2013 | Adfent 2013 Esgobaeth Llandaf | of

New Memorial to The Poppy Tree those killed in and a Garden of Mines Remembrance Page 3 Page 5 Churches bring to – and

he story of Christmas, free for everyone, is returning to Cardiff and Tmaking its premiere in Aberdare. This wonderful Christmas Opera tells of the journey of the Magi and offers the opportunity for school children to play a wonderful Church Organ – all this in the centre of Cardiff this Christmas – and this year ‘Christmas-The Story’ is now also to take place in Aberdare supported by the Churches of the . All this has grown from an idea of Sally Humble-Jackson from Pen-y-lan in Cardiff four years ago. ‘Christmas –The Story’ will be in Tabernacl, in The Hayes Cardiff, from November 30th to December 21st in twenty minute performances, all day Mondays to Saturdays from 10am until 6pm and admission for everyone is completely free. Back again this year will be two real live donkeys who were a great attraction to children last year. The donkeys will have their stable in the forecourt of Tabernacl. The Churches of the Cynon Valley have taken up the idea and will be performing ‘Christmas The Story’ at St Elvan’s Church in Aberdare. Back in Cardiff several thousand local school children will be enjoying free trips to see the production and - new this year - they will then be taken to the former Ebenezer Welsh Chapel in Charles Street to enjoy a demonstration of the wonderful four manual organ, and the children will then be given the opportunity to play the organ for themselves. www.operamintwales.org.uk, or can be bought at any volunteers to take part in some performances. The Christmas Opera, Amahl and the Night Visitors, performances of ‘Christmas –The Story’. There are no lines to learn as all the narrative is pre- will be performed in Tabernacl, on Thursday, Friday On stage, ‘Christmas The Story’ has a completely recorded and taking part is easy and great fun. and Saturday evenings, with a Sunday matinee, and new stage set this year together with a brilliant new tells the tale of a lame boy and his widowed Mother sound track. The production is funded by members of To donate or volunteer please contact Sally Humble- who gave lodgings to the Wise Men. local churches who have been asked to consider Jackson, c/o Church House, Church Road , Cardiff Three outstanding boy trebles will be playing the contributing just £1 for each member of their CF14 OSJ , telephone 02920 493326 or email: lead role, and tickets can be booked by emailing congregation. Also there is still a welcome to [email protected]. BBC Radio 2 Young Choristers of the Year 2013 Finals An opportunity of a life time for Llandaff Chorister I was very surprised and excited to be invited to the live radio programme is made and wonderful to meet such inter - recordings of Radio 2 BBC Young Choristers of the Year esting people, an opportunity I will never forget and a real 2013 during half term, in the church of St Martin-in-the- privilege. Fields, Trafalgar Square. I felt really lucky to be a reserve Thank you to all my music teachers for the hard work they finalist but totally shocked when, with very little notice, I have done over the past 5 years. was asked to sing in the final. I was also interviewed live by Diane Louise Jordan. It was fascinating to watch how a Charlie Price 2 croeso Advent 2013

Action to Support DIOCESAN CONFERENCE 2013 Bangladeshi Garment Workers Vision for the future Members of the Diocesan Conference were urged to write to shop managers A vision to take the Church forward b) Getting the ministry areas to deepen our relationship with God and to stress the need to offer fairly paid into the 21st century was outlined to harness the gifts of the laity more one another. The best ways to do that for products. members of the Llandaff Diocesan creatively. are through small groups, meeting It is part of the campaign, supported Conference at their annual gathering “What I am envisaging” he said, “is together, studying something like the by the Llandaff Diocese, to call for in . a team of people, lay and clerical, in Living Faith course. It is also about better rights and safer working Archbishop Barry called on members each ministry area, operating over the growing – growing as Christians, but conditions for Bangladeshi garment to help bring about a change in how area as a whole and having an overall growing as a church. If we are not workers in the run up to Christmas and the Church operated – a change that strategy for that area. We may need, in growing as a church, then we are the winter sales. he said was needed to allow it to grow addition to voluntary and non- declining and therefore dying. A sample letter, which is available on and survive. stipendiary clergy and laity, to be And then thirdly, connecting; the diocesan website, questions shop Around 250 people packed into the prepared to pay some qualified lay connecting the Gospel with the whole managers on where the clothes they sports hall at Brynterion people as we do clergy at present, to, of life, with one another and with God. sell are manufactured and what Comprehensive for the conference, for example, work with young people or We all of us need to realise that the conditions are like for people working in during which the Archbishop in his young families. We may especially Gospel affects or should affect every those factories. presidential address outlined what the need to employ people who can part of our lives – how we spend our • Bangladesh garment workers are paid diocese was aiming to do in the light communicate the Gospel in new and money, our leisure, our relationships. 10p an hour compared with £8.50 an of 2020 Vision (The Church in creative ways i.e. to evangelise.” The Gospel also needs to connect with hour for their British counterparts Review) He also pointed to how the question the world and the communities in • Over 1,800 Bangladesh garment He spoke of how membership of the of buildings needed to be tackled, in which we live. workers are estimated to have died in had declined over the terms of numbers and lifespan. “We “7 Sacred Spaces then is about factory collapses and fires in recent last 50 years, and, as the world had have some tools in place to help us. deepening, growing, connecting. And years. changed radically during this time, so These are the Living Faith courses and when I talk about deepening, growing The aim of the letter is to highlight the now did the Church need to change in also of course 7 Sacred Spaces. If I and connecting, I am talking about the need to ensure that there’s not a order to grow and survive. were to sum up both of those in three need for all of us to do so, clergy and hidden price paid by garment workers in He said the strategy suggested by words, I would do so in the words that laity alike and for us to do it in Bangladesh or other developing the Review advocated two very I used at the launch of 7 Sacred partnership and in collaboration with countries for clothes to be sold more important things. Spaces at the Senedd in May. They one another through prayer, worship, cheaply in our shops. a) Getting clergy to work together are - deepening, growing and decision making, leisure, work, across a wider area instead of in silos connecting. hospitality and study – in short, we Archbishop – in their own parishes. The Christian life is about trying to need to try and find God in all things.” “Food banks “Marmite moment”

are a sticking The Church in Wales Review was seeks to serve. This is the next stage multi-purpose use likened to Marmite – either loved or – for area deaneries to think about, to for things such as plaster” hated – as Philip Morris discuss how Ministry Areas can be art classes and a outlined progress on the report. developed in a form that would best cafe (Garden). He explained how a Church in Wales serve the communities in which the Trisha Griffiths, of Implementation Group had been set up parishes are set. And some deaneries the Friends of St to see through the changes have already begun.” Augustine’s , explained how recommended in the review and to But to find the inner spirit behind the quickly and successfully their group had prioritise its recommendations. Church in Wales Review, Alison Young, grown, connecting both the church “Reading the Review Report when it the Diocesan Communications Officer, community and others (Cloister). was first published was for most people chatted with a number of people about Rev’d Sarah Rogers spoke about the a Marmite Moment. They appreciated how they were using the lens of Seven Living Faith courses which are to be run its central vision of a re-energised and Sacred Spaces to implement the in the Cynon Valley (Library). Judy re-invigorated Church, but were not so Review. These included Moira Randall, Hopkins explained how the Mothers sure about the detail,” said Philip. The of the parish of the Vale of , who Union was exploring Bereavement ‘We must support food banks but they recommendations cover matters talked about how the Neath Deanery Support (Library). And Rosemary shouldn’t be needed in a civilised including re-organisation of parishes Chapter had been meeting and working Griffiths talked about the diocese’s society,’ said the . into ministry areas, training, outreach, together to see how the Deanery could Spirituality Awareness Course (Cell). Dr compared food banks re-structuring of , church become a Ministry Area (Chapter). A short video on the lunch club set to sticking plasters – a quick fix which buildings, finance and the constitution. Rev’d Robert Davies told of the up at to reach out to failed to address the root of the Following the Governing Body’s innovative £1.2m make-over plans for the elderly was shown to illustrate problem. welcoming of the Review’s St Elvan’s Aberdare, which will result in Refectory at work. Speaking at the annual Llandaff recommendations for the Diocesan Conference, the Archbishop establishment of Ministry Areas served said, “I am glad that people are by Ministry Teams at their meeting in “Uncover phantom firms”, urges Archbishop supporting food banks, but the question September, dioceses are now being The Archbishop of Wales is urging churchgoers to support a campaign that we should be asking is, why in a asked to develop the idea creatively. against tax dodgers. civilised society do we have food banks What will the Ministry Area Teams look Dr Barry Morgan is supporting Christian Aid’s campaign for greater tax in the first place? We ought not to need like as envisioned by the Review? transparency to help uncover “phantom firms”. them. As fantastic as food banks are, • They will consist of lay and ordained; The charity wants the UK they do not go to the root of the • They will provide ministry to local Government to ensure public problems of our society.” congregations using local leaders; registers are created which reveal Dr Morgan supported an amended • They will be led by a Team Leader the true owners of phantom firms. It compares such companies to motion to applaud the work of the who will have leadership training; Foodbank organisation, while deploring Russian dolls, as their core • There will be specialist ministries to ownership is disguised, enabling the social and economic conditions young people and those outside the them to evade tax. which made food banks a necessity. worshipping community. Dr Morgan said, “No one likes The motion urged all parishes to Philip explained how the idea of a paying taxes, but they are the develop further their active support of ministry area, wider than the usual bedrock of a fairer and more equal their local food banks, and called on parish, was not new and how in the society, both here in Wales and in church members to work for a society in there were six developing countries. Tax dodging, which all people have an income rectorial benefices and in a couple of particularly through the set up of sufficient to meet their needs. areas, clusters were being formed. phantom companies, drives poverty and injustice. I urge churches Dr Andrew Connell of the parish of “The key word in the Church in Wales’s who proposed the amendment across Wales to give active support framework for Ministry Areas is to Christian Aid’s campaign.” said, “I believe that every Food bank ‘creatively’ – how can the concept of Archbishop Barry is pictured with should have a large sign saying, ‘In a Ministry Areas be developed creatively a “Russian doll” at the Christian decent society this would not be to best meet the needs of the local Aid stand at the conference. necessary’.” church and the wider communities it croeso Advent 2013 3 Canon to enable women to be Canon i Ganiatau Cysegru consecrated as Menywod yn Esgobio (2013) (2013) Code of Practice Cod Ymarfer

Byddwch yn ymwybodol bod Corff Côd. You will be aware that at its members of the Church in Wales to Llywodraethol yr Eglwys yng Nghymru September meeting, the Governing make submissions in person. Details wedi pasio canon yn ei gyfarfod ym Mae’r Esgobion wedi cytuno y byddwn Body of the Church in Wales passed a of these meetings will be publicised in mis Medi sy’n golygu bod modd yn ymgynghori mewn tair ffordd. canon making it possible for women due course. All will be welcome to cysegru menywod yn Esgobion yn yr to be consecrated as Bishops in the attend and contribute. Eglwys yng Nghymru o 12 Medi 2014. Yn gyntaf, rhoddir gwahoddiad i holl Church in Wales from 12th September aelodau a grwpiau’r Eglwys yng 2014. Thirdly, there will be an ‘Open Forum’ Roedd y ddeddfwriaeth a basiwyd hefyd Nghymru gyflwyno sylwadau at the Governing Body meeting in April yn gofyn i Fainc yr Esgobion gytuno ar ysgrifenedig ar y math o ddarpariaeth y The legislation passed also entrusted 2014 for Governing Body members to Gôd Ymarfer sy’n cynnwys gellid ei gwneud yn y Côd Ymarfer a the Bench of Bishops to agree a Code express their views. darpariaethau i roi sicrwydd i holl rhoi’r rhesymau dros eu cynigion, ac of Practice making provisions such that aelodau yr Eglwys yng Nghymru, yn unrhyw faterion eraill cysylltiedig yr all members of the Church in Wales, We look forward to receiving comments cynnwys y rhai sy’n anghytuno fel mater hoffent roi sylw iddynt. Dylid anfon including those who in conscience and ideas, and we should be grateful if o gydwybod a’r penderfyniad i ganiatau sylwadau at Ysgrifennydd y Dalaith yn dissent from the decision to allow the you will draw the attention of any cysegru merched yn esgobion, bod 39 Heol y Gadeirlan, Caerdydd CF11 consecration of women as bishops, interested party or group to the croeso iddynt o hyd yn yr Eglwys yng 9XF, neu at may have a sense of security in their invitations contained in this letter, Nghymru a’u bod yn cael eu [email protected]. Y accepted and valued place in the including your own congregation. gwerthfawrogi. dyddiad cau ar gyfer sylwadau Church in Wales. ysgrifenedig yw 31 Rhagfyr 2013. Yng nghyfarfod y Corff Llywodraethol, At the Governing Body meeting, the addawodd yr esgobion y byddent yn Yn ail, rydym yn bwriadu cynnal cyfres o Bishops pledged themselves to consult ymgymghoru’n helaeth cyn ysgrifennu gyfarfodydd agored yn y Flwyddyn widely before writing such a Code of Côd Ymarfer o’r fath, ac rwyf i, ar ran Newydd – o leiaf un ym mhob Practice, and I am, on behalf of the Mainc yr Esgobion, yn ysgrifennu atoch esgobaeth – fel y gall aelodau yr Eglwys Bench of Bishops, writing to invite your i ofyn am eich sylwadau ar ddatblygu’r yng Nghymru gyflwyno sylwadau wyneb views on its development. yn wyneb. Bydd manylion y cyfarfodydd hyn yn cael eu cyhoeddi yn nes at yr The Bishops have agreed that we will amser. Bydd croeso i bawb fynychu a consult in three ways. chyfrannu.

First, all members and groups within Yn drydydd, bydd “Fforwm Agored” yng the Church in Wales are invited to nghyfarfod y Corff Llywodraethol ym mis make written submissions on the type Ebrill 2014 i roi cyfle i aelodau’r Corff of provision which might be made in Llywodraethol gyflwyno sylwadau. the Code of Practice and giving the reasons for such proposals, and any Edrychwn ymlaen at dderbyn eich other related matters they wish to sylwadau a syniadau, a byddem yn raise. Submissions should be sent to ddiolchgar pe gallech dynnu sylw the Provisional Secretary at 39 unrhyw barti neu grwp a buddiant at y Cathedral Road, Cardiff CF11 9XF, or gwahoddiad yn y llythyr hwn, yn cynnwys to [email protected] eich cynulleidfa. The deadline for written submissions is 31 December 2013.

Secondly, we intend to hold a series of open meetings in the New Year – or at least one per diocese – to enable New Memorial to Those Killed in Mines

Archbishop Barry recently dedicated a new love, those who have gone before us; they are national memorial to all those killed in mining now perfected in love. Let us all in tribute today accidents in Wales. try to walk that road ourselves and to grow in The memorial was unveiled at , love for one another." Following a minute's on the site of the worst mining disaster in the silence and the singing of the national UK. Exactly 100 years ago, on October 14, anthems, the Archbishop gave the final 1913, an explosion killed 439 miners and a blessing to those present. rescuer at the Universal Colliery. The memorial Later, the Archbishop walked the "path of stands in the centre of a garden of memory" and paused at the stone marking an remembrance to those killed that day and at accident at Gwaun Cae Gurwen colliery in his 150 other mining tragedies in Wales. A walled home town. Six people died in the accident on garden was also opened with tiles inscribed September 1, 1847. The Archbishop said, with the details of those killed in the two "We hear that religion no longer matters to Senghenydd disasters as well as a "path of people, yet those here today wanted a service memory," which marks the other colliery of prayer and wanted to remember before God tragedies in Wales. those who had died. These mining towns and Hundreds of people gathered for the service villages have a deep sense of community of dedication, which was led by the Rev’d running through them that is still alive and their Susan Rees, Priest-in-charge of . In faith is very much a part of that. Sometimes we her address she said miners were bound only find the depths of our faith when tragedy together by a strong sense of camaraderie. hits us." She said, "The example set by miners loving one another, is an example we would all do Right: The Archbishop looking at the Gwaun well to imitate. We are here to remember, with Cae Gurwen memorial stone 4 croeso Advent 2013 Comings and Goings . . .

Whether it’s . Edward worked as a Elaine is a particularly good organiser, cheering on his teacher in Swansea and Ebbw Vale great with paperwork and wonderful with favourite rugby team before entering the priesthood at the children, whereas I like to cross the or raising funds for age of 32. After serving as a curate at boundaries between church and the church renovations, the Cathedral, he then worked in community in my ministry – between us Rev’d Andrew Llandyfodwg and lately in Penarth. He is we’ll make one great priest!” Meredith , the new delighted to come to , a priest-in-charge of rectorial benefice with 11 churches. Rev’d Mark Prevett , Cadoxton-juxta- “What the Church in Wales Review is 54, was licensed on Neath and Tonna, is advocating in terms of larger ministry November 12th as always full of areas with clergy and laity working more priest in charge of enthusiasm. closely together has been working very David Wilbourne, as priest in charge at Merthyr Tydfil, St Andrew (54), returning to his home well here for some time.” A former St Catherine’s, Baglan, taking over from David and diocese, was licensed as Priest-in- teacher, Edward enjoys working with Rev’d Pauline Williams who has moved by Charge at St Catwg’s Church, Cadoxton schools and has also led pet services to the warmer climes of Spain to work. Archbishop Barry on September 15th. He takes over from in his previous parishes. He looks The following week his wife Elaine was Morgan. He takes Rev’d Caroline Owen who has moved to forward to taking new Labrador Buddie licensed as priest in charge of the next over from Rev’d the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon. along to the next one! Rev’d Owen will door parish of taking over Martyn Davies who left last year after Ordained in 1993, Andrew is married continue to head the Diocesan from the Rev’d Helen O’Shea who has 11 years to become Area for the with three children and previously Spirituality Group. moved to the benefice of . Vale of . Rev’d Prevett has worked for Barclays Bank. For 20 years Each will also serve as the other’s worked in for the last 17 years, he worked as curate and vicar in and The Rev’d Canon assistant curate. in the dioceses of Winchester and around Swansea, and helped to raise Edward Dowding Stephen was formerly vicar of Llandaff Worcester, but his clerical career began £500,000 for a project to revamp St Rector of the Parish North, and before that served in in Wales. After growing up in Stephen’s Church. Excited to be in a of Sully and of and Penarth. Elaine was half- Abergavenny, and working as an new parish, he hopes to find ways of and St time priest-in-charge of electrical engineer, he served curacies drawing the two communities of Lythans, retired on St.Matthew and Cilfynydd w. Llanwynno, in Brynmawr and Bassaleg, before Cadoxton-juxta-Neath and Tonna October 31st. The and previously curate at Penarth and becoming rector of Blaina and vicar of together. Having moved only eight 66-year-old who is . Elaine will combine her Nantyglo for five years. He has also miles, he is still close enough to watch originally from new role with her other half-time spent short periods of time abroad his beloved Ospreys rugby team play on Caerau , position as lead Children’s Adviser for working with local churches in Rwanda. a regular basis. Archbishop Morgan spent his entire 41-year ministry in the the diocese. Both Stephen and Elaine, Mark may well arrive at church for said, “It’s good to welcome Andrew Llandaff Diocese. After curacies at St who have been married just over a year, service on the back of his motorbike! Meredith to the diocese. His colleagues Catherine, Canton and Aberdare he were ordained on the same day eleven “It’s the freedom of the open road that in the Neath Deanery are looking moved to in 1978 where he years ago. Stephen had worked as a appeals”, he says. “You can’t think forward to sharing with him in God’s was vicar at Holy Trinity. He became precision engineer and a about work or anything else or you’ll mission in that part of the diocese.” Rector at Sully (with Wenvoe and St groundsman/gardener, and Elaine as a have an accident. By returning home to Lythans in 2010) in 1985. He has now hairdresser. “My plan for Baglan”, said Wales, I feel as though my ministry is Rev’d Edward moved with his wife Jean to Barry, still Stephen, “is the same as that I always coming full circle. I am particularly Dowland-Owen was near the sea, and is looking forward to adopted for horticulture: I won’t dig looking forward to working in this busy licensed as team enjoying weekends with his daughters in anything up or cut anything down until I town centre parish.” The Archbishop vicar of Cowbridge in London and and helping his wife see how it flowers. I will see what’s spoke of him as “an experienced parish Holy Cross Church by in their garden. here first and then build on that. priest, used to working collaboratively in the Assistant , Though they are two separate parishes, a town ministry setting.” Mark and wife David Wilbourne. He A husband and wife team are to serve Elaine and I will be treating them as one Gill have four children. In his spare time takes over from in two neighbouring parishes. Rev’d ministry area, as advocated in the he enjoys poetry and sports, and is a Rev’d Martyn Perry Stephen Jenkyns , 52, was licensed on Church in Wales review. We will each keen mountaineer, caver and a who has moved to November 6th, by Assistant Bishop be able to bring our different gifts. navigator for rally car racing. Public thank you New parish and diocesan role to former registrar for former university chaplain A clergyman who was struck down with empathise more with others. I’m really a degenerative spine condition that led looking forward to my new role both in him to write two books to help others the parish and the diocesan post.” cope with suffering is taking on two As Director of Ordinands, Trystan will new roles within the church. be the first port of call for those who feel Rev’d Dr Trystan Owain Hughes, who they have been called to the priesthood. has been Chaplain of Cardiff University, “If someone feels that they are being was licensed as the new priest-in-charge called to ordained ministry, then they will and Diocesan Director of Ordinands, by be sent to me and we will talk through Archbishop Barry Morgan, at Christ the attributes that a vicar needs and Church, Park, on November 4th. eventually we’ll decide whether it is right The registrar of Llandaff Diocese, The son of a vicar from North Wales, for them. Being a vicar is such a David Lambert, retired in Trystan, 40, was ordained as a deacon wonderful job, as you are there at all the September and was thanked on in 2005 but his ordination as a priest most important times in a person’s life – behalf of the diocese by the was delayed by a year after he suffered across the Llandaff Diocese. He is weddings, christenings and at hospital Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry an injury playing badminton and spent married to Sandra and they have two bedsides and funerals. It’s an enormous Morgan, at the annual diocesan almost a year laid up after his spine children and a new baby on the way in privilege to be a vicar and so I think it’s conference for all his work over the condition was diagnosed. It was during December. Despite having to learn to a massive privilege to be working with last 28 years. this time that Trystan wrote the first of live with chronic pain, Trystan leads as people who feel that God is calling them Archbishop Barry said, “David his two books about suffering. The first active a life as possible. to this work.” Lambert is familiar to all of us. He book, Finding Hope and Meaning in Despite being the son of a vicar, The Archbishop said, “I have known always goes that extra mile when Suffering, was followed later by The Trystan was adamant he was not going Trystan since his boyhood in people have a problem. He has Compassion Quest. After being ordained to follow in his father Berw Hughes’ Penmaenmawr when I served in the been registrar of this diocese for 28 in 2005, Trystan was curate at Llantwit shoes while growing up. . I am very pleased years, with the last eight years being Major for a year and then curate at “It was during my twenties that I felt that he has agreed to be priest in charge in a voluntary capacity. I would like Whitchurch for three years before God was calling me to do more pastoral of Christ Church, and to thank him for all the work that he becoming university Chaplain. During work and my journey to ordination began. Diocesan Director of Ordinands, to which has done over the years and wish this time, Trystan set up an inter faith I did have a tough time after my back he will bring his great pastoral and him all the best in his retirement.” cafe, called Religion Cafe, and helped injury but that year laid up definitely theological gifts and his ability to discern Mr Lambert’s wife Diana was establish a group called The Journey, made me appreciate life more. I hope vocations.” presented with a bouquet of flowers. which is open to all 16 to 24-years-old that it also helped teach me how to Photo: Rev’d Dr Trystan Owain Hughes croeso Advent 2013 5 New priest at St John’s Cardiff – a The Poppy Tree Welshwoman from South Africa! The former Research and Welshpool and Shrewsbury, married when I was 43 and I Ecumenical adviser for the Sarah read mathematics at was widowed at 44.” Archbishop of Cape Town, Cambridge and on graduating, Since late 2003, Sarah has Rev’d Canon Dr Sarah spent a year as the Deputy worked as the Research and Rowland Jones has returned President of the Students’ Ecumenical Adviser for two to her native Wales to Union, the first woman to be Archbishops of Cape Town. become priest-in-charge of elected to a sabbatical She convenes the ecumenical one of the city’s most well position. Although she did working group of the Inter- known churches – St John the consider full-time Christian Anglican Standing Commission Baptist, right in the heart of work after leaving university, for Unity, Faith and Order, and the capital. She was licensed she ended up joining the ‘fast has also represented the by Archbishop Dr Barry stream’ of the Diplomatic Anglican Communion on the Morgan, on October 31st, and Service and during the next 15 coordinating committee of the takes over at St John’s from years had postings to the Global Christian Forum since the Rev’d Liz Griffiths. British Embassies in Amman 2003. In 2011 she married “I am delighted to come and Budapest. When not Peter Evans, a fellow Welsh home to Wales and to this overseas, she was based in exile living in South Africa. parish which is so much the Foreign Office in London Outside of her busy church woven into the fabric of life of with responsibilities ranging life, Sarah also enjoys good the city centre. I feel the role from counter terrorism to friends, crossword puzzles, of the church in the heart of dealing with the European poetry (she is published on Cardiff is to do as St John the Union. She left the Foreign line and in print in South Africa Baptist himself did: to point Office in 1996 for ordination and the UK) and the company those around to Jesus and training in the Church in Wales of her cocker spaniel, encourage them to have a through her home Diocese of Benjamin and her scottie, deeper relationship with him. St Asaph, and was ordained Cora, who will join her in A Garden of Remembrance for Cardiff, with the Poppy Tree as its Whether people are here as deacon in 1999, priest in November. focal point, was set up once again this year by the Cardiff division of residents, workers, shoppers 2000 and was curate in the Archbishop Morgan said, “I the Royal British Legion in the churchyard of St John the Baptist in or tourists, our hope is that all rectorial benefice of Wrexham. am delighted to welcome the city centre. these visitors will become In the 1997 New Year’s Canon Sarah Rowland Jones In the week before Remembrance Sunday, a service was held during pilgrims. There are huge Honours she was awarded an to the diocese. Ordained in which the Garden of Remembrance was dedicated by the new Priest in parallels between my previous OBE ‘For Services to the Wales, she has been a Charge of St John's, Rev’d Canon Dr. Sarah Rowland Jones, on only work in the diplomatic service Foreign and Commonwealth researcher, theological adviser her second day after licensing to the parish. The Poppy Tree, an and the role of St John’s which Office’, having also been made and chaplain to the Archbishop evergreen , is adorned with large poppies each year, as a reminder of is woven in the fabric of life in LVO, Lieutenant of the Royal of Cape Town, and so brings the occasion to all that pass by. the city centre. With both the Victorian Order, for her part in these gifts and a knowledge During the Ceremony of Remembrance, poppies are planted, to the and the arranging the Queen’s State and expertise of the worldwide sound of a bagpipe lament. SWALEC Stadium within this visit to Hungary in 1993. The church.” The first to lay a poppy cross was the Lord Lieutenant of South parish, I am also looking Anglican Church quickly made Glamorgan, Dr Peter Beck on behalf of H.M. The Queen, then the Rt. forward to visiting both to use of her global experience, Hon. Lord Mayor of Cardiff, Derrick Morgan on behalf of the people of watch rugby and cricket.” appointing her to two Cardiff, and the Lady Mayoress, Noreen Morgan, on behalf of all ex- Sarah hoped that Wales would international commissions service men and women. The senior forces officers were followed by repeat the victory of the first through which she met her the merchant navy, police and fire services, all of whom lost lives in International match played at husband to be, the Very Rev’d wartime, then representatives of the Royal British Legion, and more the Millennium Stadium – Justus Marcus, then Dean of than fifty service and ex-service organisations. which was against the Kimberley Cathedral. The ceremony ended with the singing of the National Anthems. The Springboks in June 1999 – on Sarah moved to South Poppy Tree will remain in the churchyard for a while, where all passers- the day that she was ordained. Africa at the end of 2002, by by can see it, and the poppy crosses beneath. “Obviously I didn’t get to see which time Justus was Bishop Ever since the end of the First World War, the anniversary of the that match but I am looking of Saldanha Bay. He was Armistice has been marked by ceremonies to remember the terrible forward to when they play next found to have cancer three loss of life in that conflict. In later years remembrance extended to weekend...I haven’t got a weeks before their wedding the dead of the Second World War, and the many others that have ticket yet but I will certainly be in January 2003, and Sarah died in service in later times. watching it somewhere,” said was left a widow the The symbol of remembrance in our country is the poppy, which grew Sarah, the title of whose following December. “I in the battle fields of Flanders, and whose red colour symbolises the doctorate was "Doing God in met Justus when I was blood that has been shed. Public". 41, we got engaged After growing up in when I was 42, Australian Spitfire Pilot’s name added to Roll of Remembrance A new name – of the told about ‘the field where the Spitfire crashed’. In Australian pilot who died when the last year, much more has been discovered about his Spitfire crashed in a field in the incident. Local people researched the incident - has been added to and discovered that FO Fleming was buried in the the Roll of Remembrance in War Graves Cemetery in Llantwit Major. the parish church. Contact was also made with FO Fleming’s family It was 70 years ago on in Australia and his sister sent a package of February 6, 1943, that young photographs and documents, including her brother’s Australian pilot, Flying Officer cap badge and insignia. All of a sudden, a tale of Neville Fleming, lost control of local folklore has become a commemoration and his Spitfire near Pendoylan, remembrance of a young man who died tragically in while on a training mission service of his country , aged just 19. from the airfield at nearby . His fighter The Remembrance Service at St Cadoc’s Church aircraft touched the ground and spun out of control, in Pendoylan was very special this year. Well known bursting into flames and killing him instantly. hymns and readings that reflected on conflict and Aged just 19, Flying Officer Neville Alexander reconciliation across the generations were Thomas Fleming, of the Royal Australian Air Force, particularly poignant as Neville Fleming’s name was came from Red Hill, Brisbane, Queensland, added to the list of names of the fallen, read aloud Australia, and had been flying a Spitfire on a non- as the Last Post echoed around the church. operational day training flight when he crashed and Neville Fleming, who died in the Parish of was killed. Pendoylan 70 years ago, is now remembered as a The incident went down in local folklore, with tales hero by his family, friends and fellow parishioners. 6 croeso Advent 2013

Charity Sleepover outside Around a Church Parishioner Ann Savage-Lewis from St Catherine’s Church, Ann Savage-Lewis outside St Catherine’s Caerphilly planned to spend a Church, Caerphilly the night under the stars to raise money for a charity for single homeless people. Ann, along with fellow Christian Diocese Steve Kings, left her home comforts behind from dusk until dawn on Thursday, November 28th, to raise money for Crisis at Christmas. “We shall be ‘homeless’ for a very short time, but it will give us a taste of what it feels like to have and campaigning for change. Just no roof over our heads in winter. £21.84 will allow one person to We also hope to draw attention to have a place at Crisis this Caerphilly Church Launches Food Co-op the wonderful work that Crisis at Christmas; providing access to Christmas does,” said Ann. “It is valuable services that can really thanks to the generosity of the make a difference. British public and hundreds of Ann and Steve camped out volunteers who give up their time outside St Catherine’s Church, that help makes Christmas happy Caerphilly, from 5pm on Thursday, for single homeless people.” November 28, until 8am the Crisis is the national charity for following day. single homeless people, dedicated Donations and more information to putting an end to homelessness can be found at by delivering life-changing service www.crisis.org.uk Green-fingered Vicar grows Sunflowers for his Flock

Hundreds of sunflowers have been brightening up parts of the this summer, thanks to one green fingered vicar. Affordable and fresh, local fruit and economy. £190 worth of orders were Rev’d Anthony Beer grows and vegetables are now provided by a food co- immediately taken. gives away between 400 to 500 op which was recently launched at St Rev’d Gareth Coombes, associate Priest sunflower plants every year to Catherine’s Church, Caerphilly. of the parish of Caerphilly said, “We are friends, neighbours, schoolchildren With the support of the Rural Regeneration really excited about the concept of running a and parishioners. Unit, it will run every Wednesday between food co-op and building links with the local It all began eight years ago 11.30am and 2pm in the church hall in Mill community here. This is a real opportunity to when Anthony was given a packet Road. It was officially opened by the mayor reach out in mission in a practical way.” of sunflower seeds and began of Caerphilly, Councillor Michael Gray, with Debbie Neale, general manager of the Rural growing them in his own garden members of the Caerphilly Co-op showcasing Regeneration Unit (RRU), said, “Buying fresh and giving the surplus plants away locally sourced produce from the harvest produce from your local co-op could not only to friends. “It was so exciting to season along with recipes. save you money, but also help your friends give the gift of something that was The food co-op is open to everyone; and family eat more healthily and bring them living, that never failed to make Rev’d Anthony people need to simply turn up, order their together with like-minded members of the Beer with one of people smile, and that could be his sunflowers bags, pay and then collect their fresh community too. Food purchased at your local grown in a relatively short space of produce the following week. There are co-op also ensures any money spent is with time. I distinctly remember how around 300 food co-ops in Wales and they local suppliers and involves less packaging great it was to see children gazing 15 were grown by the village pub in offer a simple way of buying fresh fruit and and fewer food miles too.” in awe at these giant plants with Marcross, many gardens in the vegetables from local suppliers. A bag of The Rural Regeneration Unit who run the enormous cheerful flowers as they village had up to a dozen plants produce will cost just £3 a bag. The St programme with funding from the Welsh walked to school in early and some were also taken to Catherine’s co-op is run by volunteers and government offer resources and support. For September,” said Anthony. “It Llandow Caravan Park.” all money taken goes straight back to the more information on food co-ops visit struck me as rather exciting that in “We recently completed judging supplier and therefore into the local www.foodcoopswales.org.uk an age of x-boxes, God's creation on a number of different categories and the simple sunflower still had (multiple heads, most like the Sun, Scarecrow Festival to Celebrate Harvest the "wow" factor and the ability to biggest head etc) and what was excite and amaze children.” fabulous to hear when we went to Anthony, team vicar in the judge was just how much the A Vale of Glamorgan church held its rectorial benefice of Llantwit Major, flowers had been talked about second annual scarecrow festival as part said, “Our Messy Church in Wick, through the summer and how the of its harvest celebrations. called SPLAT, loved the idea of residents had put such time and Many colourful handmade scarecrows sunflowers so we had some fun care into their plants. It’s not were taken along to the festival at St doing transplanting and have had a been the easiest of years for Illtyd’s Church in as parishioners handful of children growing them growing tall plants, maybe because gathered for the Sunday afternoon seasonal through the summer. In addition, the soil was so cold for so long service. Rev’d Mark Dimond said, “We had one of our churches, Holy Trinity at and the plants went into the lovely weather and we all had great fun Marcross, decided to embrace the ground quite late, but it's been once again. The idea for the festival came whole sunflower idea so that this great fun. We might not quite be about through a desire to connect a little year I've grown more than 400 able to match the fields of France, more with the community. We sang songs plants and parishioners have taken but the sunflowers of Wick, such as Harvest Samba, shared cakes and them out to the community, some Marcross and Llandow have the children played a number of games to the children in SPLAT and some generated their fair share of joy such as Musical Scarecrows. The festival to the local school, Wick and and smiles. And if we've been able was very well attended and we were really Marcross C-in-W Primary, and to bring a little of the light of God's impressed with some of the scarecrows as others door-to-door giving them to creation into the lives of others, they were very well made.” residents in the village. A row of well then, we've all been blessed.” croeso Advent 2013 7

Quilting enthusiasts gathered for festival

Flushed with Success in Llantwit Major

A quilting festival – displaying work both old and new from as far afield as America was a The chains will soon be pulled Benefice all adopted different great success when it was held in . on 25 new toilets in approaches to the way they The festival organised by the Cynon Stitchers was held at St Mary Magdalene’s Church in Bangladesh, thanks to a made their own collections, but Cwmbach, in September. collection of more than £1,500 these have added to collections Members of the group, which are drawn from throughout the Cynon Valley and who meet by parishioners in South already made earlier in the year weekly at St Mary Magdalene’s Community Hall, had been hard at work for many months Wales. in SPLAT and Wick and creating display pieces for the festival. The idea to buy toilets for Marcross Primary school where The festival featured many colourful examples of quilting from both the members and some those in need began when children saved to pay for three from abroad. Money raised from the two day show was shared between the church and children at St James’ Church, toilets.” Macmillian Cancer Support. Wick were thinking of Pupils at St Illtyd’s Primary “The festival was a great success and the quality of the work was exceptional. It was a great something to give up for Lent School also collected enough at pleasure for us as a church to be able to welcome and work so closely with the Cynon and realised that they could not their Harvest Service for a Stitchers,” said Revd Christopher Smith, the parish priest. imagine ever having to give up toilet, and Llantwit Major The Cynon Stitchers support many charities and local projects, making quilts for local something as basic as a toilet. Comprehensive’s school hospitals and recently supported the Linus Project making quilts for trauma victims. So the charity ‘Toilet council are to consider making Twinning’ which works with ‘Toilet Twinning’ their local people to build safe, clean nominated charity for the year. toilets in countries that do not “We want to say a huge thank 150th Birthday of former have them, was chosen as a you to everyone who has Lent charity by the children from contributed to this year’s SPLAT (the Messy Church in Harvest Charity. Each year our Ironworkers’ Church Wick) and pupils from Wick & Benefice chooses a nominated Marcross Primary school. charity to support in order to This led to it subsequently give back a little from what we A small church originally being picked up as the chosen receive so readily and at a time intended as a chapel of Harvest Charity by churches when we celebrate the ease at an ironworks’ throughout the Llantwit Major abundance of food and drink quarry celebrated its benefice. The charity was and other life necessities that 150th anniversary particularly appropriate as it we enjoy. recently. operates in under-developed Helping those who can only Archbishop Barry joined countries including Bangladesh, dream of having the things that parishioners, seven which the Llandaff Diocese has we take for granted, seems like former clergy from the strong links with through its a good way of sharing God's parish and twinning with the Church of love and of saying "thank you" representatives from Bangladesh. at the same time. uniformed organizations, “We felt that with a single It’s quite frightening to think for a special Sunday toilet costing £60 and a school that toilets change lives – but evening service at St toilet block £240, there was they do. Amazingly as we stride Tydfil’s Well Church opportunity through our own through the second decade of Merthyr Tydfil. celebration of harvest to say the 21st century, for four out of Known locally as the thank you in a tangible way that every ten people in the world – Quar Church, St Tydfil’s Well is in one of the oldest parts of the historic town, its surrounding would change lives,” said Rev’d that’s 2.5billion people – the streets of small terraced houses built for workers at the Ironworks. The Second Anthony Beer, who is team vicar reality of life is that having Marquis of Bute granted a living for a “chapel of ease at the quarry” in recognition of for the rectorial benefice of somewhere safe and clean to missionary work in the district. The small barn-like building was kept simple with plain walls Llantwit Major. go to the toilet – well that is the and glass windows and a simple table upon which to celebrate Holy Communion. All services “In addition to the actual stuff of dreams. were originally in Welsh. Over the years, the church has been lovingly enhanced through purchase of toilets, the charity Experts also tell us that every generous donations by devoted worshippers. allows for the “twinning” of 20 seconds a child under 5 Although built to seat only 250 people, St. Tydfil's Well has had a full and vigorous history toilets by providing a framed years of age dies from water both spiritually and socially. It is still held with deep affection within the parish and celebrations picture of a toilet you have related illnesses like diarrhoea - continued throughout the week. With its more modern approach to Anglican worship, this little purchased along with the GPS that’s more than AIDS, malaria church is well equipped to bring its teachings into this new century. Dr Barry Morgan said, “I co-ordinates of the location and measles combined, and it am delighted that we are able to celebrate 150 years of worship at this church. A church is a where your donation is amounts to 4,000 children a symbolic building and symbols are important because they convey what we believe. Anyone genuinely helping to transform day (1/3 of the population of coming to this place can see that worship takes place here and will continue to be offered for people’s lives. Llantwit), 1.5million a year (1/2 future generations. Here is a community of Christians who believe that the Gospel has The churches across the the population of Wales).” something to offer them and to the wider world.” 8 croeso Advent 2013 Tragedy remembered as Vicar’s music project wins award First Anniversary of Cardiff Hit-and-Run Tragedy The first anniversary of a hit-and-run Some of the victims were in hospital last tragedy in a Cardiff suburb was marked by a year and so were unable to attend the special service in the Church of the service we had on the weekend it all Resurrection, Grand Avenue, Ely, Cardiff. happened. They have said they would like an A young mother, Karina Menzies, died and opportunity to attend something in church as 11 others were hurt at five locations in Ely, a way of helping them to ‘move on’. Cardiff, when a van rampaged through the “I hope this service has given the area on October 19th last year. The driver, community the opportunity to come together Matthew Tyrdon, has been detained again and show their support for those indefinitely under the Mental Health Act. whose lives were completely turned upside The service became a focus for the down a year ago in that dreadful incident”. community in the aftermath of the tragedy. It was a simple service reflecting on what People gathered there to light candles, say happened and then looking to the future. prayers and share their grief at the time and During the service there was an opportunity then to mourn the death of Ms Menzies at for those who wished to light a candle – a her funeral. Rev’d Jan Gould, Priest-in- simple gesture, when words fail - which is a charge, said the service was a chance for symbol of prayer and solidarity with those people to come together to reflect and who were victims last year, many of whom support those still affected. are still having hospital treatment for their She said, “The tragedy devastated our injuries. community last year and I think it’s Right: Rev’d Jan Gould lighting a candle important that we mark this first anniversary. at the Church of the Resurrection Feature on Vicar’s orchestra project wins UK radio award

The moving story of how one vicar’s vision to transform children’s lives through orchestral music has won a prestigious national radio award. The Revd Jan Gould’s determination to give children Cathedral Choir on a city estate hope and ambition by teaching them Revd Jan Gould music and setting up an (centre) with excels in Uppsala producer Karen orchestra was the subject of a Walker and Nearly two years ago Llandaff Cathedral Choir was invited to be a BBC Radio Wales programme presenter Roy part of the Festival of Young Cathedral Voices hosted by the which won the award. Jenkins Cathedral of Uppsala in Sweden. The programme, “All Things Llandaff Cathedral has had a Diocesan twinning with Uppsala for Considered – Making Music of an orchestra. Many of the to see the pride and joy in some time and links are being further developed. There have been a Changing Lives”, was named children were witness to the their faces as they performed number of visits by clergy both ways and their organists were Best Easter programme in the hit-and-run incidents which together in a concert in front of delighted to see and hear the partly completed Nicholson organ in Jerusalem Awards. It was made the national headlines a their parents. 2010. presented by Roy Jenkins and year ago in October 2012, and “It’s an honour and a The Festival of Young Cathedral Voices was a tremendous coming produced by Karen Walker of it was then that the project privilege to have our work together of eight choirs from all over northern Europe – Norway, the Religious Programmes proved to be more than the acknowledged at the Latvia, Poland, Germany, Switzerland, Sweden and Wales. Each choir department at BBC Wales. sum of its parts. Jerusalem Awards, but I am had half a concert of its own, and then the approximately 450 Judges for the Awards, Set against the background particularly pleased for Jan massed voices joined together for a spectacular High Mass on the which encourage, promote and of preparations for their Easter and the Making Music Sunday celebrated by Archbishop Anders Wejryd. This service reward Christian broadcasting, Concert, and with funding Changing Lives project.” included a specially commissioned anthem called ‘Do what is Fair’ described the programme as running out, Jan Gould shared Jan said, “Everyone at based on the biblical text of the day, requiring five conductors “moving and engaging”. her story of personal struggle Making Music Changing Lives strategically positioned around the Cathedral – all of which was It focussed on the project and explained how the Making is absolutely thrilled at the broadcast live on Swedish radio. There is a link here if you would like Making Music Changing Lives Music Changing Lives project news that the ‘All things to listen to it: which operates from the hall was part of the ongoing Considered’ programme about http://sverigesradio.se/sida/avsnitt/264915?programid=945 of the Church of the Resurrection story of new life us has won the Jerusalem The Llandaff Cathedral Choir stood out as the smallest group, but Resurrection, in Ely, the Cardiff and new beginnings. Trust Award. with a powerful and energetic sound that was magnificently estate which regularly features Producer Karen Walker, who “We all, children and enhanced by the glorious acoustic of Uppsala cathedral. Their in tables of multiple is donating the £2,000 prize teachers, had great fun concert programme included beautiful liturgical music that can be deprivation. money for the award to the working with Karen Walker heard regularly at sung services here in Llandaff, such as The project was the idea of project, said, “It was a moving over the months it took to ‘Magnificat’ and ‘Nunc Dimittis’ in D by George Dyson, ‘As truly as Jan Gould, a professional viola experience and a privilege to make the programme, and God is our Father’ by Welsh composer William Mathias and player before she trained for learn about the work that Jan were really pleased with the concluded with the fitting ‘Evening Hymn’ by Henry Balfour Gardiner. the priesthood, who was is doing with ‘Making Music end result of all that work. During the High Mass, the choir’s communion anthem was the only inspired by the El Sistema Changing Lives’. Whilst Hopefully this award will one to be included in the radio broadcast, perhaps as they had the project in Venezuela which recording I spent many hours increase our public profile and greatest day-to-day experience of leading music during services at began by giving violin lessons observing the children also give more weight to any home. to street children. Jan felt if it interacting with their teachers future funding applications we All of the choirs were accommodated by hosts from the Uppsala could work in Venezuela, then and mentors as they learned submit. We are grateful to Cathedral choir families, giving them a wonderful experience with an it could work in Ely too. about the world of music. Karen for her creativity in opportunity to come together with people of different cultural From small beginnings, with They were full of beans and producing the programme, and backgrounds with a commonality of church music making. There was Jan teaching strings to a totally engaged when also to the other organisations a tremendous atmosphere of pride in what the choirs do, how they handful of children three years members of the Welsh who work with the Church of achieve incredibly high standards musically and how this cultural ago, the project now sees National Opera taught them the Resurrection, Ely in making heritage is so intrinsically a part of church life past, present and about 70 primary school pupils scenes from the opera this project possible - the future. a week tackling a variety of Madame Butterfly and I Royal Welsh College of Music This incredible tour was something that showed Llandaff Cathedral instruments who would not watched their earnest and Drama, Welsh National in a really positive light and the contributions by the choir clearly otherwise be able to afford concentration whilst learning Opera and Ely & Caerau upheld the prestige of the Cathedral, Llandaff, Cardiff and Wales. It music lessons. They also how to read and write music Communities First and the was an experience that the boys will remember all of their lives. learn music appreciation, visit and playing their musical Community Foundation in If you know a boy who would like the chance to have such amazing the opera, and how to be part instruments. And I was moved Wales.” musical opportunities as these, contact Richard Moorhouse, Master croeso Advent 2013 9 GALILEE CHAPEL MUSICAL OPENING

Harmony, tranquillity and relief chapel and moving the Celtic stones descended on St. Illtud's Church in inside, but not simply creating a Llantwit Major on November 2nd, museum. Part of the former sacristy when the rebuilding of the Galilee will be converted into a research centre Chapel was officially completed. for the study of in the The ribbon was cut by the oldest Vale of Glamorgan, a region particularly member of the congregation, Mrs. important in the Age of the ; Gladys Kilby, aged 94, with help from witness , Llandough, Merthyr our youngest parishioner, Violet, born Mawr, and others. the day before; almost a century The church already receives visitors between them. from all parts of Britain, and every year The response of the town and the the Visitors' Book records tourists or benefice to the event was magnificent - pilgrims from 20-30 different countries. there was standing room only. We will now be able to offer them a This has been a long time coming. more fitting welcome, with tea and toilet The Galilee Chapel Project was facilities. (Wherever you come from, conceived during the celebrations in it's a long way to Llantwit.) 2000 of 1500 years of continuing Moving the crosses, and then the Christian worship here, after Illtud effigies, will improve the West Church settled on the banks of the Ogney for the spiritual and social life of the brook, following the example of the church and the eight other churches in desert fathers of the Middle East. the Benefice, and offer facilities for the rounded off a tumultuous week end. column and Latin inscriptions from The Vale of Glamorgan has many people of this expanding town - Wednesday, November 6th, St. another cross are underneath. attractions but is short of deserts, yet Llanilltud Fawr, the great church of Illtud's Day, brought children from all Vivian Kelly Illtud's hermitage grew into a major Illtud. the local schools, including the , school and mission centre. The opening ceremony was the start Comprehensive and the Church Primary For a copy of Archdeacon Philip’s The only remains of the Celtic past that of a few days which were a showcase school in Wick, to express their views of sermon at the service of re-dedication we have is the collection of crosses and for local talent. Saturday saw four Celtic Christianity through music, of the Galilee Chapel and a video of the carved stones, placed together in the hours of music from local choirs, poetry, acting and Powerpoint. St. Illtud project, please follow the link from the West Church with a confusion of soloists and instrumentalists, followed is alive and well at Llanilltud Fawr. parish of ’s website stacking chairs, tables and the Sunday by a concert featuring the Vale choir, A lifelong tribute to the occasion has http://parish.churchinwales.org.uk/l35 School experience, described by one the Atlantic Chorale and the Tarlton certainly been put in place by builder 3/news-3/ visitor as "like a furniture shop" and family -- Anthony (violin, Welsh National Lee Mayes, "incidental junk." Opera Orchestra), Sally (piano) and Ben who enjoyed On the west end of the church was a (cello, the Yehudi Menuhin School). working on ruined galilee chapel and chantry. After Our Sunday Service welcomed this, his latest chantries were abolished, the building Archbishop Barry Morgan, who re- church had a mixed history, and eventually the dedicated the Galilee, and Archdeacon renovation roof fell in. The Heritage Lottery Philip Morris, who gave us much to project, so Foundation and other funding partners think about as the custodians of this much that he enabled us to bring it back to life. new expression of our faith. In the has had a The project envisaged rebuilding the evening a traditional Cymanfa Ganu lasting reminder tattooed on his arm. Lee already had an endless knot tattoo on his arm which he had designed himself, but has had the head of the Samson Cross inked in above. The Samson Pioneering Plans to Revamp Valleys Church

A landmark Valleys church has been exhibition space. town. earmarked for an innovative £1.2 A more welcoming glass fronted foyer Despite our central position on the million make-over to make it fit for the entrance would be created at the north mound and the huge tower, we have 21st century. door, with a reception and possibly become invisible to the town and that is The pioneering plans for St Elvan’s tourist information centre. St Michael’s what we want to overcome by making Church in Aberdare, which towers as a Chapel, which has a memorial to the this building more welcoming. We need landmark above the town, centre on a fallen of both World Wars, would offer to be more visible.” complete refurbishment aimed at interactive history facilities about the Christina Davies, wife of Aberdare’s creating a community heritage space to memorial. Audio facilities would also be vicar Rev’d Robert Davies, said, make it more welcoming to the located inside the church for people to “Parishioners are all for these plans as community. pick up and listen to the history of all the they see them as a way of rejuvenating Proposals include creating space for a various windows. Outside, the grounds worship. There is the opportunity to cafe area inside the church, an arts and would be landscaped and a renewed have an altar in the centre of the church craft centre, an exhibition area, thoroughfare encouraged, connecting the and interactive services which will additional rooms on mezzanine levels for north and south side of Aberdare. particularly make a difference for the community use, a welcoming foyer area The outline plans have been young people. Already because of the and the provision of interactive history presented to the Llandaff Diocesan networking we have done for this facilities. Some of the extra space Advisory Committee and a bid for project, we now hold a lunch after mass would be created by the removal of the £500,000 submitted to the Heritage on a Tuesday provided by Meals on pews which would also create scope for Lottery Fund. “We want to create a Wheels – so the project is working theatre groups, concerts and major town building that the community can use already. We just want to create a celebrations. more than it presently does. building that is fit for purpose for 21st It is envisaged that the cafe would be “We have created what we see as our century worship for the town of located in the green aisle with a vision for the future which is all about Aberdare.” mezzanine floor above containing a building bridges with the community,” Rev’d Robert Davies said, “The St room for hire for community groups. A said churchwarden David Lewis. “This Elvan’s Heritage and Community Project gallery floor would be constructed from church, with its 180 foot spire, towers will be a landmark project for the town, the bell tower – offering a further room above Aberdare and was central to its community and church in Aberdare, for educational and community use. In development; we want to ensure that it returning S.Elvan's Church to the town the north aisle there would be an is central to the continuing life of this and ensuring its viability for the future.” 10 croeso Advent 2013 The story of Ty Teilo

The diocesan day retreat house, Ty Teilo, has closed the name of the diocesan patron, St Teilo, was still its doors for the final time after a farewell service there. I felt the call to ministry when I lived in Roath, and presided over by Archdeacon . The this apparent synchronicity alerted us to the stirring of former stable block of the Georgian rectory at the Holy Spirit. One thing he did was to call four men Llandow which had been transformed into an award- and one woman into the priestly ministry from the parish winning retreat house, shut in October after 15 of Roath at the same time. Another pointer to the Spirit years. Rev’d Canon Peter Leonard, who was warden moving was the fact that the possible house of along with his wife Tyann, tells how the retreat hospitality at Llandow was located within a mile of house came into being. Llandow Rectory. “Forty years ago, I was a new Christian, and my wife “The vision was to prove correct with regard to Tyann and I felt called to welcome people to a locality, albeit wrong by 27 years when it came to Christian house of hospitality. With experience of timing. But Bishop Roy Davies sent me to Llandow with working with historic buildings, I thought such a the injunction that I was not, as a priority, to create a building was to be found in the vicinity of Llandow but retreat house, but that I was to love and nurture the would need a lot of work. Nothing came of it; I went people of the parish. I willingly accepted the role and off to train for ordination and on my return, we both there was scope for parochial ministry to be enriched by significant thing he had done as a bishop, and another still felt our calling concerned welcome. the visitors to the Rectory. The Rectory, although large, instance of synchronicity showing a fresh outpouring of The offer of a parish in the was followed by was not adaptable to the role of hosting retreats, but it the Holy Spirit was that Bishop Roy and TyTeilo eight happy but busy years in Cymmer and , with became clear that the old stable block might well be. flourished and died at the same time, and I and Tyann little time left for pursuing what was becoming a dream. “This became the Millennium Project of the diocese, have moved on to retirement ministry. The story of Ty And then the unexpected happened: a parish in the so well done that Ty Teilo, as the building came to be Teilo may yet have more chapters, and the Diocesan Vale, with a large parsonage that might fit the role of known, was to win the award at the National Eisteddfod Spirituality Group – who have successfully made Ty Teilo the house of hospitality. We and others who had held for the conversion of old, small buildings to new uses. their base – may well be called to publish them. the vision with us felt that the time for moving forward Since then hundreds of people from the diocese and “The opening of the Galilee Chapel in St Illtyd’s had come. beyond have come and spent time with us, enjoying church in nearby Llantwit Major as one of the great and “There was money in the diocesan accounts from the those elusive qualities of hospitality and welcome that so-called ‘thin places’ where God may be approached sale of the buildings of the St Teilo retreat house in was envisioned so long ago. and known, suggests that a new beginning may yet Roath, Cardiff, so the funding for something similar, in “Bishop Roy said that Ty Teilo was the most happen. The final chapter is yet to be written or read.” GLIMPSES OF GLORY St George’s Church, Cwmparc, Rhondda Fawr

Snapshots of lesser-known churches in the Diocese and their hidden treasures High up on the slopes above the hardwood hammerbeam roof soars Rhondda sits the village of Cwmparc, overhead. At the west end of the nave, ‘its streets tunnelling relentlessly and rare in an Anglican church, is a across the valley slope above the large immersion font or baptismal pool, colliery sites’. (John Newman) A large now hidden under boards, and rarely village – population 5k in 1923 – it used, even in its early days. It was, was built to house the workers of the however, opened up and decorated at Parc & Dare collieries, opened by a flower festival in 2006. Several David Davies of Llandinam in churches in the valleys, and one or two 1865/1870. in Cardiff, were built with immersion Although chapels were built, the pools, possibly in response to village had to wait until 1896 for the competition from the Baptists! The opening of its Anglican Church of St wide south aisle has arcade arches George. However, two houses in the with mouldings dying away into lozenge- village had acted as a meeting place shaped piers. The pulpit and font are for worship prior to this. in greenish-grey Bridgend Quarella St George’s is a surprisingly sandstone. Around the nave walls are impressive church to be found in a carved Stations of the Cross, dedicated Welsh mining village, and this is in 1994 in memory of former vicar Fr explained by its founder and patron, Lawrence Miles. Glass in the nave is the widow of Griffith Llewellyn of Baglan clear, but the south aisle has two shows the crucified Christ between St Mothers’ Union has lately lost its Hall and House, owner of the windows, one a war George, the church’s patron, and St beloved leader, Mrs Pat Rees. Rhondda Engine Works. Griffith and memorial, and one in memory of a John the Evangelist, the latter The church’s main Sunday service is Madelina, whose father was a former vicar who died in 1920, showing somewhat of a mystery, as, when the a Sung Solemn Mass at 11 am, with a Swansea copper magnate, were the Jesus surrounded by children. The church opened in 1896, it was a Wednesday Low Mass at 9.15 am. childless benefactors of several east end of the aisle was converted daughter of the parish of , For more information, or to visit the churches, including Baglan and Pentre. into a Lady Chapel in 1973, its fittings whose old church was dedicated to St church, please contact one of the In 1896, Madelina Georgina, now a designed by an artist from the John the Baptist! Did someone make a wardens: widow, commissioned diocesan congregation. An unusual Celtic cross mistake? Mrs Denise Smith tel: (01443) surveyor George Eley Halliday to build hangs on the east wall, with, to its left, The church, without a vicar since the 772992 the new church in Cwmparc. a relief of the Virgin and Child in buff summer, has a small but dedicated Mr Kevin Staveley email: The dedication, an unusually English stoneware clay. congregation, and maintains a high [email protected] one for a mining village, is perhaps The floor levels rise into the chancel church tradition. No female priest has We thank Denise and Kevin for an derived from her own name, or that of a and sanctuary, reflecting Madelina’s yet celebrated there, but who knows informative visit and a warm welcome. family member who died young. The (and Halliday’s) preference for high what the future may bring? church consists of nave and south church worship. The broad chancel arch A successful flower festival aisle, separately gabled, with chancel is flanked by two smaller ones, a was held in the summer, and south tower, built in dark Pennant simple but unusual design. Sturdy and a Christmas Tree sandstone, a striking structure rearing choirstalls flank the chancel – though Festival is planned for late up amidst the steep streets and little today the choir is somewhat smaller November. The church hall houses. Unlike many buildings in the than it was! – and above the high altar is well used, including for a valleys which suffer from subsidence, is a pink alabaster reredos, without Baby & Toddler group, and a the seams under the church were never figures, but with delicate gabling and fortnightly Disco for young allowed to be worked, so its sits, crocketing, designed by Halliday and teenagers. Work is underway safely, on a solid bedrock of coal! carved by Clarke of Llandaff. A piscina for the Christmas Fayre, Inside, the dark stone persists with and aumbry are fitted into a south-east always a great success, last unplastered walls, Doulting stone window splay, another of Halliday’s Arts year raising over £2k. Sadly, dressings around the windows. A & Crafts touches. A fine east window the small but committed croeso Advent 2013 11 How Mission to Seafarers began with One Visit by One Cleric Port chaplain Rev’d Nick Jones tells us what we can do to help today

Over 150 years ago the Mission to facilities to contact home as well as Seafarers was born when a cleric in food. South Wales discovered that ships “Part of my role is to make the work anchored in the Bristol Channel of the mission known more widely in received no visitors. Wales, as well as to encourage the So Rev’d John Ashley decided to skip church to support financially this arm of a parish appointment in 1835 and its mission. I know from personal began to take ministry to those aboard experience how working away from ships anchored near Flat Holm and home can be lonely and trying. It is Steep Holm. seafarers who enable us to enjoy about Although over the years the title of 95% of the products we consume in this the organisation may have changed country, including clothing, cars, from the original Bristol Channel petrol/oil and many foods, and so it is Mission, the work carried out remains important that we support them. the same - to care for the spiritual, “Seafarers are an important, but moral and physical wellbeing of often overlooked, element in enabling seafarers and their families worldwide. our society to operate. Today many of And what began with one visit by one those seafarers come from the cleric has now grown into an developing nations such as Indonesia international network of lay and and the Philippines. They can be ordained chaplains at around 260 ports comparatively poorly paid and yet in 71 countries, with 120 of these engage in one of the most dangerous boasting Flying Angel Centres for use by occupations in the world, and are 26 seafarers when in port. times more likely to be killed at work “Chaplains and volunteer visitors visit than any shore-based worker. Seafarers depends entirely on voluntary ministry. By engaging or assisting the seafarers aboard ship, which is Loneliness and stress are amongst donations) work of the Mission to Seafarers the especially important where ships may factors that mean the rate of suicide is • Volunteers for assistance at ship local church is not just helping the spend a very limited time in port,” said triple that of other occupations. Many visiting, driving seafarers in the Mission, not just helping seafarers, but Rev’d Nick Jones, the South Wales Port crew members may be contracted to minibus, helping at one of the centres also helping itself in fulfilling the call to chaplain. “Chaplains can be available to work away from home and family for with the bar or just being on hand to go to all nations; Christ’s charge to His help seafarers who work in unsafe from 8 – 18 months. Amongst the welcome disciples. conditions, receive poor, insufficient dangers faced by seafarers, the one “Mission is the staple of the church. If you would like to know more of the food, and face denial of medical that has attracted attention of late is Often the first thing people think of work of Mission to Seafarers then treatment; and to help repatriate that of piracy, particularly off the coast when talking about mission is the please check out the website: stranded seafarers from abandoned of Somalia, with 439 ships being challenging aspect of going abroad. But www.missiontoseafarers.org ships.” In Wales, Flying Angel Centres, attacked in 2011 and 297 in 2012. in the work of the Mission to Seafarers, If you would like me to speak to a of which there are three in South Wales, How can individuals or churches help? the world comes to our shores and the church group or to preach then please provide a place where hospitality can be • Prayer - a diary is available Mission to Seafarers can empower the contact, Rev’d Nicholas Jones at shared with off duty seafarers, offering • Donations and giving (Mission to local church to be involved in its [email protected] All Saints’ Church Barry All Together Now!

Pull Out All the Stops! On occasions it’s important that all our clergy and officers spend time together to learn, share, support and grow; no easy task when Archbishop Barry visited All Saints on 24th November 2014 we have over 130 busy clergy and a large staff team! and re-dedicated the organ in a service which included the So we gathered in the wonderful setting of Christ Church, Oxford – a opening of the commemorative ‘Book of Donors’, along with a unique place where Cathedral and college rub shoulders, where the photographic record of the restoration work . Cathedral is also the college chapel and where ‘Cathedral time’ runs A display recording the many fundraising events that took five minutes later than ‘college time’! place during the appeal was also on show. The four day ‘Clergy Conference’ entitled ‘Leadership for mission in The All Saints’ Organ Appeal was launched in May 2011, in a today’s church’ included such topics as engagement with bid to raise £70,000 for major repair and restoration of their contemporary communities, a vision for the future, from maintenance historic pipe organ which dates back to 1915 and was built by to mission and being a mission church and a welcoming church. Evans & Barr of Belfast. Thank you to Rev’d Dr Anthony Rustell, our Director of Ministry The Fundraising Committee put together a programme of Training, for all his hard work in organising a super event. Some of the events to raise the funds. Various groups within the church feedback received from the event is shown below. volunteered, ranging from sponsored walks, autumn lunches, a “Thank You! for lovely and inspiring worship throughout. Thank You! for craft fair, model railway display, a historical talk, harvest lovely hospitality from Christ Church” suppers to Viennese coffee mornings, cake sales, a Musical “Hospitality, accommodation and setting were first class. Worship was Minis party and line dancing . All Saints’ Primary School held a wonderful and inspiring... Angela Tilby was wonderful” fundraising children’s disco and The Little Blue Deli supported “The best conference/clergy school so far... our whole Bible study with a Eurovision Evening and sponsored cake eating. group very positive” Larger fundraising events included a Three Choir Concert with “Setting, welcome, hospitality, organisation: all excellent” Barry Male Voice Choir, Barry Ladies Choir and All Saints’ Primary School Choir, and Last Night at “Group time was good. Morning prayer was lovely” The Proms with the Cardiff Concert Orchestra. Other highlights included Music & Monologues, “Christ Church was excellent! Let's go back!” organised by Gill Davies and her players, a Christmas Concert with the Cardiff Concert Orchestra and Superstars in the Making under the Directorship of Christian Bullen, and finally Amicia Choral croeso Group. Special merchandising was designed and sold as souvenirs of the appeal as well as This edition has been produced by the editorial team: Rev’d Christmas cards, which included the winning designs from a Sunday School Christmas Card Caroline Downs (Convenor), Rev’d Mike Lewis, and Jean Rose, Alisn Competition. Young with contributions from people in all parts of Llandaff May 2012 saw the launch of the Pipe Sponsorship Scheme in aid of the appeal, in which both Diocese. Please send your articles, stories and pictures for the next parishioners and members of the community were invited to sponsor an organ pipe(s) in memory issue to: Rev’d Caroline Downs, 6 Newminster Road, Roath, Cardiff, of a loved one, or to commemorate a special occasion such as an anniversary, wedding or CF23 5AP or, preferably by email to: [email protected] Letters, baptism. This element of the appeal raised £11,889 with 91 donors. articles and features should be typed and where possible, Restoration Work began in June this year and was fully completed by the end of October. Pipes submitted on computer disk saved as Word or text files. The next were removed, re-painted and replaced, soundboards repaired, draw stop machines overhauled issue will be published on Thursday 6th March 2014. The copy and choir and trumpet magnets replaced. The bellows were re-leathered. The wind system was re- deadline is Tuesday 18th February 2014. can also be seen designed and re-positioned, with new motor and trunking installed. croeso at our website www.llandaff.org.uk where other articles are The Rector and Fundraising Committee would like to record grateful thanks to all those who have sometimes published when demand for newspaper space has been supported the appeal , enabling the restoration work to be concluded , thus ensuring continued high. is funded by the Diocesan Board of Finance and is free provision of this important musical heritage for current and future generations. croeso to parishes. There will be a free lunchtime organ recital on Saturday 1st February 2014 to celebrate the restoration of the organ and to thank all donors and supporters. Check out our web-site www.llandaff.org.uk 12 croeso Advent 2013

Book Review Real God in the Real World

Advent and Christmas readings on the coming of Christ - Trystan Owain Hughes Trystan Owain Hughes latest offering, following on from compassion and service are ways in which Christ can ‘Finding Hope and Meaning in Suffering’ and ‘The be brought into the world today. This is not brought Compassion Quest’, is a book with a very seasonal flavour. about by Christian status or elevated religious ’ standing, but by the fact that all are called to use ‘Real God in the Real World’ explores the incarnation of their gifts in service of God. Despite our Christ as anticipated in Advent and actualised at Christmas, imperfections we can still open the door to the using daily readings, and with guidance to using the weekly waiting Christ who has not given up on us. The themes in an Advent study/discussion group. Though topical, consideration of Holman Hunt’s ‘The Light of the the book makes clear that the coming of Christ is of World’ emphasises the idea that real authority comes of either/or when we confront problems such as overwhelming importance all the year round. Just as church from a personal experience of God, not one imposed returning to work after celebrating Christmas, or doesn’t end on a Sunday, the love of God is propagated by on us. In a culture so valuing of individual choice and taking our faith away from the church setting. Instead the incarnation into every area of our lives, a strong theme of autonomy, this will only serve to increase the book’s we can have an integration of ‘Real God in the Real integration and personal encounter permeating the book. popularity amongst those more wary of external World’, and notice Christ in all elements of our lives. Through references to popular culture, academic theology authority. James Downs and the author’s storytelling, he highlights opportunities to The opening-up to Christ we experience at notice God in the festive period. We can be grateful for Christmas is not however presented as easy. The author emphasises the bravery, humility and strength In addition to the new book, Trystan, now vicar of luxuries, company, the beauty of nature - appreciative always Christ Church Roath Park, was runner-up in the of the small things we experience. With the right attitude we required to perceive Christ and bring his example to Up-and-coming Blog of the Year Award in the New can even appreciate that which isn’t in all its glory, just as others, and this is validating for any reader who finds Christian Media Awards announced this week at Jesus looked compassionately on the conventionally the journey of faith hard. We can find inspiration and the Brewery, London. He started the blog in unappealing. This will be of great reassurance to those who strength - beyond the individual, autonomous self - February this year and writes around three times find Christmas lonely or stressful. shared by wider humanity and the whole natural a month, and has been delighted by its As in his previous books, the author reminds us of the world. We might miss what seems to be the thrust popularity. He aims to show how hope, meaning, helpfulness of mindfulness techniques. Through using all our of this advent book – that discrimination between faith, and compassion are still very much alive in senses to fully notice our experience, we are able to remain ourselves and others, the human and divine, the the world around us, and has recently covered such diverse topics as rock music and faith, gay in each moment of our waiting, enjoying and starting anew. religious and secular, is misguided. We may not always see it, but like the salty ocean, the love of marriage, the horsemeat scandal, religion and Through being present in the current moment, we are more politics, prisons, and women bishops. The blog open to the coming of Christ and ‘recognising his wonderful God is dissolved into the substance of our lives. gets 100s of hits each day, with posts being fingerprints in our everyday lives.’ Hughes warns against putting too much store in shared widely on facebook and twitter, and is As in Trystan’s other books, he stresses that offering laws, and demarks the Christian tradition as growing most popular in the UK, the US, Australia, out of and away from more prescriptive traditions, yet Germany, and Sweden. Trystan is delighted with from this book you may in fact identify a greater law his runner-up award! Deputy Assistant Virger in God’s love. Trystan’s blog can be found at Christ himself, a synthesis of the human and www.trystanowainhughes.com/blog The Dean and Chapter of Llandaff Cathedral are looking to divine, serves as a reminder that it is not a question offer Casual Employment to suitably qualified candidate(s), who wish to be considered for the role of Deputy Assistant Virger. Appointment will be made by a letter of confirmation, CAPTION COMPETITION following successful interview, and subject to the satisfactory receipt of references and a clear DBS check. This edition’s winning caption is: Rate of Pay: £9 per hour for up to the first 42.5 hours worked in any one week; £13.50 per hour for any hours worked in “Isn’t that my tickling stick David?” excess of 42.5, in any one week. Charlie Sage, The offer of work hours will vary from time to time, according to the needs of the cathedral – with no obligation on the cathedral to offer work, or on the appointee to accept work that is offered. For more information, and an Application Form, please contact: The Administrator, Cathedral Administration Office, Prebendal House, Llandaff, Cardiff CF5 2LA or email: [email protected] Dean and Chapter of Llandaff Cathedral October, 2013

croeso has been creatively designed & Please send in your captions for this photograph (right) before Tuesday February printed by Mersey Mirror , The Foundry, 18th 2014 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS Answers by post to: Croeso 6, Newminster Tel: 0151 709 7567 Road,Roath, Cardiff CF23 5AP or by email email: [email protected] to [email protected]

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