The Parish Magazine September 2013 Michaelmas issue Michaelmas

the church of st andrew, SERVING THE COMMUNITIES OF CHARVIL, SONNING and sonning eye Church of St Andrew Serving Sonning, Charvil & Sonning Eye 2 The Parish Magazine Contents, services & registers 3 Contents for September 2013 Services at the vicar’s letter, 5 — Table tennis, 35 St Andrew’s Parish noticeBoard — Sport is good for you, 35 Sunday 1 September — Why not join the Kids Club? 7 — Local sports contacts, 35 ——8.00am Holy Communion children’s fun page, 37 — Last chance for front covers, 7 ——10.30am Family Service with Parish contacts — Harvest Festival, 7 Baptism — Harvest Concert, 7 — St Andrew’s contacts, 38 — Confirmation preparation, 7 — Parish Magazine contacts, 38 ——6.30pm Holy Communion with — Victoria Cross heroes, 7 — Jubilee Hall information, 38 prayers for healing — Sonning Village Show, 7 — Sonning School, 8 Sunday 8 September — Charvil School, 8 ——8.00am Holy Communion — Forthcoming social events, 8 From the registers ——10.30am Parish Eucharist with — For your prayers, 8 — From the Organ Bench, 8 BAPTISMS Sunday Club — Letter to the editor, 8 — 7 July, James Brendan Paul ——6.30pm Evening Prayer with — Michaelmas Day, 11 Edwards hymns — From the editor’s desk, 11 — 7 July, Christina Marie Hall — 14 July, Jamie Rowan Scheepers features Sunday 15 September — A Bible garden in Charvil? 12 — 4 August, Devon Grace Escreet — Working with the deaf church, 15 Writer ——8.00am Holy Communion — Home Start, 17 — 4 August, Charlie Jamieson Willis ——10.30am Family Communion — End-of-life advice, 17 Barnes ——6.30pm Choral Evensong — Open Doors, 17 — 18 August, Hannah Louise Harriet — VE Day Party 1945, 19 Russell — 18 August, Chloe Hannah Louise Sunday 22 September — Matilda and the stag beetle, 19 ——8.00am Holy Communion — Weddings in St Andrew’s, 20 Reeder around the villages WEDDINGS ——10.30am Parish Eucharist with — New Charvil school, 23 — 6 July, Chris Anthony Daniel and Sunday Club — Ligugé twinning, 23 Elisabeth Ann Snell ——6.30pm Evening Prayer with — 13 July, Taniel Harry Vasag — Charvil parks update, 23 hymns — New Rotary president, 23 Sarafyan and Katie Rachael Jones — 27 July, William Joel Camille — Reading Blue Coat School, 25 Eadie Tanzer and Alexandra Sunday 29 September — Dancing fund raisers, 25 Marian Macdonald St Michael and All Angels — Eye & Dunsden, 25 — 10 August, Gregory Wade — Scarecrow report, 25 ——8.00am Holy Communion Faulkner and Katie Jane Bond ——10.30am Parish Eucharist — Sonning & Sonning Eye Soc, 25 — 10 August, Michael Thomas — Sonning Floral Society, 25 Gardener and Samantha Louise ——6.30pm Evening Prayer with — Royal British Legion, 25 Kitzinger hymns — Monday Club, 25 — 24 August, Mark Stephen Donlan — Sonning Glebe WI, 25 and Sarah Joanne Stonhold Every Wednesday — Conservatives dinner, 25 — 24 August, Dinos Nathaniel and — Village Events Diary, 25 — 8.30am Morning Prayer Kathyrn Borlace — 10.00am Holy Communion in the home & garden page FUNERALS — Recipe of the month, 27 — 9 July, Elsie Irene Napthine the St Sarik Room — September in the garden, 27 — Family surveys, 27 Monthly at Sunrise of Sonning the arts page diary dates MONDAY 2 September — Book review, 29 20 September — 11.00am Holy Communion — Charvil Art Group, 29 — Friends of St Andrew’s Quiz and — Sonning Art Group, 29 Curry from the Ivy — Poetry corner, 29 6 October EDITORIAL DEADLINE local organisations, 31 — Harvest Supper Editorial deadline, October issue: the health & beauty page 2 November 12 noon, Tuesday 10 September — Dr Simon Ruffle writes, 33 — Friends of St Andrew’s Winter — Clinical Pilates, 33 Fayre FRONT COVER picture — Take care of your eyes, 33 30 November the sports pages, 34-35 — St Andrew’s Night Quiz One of two Angels painted by — RAMS local commitment, 34 1 December the altar on the walls either side — New commercial manager, 34 — Patronal Festival and Pub of the sanctuary in St Andrew’s — President’s XI win, 35 Reception Church that are thought to — Indoor ski centre, 35 1 February 2014 depict the Archangel, St Michael. — World cup players, 35 — Pub Skittles Evening — WI rounders champions, 35 Picture: Tom Farncombe 4 The Parish Magazine

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Dear friends, It is five years ago this month that we moved to the parish and I began work as your vicar. Soon after arriving, I asked the PCC to form a working party to join me in identifying priorities for the development of the parish over a five year period. The working party highlighted a wish to develop work with children, young people and families. We identified the need for a full-time colleague to lead this work, and in time, with a stewardship campaign successfully raising the required significant annual funding for such a post, we were delighted to welcome our pioneer minister, Alison, in July 2012. The issue of space for both children’s work and congregational events was highlighted for further exploration, and with the large increase in Sunday Club numbers this has now become critical. The need for a parish office was mentioned as desirable, and this has now become all but essential, with the present model of parish administration not really fit for purpose. It is worth urgent prayer needs and that a number of new Bible explaining that the main telephone contact for studies and prayer groups have begun, including the church is the line into my study at home and it one at Sunrise Senior Living, and at the other end usually rings more than 20 times a day, even though of the age spectrum a Kids Club in the Jubilee Hall. for long periods of time I am out and about, or Every two years we have held ‘Emmaus Courses’ for seeing people in the study and unable to take calls. adults and young people and it has been good to see The days of vicars’ wives staying at home to support over 50 people confirmed since 2009, with around their husbands’ ministry are long gone, and so the 15-20 beginning preparation this month for our next phone can go unanswered for long periods. This is confirmation in December. frustrating for all concerned. Sonia, my hard-working For the last two years we have all benefited from colleague, works from home in Woodley providing a shared Lent course with excellent meals providing some much needed administrative support, but the both beneficial times of fellowship and growth. The photocopier is in the Jubilee Hall in Charvil, records spiritual health of a church can often be determined and other essentials are in the vestry in Sonning by what happens on every day other than Sunday, and with ever more administrative requirements and it is very encouraging to see these additional and paperwork related to the churchyard, our and vital developments. The parish as a whole has buildings, Criminal Record Checks, employment also benefited from the Pastoral Visitor Group, issues, weddings, funerals, baptisms and the like, which we began in 2009. Under the leadership of and an enormous quantity of emails, we need a more Jean Tinson, these faithful volunteers have shared efficient way of administering this busy parish. If our with the ministry team the visiting of the sick and new building comes to fruition, we can move towards housebound and taken communion to those who this, in line with most of our neighbouring parishes cannot get to church. who have worked in this way with a parish office for A huge development in our outreach in the parish years. Plans have taken longer than expected for this has been our newly designed Parish Magazine, now building because the parish was diverted into a major delivered, free of charge to every home in our parish, project to urgently re-roof the tower in 2011, costing and many other places besides. The impact of this over £60,000. However, thanks to the hard work cannot be underestimated, and while not mentioned of our deputy churchwarden, Perry Mills, we hope in the five year plan, it has been a very welcome and to unveil proposals later this year, prior to seeking I believe significant improvement in our interaction planning permission. If it happens, a designated with the nearly 4,000 people who live in our parish. children’s area will be created in church, as identified Depending on what now happens with the new by the working party and agreed by the PCC. building project, by this time next year, we will In addition, the hope was expressed by the hopefully be in a position to begin to look ahead to PCC group that we could become a more prayerful develop a new five year plan, and it will be fascinating church, growing in spirituality and commitment to see where God will lead us. to Christ. I am pleased that during these past five Best wishes, years a ‘prayer chain’ has been established to react to Jamie 6 The Parish Magazine

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ADV_SON_0713_ParishMagazine_01.indd 1 09/07/2013 11:46 Parish noticeboard 7 Parish noticeboard

Harvest Festival The parish will celebrate Harvest on Sunday 6 October with a special Family Service at 10.30am and a Harvest Supper in the Pearson Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets, priced £10, will be available from 1 - 29 September in church after every service or from Barbara McGregor on 0118 978 3806. As usual, our offering will go to the Christian Aid Harvest Appeal. Envelopes will be provided in the weeks building up to the service.

Harvest concert The Reading Blue Coat School are After learning about the plants in a Biblical garden (see page 12), members of the Kid’s putting on a concert on Saturday Club tested the ‘fruits’ of the ‘seven essential foods of the Bible’ — figs, dates, olives, grapes, pomegrantes, wheat and barley. 28 September at 7.30pm and the proceeds will go to our Harvest Christian Aid appeal. Admission, on the door, is £10 and an interval drink Why not join the Kids Club? is included. It’s a fun club for kids aged 8 and Confirmation preparation over. We meet at the Jubilee Hall in Would you like to become a full Charvil on Wednesdays during term member of the Church of England? time starting at 5.30pm. To do so, you need to be confirmed. The Bishop of Reading is coming to The club is FREE and the kids will the parish on Sunday 8 December to enjoy a snack and drink while they lead this service, and preparation, are with us. in the form of eight informal It’s a place to enjoy games and sessions, begins this month. Children crafts and a space to explore the from about 10½ are welcome and spiritual side of life. In the last year, this group meets on Tuesdays at the kids have: 6pm in Charvil, beginning on 10 — Planted a garden they designed September. The adult group, meeting — Made candles from recycled wax on Mondays, commences on 16 — Written sketches September at 8pm in the St Sarik — Designed Christmas decorations Room. Please let Jamie know if you would like to take part. — Gone swimming —Held races and ball games Friends of St Andrew’s Victoria Cross heroes We would love for more boys and The graves of Major General Price girls to join the club. Quiz & Curry Night Davis and Brigadier General Phipps If you are interested, please Pearson Hall, Sonning Hornby are in need of restoration. contact Revd Alison on 0118 934 3723 Friday 20 September 2013 The Victoria Cross Trust (reg charity or just turn up at our next meeting £10 per person including quiz and meal 1149454) has launched an appeal and on Wednesday 11 September. more information can be found on Hope to see you there! Curry from The Ivy, Sonning their website victoriacrosstrust.org/ Maximun 6 per team sonning.php or 0130 234 2652. Please pick a team name in advance! Please book in advance Sonning Village Show Last chance to enter our Contact Sally Wilson on front cover image contest [email protected] Make sure you visit the St Andrew’s 0797 995 4635 Church stand at the Sonning Village The closing date for our front cover The evening will be fun, the questions will be Show on 7 September for free games, image contest is 2 September. general knowledge - not obscure! free fun and a free gift for every For the rules of entry please go to child. rpatraffic.com/rpaads/tpm.html or turn to next page m contact the editor 961 1188. Come and join in! 8 The Parish Magazine

Sonning School and St Andrew’s Charvil’s new school and St Andrew’s Forthcoming social events We greatly value our links with The ministry team is committed to The St Andrew’s Church Social our Church School, and have been working with the Piggott School in Committee is organising a Quiz pleased to be able to support its providing a meaningful Christian Night on Saturday 30 November in work through the Ranmore Trust, presence at Charvil’s new school, Jubilee Hall and a Skittles Night at a charitable trust controlled by which, through its link with Piggott the Jack O’ Newbury, Binfield on the vicar and wardens. Our PCC School will be a church school. Saturday 1 February 2014. Please put have recently appointed two new The PCC has nominated Revd the dates in your diaries and look out foundation governors, Marie Alison as a governor of the Piggott for further details. Simpkins and Emma Hobbs, both School and so she is involved, from members of St Andrew’s. Alice the start, with the development of Wilkinson recently retired as this important new community in chairman of governors, having Charvil. In addition, the ministry served for many years as a governor team will be available to lead and latterly as chairman, and she For your prayers in September has been replaced by Laurie Butler, collective worship and our magazine — New parents of adopted children with Barbara Jones, a former will be available as a means of — The pupils of Charvil’s new school churchwarden, taking over as vice distributing information as the — Our MP, Theresa May chairman. school gets established. — Plans for the Sonning Show Letter to the editor From the Dear Editor I am sure it has been pointed out that the article organ regarding the Produce Show last month was inaccurate. It was Reverend George Stokes who invited the Produce bench Show to use the vicarage lawn in 1978. There had been By no Produce Show in 1976 due to Sonning Festival and no David Produce Show in 1977 due to the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Duvall Festivities. Barbara Carr On 29 September we celebrate Michaelmas. There aren’t any well-known hymns about the Archangel, but there is a THIS IS THE GATE TO HEAVEN fine hymn, All my hope on God is founded, which is sung to ENTER YE ALL BY THIS DOOR a tune called Michael. (This door is locked because of the draught) Seen at a Cumberland church The English words, a paraphrase of a German hymn in the same metre by Joachim Neander (1650-80), are by a former Poet Laureate, Robert Bridges (1844-1930). Robert Bridges lived for a time in Yattendon and trained the church choir WHITE MARQUEES there for nine years until his exasperation with the vicar’s For hire sermons proved too much of a deterrent. He published this and other hymns in the Yattendon Hymnal. The hymn is based on 1 Timothy 6.17: Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. It compares the transience of human life and works with the enduring power and goodness of God.

God’s great goodness aye endureth, Deep his wisdom, passing thought; All proceeds used for funds of Splendour, light, and life attend him, 1st Sonning Scout Group Beauty springeth out of nought.

Suitable for all events, parties, fetes etc. Herbert Howells (1892-1983) was a prolific composer best We Deliver, Erect, Take Down and Collect! known for his choral and organ music. When I sang in the Bach Choir, he would sometimes attend rehearsals when we Suggested donation of only £175 were singing his music. He called his major work Hymnus Discount for Registered Charities Paradisi - Requiem for those who tried to sing it. His tune Trefor 07789 880072 Michael, named after his son who tragically died from polio at the age of nine, was written for this hymn many years [email protected] after the publication of the words, but its strength and flowing melody have ensured its universal adoption. The Parish Magazine 9

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We can design and print short Tel: 0118 944 1808 runs of books for you at surprisingly affordable prices. Call now for more details. Open 7.30am - 5.30pm (Weekdays) [email protected] 15 Headley Road, Woodley RG5 4JB www.designforprint.org | 0118 969 3633 Features 11 Michaelmas Day From Michaelmas, which falls on 29 September, is one of four quarter days that the mark a change in the seasons of the year, or a shortening or lengthening of daylight hours. Michaelmas heralds the coming of Autumn and traditionally editor’s was the time that harvest must be completed - hence the reason the church celebrates harvest on the first Sunday of October. It was also the time when desk new servants were hired or land was exchanged, debts were paid, and the You may have noticed some changes time for electing magistrates and the beginning of legal and university terms. to our magazine this month. During Each of the quarter days is associated with a religious feast day - on the Summer we have been working Michaelmas Day, the church celebrates St Michael and All Angels. The other behind the scenes with the result that this issue is eight pages larger three quarter days are associated with the Feast of the Annunciation on than the previous one. March 25, the Feast of St John on June 24, and Christmas on December 25. Michael is mentioned in the Biblical books of Daniel, Jude and Revelation We welcome 19 new advertisers He is one of seven archangels - only two others are named in the Bible, Gabriel bringing the total to 81. While paid and Raphael. Michael is depicted as a warrior who protects God’s people from advertising enables us to offset the evil in heaven and on earth. Because evil in the world is often associated with printing costs we believe that the diversity of the products and services darkness, St Michael is associated with the approaching darkness of Winter. He being offered make the magazine a is patron of knights, policemen, soldiers, paramedics, and ambulance drivers, useful resource that supports local and also danger at sea, for the sick, and of a holy death. businesses. Add to this more than In the Church of England the celebration of major feast days includes a 50 local clubs and associations listed special prayer called a Collect. For St Michael and All Angels the Collect is: for free on page 31 and you have a valuable local directory. Everlasting God, you have ordained and constituted This month the way that we the ministries of angels and mortals in a wonderful order: list local organisations has been grant that as your holy angels always serve you in heaven, changed to make it easier to use. The so, at your command, they may help and defend us on earth; extra space needed for this change through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, was only possible because we have in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. been able to add four extra pages of editorial. And this, I think, is the most exciting change. The local Folklore tells us that on Michaelmas Day a well fattened goose, fed on the Redingensians Rugby Football Club, stubble from the fields after the harvest, is eaten to protect against financial based in Sonning, are now one of our need in the family for the next year: Eat a goose on Michaelmas Day, want not for advertisers along with their sponsors. money all the year. Michaelmas was sometimes called Goose Day and goose fairs Their contribution has helped us were held. Today the famous Nottingham Goose Fair is still held at this time of to dedicate two new editorial pages year. It is said that when Queen Elizabeth I heard of the defeat of the Armada, to local sport reporting. So if you are she was dining on goose and resolved to eat it on Michaelmas Day. involved in local sport please let us In Scotland, St Michael’s Bannock, a scone-like cake was eaten. It was made have your news! On our sports pages from cereals grown on the family’s land during the year, representing the you will also find a voucher for free fruits of the fields, and was cooked on a lamb skin, representing the fruit of entry into rugby matches held at the the flocks. Sheeps milk was used in the recipe as sheep were deemed the most Redingensians ground. You may hear it said that sports sacred of animals. clubs are a prime reason why many And then there is the Michaelmas families don’t attend church on a Daisy that blooms at this time and Sunday morning. Why then are we is traditionally given as a gift so helping to promote Sunday sport? symbolising saying farewell in the My view is that while this is probably same way as Michaelmas Day says true, we should find ways of working farewell to the farming year and with sports clubs who provide welcomes the new: extremely valuable local amenities. The Michaelmas Daisies, among dede weeds, It’s why we have a pioneer minister Bloom for St Michael’s valorous deeds. to seek alternative ways of helping And seems the last of flowers that stood, families overcome conflicts between Till the feast of St Simon and St Jude.* their faith and the demands of daily To celebrate Michaelmas with life, Sunday sport being an example. roast goose see page 27! “St Michael and All Angels or not, And, don’t forget, many famous *The feast day of St Simon and Jude is on 28 October that cobweb has to go!” sports personalities are Christian! 12 The Parish Magazine A Bible garden in Charvil? Just over two years ago we began to clear some ground in our garden to create something that would be a challenge - some would say impossible - but this would be my only opportunity to fulfill a dream. The objective was to create a Biblical garden in Charvil, by this I mean a garden that only contains plants mentioned in the Bible, writes Bob Peters. When Sue and I married in January 2011 our family and friends insisted on buying us wedding gifts, but being much older than most newly-weds we already had more than we needed to fill our new home in Charvil more At the centre is a cross-shaped bed. than twice. Our answer was garden vouchers, and were overwhelmed with people’s generosity, especially from our many friends in the church. So wanting to spend the vouchers on something that would have a Fruits of the vine beginning to form. lasting memory we decided to use a large amount of them to create a The first year all the plants Biblical garden. The big problem, of thrived. We held an open day in course, would be growing desert- August and invited our church loving plants in the colder and often friends to see how we had spent very wet climate here in Charvil. their gifts. Since then we are often But there are over 100 plants asked how the garden is going, hence mentioned in the Bible, surely we can this update. In the first summer Broom in bloom this Spring. grow some of them? the olive tree produced its fruit, as I drew up a list of over 30 possible did the grape vine. The only one of candidates starting with the seven the ‘seven’ that caused concern was most important plants in the Bible - the date palm, it showed little sign olive, grape, date, fig, pomegranate, of growth, although I was assured wheat and barley - around which the by an expert that this was normal garden would be based. These are behaviour. the seven essential foods that God When winter came I wrapped provided for the Israelites in their most of the plants in fleece to Promised Land. The other plants on protect them from frost damage. In my list were flowers, vegetables and hindsight, this was a mistake as they herbs. did not fare well.

Water — sometimes too much!

Myrrh is enjoying our hot summer. Flowers of the fields. Features 13

During the next summer, the date palm struggled to survive, the olive The Bible plants in produced a little growth but by the our garden: time winter came again it was very Apple Proverbs 25.11 weak. Barley Ruth 1.22 Likewise the pomegrante Beans 2S Samuel 17.28 Broom 1Kings 19.4 struggled, although it survived the Chicory Exodus 12.8 winter and produced new buds, but Coriander Exodus 16.31 one by one they vanished. At first I Cumin Matthew 23.23 thought it was birds until by chance Daisy Isaiah 40.6 Date Palm Psalm 92.14 I found a small snail eating its lunch. March 2011: before work began Desire (Caper) Ecclesiastes 12.5 The tree was slowly being killed Dill Matthew 23.23 by them. It sent up new shoots at still doing well and only a few have Fig Matthew 21.19 Garlic Numbers11.5 ground level - the pomegrante is, in been replaced. Grape Vine John 15.1 its natural state a bushy shrub, not Having spent our garden vouchers Hyssop John19.29 a tree, but these did not survive the we’ve been reluctant to replace the Leeks Numbers 11.5 Lily Song of Songs 2.1 coming winter. larger expensive trees such as the Mallow Job 6.6 Last winter, I didn’t use fleece but pomegrante, date palm and olive Mint Matthew 23.23 the problem was not the cold - most with similar size plants. Instead Mustard Mark 4.31 desert plants can tolerate extremely there are now two new date palm Myrrh Genesis 43.11 Nettles Zephaniah 2:9 low temperatures for short periods. seedlings, and two new pomegrante Olive Judges 9.8 The problem was water. For weeks plants that are little more than Onion Numbers 11.5 on end the ground was water-logged seedlings. They will be kept in pots Pomegranate Numbers 13.23 Poppy Matthew 6.28 and for most Biblical plants this is and be taken indoors in the winter. Rocket 2Kings 4.39 the end. Otherwise the garden is thriving Rose Song of Songs 2.1 Only the grape vine and fig tree again making me hopeful that it will Rue Luke 11.42 Saffron Song of Songs 4.13 remained healthy. The olive, while be possible to establish a Biblical Sage Exodus 37.17 still alive now only has growth at garden with over 30 different plants Sorrel Exodus 12.8 ground level. The good news is that in Charvil. It will just take a lot of Watercress Deuteronomy 2.2 most of the flowers and herbs are patience and perserverance! Wheat Deuteronomy 8.7 14 The Parish Magazine

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Features 15 What is it like to hear a hand? By Anna Knaggs. a Licensed Lay Minister working with deaf church members in Reading About 33 years ago I felt the calling of God to work among the deaf community although it was not until 1995 before it was possible for me to start fulfilling this call and enrol in a sign language class. Having completed two years I still didn’t know any people who were deaf other than my sign language Members of the Oxford Diocese deaf ministry team in action. Anna Knaggs is fourth teacher, but that changed when I from the left and is the only ‘hearing’ LLM in the team. (LLMs wear blue scarves) attended a Harvest service at own language and they would gather attended a signed church service? St Mary’s Church, Shinfield. in large numbers. Now younger deaf Maybe I am biased, but to me it is St Mary’s was hosting a service for people, through modern technology, one of the most beautiful forms of the deaf churches in the Oxford are able to integrate more easily in worship I have experienced. Diocese and there I met Revd Louise wider social functions and they have To have eye contact at all times Brown who introduced me to Revd less time, perhaps not for the clubs, with your congregation, to see the Roger Williams, chaplain at but for church. concern on faces when you pray for St Mark’s Reading Deaf Church. This Discussions do take place about someone who is ill and known, to was the beginning of my ministry integrating deaf people into hearing see hymns being signed with such among deaf people. churches, but how many churches meaning is moving. In November 2009, after would be prepared to allow its How many deaf people have completing a three-year training deaf members to participate fully attended the funeral service of a course through Oxford Brookes in leading a service? Would the loved one with no one to interpret College I was thrilled to be hearing members be happy to watch for them, to miss out on the eulogies licensed as a Lay Minister (LLM) at a complete service being signed, and to come away feeling they were Christchurch Cathedral, Oxford. including sermon and Eucharist unable to say their goodbyes? You may be surprised to hear that with an interpreter giving a voice It is not necessary for this to there are six deaf churches in the interpretation? On one or two happen, the chaplains for the deaf Oxford Diocese: Cox Green, Milton occasions maybe, but on a regular can either take the service, come Keynes, Newbury, Oxford, Reading basis? I am not sure. and interpret, or arrange for a sign and Slough. The deaf ministry team It is also unfortunate that many language interpreter to be present. serving these churches are Revd of the older churches, beautiful Similarly at a wedding attended by Roger Williams, assistant chaplain though they are, have restricted deaf people, there is a need for an Revd Ben Whitaker and honorary viewing because of side aisles, pillars interpreter. Last year I was privileged chaplain Revd Vera Hunt and three and poor lighting. An interpreter is to interpret at a wedding at which LLMs. Vera and two of the LLMs essential to sign the service and a the couple, the best men (there were are profoundly deaf. The Oxford clear close view of the interpreter’s three), and the bridesmaids were Diocesan Council for the Deaf hands and face when signing is deaf. It was wonderful to be see them (ODCD), whose president is the necessary. An interpreter is costly participate fully in the service – to Bishop of Oxford, oversees the deaf and if only for three or four deaf hear a signing hand. ministry team. ODCD is a registered people – is it worth it? Over the years we have been charity and works with deaf and Many churches do not have grateful to churches in the Diocese hard of hearing people to meet their the technology, for example, loop who have allowed us to hold our spiritual, social and general needs systems for the hard of hearing or Easter, Rogation, Harvest, and and to give them a voice and full PowerPoint for visual presentations. Christmas services in their churches. participation in church and society. An example of lack of ‘deaf After the services we have been told There are an estimated 2,000 awareness’ in a church is when our how wonderful it had been to share people in the Oxford Diocese with deaf choir was invited to sign in a in our worship and to show their total or severe hearing loss and up to service at Wadham College, Oxford. appreciation have always provided us 200 of these are active members of We turned up looking forward with a lovely tea – a perfect end to a deaf worshipping communities. to showing the beauty of signed wonderful day. Unfortunately as elderly church worship only to find that the church I would like to extend an members die, younger people are not was lit by candles and had only one invitation to anyone who would like filling the gaps. Why is this? electrical point. This caused much to come and worship with us. We In the past deaf clubs and deaf disappointment among the choir as meet at 10.30am on the first Sunday churches were the only places they could not see or be seen. of every month in our chapel at where deaf people could meet to So, what is it like to hear a hand? Reading Deaf Centre, Cardiff Road, communicate and socialise in their I wonder how many readers have RG1 8JF, you will be most welcome. 16 The Parish Magazine

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sonning parish mag.indd 1 02/08/2013 10:45:01 18 The Parish Magazine

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If you can recognise any of the chidren in this photograph taken at the VE Day Party in Pearson Hall then please let us know. June Thorogood, who owns the photograph, would love to know who they all are - can you spot her? Matilda and the stag beetle By Robert Lobley At the Thames Street Annual Barbecue in June a young lady called Matilda discovered a huge and ferocious looking beetle with a polished black body and large purplish horns. What Matilda had discovered in an large grubs munching dead rotting old WWII shelter in the beautiful wood and can grow to nearly 4 inches garden of Apple Trees was a stag in length. In the autumn they would beetle, horse pincher, thunder beetle have miraculously changed into a A stag beetle and or oak ox; Latin name Lucarrius beetle and then quietly waited for the its larvae sketched Servus that has the most amazing following spring. by Robert Lobley. life cycle. Although looking very In May, Matilda’s beetle had fierce with pincer like antlers emerged from the soil as a fully not harm them. They live mainly in Matilda’s beetle was quite scared and fledged stag beetle with his fearsome South East England with some in the jumped into a nearby drain. horns ready to fight any other male West Country and a very few in the Pat Doyle recognised it beetles. Only the males have horns, North. immediately and on behalf of and the fully grown insect can grow Matilda’s discovery on a Summer Sonning Parish Council and the to the size of a matchbox. Sunday reminded me of Alice in Neighbourhood Watch picked After several battles with other Wonderland, for while we adults it up and laid it safely on a leaf. stag beetles he would find and win engaged in a sort of Mad Hatters Pat also named it, said that they a female to mate with. After mating Barbecue Party she discovered a rare were harmless and quite rare in July he would fade away and die and strange living creature with the but sometimes found locally, for not having eaten anything since the most strange and perplexing life example, some have been found in proceeding autumn. The female stag style imaginable. the St Andrew’s churchyard. beetle would then lay eggs and the If you find a stag beetle do not be The stag beetle was probably whole process would start again. afraid. Try not to disturb it, and note nearly as old as Matilda, and its Stag beetles, although looking where you are and the time and date, mother would have laid her eggs dangerous and fighting each other, if possible take a photograph. The deep in the ground about six years are completely harmless to humans Peoples Trust for Endangered Species ago. When these hatch out the beetle and their numbers are in decline: run an excellent website at ptes.org larvae live for five or six years as They are also protected so please do where you can post a photograph. 20 The Parish Magazine Marriage in church offers much more... By Revd Alison Waters, pioneer minister, St Andrew’s Church The landscape of marriage and relationships has changed enormously in the last few decades. But did you know that it has never been easier to be married in church?

It’s only a bit of paper… now take place in a religious context. The number of couples marrying In 2008, however, the law changed to in the UK, as with many Western increase the opportunities to marry countries, has declined markedly in in your local church and that saw an the last 40 years. Co-habitation has, increase in church weddings (see A in most communities, become the Quick Guide to the Law). norm before marriage and is often Assuming you choose to marry, viewed as equivalent. Couples tend the venues available for the not to feel any pressure to formalize ceremony are manifold: stately flush of passion and attraction, the Whom God has joined together ... their union and they form those homes, steam trains and football vigour of youth, but also about being I would be a liar if I claimed that all unions at a later age, after having stadia, aquariums, zoos, and the ever gentle with one another’s dreams who marry in Church are regular had other short-term relationships. popular beach in Barbados. and healing of one another’s wounds attendees or fervent believers. Many Having children is no longer Faced with this wealth of choice, in the future; in which each member couples booking their weddings will seen as a reason to marry either. for some the local church might be of the family, in good times and in bad, sheepishly admit that they might Children with unmarried mothers just another pretty building in a may find strength, companionship and only darken the door at Christmas accounted for 47.5% of those born in long list. But actually, the Church comfort, and grow to maturity in love. and Easter. 2012, compared to 25% in 1988 and offers something much more: not To some that may seem a problem, only 11% in 1979. just a lovely venue for the photos but but I rejoice that any couple has felt The absence of any cultural a unique ceremony and a profound drawn to marry in Church, whatever encouragement to marry matched and glorious understanding of what their background. Faced with the with the concern that weddings must marriage means. choice of venue or service, something be large and very expensive mean (I would say the Holy Spirit, perhaps that more and more people simply A way of life made holy by God ... The Christian ceremony also also with a bit of parental nudging) don’t bother. For many, marriage is The Christian understanding of recognizes the importance of secure has encouraged them to make their just a bit of paper: an unnecessary marriage is best summarized in the and stable relationships within commitment before God, in a holy and costly legal process. words of the Preface to the Church human society. Marriage is a sign place, with prayers and sacred songs. of England ceremony. It is always of unity and loyalty which all should The power of tradition and A challenge to the Church ... for me an extraordinary moment uphold and honour. It enriches society history are also attractive. So often This massive change in social norms to read these words to the joyful, and strengthens community. No one in the Church, when we share in Holy has presented a challenge to the nervous, beautiful couple stood should enter into it lightly or selfishly Communion, christen the new born Church, which continues to greatly before me and to their friends and but reverently and responsibly in the and lay our loved ones to rest, I am value the rite and institution of family supporting them with love sight of almighty God. aware of the great cloud of witnesses marriage. Less than 30% of weddings and goodwill. Marriage is a way of life made holy that have performed the same rites The Preface speaks of how as by God, and blessed by the presence and used similar words throughout the couple grow together in love and of our Lord Jesus Christ with those the centuries. trust, they shall be united with one celebrating a wedding at Cana in Galilee. This is true of weddings. When I another in heart, body and mind. This I have always adored the account of hold together the couple’s hands and follows Christ’s teaching. Marriage the wedding at Cana when Jesus first declare to all present Those whom is not just a coupling but by the revealed himself as the Messiah, after God has joined together let no one put coming together of two people, a new gentle nudging by his mother, by asunder I can’t help considering the creation occurs through which the turning water into wine. By creating thousands of hopeful, happy couples grace of God is at work. what amounted to 800 bottles of top who have stood in that spot and The words also acknowledge quality vino, not only does it show heard those words. It is a marvellous the lifelong intent of marriage. It Jesus’ blessing of weddings, it also moment, the climax of a beautiful, is not just about the now, the first shows he likes a party! joyful ceremony. Picture: Chris Easton Features 21

A Quick Guide to the Law If either of the engaged couple lives within the parish boundaries, they can marry at St Andrew’s Church. This includes those living in Charvil, Sonning and Sonning Eye. If you are not sure whether your home is within the boundaries, go to achurchnearyou.com and enter your address.

If both live outside the parish, you can still marry at St Andrew’s if you can show one of the following: — That one of you has at any time lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 months, or was baptised in the parish —That one of you was prepared for confirmation in the parish — That one of you has at any time regularly gone to normal services in a Church of England church in the parish for a period of at least 6 months (this includes attending after you have booked the wedding) Picture: Kevin Browne — That one of your parents, at any time after you were Whom God has joined together ... St Andrew’s welcomes you ... born has lived in the parish for a period of at least 6 I would be a liar if I claimed that all The Church of England runs a very months, or has regularly gone to normal church services who marry in Church are regular helpful website for those considering in a Church of England church in the parish for a period of attendees or fervent believers. Many or planning a church wedding: at least 6 months couples booking their weddings will yourchurchwedding.org. Here you can sheepishly admit that they might find a ceremony planner, ideas, real — That one of your parents or grandparents was married only darken the door at Christmas stories and more on the Christian in the parish. and Easter. understanding of marriage. Even if none of the above apply, please do get in touch if To some that may seem a problem, If you are interested in exploring you would like to marry at St Andrew’s as other means but I rejoice that any couple has felt marrying at St Andrew’s, please may be available. drawn to marry in Church, whatever contact Revd Jamie Taylor for more their background. Faced with the information. We are always delighted choice of venue or service, something to welcome those who want to marry (I would say the Holy Spirit, perhaps here, especially those who live or also with a bit of parental nudging) have lived in the local community. has encouraged them to make their Whatever your circumstances, commitment before God, in a holy whatever your budget, we would love place, with prayers and sacred songs. to hear from you and be able to share The power of tradition and with you in your happy day. history are also attractive. So often in the Church, when we share in Holy Communion, christen the new born and lay our loved ones to rest, I am aware of the great cloud of witnesses that have performed the same rites and used similar words throughout the centuries. This is true of weddings. When I hold together the couple’s hands and declare to all present Those whom God has joined together let no one put asunder I can’t help considering the thousands of hopeful, happy couples who have stood in that spot and heard those words. It is a marvellous moment, the climax of a beautiful, Picture: Chris Easton joyful ceremony. Revd Jamie Taylor gives a helping hand! 22 The Parish Magazine Around the villages 23 Around the villages Sonning Twinning Association

Visitors from Ligugé outside Pearson Hall during a walk around Sonning. It has been a busy time recently for the association with the visit of the Ligugé bursary winner to Sonning (many thanks to David and Tracy Hicks for hosting) as well as a visit of the Ligugé Primary School in June. Our next event will be a return visit of French wine producer Jackie Baudon who will bring wines from the Haut Poitou region for a wine tasting event with a three course Getting to know you ... supper on Saturday 16 November On Tuesday 2 July, The Piggott School welcomed the new reception children in Pearson Hall. Tickets: £12.50 who will be attending the Charvil Piggott Primary School in September. members and £15.00 for non Their new teachers Mrs Wyeth and Mrs Hartley were there to meet them, members. More details to follow. along with a group of 6th form helpers and some teaching assistants. Lesley Green Nineteen of the 27 pupils attended the induction day which was held at the CHARVIL PARKS UPDATE Piggott School, as their new school was not quite ready. The pupils had a choice of activities including making a picture frame, as they will use it to put their own photo in when they start school. They listened to a story and sang songs. There was free play, making puppets connected to their story, a healthy snack and parents met the new teachers over a cup of coffee. In the last issue we featured the new Rotary local parks in the parish. Bill Crane, President historian and author of Walk around The Rotary Club of Charvil offers the additional useful Loddon Vale has information: installed Norman Charvil Meadows: There is also Moulsley as its access to the A4 almost opposite new president. Loddon Drive which leads to St The occasion Patrick’s stream and the Thames. was followed by Charvil Country Park: There is a celebration dinner at Sonning for the current Rotary year include, a right of way footpath through the Golf Club when immediate past secretary Richard Ward, treasurer Bob park, with pedestrian access. You can president Alan West congratulated Hyatt, PR and marketing Martin Boyles, turn southwards through the seven Norman at the formal event. and speakers secretary Dennis Turner. arch railway bridge towards Lands The club meets every lunchtime Above, members of the club wearing their full End pub and go over Giddy Bridge to at Sonning Golf Club. Club officers Rotary regalia. Whistley Green and Hurst. 24 The Parish Magazine

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READING BLUE COAT SCHOOL 969 2132. Tickets will also be on Sonning & Warren sale for our AGM and Supper on 23 There will be two opportunities to November in Pearson Hall. price £15. BRANCH Conservatives hear pupils playing this month: More details from Penny Feathers. The Annual Dinner will be on Friday Monday 23rd 1.30pm a Lunchtime 18 October at 7.30pm in Pearson Music Recital in the Buttery and Sonning Floral Hall. Tickets cost £28 e from Lesley Saturday 28th 7.30pm a Music Concert Arrangement Society Barker, The Warren Cottage, Warren at St Andrew’s Church, proceeds to Road, Woodley RG5 3AR, 969 8521. Christian Aid. Marjie Thorne We sometimes diversify, as in August we had an interesting talk about the Deadline for tickets is 8 October. DANCING fund raisers Readibus service for the disabled as we couldn’t arrange a demonstrator. the Monday club Steps ‘n’ Stetsons latest fund raising We did however, enjoy another There is always a warm welcome social boosted their chosen charity talk on The Language of Flowers. It for visitors and new members at for this year -­ Bowel & Cancer is surprising what one can say in our social club for the elderley. As Research - to £1,035. Last year flower language. After this very the name says, we meet at 2pm on the line dance group who practice entertaining discussion we indulged a Monday (every other week) in in Pearson Hall raised £3,914 in a delicious afternoon tea. Pearson Hall for entertainment for Pancreatic Cancer Research. Members are encouraged to followed by tea. In September we stepsnstetsons.co.uk partake in the Produce Show on 7 meet on 2nd, 16th, 30th. September - Class 37, Autumn fruits More from Ken Trimmings on 969 1072. Eye & Dunsden Update and flowers (in a niche); Class 38. Dunsden village hall has an exciting an arrangement in a basket (on a Charvil Village Society improvements programme, including table, to be viewed all round); Class At the AGM in July, a small group of a sun room and underfloor heating. 39, a contemporary arrangement people heard reports on the Society’s The hall is used daily by Kingfisher using fresh and preserved materials. activities over the past year and were Kindergarten and in the evenings Accessories are permitted for all presented with the accounts for 2012 yoga and other classes are available. the above, using fresh or preserved – 2013. There was the opportunity to Next year Dunsden plans to materials. There is also a special discuss plans for the future of the celebrate its connection with the class for children aged 5 - 12 - Make committee and the society. Following Great War poet Wilfred Owen. Something Special to be completed the retirement of the chairman and We hope to twin with Ors near between 10pm-12noon, on site, secretary there is an immediate need the Belgian border and to launch under guidance. All materials to bring new members on to the an interactive smartphone Owen provided. Jane Gasgoine committee and would particularly trail as well as holding special welcome anyone who could serve in commemorative concerts and Royal British Legion these roles. We have a very stable an exhibition. David Woodward We are trying to restore the Branch committee of 10 members who [email protected] Annual Dinner so as to get as many would welcome the support of new of our members together - the last people who could help guide the Scarecrow Report one was about 25 years ago! It will be Village Society to new achievements. It’s time for Worzel to start thinking held at a local venue, depending on For further information: David about the Scarecrow Trail for 2014! numbers, early in 2014, probably in Rowntree, 932 1173. Paul Gregory The important news is that it will February. If you are interested please take place on Sunday/Monday contact me, Malcolm Geater, on 947 25-26 May. So start planning your 1677 or [email protected] scarecrow! No excuses, you’ve had Village events diary an early reminder! For more details: sonning Glebe WI charvil village HALL [email protected] In June we were treated to a Sun 8 September 2pm Worzel (poor reception in my field!) wonderful, uplifting and amusing Charvil Choirs Jumble Sale 934 0589 talk by Sally Wilson, who carried the Sat 28 September 8pm SONNING & SONNING EYE SOC Olympic torch in recognition of her Quiz Night 934 5524 Our Family Day outing to Fawley Hill fundraising for Help the Heroes – Sat 26 October 8pm Railway was a great success. well done Sally! Family Skittles with supper 934 5419 The next event, a talk on ‘A Sky July was ‘WI month’ – we won the Sat 2 November 10am - 5pm full of Kites’ by Nigel Snell RSPB Village Rounders Challenge, initiated Charvil Art Group annual exhibition is on 11 October in Pearson Hall at Sat 23 November 8pm by us in 1984. The following night Anniversary Barn Dance Supper 934 5419 7.15pm. Nigel was involved with their we had a delicious Summer Safari re-introduction into the area. Tickets: Supper with partners and friends PEARSON HALL sonning £4, non-members £5, from Penny in the garden of José and Rodney Sat 23 November 7pm Feathers, 934 3193, or visit us at the Huggins and 0n the Monday the Sonning & Sonning Eye Society AGM and Sonning Village Show where there WI BBQ at the same venue with not Supper will also be details of free Heritage a drop of rain in sight! The month other venues Walks on: 12 & 13 September at 2pm, concluded with an evening walk to Sat 7 September 14 September at 11am, 15 September the Shire Horse for a delicious meal. Sonning Show, Sonning School. 969 8653 at 1.30 & 3pm. Re-titled ‘Bricks, We look forward to serving teas 25-26 May 2014 Bishops and other Riches’, we hope at the Produce Show and our 38th The Sonning Village Scarecrow Trail to reveal parts of Sonning that may Harvest Supper! We meet monthly in Voluntary groups, associations and schools be less familiar. Booking is essential, Pearson Hall on the third Monday at are invited to list future events here so our contact: [email protected] or 7.30pm. Contact 969 4897. Barbara Carr readers can note them in their diaries. 26 The Parish Magazine

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The home & garden page 27 The home & garden page September in the garden

From the East Reading Horticultural Society

——Divide herbaceous perennials ——Pick autumn raspberries ——Collect and sow seed from perennials and hardy annuals ——Dig up any remaining potatoes before slug damage spoils them ——Net ponds before leaf fall gets underway Recipe of the month ——Keep up with watering of new Roast Goose with Apples for Michaelmas plants, using rain or grey water if possible Ingredients for eight servings ——Start to reduce the frequency of ——1 13-lb. goose, giblets and neck discarded (you’ll need 1 lb per person) houseplant watering ——3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced ——Clean out cold frames and ——8 eating apples, peeled and sliced greenhouses so that they are ——1/4 cup fresh lemon juice ready for use in the autumn ——6 tablespoons sugar ——Cover leafy vegetable crops with ——1/4 cup Calvados (apple brandy) bird-proof netting ——1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon ——Plant spring flowering bulbs

Method Position shelf in bottom third of oven and preheat to 350°F (Gas Mark 4). Rinse goose inside and out; pat dry with paper towels. Sprinkle inside and out with salt and pepper. Using knife, cut small slits all over goose; place garlic slices into slits. Place goose on rack, breast side down, in large roasting pan. Roast for 2 hours 45 minutes, basting occasionally with drippings and removing excess fat; reserve 6 tablespoons fat. Turn goose over. Roast for about 45 minutes more, basting occasionally with drippings, until brown and a thermometer inserted into thickest part of thigh registers 175°F. Meanwhile, toss apples and lemon juice in large bowl. Pour 6 tablespoons goose fat into 15 x 10 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Using slotted spoon, transfer apples to baking dish; toss apples in goose fat. Add sugar, Calvados and cinnamon to For ERHS membership details: apples; toss. Bake apples alongside goose until tender and golden, about 1 hour. email: [email protected] or Serve goose with caramelized apples and a Bordeaux wine. website: www.erhs.org.uk Surveys say its hammer and tongs being a parent! Do you own a hammer, screwdriver or spanner? It seems When did you start to appreciate your mum? It seems that a lot of young people don’t. One in five young adults rely teenage daughters argue with mums until they are about instead on dad, who typically spends an hour a week 23 when they suddenly begin to appreciate them. A poll for putting up shelves, mending fuses, or assembling furniture Lil-lets found that the average teenage girl had 183 rows for their offspring – thus saving them over £1,000 a year in with her mum each year and 257 fights with her siblings. tradesmen’s fees. The study was carried out by Aviva, who The biggest causes of arguments include untidy bedrooms, found that overall, young adults are four times LESS likely answering back and strange boyfriends. Staying out too to be able to do a selection of basic tasks than those aged late, dressing inappropriately and not doing homework over 65. don’t help keep the peace, either! 28 The Parish Magazine

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TELEPHONE 0118 934 3171 Wed-Fri: 9.30am-5.30pm Sat: 9.30am-4.00pm For all your plumbing and gas installation needs. Same day and Ladies and Gentlemen’s emergency services. Gas registered. Hairdressing We promise to: • call back quickly • give a fair quote • give excellent service 3 Longfield Parade, Longfield Road • treat you as a lifetime customer Twyford RG10 9AN Telephone Peter on 078 6332 8238 The arts page 29 The arts page Book review Charvil Art Group go Visit Sonning Art London’s 100 Best Churches indoors for Winter Group at Village Show - an illustrated guide Our outdoor painting sessions have In July, Pauline Simpson won the by Leigh Hatts, Canterbury Press, regretfully finished, they started at Chairman’s Cup for her Figures in £14.99 St Andrew’s Church and finished at Motion, and a tutor session with local Streatley Hill. Mostly good weather artist Carole Stephens taught us the so hopefully there could be fruit art of collage and mixed media. We of these labours at our annual created pictures from tissue, paper exhibition on 2 November. Images cuttings and cardboard. The results of Woodley allotments should be were impressive and some may be interesting! seen at our art exhibition at the Our new year starts on 11 Sonning Village Show. September and we have a very Also on show will be some of the interesting programme - copies are winning pictures from our annual art available at charvilartgroup.co.uk. competition for Sonning CoE School. The Annual Exhibition at Charvil The winners were: Infants, Yr 1 & 2, Village Hall, which we hope will be Jack Richards, age 5; Yr 3 & 4, Saskia Which London churches include as successful as last year’s, will keep Mercer-Gray, 8; Yr 5 & 6, Rhiann to the same format with several Havord, 9. Highly commended were great restaurants? Which featured stalls adding variety and Christmas Isabella Jones, 5, Olivia Foreman, 9 in the plays of Shakespeare? Which presents! and Georgina Pollard, 10. pulpit has Jeffrey Archer stood We meet on Wednesdays, 7.30- We meet in Pearson Hall, 1-4pm in and where can you find Dick 9.30pm in Jubilee Hall, refreshments on Fridays – £2.50 (£3 for tutor Whittington’s tomb? This fully provided. Julie Bennett sessions). Rob Farquhar illustrated guide to the capital’s most beautiful, interesting and significant churches includes colour Poetry corner photography throughout and In celebration of Michaelmas and St Michael & All Angels we publish again fascinating commentary that extends Edmund Spenser’s poem, ‘The Ministry of Angels’ - the first time it was beyond architectural detail to include published in this magazine was almost 142 years ago in October 1871! historical gossip, special features to THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS look for, famous associations and what goes on in these remarkable And is there care in heaven, and is there love buildings today. Covering every part In heavenly spirits to these creatures base, of Greater London, there are many That may compassion of their evils move? hidden gems waiting to be discovered There is, else much more wretched were the case and many churches that are already Of men than beasts. But O the exceeding grace well established on the tourist map Of highest God that loves his creatures so, are also included. All the churches And all his works with mercy doth embrace, included are kept open. That blessed Angels he sends to and fro To serve to wicked man, to serve his wicked foe.

How oft do their silver bowers leave, To come to succour us that succour want; How oft do they with golden pinions cleave The flitting skies like flying pursuivant, Against foul friends to aid us militant. They for us fight, they watch and duly ward, And their bright squadrons round us plant, “How many times do I have to say, And all for love, and nothing for reward; STOP repairing these potholes O why should heavenly God to man have such reward. - it’s damaging my business!” If you have a favourite poem to share please send it to the editor.

30 The Parish Magazine 30 The Parish Magazine Local Trades and Services ABSOLUTE DIGITAL ANDREW SETCHELL TV Aerial and Satellite Services Decorating and Refurbishment Installation and Repair including Sky and Home Cinema All interior work undertaken T: 0118 942 9300 Free: 0800 083 1993 M: 0778 755 7681 19 Simmons Fields, Charvil RG10 9UW eMail: [email protected] www.absolute-digital.net eMail: [email protected] 0780 967 6990

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Local organisations 31 Local organisations St Andrew’s Church FURNESS CONSULTANCY St Andrew’s Sunday Club Heather Hexter 946 1316 Experienced Accountant Jubilee Hall, Charvil Bookings Raj 0795 642 3764 Bookkeeping, Incomplete records, Accounts preparation St Andrew’s Bell Ringers Pam Elliston 969 5967 Friends of St Andrew’s Church Hilary Rennie 969 6363 T: 0118 969 7003 M: 0752 681 6741 [email protected] Arts & Crafts Charvil Art Club Julie Bennett 934 5059 Sonning Art Group Sue Bell 969 6924 Sonning Book Club Anne Webster 944 0699 ANIMAL ARK PET CARE Sonning Flower Club Sharon Robinson 969 0748 Cat Sitting - Dog Walking - Dog Home Boarding Small Pet Sitting - Pet Taxis - CRB Checked and Insured Children & Young People 1st Sonning Scouts Group GS Leader: Wendy Cherry 926 2363; Covering Twyford, Charvil, Sonning, Shiplake & Wargrave ASG Leader: Mike Watts 962 8388; CScout Leader: Mike Moore 934 4478; 0118 934 2712 www.animalarkpetcare.com Cub Scouts: Joan Farnese 944 0374; Beavers: Ruth Whatley 969 5849 Charvil Brownies Claire Howells 934 5372 Charvil Caterpillar Club Nicole Burns 0795 843 9769 ANNE GARRISON WEB DESIGN Charvil Guides Ruth Hulley 969 9431 Chernobyl Children’s Link Shirley Chard 969 8086 Attractive - Affordable - Web Sites Sonning & Charvil Baby Sitting Group Geraldine Hearn 934 1071 Efficient and jargon-free web design and hosting Sonning Baby & Toddler Group Miranda Aston 966 5352 for small business and non-profit organisations Sonning Brownies Helen Jukes 969 2514 Sonning Guides Polly Jukes 0790 571 2071 0118 947 4244 www.AnneGarrison.co.uk Councillors Charvil Parish Council Miranda Parker 901 7719 MOBILE FOOT CLINIC - Mercy Harrison Sonning Parish Council Lesley Bates 969 7753 Treatments include: Corns, Callus and Hard Skin Removal, Eye & Dunsden Parish Council David Woodward 969 3633 Local Borough & County Council Councillors Verruca, Diabetic Foot, Nail Trimming, Ingrown Toe Nails Kate Haines - Coronation, 0771 363 7029 Telephone 0752 643 8361 for an appointment Mike Haines - Sonning & Warren, 967 2879 Member: British Association of Foot Health Professionals Nick Ray - Charvil, 934 5892 Malcolm Leonard - Eye & Dunsden [email protected]

LIZ GREEN INTERIORS Political Associations Charvil Branch Conservatives Emma Hobbs 934 0528 Creators of inspiring interior spaces Sonning & Warren Conservatives Peter van Went 969 3635 Property renovation, interior design, soft furnishing Sonning Liberal Democrats Colin Lawley 961 8536 For a free initial consultation call 0750 882 5451 or visit our website www.lizgreeninteriors.com Schools Charvil Pre-School Playgroup Sally Richards 932 1273 Sonning CE Primary School Lesley Green 969 3399 Sonning CE Primary School PTA Vicki Emmett 0791 617 7529 AMB LANDSCAPES Local business providing Garden Landscaping & Maintenance Social Services include Paving, Fencing, Decking and Planting Charvil Senior Residents Club Julie Bennett 934 505 Contact Alex for a FREE quotation 0777 543 9086 Charvil Women’s Club Shirley Newman 934 0589 Inner Wheel Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh Hilary Tindall 969 6926 or visit www.amblandscapes.com Monday Club Ken Trimmings 969 1072 Reading East Probus Club Mike Butler 0778 943 5030 Rotary Club of Loddon Vale Richard Ward 966 9348 Tom Gourley LOCAL PLUMBING & HEATING Rotary Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh Janette Crouch 0777 310 4430 Gas Appliances, Unvented Hot Water Cylinders, Bathrooms Sonning British Legion Shaun Sheppard 927 2879 Installations, Servicing & Repairs Sonning Club Chris Way 969 3939 Sonning Glebe WI (Eve Mtgs) Doreen Moulsley 961 8829 T: 0118 969 3720 M: 0796 407 4628 Sonning RNLI David Bates 969 7753 eMail: [email protected] (Gas Safe registered) Sonning Twinning Association Beth Dixon 969 2335

Song & Dance THE BEST NATURAL HEALTH PRODUCTS IN THE WORLD Bel Canto Chorus Denise Walker 0797 375 2727 Charvil Voices Suzanne Newman 934 0589 YOU could take better care of your body, naturally! Jewel Tones Suzanne Newman 934 0589 For more info call Ilona or Richard on 0125 275 8886. We deliver Steps ‘n’ Stetsons Line Dance Group Julie Myers 961 8450 for free. Alternatively, order from the comfort of your home at www.daviesnetwork.co.uk Sports Contacts - see the sports page 35 Village Life ALL AERIALS - a local business based in Sonning Charvil Village Fete Clare Tucker 934 9926 TV - FM - DAB aerials etc. Sky dishes installed Charvil Village Society Margaret Gregory 934 5419 Friend’s of Ali’s Pond Ali Driver 969 2698 Communal premises IRS systems. Extra TV points Pearson Hall Bookings Jenny Adams 969 7692 FREE ESTIMATES - ALL WORK GUARANTEED Sonning & Sonning Eye Society Andy Bell 969 6924 Sonning Beech Lodge Bookings Tim Pascall 969 6935 0118 944 0000 Sonning Charvil & Hurst NAG Bob Hulley 969 9431 Sonning Neighbourhood Watch Jan Fielder 969 3226 32 The Parish Magazine

Wentworth textiles Domestic The home of your carpet and flooring solutions Appliance Care & Want to Repair change the look of your A Local Professional Service floors? Look no further. ¤¤ Washing Machines Wentworth textiles ¤¤ Tumble Driers is a residential and commercial carpet ¤¤ Electric Ovens and flooring company with a distinguished ¤¤ Dishwashers reputation of nearly 50 years. ¤¤ Fridge / Freezers We can provide samples of of any flooring, offer a fitting and installation Call Kevin on service. We also provide rugs, be they hand-tufted or sheepskin and in any size. 0118 988 6388 For further information, please 07769 700 806 contact www.wentworthtextiles.com [email protected] or call 0118 958 2166 or email [email protected] The health & beauty page 33 The health & beauty page Dr Simon Ruffle writes ... Clinical Pilates — It seems a bit harsh to start thinking about the Winter when England have just retained the Ashes, August is just a few days old and the sun is shining a healing exercise but in both cricket and medical terms there is a hard winter ahead. Pilates is a mind-body centering technique that emphasises the Cold and influenza viruses are at their peak through the Winter and are importance of beginning all transmitted by droplets from the respiratory system but also can be picked up movement from a central core of by the hands. Hand washing before eating and touching the mouth and nose is stability, namely the lower back/ very important to avoid transmission. pelvis region. These are the muscles No-one who has had proper flu would say ‘I’m a bit fluey’ or have a ‘touch of around our back and pelvis area flu,’ it’s nasty. Someone described the difference between cold and flu as being that help to prevent injury when we if you saw a £20 note flutter into the garden you’d go and get it if you had a cold, move. It is only by having a stable but wouldn’t if you had flu! core that the body can produce Vaccination against influenza starts at the end of September/early October. movement efficiently, with the There were 457 confirmed deaths from influenza reported in 2009/10 and optimum/minimum amount of 602 in 2010/11. Nearly 9,000 patients were admitted to hospital with influenza effort and in normal movement in England in 2010/11, of which 2,200 were admitted to intensive care so the patterns. Pilates aims to improve burden of influenza is great. the co-ordination, isolation and Vaccination is safe and is between 60-90% effective in studies. Having the strength of your pelvic floor and vaccine cannot give you flu as the virus is dead in the vaccine. It is common to ‘core muscles’. get a sore arm and a mild fever and it takes 2 weeks to be effective. Physiotherapists use Clinical Free vaccination is offered to those over 65 years of age and over 6 months Pilates to compliment their work with chronic illness (lung, kidney, heart, liver, neurological, immunosupressed). in spinal stability. They use a Pregnant women, carers, people in residential homes and health and social combination of exercises devised care workers should also be immunised. Next year there will be a nasal vaccine by Joseph Pilates. These consist of rolled out to children as it is this group that spreads the virus the most. strength, mobility and stretching Your local surgery will advertise on their website and notice boards when exercises, with some of the original the vaccine is available. exercises altered or removed to Personally, I have one every year, as having caught real flu once I’d like to ensure that Clinical Pilates classes minimise that risk of another dreadful 10 days but also to protect my patients are a safe method for those who and family from me contracting it; it is an occupational hazard for some. already have injuries or whom may be susceptible. Take care of your eyes gently Clinical Pilates is not just beneficial for people who suffer By Janette Hammond from low back pain. It is a brilliant The eyes are the first place to show method of exercise that can improve The soft skin and the muscles the signs of stress, fatigue and posture, particularly for those who around the eyes are fragile. They premature ageing. The skin around work in static or repetitive postures need to be protected, strengthened the eyes is ten times thinner than at work or at home. Pilates exercises and tightened so the skin will look other areas of the face and it is very can also help to strengthen the young and smooth for longer. This fragile. neck, upper back, shoulder and hip skin requires special care with muscles and therefore is a great This skin is constantly in action creams or gels developed specifically opportunity to improve the overall – blinking alone produces an for this area. tone and strength, and for those average of 10,000 movements each Eye products should be applied with injuries elsewhere. Relaxation day. Smiling, crying and rubbing very gently, using your ring finger is very important to Clinical Pilates eventually speed up the loss of (because it is the weakest and classes making them a great way to elasticity. therefore gives the lightest touch) unwind after a hard day. Because the tissue around the and lightly dabbed around the eyes This article was provided by the 3Way eyes has very few oil glands, it lacks to provide moisture and reduce fine Healthcare Private Physiotherapy Clinic, the ability to hold moisture and is lines. 0118 969 2299. therefore the driest part of the face For urgent medical advice between and will be the first area to have lines. 6.30pm and 8am, and at weekends, dial ...... 111 34 The Parish Magazine The sports pages

Redingensians RAMS commitment to the local community As part of its continued commitment to develop local talent, Redingensians RAMS Rugby Club have announced they are to continue with the Rams Elite Academy, in conjunction with Reading University. The academy is open to all 16-18 and 18-21 year old boys who are prepared to give the extra commitment that playing a sport at a high level requires. Already, some of these young men have been playing at the top of the club.

Redingensians RAMS, whose home thanks to one of the club’s sponsors is on the Old Bath Road, Sonning, is and a grant from the RFU. This is the heading into its seventh season with first step towards a new Clubhouse the First XV competing in National which the club hopes will also be an First Redingensians League III. It is one of the few clubs asset to the local community. commercial manager nationally who still boast of running The club’s ethos is ‘to engage with five senior sides. The Junior section the community to offer participation, RAMS have appointed a former 1st has blossomed and the youth teams for all ages - it has players from under team skipper and flanker Jason represent the club in a very organised 6 to over 60 - in a wonderful team McMahon (pictured above) as the and well behaved manner - values the sport’. club’s first commercial manager. He club hopes that these young people The Redingensians aim is to led the side between 1994 and 1997 will carry into later life. take its 1st XV from National III to before injury curtailed his playing Off the field, developments are National I rugby in five years. career prematurely. gathering pace. The Gwyn Francis Jason says he is relishing this Room has had a stunning make-over, opportunity to put the club’s commercial activities on a sound footing as they look to push ahead with some ambitious development plans over the next five years. He sees one of his important roles as building strong relationships between the club and the local community and with local businesses in order to continue to develop a family-driven club. The sports pages 35

President takes final catch to leave sports briefs Local players in World Cup Sonning XI 47 runs short of victory Two Redingensians appeared in the Rugby World Cup Sevens held in Sonning Cricket Club’s new leading wicket taker Ghulam Abbas Moscow. Chris Knight played for president Max McNeill is probably who broke through eventually with Wales and Mark Odejobi for England still smiling thanks to a memorable the score on an impressive 211. - both of them are backs, Chris a cricket match in early August, which He despatched the President for wing/full back and Mark a centre/ saw the President’s XI triumph over an excellent hard-fought 37 and wing. Their respective teams each a strong Sonning XI. the remaining four batsmen for 1 won their group by winning all three run between them, leaving Gareth As is the tradition, the President’s games. Chris scored two tries. Edwards stranded on 87 not out. 217 XI batted first and with several high Both their teams were eventually was an excellent total and the game quality batsmen in his top six. But defeated by New Zealand who won was poised nicely. things soon changed. Sonning’s the Cup. opening bowlers Ghulam Abbas and With five regular 1st and 2nd XI batsmen heading their line-up, Josh Lanham tore into the all-star WI rounders champions Sonning were confident of their batting line-up and four of the Sonning Glebe WI won this year’s chances of chasing down the total, top batsmen were gone with only Village Rounders Challenge. The but apart from the impressive Usman 67 on the board, including former contest, started by the WI in 1984 Ijaz, no-one got going and wickets Yorkshire 2nd XI player and Level 4 has become a popular annual event fell at regular intervals. At 153 for coach Chris Ellison, Wargrave 1st XI between local organisations. batsman Neal Robinson and former 6, Usman in full flow the game was still there for the taking. Sonning’s Sonning 1st XI batsman and Blue TT fun with a competitive edge own Mark Anderson, who had been Coat school captain, Simon Brooks. Founded in 1957 by Jim Ibbetson dubiously recruited by the president However, Sonning had reckoned and Bob Newall, the Sonning Table over a pint in The Bull, and in only without the skills of former Tennis Club has met continuously his second game back after a long Berkshire player, Gareth Edwards since on Wednesday evenings in injury, weaved his magic spin and and the determination of the Pearson Hall at 8pm. Alan Tinson, not only bowled Usman round his president and soon Sonning’s a long serving member says “It’s legs for 71, but soon followed it with shiny new electronic scoreboard always a fun evening with a definite a hat-trick. This skittled away the had glowed its way past 150 runs. competitive edge!” If you are tail, with the final catch being taken Sonning’s captain for the day, JJ interested in playing in a fun and by the president himself, leaving Harris, decided enough was enough competitive atmosphere speak to Sonning 47 runs short on 170 all-out. and unleashed the club’s all-time Alan on 0118 969 0782. New indoor ski Weekend sport is good for you Guidelines recommend that each of us perform moderate to vigorous centre opens activity on a regular basis for 150 With the Summer holidays over for minutes a week. Research at Queen’s most of us, minds for skiers turn University in Toronto suggests that to a Winter break. If you live in our doing it all at the weekend is okay parish you don’t have far to go to and it will help lower your risk of ski as there is new Skiplex indoor diabetes, heart disease and stroke. centre in Woodley. The slopes operate like a giant treadmill enabling skiers and boarders to perfect their technique or simply enjoy skiing YOUR LOCAL SPORTS CONTACTS Badminton Club Pat Pardoe 0118 934 5643 without the hassle of lifts, queues or crowds. For daredevils Charvil Community Tennis Club 0118 934 0988 the slopes can be sped up and elevated. For beginners or those Redingensians RAMS Jason McMahon 0788 128 8900 seeking to improve their skills instructors are on hand. Short Mat Bowling Shirley Newman 0118 934 0589 Skiplex say most people can learn about eight times faster on Skiplex Indoor Ski Centre 0118 997 7790 their slopes than in any other snowsports environment which is Sonning Cricket Club Ali Driver 0118 969 2698 Tony Farmer 0118 956 6536 of the type used by the Swiss ski team as a training tool. Sonning Football Club Sonning Lawn Tennis Club Romy Spinder 0118 969 5845 skiplex.co.uk/skiing-in-the-uk/ski-in-reading.aspx Sonning Table Tennis Club Alan Tinson 0118 969 0782 36 The Parish Magazine

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Children’s fun page 37 TAKING & GIVING If you look at a map of Israel you will see that there are two small inland seas. And if you look closely you will see that these two seas are linked by the River Jordan. When the trees begin to lose their leaves you can ... The river starts in the northern MAKE YOUR OWN FOREST hills and goes through the Take a piece of stiff card or thin Sea of Galilee, then through paper and fold it in half, creasing the Jordan valley, and ends it down the centre. Then open it up in the Dead Sea. But even out and fold both sides though the water is all from the to the centre crease. same river, the two seas are completely different. Fold the paper as shown and draw half a tree on the top fold. All around the Sea of Galilee are towns and villages, trees Cut round the tree then and farms. The Dead Sea has glue the centre faces no trees or farms, it is dead. together. This makes a three sided tree. What makes the difference? The Sea of Galilee is alive because You can paint the tree before gluing it or it has an outlet. It passes afterwards. A forest the water on as quickly as it of them would look flows in. The Dead Sea is dead good as name cards because it passes no water on. for a party or you could make just one as a different In St Luke’s Gospel we read birthday card for a friend. what Jesus said about giving – ‘Give to others, and God will give to you’ (chapter 6, verses JOIN THE BUNCH 27-28). Unlike the two seas we Poor little lost grape – can you can choose how we want to be: help it find its way through to give and take and be alive. Or this maze to join up with the just to take - and become sad To make the bunch? and lifeless. Harvest Banner, colour in and cut out. Hang it up in the kitchen or attach it to your Harvest offering at school or church.

What’s the fastest vegetable? A runner bean

What do you call two rows of vegetables? A dual cabbage way

What is small, round and giggles a lot? A tickled onion 38 The Parish Magazine Parish contacts Ministry Team The Parish Magazine ——The Vicar ——Editor Revd Jamie Taylor* Bob Peters The Vicarage, Thames St, Sonning, RG4 6UR 26 Old Bath Road, Charvil, RG10 9QR [email protected] / 0118 969 3298 [email protected] / 0118 961 1188 *Day off Thursday ——Advertising and Distribution ——Pioneer Minister Gordon Nutbrown Revd Alison Waters* [email protected] / 0118 969 3282 6 Park View Drive South, Charvil, RG10 9QX *On Maternity Leave —— The Parish Magazine is produced by St Andrew’s PCC and delivered free of charge to every home in Sonning, — Licensed Lay Minister Charvil and Sonning Eye. Bob Peters ——The Parish Magazine is printed in the United Kingdom 26 Old Bath Road, Charvil, RG10 9QR by Herald Graphics Ltd, Reading RG2 oBZ [email protected] / 0118 961 1188 ——The Parish Magazine is distributed by Abracadabra Leaflet Distribution Ltd, Reading RG7 1AW Pastoral Visiting and Prayer Chain ——The Parish Magazine was designed by Mr Roger ——Mrs Jean Tinson Swindale [email protected] and Mr David 0118 969 0782 Woodward [email protected]

Church Wardens ——Mr Mark Jordan [email protected] / 0118 940 1431 ——Mr Terry Hunt [email protected] / 0118 934 1062 ——Deputy Wardens THE JUBILEE HALL, CHARVIL Mrs Molly Woodley 0118 946 3667 Mrs Liz Nelson 0118 934 4837 Mr Perry Mills 0118 921 9463

Parish Administrator ——Mrs Sonia Boyles [email protected] / 0118 969 2428

Parochial Church Council Secretary ——Mrs Shirley Chard 0118 969 8086 Treasurer Available for community groups and private hire ——Mr John Scoble St Andrew’s owns an excellent hall complex in 0118 926 5138 Park View Drive North, Charvil. It has a number of regular users and is also available for ad-hoc bookings. It can seat 80 in a theatre style, and Bookings has a stage area, a well-equipped kitchen and an St Sarik, Sonning annexe. More details can be found at: ——Mrs Sonia Boyles 0118 969 2428 Jubilee Hall, Charvil www.sonningparish.org.uk or Raj on 0795 642 3764 ——Raj 079 5642 3764 [email protected] Organist & Choirmaster AD HOC USER RATES ——Mr David Duvall £60 – Children’s parties (up to age 14) (12pm–6pm) £250 – Wedding receptions & evening parties (6pm–12am) [email protected] / 078 5594 7104 £300 – Wedding receptions & afternoon evening parties Regular user rates by arrangement Parish website Jubilee Hall is now available for hire on Saturday and Sunday ——www.sonningparish.org.uk The Parish Magazine 39 FC Advert Parish Magazine_Layout 1 04/04/2013 12:17 Page 1

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