about it or not.’ that, just as Christ was raised from the message of Easter is ‘Christ Truth is something that is so the dead by the glory of the Father, in Risen. He is risen indeed.’ I’ll important to Christianity. Talking so too we might walk in newness leave the Hallelujahs until Easter about the resurrection of Christ, of life’ (Romans 6:4b). People who Sunday! Paul says ‘if Christ has not been don’t share the Christian faith are raised from the dead, then our proc- watching us for signs of hypocrisy lamation has been in vain and your and also to see if there is anything faith has been in vain.’ (1 Corinthi- different about us that would attract Right: Church of the Holy ans 15:14). However, Paul goes on them to Christ. Such an important Sepulchre, Jerusalem 18 Pobl Dewi, March 2017

Noswyl y Pasg, ac felly ddim yn Padarn Sant 517-2017 gwbl gyfl eus ar gyfer y dathlu! Ond mae Cristnogion a Andrew Loat, Llanbadarn Fawr, tells us a little about St Padarn chymuned Llanbadarn Fawr, and the events to mark the 1500 years since his arrival in Ceredigion, wedi dechrau Ceredigion including services, lectures, presentations and the arni’n barod. Traddododd visit of two Roman Catholic bishops Gerald Morgan ddarlith fer am Badarn Sant i gynulleidfa yng AE 2017 yn fl wyddyn a Llanbadarn Garreg ym Mhowys. Nghanolfan Cymunedol Waunfawr Mnodedig yn hanes eglwys Roedd Llanbadarn Fawr yn (Aberystwyth) fi s Ionawr. Ddydd Llanbadarn Fawr oherwydd bwysig iawn yn ystod Oes y Llun y Pasg, ar ôl gwasanaeth pymtheg cant o fl ynyddoedd yn ôl, Saint fel canolfan addysg a chreu Cymun Bendigaid yn eglwys yn y fl wyddyn 517, cyrhaeddodd llawysgrifau ac roedd y plwyf yn Llanbadarn Fawr am am 10yb Padarn Sant Geredigion. Nid un enfawr. Efallai i’r eglwysi yn bydd coffi a chyfarfod cyhoeddus oes llawer o wybodaeth ar gael y siroedd eraill gael eu cysegru yn Neuadd yr Eglwys i glywed amdano fe, yr ydym yn dibynnu i Badarn naill am iddo ymweld yr Athro Marged Haycock yn bron â bod yn gyfan gwbl ar â’r ardal neu bod yr eglwysi ar y sôn am Badarn a’i fagl, testun hanes a ysgrifennwyd gannoedd ff ordd sy’n arwain at Lanbadarn englyn cynnar iawn wedi goroesi. o fl ynyddoedd ar ôl ei oes. Ond Fawr ar yr arfordir. Hyd yn oed Ac ar Ebrill 22 bydd y 1 i nodi dathliadau Padarn. hwn yn ff ordd ardderchog o nodi gallwn fod yn weddol sicr ei fod heddiw mae priff ordd yr A44 yn gymuned Gatholig Rufeinig Y fl wyddyn hon hefyd mae ’na ein dathliadau er cof am Badarn. wedi gweithio yn y canolbarth gan cysylltu Llanbadarn Fawr ym leol hithau yn ymuno yn y cofi o broject ar y gweill i lanhau a Am ragor o wybodaeth am fod y rhan fwyaf o’r eglwysi sydd Mhowys (enw presennol y pentref wrth iddi gael ei chroesawu thrwsio mosaig lliw ar lawr corff Eglwys Llanbadarn Fawr ewch wedi’u cysegru ar ei enw yno – yw Y Groes neu Crossgates) i’r eglwys i ddathlu’r Off eren yr eglwys. Cafodd y mosaig ei i’r wefan http://stpadarns- sef Llanbadarn Fawr, Llanbadarn â’n Llanbadarn Fawr ni. gyda dau o’u hesgobion yn ddylunio gan yr un artist, William llanbadarn.org.uk/ ac am y Trefeglwys a Llanbadarn Odwyn Dyddiad Gŵyl Padarn Sant yw bresennol. A hwy hefyd sydd Rust, a greodd gwaith tebyg yn dathlu ewch i https://www.face- yng Ngheredigion; a Llanbadarn Ebrill 15 – fel mae’n digwydd wedi trefnu cyfres o gyfl wyniadau yr Hen Goleg, ym Mhrifysgol book.com /padarnsant2017/ Fawr (arall), Llanbadarn Fynydd, eleni mae’r dyddiad yn syrthio ar yn Neuadd yr Eglwys ar Ebrill Aberystwyth. Bydd adfer y mosaig Operation Neptune Cofi o Mollie The short life of Mollie Davies, who was killed while on active service in 1940, is commemorated with a striking tombstone in Garnant. Keri Morgan considers the sacrifi ce made by Mollie and others like her ANWYD Mollie i Handel bob marchog/marchogwraig allu droi ato ac felly roeddech yn gwbl Ga Miriam Davies o London gofalu am a gwneud mân drwsi- ddibynnol ar eich gallu eich hun. House, Garnant. Roedd Handel adau i’w beiciau eu hunain. Wrth gwrs, roedd rhai marchogion yn berchen busnes beiciau modur Mae nifer o hanesion am yn gwneud y gwaith ar dir cartref llwyddiannus iawn gyda changen feicwyr yn cael eu lladd yn y ond eraill mewn wlad ddieithr. yn Abertawe yn ogystal â’i garej rhyfeloedd byd a chyn hynny pan Felly, nid yn unig byddai gofyn am yn y Garnant. Gallem ddychmygu wnaed y gwaith ar gefn ceff y- farchogaeth yn y tywyllwch mewn y byddai Mollie yn gyfarwydd lau. Tybiwn i mai un o’r gofi diau gwlad neu ardal anadnabyddus ym iawn â gwaith ei thad ac yn fwy na mwyaf oedd gwybod eich bod ar mhob tywydd, ond byddai angen Tessa Briggs takes a guided tour of the D-Day thebyg felly yn adnabod beiciau. eich pen eich hun. Doedd neb i hefyd, o bosib, marchogaeth drwy Normandy landing sites Mae’n rhaid ei bod hi’n gyfar- ardaloedd o ymladd caled neu wydd â mynd ar gefn beic modur ff rwydron, tafl egrau a bomiau. hefyd gan iddi ymuno â’r ATS Beth am Mollie? Fel cymaint German gun emplacement, captured intact, at Longues-sur-Mer ar ddechrau’r Ail Ryfel Byd a yn y rhyfel, merch ifanc oedd battery, above Gold Beach. This gun had an eff ective range of hynny fel “Despatch Rider” yn hi wedi ymuno â’r fyddin i 15 to 16 miles and came perilously close to shooting the Allied 6ed Gatrawd Gymreig (6th Welch wneud ei rhan, i fod o wasana- command ship out of the water. Regt). Nid bywyd hawdd o fynd eth. Yn anff odus, wrth ymroi at ar hyd y lle ar gefn beic oedd hyn ei gwasanaeth milwrol, bu Mollie PERATION Overlord was the to land at Utah Beach just before ond gwaith go beryglus yn cario farw ar y 13eg. Chwefror 1940 Ocodename given to the WW2 5am, with the fi nal landing at negesau a gorchmynion. Byddai yn 19 oed. Mae cofeb o garreg Battle of Normandy which began Sword Beach some 2½ hours later. disgwyl hefyd i’r unigolyn allu fedd drawiadol iawn iddi ym on 6 June 1944, D-Day. Operation Prior to this, the German defensive marchogaeth yn ddiogel a chyfl ym mynwent Eglwys Crist ar y Twyn, Neptune was the codename given positions along the coast had been gyda’r gallu i ganfod y ff ordd Garnant sy’n nodi’n syml iawn: to the amphibious landings on the under intense air and sea bombard- yn gywir a hynny weithiau yn Mollie Normandy coast on the same day. ment and an airborne assault had y tywyllwch. Disgwylid hefyd i Five long, sandy beaches were been launched. Although resist- Despatch rider (ATS) 6th given the names Sword, Juno, ance had been reduced, Allied Welch Regt. Gold, Omaha and Utah. British troops still came under heavy Beloved daughter of Handel forces landed on Sword and Gold, attack. Moreover, the sea was still out of a radar station and capturing and Miriam Davies the Canadians on Juno and the very rough and many of the men, the bridge at Vaux-sur-Aure. Swansea & London House, Americans on Omaha and Utah. having travelled several miles in The fl oating Mulberry Harbours, Garnant The Normandy landings had rocking amphibious craft, arrived designed by Hugh Iorys Hughes, Died on active service 13 been scheduled to take place on the beaches feeling thoroughly from North Wales, and constructed February 1940 aged 19. on 5 June 1944 but these plans sea-sick. at Morfa Conwy, played a crucial Fel cymaint o’i hoed, rhoes were thwarted by a severe storm. 156,00 Allied troops landed role in enabling troops to offl oad ei hun yn aberth; ei dyfodol hi er Eisenhower, who was in overall in Normandy on D-Day, of which their cargo on to the beaches. Once ein presennol ni. Hedd i’w llwch. command of the landings, boldly 10,000 were killed, wounded or lost the Allies had successfully held issued an order to go ahead the in action. The Americans suff ered the beachheads, two prefabricated next day, 6th June, during a lull in particularly badly at Omaha Beach, harbours were taken in sections the weather. with 3,000 men killed. across the Channel and assembled FINAL COPY DATE The landing requirements were The South Wales Borderers off Omaha (Mulberry ‘A’) and for a full moon, with the tide half were in the second wave of troops Gold (Mulberry ‘B’). for the June edition of way in, so that troops could disem- to go ashore, and landed near Arro- Standing on these beaches, and bark and the amphibious craft manches. Two men were drowned learning more about the landings, Pobl Dewi could then re-fl oat and collect more in the landing, but at the end of serves as a humbling reminder troops. Due to the diff erence in tide D-Day they had achieved their of the bravery and sacrifi ce of so 12 May 2017 times, the Americans were the fi rst objectives of driving the Germans many men 73 years ago. Pobl Dewi, March 2017 19 Meddwl o’r newydd Ordinary women: extraordinary God Canon Enid R Morgan has translated James Alison’s Jesus the A festival for women at Holy Trinity Church, Aberaeron Forgiving Victim and commends them for study by those who are tired of the fruitless conservative-liberal standoff. Invigorating 5th May Esther’s Banquet: and burden-lifting. Faith, freedom and feminism; speaker Mrs Fen Strange (ISBN 978-0-9818123-1-1) http://www.doerspublishing.com 13th May Retreat Day at Ffald-y-Brenin; leader Mrs Anna Bement 16th May Fish & Film evening: Shadowlands YDW i’n hoff iawn o’r i gredu cyn lleied â phosibl a’r Rstori am offeiriad plwyf yn efengylwyr yn credu bod yn rhaid 20th May Vintage Afternoon Tea Llundain yn y bedwaredd ganrif credu rhes o bethau am Iesu cyn 27th-29th May Flower Festival: Women loved by God ar bymtheg yn ymweld â gwraig dechrau ei ddilyn, neu ddechrau 31st May Poems at the Piano: a final celebration yr oedd ei phlentyn newydd farw ymddiried, bod â ffydd ynddo. o dwymyn y teiffoid. “Mae’n Dyna’r problemau sy’ Apart from Esther’s Banquet and the Retreat, all events are free, but those coming along siŵr’ meddai’r fam, gan geisio’i wedi peri i mi gynhesu at should sign up. All events, except the Retreat, take place in the church or church hall; chysuro’i hun, ac efallai er ddiwinyddiaeth James Alison. Mae times vary. mwyn dweud rhywbeth duwiol, ganddo ddawn i ddyfeisio enwau Further information from Lynn Lewis, tel: 01545 570433 “mae’n siŵr mai dyna ewyllys gogleisiol i’w lyfrau – fel The Duw.” “Dwli, fenyw,” meddai’r Joy of Being Wrong – Original offeiriad “Nid ewyllys Duw Sin through Easter Eyes. Mae ei o gwbl, y cwteri sy ar fai”. waith academaidd yn anodd, ond Dyna i chi yn gryno y dair blynedd yn ôl fe gyhoeddodd gwrthdrawiad rhwng meddwl bedwar llyfr bach sy’n amlinelliad crefyddllyd sy’n priodoli popeth o’r ffydd i bobl y ganrif hon. i Dduw, a’r crebwyll modern sy’ Y teitl yn Saesneg yw Jesus am ddeall pam y mae pethau’n the Forgiving Victim ac mae’n reit digwydd er mwyn eu rhwystro wahanol i’r teip arferol o gwrs fel St Davids Cursillo rhag digwydd eto. Perygl y Emaus, neu Alpha. Dyna pam yr Programme: March to June 2017 meddwl ‘crefyddllyd’ yw ydw i wedi mynd ati i gyfieithu’r cynhyrchu syniad o Dduw sy’n cyfrolau hyn i’r Gymraeg dipyn o deyrn bygythiol nad – Y Dioddefus sy’n Maddau ac oes modd rhagweld beth mae fe fyddan nhw’n agoriad meddwl e’n mynd i wneud, na pham na a chalon i’r rheini ohonoch chi ULTREYAS/GATHERINGS. ALL WELCOME! sut na phryd. Ac mae ‘Duw’ yn sy eisiau gofyn “Beth yw ystyr 10am for 10.30am start; shared lunch tueddu i fod yn rhywbeth sy’n dweud bod Iesu wedi marw egluro’r pethau nad ydyn ni’n eu drosom ni? Sut? A pham?” Saturday 18th March: St Mary’s Church Hall, Cardigan deall. A wnaiff hynny mor tro! Y Dioddefus sy’n Maddau Rydw i hefyd wedi poeni am y Saturday 29th April: St Catherine’s Church Hall, Gorseinon (Swansea and Brecon) gan James Alison, cweryl diffrwyth rhwng y rhai sy’n cyfieithiad Enid R Morgan. Cursillo weekend – 25th to 28th May: Llangasty Retreat Centre, near Brecon galw eu hunain yn efengylwyr, Cyhoeddiadau’r Gair £12.99 More information on our diocesan website at a’r rhai sy’n galw eu hunain yn rhyddfrydwyr. Dau deitl amwys E-lyfr – https://www. http://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/cursillo-st-davids/ ac aneglur. Y mae rhydd-frydwyr digitalsellz.com/p/MTM5MjQ or from Brenda Evans, tel: 01554 890803 yn swnio fel pe bai’n holl bwysig

Penlan Farmhouse & Cottage

Just a short walk from the city and cathedral of St Davids, and owned by the Diocesan Board of Finance, Penlan has been converted into two luxury holiday lets. The farmhouse sleeps 8 and the cottage sleeps up to 6.

Full details from Coastal Cottages of Pembrokeshire www.penlancottagepembs.co.uk www.penlanfarmhousepembs.co.uk Tel: 01437 765765

Follow Pobl Dewi on www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk

Book launch with Aled Davies, director of Cyhoeddiadau’r Fair. www.facebook.com/pobldewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi Photo Lansio’r gyfrol gyda’r Parchedig Aled Davies, Cyfarwyddwr Cyhoddiadau’r Gair 20 Pobl Dewi, March 2017 Book Reviews For those with an interest in social history The truth, engagement The Evolution of the West: influencein all these areas of social How Christianity has shaped and cultural history, and traces the & the need to change our values varied ways in which many of our By Nick Spencer present values grew up and flour- Pub: SPCK; 2016 ished in distinctively Christian soil. perceptions ISBN: 9-7802-8107-5201 He is always alert to the tensions Price: £9.00 and mess of history and is careful Hard pews, boring sermons When I was asked to review this not to overstate the Christian role, and no loos! book, my first thought was “I don’t but does show how today’s culture Excuses and reasons why know much about social history, it has been shaped in many ways by people don’t go to church By John Cox will do me good.” The book is subti- Christianity. Pub: Kevin Mayhew; 2016 tled ‘How Christianity has shaped Many of the chapters bear ISBN: 9-7818-4867-8248 our values,’ and it takes a broad look the mark of the book reviews and Price: £10.99 at social and cultural history from lectures from which they have In this book, the author seeks to various perspectives. The author emerged, and although this is not describe why people don’t go to has been a member of ‘Theos’, the a fully referenced academic work, church. While the title blames Christian think tank based in West- it has a distinctly academic tone to the building or the preacher, the minster, for the last ten years, and much of it. Because I have no back- real reasons for non-attendance this book draws on his reading and ground in social history, I admit revealed in the text relate to a experience over that time. As such, I struggled with the many refer- and the limits of the law to politi- collection of prejudices and sweep- it is largely composed of a collec- ences to other writings, historical cal power and systems. Scientific ing statements about the Church tion of essays, articles and lectures events and social commentators of culture and its emergence gets held by those who don’t attend. For that he has written and revised into which I had no knowledge. If this a chapter, followed by a look at example ‘they’re all hypocrites’, chapter format. is your area of interest, you will Darwin and his doubts and faith. ‘it’s full of old women’, ‘there are The content covers a wide vari- The development of human rights find it an informative and -inter too many rules and regulations’ Jesus said ‘You are the salt ety of topics. Theos originated and the notion of the secular self esting read, from someone who is and, of course, ‘I’m a good person, of the earth. But if the salt loses just after ‘The God Delusion’ was are addressed, and inequalities very grounded in the whole area of I don’t need to go to church’. The its saltiness, how can it be made published by Richard Dawkins, between rich and poor and the social and cultural history. As Tom author doesn’t make any attempt salty again? It is no longer good so atheism, humanism and secu- effects of capitalism are investi- Wright says in his endorsement, to dispel these myths; he simply for anything, except to be thrown larism are critiqued significantly. gated, including the welfare state. “Nick Spencer carves a clear path states them as reasons why people out and trampled underfoot.’ (Mat He delves in some detail into the A broad sweep indeed! through the jungle.” don’t go to church. 5:13, NIV) I’m glad that the author social development of law and Throughout the book, the Revd Don MacGregor Here lies the problem: if the is keen to see churches uphold the democracy, from the Magna Carta author assesses the Christian people outside the Church have a Gospel, but it would have been false view of what goes on inside more useful as a book if there had that way; midlife can be a time to the Church then they are never been some practical ideas as to Confronted by our own reflect on our past, to re-evaluate likely to cross the threshold. The how the Church can be in the world our current life and to change direc- author raises the important ques- but not of it. In other words, how mortality tion for our future. But perhaps the tion of how much we should modify can we be salt without losing our most important point Tony Hors- our worship in order to fit in with saltiness? fall makes, and it is one which Spiritual growth in a time of popular culture. He compares the It’s one thing to write a book applies across all ages, is the ever change: Following God in Church to the Hallé Orchestra. ‘Just telling churches not to compro- present opportunity to discover midlife as the Hallé Orchestra did not drop mise on the Gospel but quite By Tony Horsfall and to explore our real identity – its classical repertoire and simply another for churches to hold fast Pub: BRF; 2016 as beloved children of God. In a offer a pop concert . . . the Church to the truth while engaging with an ISBN: 9-7808-5746-4354 society obsessed with the identity must not forsake its basic message ever-changing society at the same markers of the individual this is a Price: £7.99 and simply offer some form of time as trying to change the world powerful message indeed. It came as something of a surprise generic, populist spirituality’. The perception of the Church. Reach- Whether male or female, slave when the editor asked if I would author encourages churches to ing people outside the Church with or free, Greek or Barbarian our true review a book on spiritual growth adhere to a strong, clear Gospel a Gospel that’s more than merely identity is only to be found in Jesus in middle age. I had to think about message communicated with love Christian social work is a tough Christ through whom we are made it for a couple of days, as I wasn’t into an environment that is welcom- challenge but one that we need to sons and daughters of our Father in convinced that mid-life was any ing and accessible to all but without embrace. heaven. more a period of change than compromising the essentials of the Revd Dr Emma Whittick any other. Nor was I completely Revd Stephen Edwards faith. comfortable with this very modern focus on spiritual growth; surely Christians need get over an obses- sion with “how I feel about me value of walking in that grace once and my relationship with God” found permeates the book. Contributions to Pobl Dewi and proclaim the good news with Difficulties in midlife, he We welcome articles of interest from readers and, in particular, we which they have been entrusted. contends, arise from our being would like to encourage submission of articles in Welsh. So, I confess I had to be asked confronted by our own mortality. Articles should be sent to the Managing Editor: Tessa Briggs, twice before I agreed. Suddenly you don’t see as well as This short book is written in you used to, things hurt more; stay- [email protected] response to a period of mental and ing fit, strong and mobile takes or photographs accompanied by a maximum of 50 words can be posted to: emotional turmoil experienced in more effort. These symptoms lead Pobl Dewi, Horsfall’s own life. As he says in us to the inevitable conclusion The Diocesan Office, Abergwili, Carmarthen SA31 2JG, the introduction: ‘My motivation that perhaps a day will come when for writing stems from my own we are no longer here. The depar- marked for the attention of ‘The Editor’ experience. I don’t want anyone to ture of grown children and time to have to find their way through the reflect on these issues can result in tangle of midlife alone and without confusion, distress or destructive Disclaimer some form of practical help.’ coping behaviour, like motorbikes, Pobl Dewi and the diocese of St Davids take no responsibility, liability or share the views or This sense of wanting to share fast cars, or, worse, extra-marital opinions of any articles contained herein. All information is the responsibility of the person or the divine grace he found in, and relationships. organisation submitting the article. Pobl Dewi take no responsibility for any errors or omissions through, his own struggle and the However, it doesn’t have to be