Meithrin Gobaith Growing Hope www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk www.facebook.com/pobl.dewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi December / Rhagfyr 2015 Fellowship of Vocation: Called to care The inaugural Fellowship of Vocation conference took place in Tenby from 20th to 22nd November

N arrival, this first cohort of to be announced: Marianne Omembers got together over tea Osborne, Saundersfoot; Sally when introductions were led by the Farah, Aberystwyth; Helen Co-ordinator of the Fellowship of Nicholls, Llanelli; Dorrien Vocation (FoV), Robb Wainwright. Davies, St Davids; Rhobert Bishop Wyn joined the group Pattinson, Carmarthen for dinner, following which he • The sub-groups will meet 6-8 made a brief welcome speech, times per year and will be able reminding those present that all are to determine their own agendas called and all ministry is important. • Members of the FoV and the On Saturday 21st, after Morn- local sub-groups will support ing Prayer and breakfast, members each other as they go through were provided with more detailed the discernment process, selec- information about vocations, tion process and afterwards Rt Revd David Willbourne ministry and what they can expect (whatever the outcome) from the FoV: Bishop at a venue and with a • Individuals, while being chal- • There will be two FoV meet- speaker of his choice lenged and energised by ings per year, each of which • Local fellowship sub-groups membership of the FoV, must be will be themed will be formed which will allowed to go at their own speed Flying the Flag • There will be one afternoon tea be run by chaplains, who are in response to God’s call. meeting per year, hosted by the currently as follows, with more Rt Revd David Willbourne, Assistant Bishop of Llandaff and previously in charge of the FoV in Dathlu gyda cherddoriaeth the Diocese of York for six years, was the keynote speaker. In his presentation Bishop David said that the purpose of the FoV was to work with those disturbed by God and that membership comprises sympathetic fellow travellers journeying on the road together. Quoting Archbishop Sentamu, he went on to say that ‘Christ did not give us a constitution, he gave us a meal’ and meals are all about shar- ing; after all, the unique selling point of the Church is to give the world Christ. Those who feel they may be called to lay or ordained ministry should, in the first instance, contact their parish priest. When Lyn Neville was lying in the Cancer Ward 10 at Withybush A film showing the highlights Hospital, he was told he would never have children. But to his and Côr Tre-groes yn diddori trigolion cartrefi Henllan a Blaendyffryn of Bishop David’s speech will wife Ann’s delight, they were wrong. And today, five-year-old Elly, mewn gwasanaeth arbennig i ddathlu’r cynhaeaf ddiwedd mis shortly be available on the minis- is their “little miracle”. Her collage of the Pembrokeshire flag won a Hydref. Diolch arbennig i bawb a ddaeth â diddanwch a boddhad try pages of the website at http:// school competition. Now she uses it to raise funds for the people i’r holl drigolion a hynny wrth ddiolch i Dduw am bopeth, ond yn stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/ who saved her Dad’s life. So far she’s raised nearly £9,000. And enwedig gofal y staff ministry/ been photographed with some very important people . . . FOCUS ON AN ETHICAL CHRISTMAS – Pages 10 & 11 Am ddim Free 2 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 Governing Body Social Responsibility: It was back to Lampeter for the September meeting of the Governing Body. Paul Mackness summarises the proceedings “It’s what we do” HE main agenda item that had everyone talking was the debate on TSame Sex Marriage. Following on from the Diocesan consultations it David Hammond-Williams reports from this year’s Diocesan Conference had been agreed to bring it to the floor of the Governing Body (GB) to be ONFERENCE is a socia- Davies, the Bishop’s Rural Affairs on the number of Easter commu- discussed. ble affair – a chance to catch Adviser, updated conference on nicants, the number of members As at our own Extraordinary Diocesan Conference, the debate was C up with your opposite numbers in the developments at Tir Dewi, the allowed from each benefice will both respectful and courteous with all sides listening in silence to those diverse parts of the vineyard. But it new diocesan helpline for farming now be based on average Sunday contributing. Interestingly, not one of the Bench of Bishops entered into has responsibilities too – big ones. families. attendance over three years. the debate, by mutual agreement. It was made clear from the outset that the So the decision to make Social And project manager Sue And the nomination of clergy vote that was to be taken was not a binding vote on the GB but would be Responsibility the focus of this Fletcher delivered success stories members of Standing Committee one that would inform the bishops for future discussion. There was no bill. year’s event seemed a natural one. from Plant Dewi’s work with is to be broadened to include all The result was as follows: And Bishop Wyn, in his Presi- parents struggling to cope, told clerics, not just Area Deans as at Bishops Clergy Laity dential Address, left us in no doubt. through the testimony of the mums present. Option 1 – No Change 1 21 28 “Social Responsibility,” he and dads who had benefited from Each diocesan team presents Option 2 – Same sex blessing 2 1 6 said, “is not a bolt-on accessory to its support. annual reports to conference, and Option 3 – Same sex marriage 3 26 32 Christian faith, no optional extra. The afternoon was devoted to these – plus Bishop Wyn’s address Although a majority was in favour of change in some form, there was It’s what we as Christians do. the business end of things. Two – can be found in full on the dioc- nowhere near the two thirds majority that would have been needed if the “This is the way others around us motions were passed which will esan website: http://stdavids. motion had been brought as a bill to be passed. see what following Jesus is about.” change the way parishes elect churchinwales.org.uk/information/ The presidential address looked again at the hoary chestnut of the Presenting the session, the Dioc- representatives to diocesan and diocconf Archiepiscopal See, this time from the perspective of the current incumbent, esan Social Responsibility Officer, deanery conferences, and eligi- Next year’s conference will Most Revd Dr Barry Morgan, and Canon Jeni Parsons, invited us to bility for election to Standing take place on Saturday October his observations of the role both as stand in front of our church, looking Committee. 1st at the University of Trinity St the person doing the job and also out. What do we see? Instead of using figures based David, Lampeter. as a Diocesan Bishop. It looks like Plenty should be the answer. this subject won’t die easily (watch And in many places, it is. There this space!); everyone seems to are credit unions across the diocese agree that changes of some sort offering affordable support to hard- need to be made, but nobody can up families. agree what they should be. There are charities, like the There was an emergency debate Alzheimer’s Society, raising aware- on the refugee crisis, brought ness of this “Cinderella disease”, as by the Bishops of Swansea and the society’s Marcia Vale described Brecon and St Asaph. It called for it. a practical response and members And there are church commu- deplored the current stance by the nities – clergy and congregations British Government and felt that – getting involved in the daily Most Revd Dr Barry Morgan the Church needed to be a voice that doings of those around them. called the politicians to think again. It was passed with an overwhelming “Success”, Revd Andy Herrick majority. (Penparcau) told us, “is measured There was also a report on the new training institution – the St Padarn’s by impact on the community.” Institute, which will take over all training at a provincial level. The Bishop And that can be huge. Time of Monmouth, who has responsibility for ministry, informed members of and again, speakers reported being the changes that were underway in training and ministry across the prov- told: “You saved my life”. ince, including changes to Licensed Lay Ministry broadening from Lay The same pressures of poverty Readership. and isolation can be found all too Further details of GB business and news are in Highlights available in often on the farm. Canon Eileen churches or online.

process takes and lessen the effect the Bishop agrees that this is the that this has on parishioners. course of action to be taken. Church Closure and Redundancy In future, when it is proposed Full details of the new policy The Churches & Pastoral Committee hopes its new policy will mitigate the effect church closure that a church should close, upon the are on the diocesan website, and has on parishioners agreement of the CPC, the prelimi- further clarification can be sought naries will have to be completed from your Archdeacon or the OBODY likes closing a the diocese, has voted to merge the cal, artistic and archaeological prior to the final closure date of Secretary to the CPC, Revd Canon Nchurch, no cleric wants to be dates of church closure and redun- significance of the building. the church, which will then also Paul Mackness. remembered as the person who dancy in order to help. • Faculty to remove items must become the date of redundancy if presided over the redundancy of At present, when a church be granted prior to redundancy a church building, but sadly this ceases to be open for worship, so that items are legally trans- happens. Often our buildings there is a ‘closure’ date prior to ferred to another building or become too expensive to maintain, the Bishop declaring redundancy sold. occasionally the buildings them- on the building. However, before • What will happen to the selves fail as their fabric comes to redundancy can be declared a churchyard – who will take its natural end. Sometimes there number of legal preliminaries in the responsibility for its upkeep? aren’t the people any more to constitution need to be completed. Currently, if all of the time worship in, and run, the building. • The views of the incumbent, limits are adhered to, the prelimi- Closing a church is, for many, like churchwardens and PCC as naries can be completed within 3 the loss of a loved one or old friend to possible future uses for the to 6 months. However we have had and many have family connections closed building. cases of the process taking up to 3 that go back generations. How do • A report from the Representa- years. we, as a diocese, seek to make this tive Body over ownership of The closure and redundancy of process as painless as possible? the building and any covenants a church is always an emotional The Churches and Pasto- or reverters. and sad experience for those ral Committee (CPC), which has • A detailed report from the involved and, by merging closure responsibility for administering Diocesan Advisory Committee and redundancy dates, the CPC the redundant churches process for on the architectural, histori- hopes to shorten the time that the Pobl Dewi, December 2015 3 Good housekeeping Nicholas Griffin, the new Acting Chairman of the Diocesan Board of Finance, looks forward to the challenges ahead S I begin a period as Acting AChairman of the Diocesan Board of Finance (DBF), follow- ing the recent resignation of Peter Campbell, I feel I should introduce myself to you. I have been a member of the DBF for several years and was elected Vice-Chairman earlier this year. I have had a home in West Wales for 45 years and have been Head Teacher of a Voluntary the Ministry Share, which means Aided Primary School with Nurs- that all churches have the opportu- ery in Barnet, North London. I am nity to contribute to the finances of a Churchwarden and trustee of the diocese; there is some invest- several charities. ment income and a similar amount God is calling you I am reminded of Mr Micawber’s from other fund-raising sources. famous recipe for happiness. Annual The expenditure of the diocese income £20, annual expenditure £19 falls into five areas. The biggest 19s. 6d. result happiness. Annual outlay is support for ministry. This This series of filmed interviews reflecting the enormous variety of ministry income £20, annual expenditure £20 is mainly spent on clergy stipends in our diocese, both lay and ordained, is being rolled out on the website at 0s. 6d., result misery. The responsi- and pensions. Some money is spent http://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/ministry/ bility for the income and expenditure on providing support for parishes, of this diocese rests with the DBF. I grants for specific purposes and the VER the past few months, If you have an inkling that God place. The filmed interviews are in am, indeed, fortunate that those who maintenance of church properties Othe Communications, Minis- may be calling you, or even if you Welsh, English or a combination of have been in charge of the finances – mainly clergy housing which we try and Lay Development Teams have no such feeling, we encourage both languages, as appropriate. in recent years have managed to are committed to improving and, have worked together to deliver you to visit the website and watch In the words of Isaiah: And I turn them around from their previ- importantly, increasing their energy this project online. It has devel- some, if not all, of the short videos. heard the voice of the Lord saying, ous parlous state into today’s much efficiency. oped from an almost throw-away The interviewees, both lay and “Whom shall I send, and who will healthier position. During my period in office, I statement at a committee meet- ordained, are frequently startlingly go for us?” Then I said “Here I The income for St Davids comes look forward to the numerous chal- ing into an exciting and innovative honest and many are reassuring in am! Send me.” (Is 6:8, ESV) How from four main areas: the Block lenges that lie ahead and I hope to venture, which has taken on a life that they were unsure of, or resist- do we respond? Grant from the Representative meet many of you in the coming of its own. ant to, their calling in the first Body, which will, unfortunately, years. decrease over the next few years; Mae Duw yn dy alw di Y mae’r gyfres hon o gyfweliadau a ffilmiwyd sy’n adlewyrchu’r amrywiaeth enfawr o Ministry fees weinidogaethu yn ein hesgobaeth, yn lleygwyr ac yn ordeinedig, yn cael ei roi ar y gwefan ar The summer edition of Pobl Dewi included a report from the http://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/ministry/ June meeting of the Governing Body of the Church in Wales. At that meeting GB rejected the recommendation of the Church ROS y misoedd diwethaf, y in Wales Review that, as weddings and funerals are an integral Dmae’r timoedd Cyfathrebu, part of a parish priest’s ministry, no fee should be retained by the Gweinidogaethu a Datblygu Lleyg wedi bod yn cyd-weithio cleric in addition to the stipend. Roose Deanery’s disappointment i gyflwyno’r prosiect hwn on hearing this has prompted this article ar-lein. Fe ddatblygodd o fod HE sole reason given for the current system of fees unhelpfully yn sylw wrth fynd heibio mewn

obaith God is calling you eithrin G rejection was that without distorts ministry and is detrimental cyfarfod pwyllgor i fod yn fenter M Hope T Growing funeral and wedding fees topping to the church’s mission. gyfnewidiol cyffrous, sydd wedi up the stipend, some clergy would 1. It is wrong that some ministry cymeryd arni fywyd newydd. be left with insufficient income. If should come with a fee while Os oes gennych unrhyw syniad that is the case, the Church in Wales other ministry doesn’t (this y gallai Duw fod yn eich galw, neu Mae Duw yn dy alw di needs to look seriously at what level applies to both stipendiary and hyd yn oed os nad oes gennych of stipend is necessary and also at non-stipendiary clergy) y teimlad hwnnw, yr ydym yn means of helping any clergy whose 2. It can create ill feeling within eich annog i ymweld â’n gwefan particular circumstances make ministry teams a gwylio rhai, os nad y cwbl, o’r finances especially tight, such as 3. It can create mistrust between fideos byr. Y mae’r rhai sy’n cael the cleric who is a single parent incumbents and retired clergy eu cyfweld, yn lleygwyr ac yn rhai with a number of children. Roose 4. It channels clergy towards a a ordeiniwyd, yn aml yn frawychus Deanery would suggest considera- more pastoral role, rather than o onest ac y mae llawer yn ein tion be given to the establishment allowing them to take a more sicrhau iddynt fod yn ansicr, neu’n of a hardship fund for these excep- strategic stand (in the realms of wrthwynebus, i’w galwedigaeth yn tional circumstances. leadership and evangelism, for y lle cyntaf. Y mae’r cyfweliadau yn However, the need to address any example) y Gymraeg, Saesneg neu gyfuniad individual cases of clergy poverty is We would like to explore some o’r ddwy iaith, fel bo’n addas. no reason for keeping the current way in which the parish itself could Yng ngeiriau Eseia: Yna system where stipendiary clergy receive some of the ministry fee. clywais yr Arglwydd yn dweud, Who? Me? keep funeral and wedding fees. At Parishes with a particular funeral “Pwy a anfonaf? Pwy a â £80 and £180 respectively, a vicar or wedding ministry (and some drosom ni?” “Atebais innau Pwy? Fi? with 20 funerals and five weddings a might have a hundred such services Dyma fi, anfon fi” (Eseia 6:8) year adds substantially to a £23,000 in a year) would then be better able Sut fyddwn ni’n ymateb? stipend. Some clergy will have more to train and equip teams not only to than twice this number of weddings take the services but to deliver the The poster was distributed at and funerals, others half as many. pastoral care around them that we the Diocesan Conference, and Roose Deanery Chapter decided to surely want to provide. additional posters are available from write to express the opinion that the the Diocesan Office http://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/ministry 4 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 Following in St David’s footsteps

Jeffreyston w Reynoldston Spittal w Treffgarne & St Dogwells & Loveston & Lawrenny

The Journey continues . . . Bishop Wyn’s three-year journey visiting every parish – and every church – is now into its fi nal 12 months The Little Fishes welcome the Bishop to Spittal So far he has been to 196 of the 328 Bishop Wyn meets Beryl Lloyd, who, at 92, is the oldest member churches during 51 of the congregation at St Brynach’s, Pontfaen. separate visits The plan for 2016 is to reach the remaining 132, ending Letterston, Puncheston at the cathedral in & Little Newcastle September Follow the Bishop’s footsteps by visiting his Travelblog on the diocesan website Here’s the link www.followingstdavids- footsteps.com Young musicians Molly Moore and Eliza Bradbury entertained the Bishop in Treff garne church Prendergast & Rudbaxton

Admiring artwork at Ger y Llan with head teacher Elin Evans

Meeting church offi cers at St Mary’s, Puncheston On tour at Ysgol Ger y Llan Sampling parishioner Terry Francis’ vintage tractor collection Pobl Dewi, December 2015 5 Llangadog & Gwynfe w Llandeusant Manorbier & St Florence

Swearing-in of a new PCC

Roger weaves at Coleg Elidyr (part of the Camphill Community)

The Monday Club lead a service of New Beginnings in St Florence Church Llanerchaeron Group

Music session at Coleg Elidyr Haverfordwest United Parish

Revd Eileen meets Revd Irene

‘I can do it!’ – Bishop Wyn with pupils at Haverfordwest VC School At Fron Fedw Farm, Ciliau Aeron, with some prize British Blondes 6 Pobl Dewi, December 2015

Appointments Ordinations

Revd Christopher Brown Revd Sian Wight Priest in Charge, Fishguard w Ven Dennis Wight Archdeacon of St Davids, appointed Associate Priest Llanychar & Pontfaen w Morfi l within the Deanery of & Llanychlwydog, to serve Diocesan Director of Ministry & Diocesan Warden of Daugleddau, also as Acting Area Dean of 8 December 2015 Dewisland & Fishguard, Ordinands, appointed also to 1 September 2015 serve as Priest in Charge of Wiston & Walton East, 8 December 2015 Revd Christopher Frost was ordained Deacon at St Mary’s, Cardigan, on 15th September. He will serve as Assistant Curate in the Cardigan Grou p

Revd Robert Lewis ordained Priest at St Caradog’s, Lawrenny, on 29th November, to serve as Revd Marcus Zipperlen Assistant Curate, NSM(L), in appointed Priest-in-Charge of the Benefi ce of Jeff reyston Llangwm and Freystrop and Revd Mark Ansell with Reynoldston and Johnston, Loveston and Martletwy with Revd Delyth Richards Assistant Curate, Henfynyw 27 January 2016 Lawrenny and Yerbeston appointed NS Associate with Aberaeron and Priest, Carmarthen St David, Llanddewi Aberarth with 1 October 2015 Llanbadarn Trefeglwys; to serve also as Secretary of Licensing at St Lleian’s the Diocesan Directorate for Ministry, 1 October 2015

Revd Canon Revd Andy Herrick Leigh Richardson Ven Roger Hughes appointed Priest-in-Charge Priest-in-Charge, St Peter’s Archdeacon; appointed of the Grouped Parish of Carmarthen and Abergwili Transitional Minister of the Lampeter w Maestir & Silian and Capel y Groes, to serve St Lleian’s Church, Gorslas, was fi lled to overfl owing on the United Parish of Llanelli, & Llangybi & Betws Bledrws, also as Diocesan Warden of evening of 17th September for the licensing of Revd Victoria 1 November 2015 16 December 2015 Ordinands, 1 October 2015 Jones, the new Priest in Charge of the Grouped Parish of Gorslas with Cross Hands, Llanedi, Tycroes and Saron. In his offi cial welcome to the congregation, Ven Roger Hughes, Archdeacon of Carmarthen, said how pleasing it was to end the churches’ interregnum and to introduce Victoria as a FINAL COPY DATE new ambassador for the area. A large representation from her old parish attended whilst selected members of her new group for the March edition of conveyed their best wishes for a long and happy ministry. Pobl Dewi Following the service sumptuous refreshments were consumed in St Lleian’s Church Hall when everyone had an 5th February 2016 opportunity to meet and individually welcome Victoria to the parish Pobl Dewi, December 2015 7 Growing Hope Growing Hope

obaith eithrin G M Hope Growing Locally grown The Cardigan group of churches is working on a set of agreed priorities to encourage growth. John Bennett explains EADING Your Church Into Hope’ issues, so what better way to of welcome, encouraging evange- December and January. The course a pastoral team to cover the pasto- LGrowth (LyCiG) was origi- use this day than to start the LyCiG lism and discipleship, and worship. also includes sessions for the lead- ral needs of our churches, making nally developed as a course for Local course. The course has six In Cardigan we did the fi rst three ership team to review what has more of the pastoral opportunities clergy. They would get together to sessions which include looking at sessions on a Saturday in Octo- been discussed and suggested. off ered by baptisms and funerals. identify the things limiting growth our desire for growth, how we plan ber 2014 and then the other three During the sessions we looked 3. Welcome: developing a and the things that would encour- for growth, developing a culture as evening sessions in November, at the strengths and weaknesses of culture of welcome and a welcome age growth in their churches. The our churches and considered what team, improving practical aspects course worked up to a point, but we may need to put in place to including signage and disability the problem was how would this encourage growth. Many important access. insight and enthusiasm be passed issues were raised and good sugges- We have made some progress onto their congregations? Enter tions were put forward, but what in each of these areas which has LyCiG ‘Local’. As the name we needed was ‘God Ideas’ and not included training in aspects of lead- implies, this is a course is run in just good ideas. Through prayer and ing worship and welcome, forming the local church. discussion the leadership team iden- a new house group, improving disa- In July 2014 some 80 clergy tifi ed three priorities for us to focus bled access. We are shortly to hold and lay leaders from the diocese on during the next 2-3 years: a session on Pastoral Care from attended a LyCiG Local training 1. Discipleship: developing which we plan to form a pastoral course in Aberystwyth to give them confi dence in what we believe as team. We clearly have a long way confi dence to run the course in their Christians, developing our spirit- to go, but we have made a start and home churches. In the Cardigan ual lives, sharing our faith, serving believe that, by God’s grace, he group we had already set aside a God in the church and community. will bring about the growth that we day for thinking through ‘Growing 2. Pastoral Care: developing pray for and long for.

opportunities are limited. We often fi nd excuses for not venturing forth Confi rmations at Milford Haven but where there is a will there is a WAY. Messy Church is an excel- lent means of reaching the whole family and at its core is the fl exibil- ity to allow God space to grow His Church as He wants to. We need to encourage each other to experi- ment, to be innovative and to take opportunities while remembering that it is a way of being Church for Listening and responding . . . all, involving fun but, at the same . . . to God and the community has sown seeds of hope in an time, being a means of encounter- unusual setting. Delyth Wilson is encouraged ing Jesus as Lord and Saviour. The Llansawel Messy Church ake us to be the light in the diocesan prayer for growth at the Market evolved from the “Myour world and equip us and which should be familiar to desire to show to the community to be partners in your mission so all. Helping people fi nd their way that the Church was there for them. that others will fi nd their way to can be challenging, especially in The Llansawel Farmers Market is The Parish of Milford Haven was thrilled to welcome the Bishop you. Amen” – words which end a rural setting where facilities and held on every third Saturday in the to celebrate Mass and to administer the sacraments of Baptism month. There are stallholders sell- ing locally-produced goods and and Confi rmation on Sunday, 27th September. Over 170 people an area where refreshments can were present to witness six candidates being confi rmed from the be purchased. We were given a parish, together with one candidate each from the parishes of table to promote the church and we Narberth and St Dogmaels, respectively. Commenting on the initially thought that selling Traid- service, Fr Harri Williams, Vicar of Milford Haven, said: ‘It is a craft items, Plant Dewi Christmas great joy to have presented candidates for confi rmation for the cards and children’s books would third year in a row. The service was tremendously uplifting and be the thing to do. As the weeks we continue to thank God for our growth in faith and in number’ progressed, I slowly realised that the children and parents would come to our corner to colour, play many Messy Church groups are as ing our Christingle Messy Church games and have a chat. As lovely families arrive at any time during in the Market, the church was full as that was, it became clear that we the morning; stallholders and shop- for our Christingle service. This is were missing an opportunity. pers are intrigued an d often fi nd another challenge, however, which Therefore, in the middle of the themselves drawn to our corner. may involve a change of approach hustle and bustle, families gather We are now into our second as Messy Church in the Market to enjoy activities, usually based year and hope and pray that fami- evolves – who knows. We need to on the following Sunday’s reading lies will attend church on a more be open to God as we grow in hope. or theme. It is not as structured as regular basis. Last year follow- 8 Pobl Dewi, December 2015

and churchwardens was always invited to meet and interview accessible, making it a positive our new incumbent, Revd Diana How did we cope with experience. Hoare, the Archdeacon and Area During the interregnum our Dean were supportive and offered rectory underwent extensive build- guidance. The only negative part an interregnum? ing work which was all overseen was that we were not allowed to by for us by Cardiff, and meant confirm the appointment to the Nicola Davies from the Havens Beacon Churches, near Haverfordwest, considers this that, as churchwardens, we were parishioners until very close to question following the appointment of their new Priest-in-Charge fortunate enough not to have to get the licensing date, this was very the paint brushes out! difficult especially once inevitable T was with a feeling of relief that their memories of such times when from the three churches attended. When the time came to be rumours started circulating. Iwe welcomed our new Priest- the loss of the clergy had indeed This was a very positive step in-Charge in August this year. We been like losing the “leader”. which immediately provided the appreciate that we had only been Perhaps we had been fortunate feeling that we could, collectively, without an incumbent for seven that, in recent years, it had become get through this time and, in fact, months and had been extremely evident that the churchgoers would resulted in the response of a more well provided for in our spiritual have to accept that the continuation positive connection between our needs during that time. This situa- of worshipping in our small rural parishes. We were very fortu- tion had not arisen in our parishes parishes would only be maintained nate in that two retired clergy, for 15 years and so, for some of the if the congregation took on more Revd Michael Ryall and Canon churchwardens, it was expected to of the active roles in the everyday John Davies, were appointed to be a disconcerting experience and running of the churches. provide regular worship – their responsibility. From the onset we had been help and support was very much In hindsight, the period of assured that the interregnum would appreciated. interregnum was not the negative be kept to a short time, which Guidance and assistance in experience that some of the parish- proved accurate. Our Area Dean any administration duties was ioners had predicted. Perhaps initiated and chaired regular meet- always on hand and communica- previous experiences had soured ings to which the churchwardens tion between the Area Dean, clergy

they wanted healing. To start things Healing people, off, others in the team prayed for each other with up to four kneeling around each chair where the person changing lives was seated. About a dozen townspeople On a cold Saturday in late November, the founding leader of the received prayer and one young ‘Healing on the Streets’ ministry Mark Marx based in Coleraine, man gave his life to Christ there Northern Ireland, led a training day in St Michael’s Church, and then, praying a prayer of commitment. Aberystwyth. Richard Stagg reports In the ten years of this ministry FTER starting the day with Do’s and Don’ts on how to behave. in Coleraine they have seen over Aworship, the morning and Then the fun really began. 5,000 come to Christ, changing early afternoon was spent looking Mark was going to give us a prac- the atmosphere of the whole town. at God’s promises about healing tical demonstration. He asked if One policeman, knowing their past in the Bible and was interspersed anyone had back pain caused by lives, was seen weeping over so with amazing stories of the healing one leg being longer than the other. many ex-offenders now part of the that Mark has witnessed as he has A delegate with this condition came Church. ministered ‘Healing on the Streets’ forward and sat on a chair while we eyes, in a matter of seconds, it did together asking for God’s presence It is our intention to continue around the world. gathered around. Mark supported precisely that! Our God is amazing! to be manifest to bless and heal the taking Church into the community We looked at how Jesus com- his feet and a difference of between Fuelled with enthusiasm and people of the town. in this way every Saturday. This is manded healing and how He taught 1 and 2 inches was clearly visible. increased faith we went out onto We approached passers-by, also being planned in other parts of and sent out His disciples to pray Because our delegate was already the streets of Aberystwyth in the handing out flyers and asking if the diocese. with authority in His name. We very tall, Mark commanded the rain and set up four chairs and a were given practical training on longer leg to shrink to the length banner. We all knelt down on the how to approach people and some of the shorter one and before our pavement and prayed out loud All-Wales Ploughing Championships

St Mary’s Church, Carew, was packed for a service of blessing on the eve of this year’s All-Wales Ploughing Championships, held in neighbouring Cosheston, near Pembroke Dock, in September. The ceremonial blessing of the plough fell to Revd Carolyn Wood – a first for her, she confessed. But it wasn’t harrowing in the slightest. “May your servants bring fruit from the earth, that Your people may be fed, and ploughmen and people rejoice in Your bounty.” Pobl Dewi, December 2015 9 Cursillo On 27th October, Bishop Wyn installed Revd David Payne as the new Spiritual Director of Cursillo St Davids at a short service in the chapel at Llys Esgob, Abergwili PEAKING of his appointment, David said: “Over the years Cursillo Shas helped many people unlock their potential to work and witness to their faith; as a result many have been called to ordination. As I take up my new role I pray for God’s guidance and blessing to continue this work and build on the foundations of my predecessors.” Cursillo meetings are open to all and dates for 2016 are as follows: Sat 16th January Ultreya! Hubberston, 10 for 10.30 WHAT’S ON AT Sat 19th March Ultreya! Aberystwyth Llanbadarn Fawr Church Hall, 10 for 10.30 Sat 16th April Ultreya! Swansea & Brecon ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL . . . Gorseinon – St Catharine’s Church Hall, 10 for 10.30 Friday 11 December 6pm Ysgol Bro Dewi Nativity and Concert 12th-15th May Cursillo Weekend – Llangasty Retreat Centre Saturday 12 December 7.30pm Dyfed Choir Christmas Concert Sat 4th June Welcome home & Ultreya! Sunday 13 December 6pm Choral Vespers with ‘A Ceremony of Carols’ Cardigan – St Mary’s Old School Hall, 10 for 10.30 by Benjamin Britten Sat 23rd July Ultreya! – Dafen Church Hall, 10 for 10.30 Sat 20th August Ultreya! Swansea & Brecon Tuesday 15 December 2.00pm Ysgol Dewi Sant Carol Service Gorseinon – St Catharine’s Church Hall, & 7.30pm 10 for 10.30 Friday 18 December 5pm Children’s Crib Service with Carols Sat 3rd September National Ultreya! York Cathedral Sat 15th October AGM – Tŷ’r Pererin, St Davids, 10 for 10.30 Tuesday 22 December 7pm Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols Sat 3rd December Ultreya! –Llansteff an Church Hall, 10 for 10.30 11pm First Eucharist of Christmas, procession and Thursday 24 December For more information e-mail Hazel Burn – [email protected] blessing of the crib Friday 25 December 8am Eucharist 9.30am Bilingual Family Eucharist 11.15am Choral Mattins Sunday 27 December 8am Eucharist 10.30am Parish Eucharist with Carols 4pm Carols and readings at the Crib 2016 Friday 1 January 2.15pm John S Davies Singers Concert Sunday 10 January 6pm Epiphany Procession and Carols Saturday 16 January 7.30pm Organ recital by Simon Pearce “Music for Christmas & Epiphany” Sunday 7 February 6pm Candlemass procession and Vesper Friday 22 January 10am - 4pm Retreat Day in Tŷ’r Pererin “Just as I am” led by Lindy Marriott St Davids Cathedral & Tŷ’r Pererin beginning with coff ee at 10am. Lunch break 12-1 (please bring a packed lunch or arrange to eat in St Davids) All welcome, we invite a contribution of £5 per person to cover the costs of the day Wednesday 17 February 12 noon Informal Concert “Song Cycle” Sunday 28 February – Patronal Festival – St David’s Day 11.15am Choral Eucharist 6pm Stations of St David Tuesday 1 March 10am Schools Service 11.15am Pilgrim’s walk beginning at St Non’s Well 12noon Blessing of the City on Cross Square 12.30pm Prayers and readings at the Shrine 6pm Choral Eucharist for St David’s Day Friday 4 March 10am - 4pm Retreat Day in Tŷ’r Pererin St David the Waterman led by Ted Harrison Ted is a writer, artist, broadcaster and theologian. He has kindly agreed to lead a retreat day about his latest project painting Holy Wells with water from the wells themselves and the connection with David, the waterman beginning with coff ee at 10am. Lunch break 12-1 (please bring a packed lunch or arrange to eat in St Davids) All welcome, we invite a contribution of £5 per person to cover the costs of the day

For further information about the above services and events please contact the Deanery Offi ce on 01437 720202 or email [email protected] See our website www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk For more information please call 01437 720202, Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter or e-mail [email protected] 10 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 Focus on an ethical Christmas The gift that goes on giving In 2009 Tessa Briggs was given a voucher to spend with Kiva, an organisation which provides loans to those who do not have access to traditional banking systems IKE many readers of Pobl groups or individuals; the services LDewi, I suspect, I had never which borrowers off er; the coun- heard of Kiva, which is a tries where they live and work. US-based, not-for-profi t organisa- This will reduce the options to a tion whose mission is to connect manageable level. people, through lending, to alle- Past loans I have made include Not just for C hristmas viate poverty. Working with dairy products and bakery busi- microfi nance institutions on fi ve the loan offi cers will travel to the nesses in Tajikistan, a peanut butter Teifi Pastors, an ecumenical project involving volunteers from continents, Kiva provides loans to borrower’s location, e.g. a rural business in Senegal, and Sarah, in fi ve diff erent churches and chapels in the Cardigan area, first people without access to traditional village, to collect repayments on a Kenya, who wanted to buy more went on to the streets on 3 April 2010. Alan Kent highlights the banking systems. 100% of the regular basis. chickens so that she could sell more importance of the team’s work amount lent goes directly towards Since 2005, Kiva has accu- eggs. Although my preference is to funding loans; Kiva does not take mulated 1,341,772 lenders, lend to individuals, I have also lent E have not missed a single a hen, stag or birthday party, but, a cut nor does it charge interest administered $761,340,175 in to a community banking group in WSaturday since we began. whatever their need, we always try to Field Partners, as it is primar- loans with a 98.59% repayment Bolivia. We have also been out on the to assist. We hand out lollipops, fl ip ily funded through lenders making rate (statistics as at October 2015). My original gift, which has annual Fair Night and the last fl ops, cold water, and, more often optional donations. On Kiva’s website you will given me immense pleasure, has Friday before Christmas, ‘Black than not, just a listening ear. Field Partners are responsible fi nd all the information needed to always been repaid in full and Friday’, usually at the request of However, not everybody is out for the administration, disburse- understand the process of lending on time – the latest repayment I the Town Council. We provide for a good time, there are a few ment and collection of loans at a but, basically, you can read through received, on time, was 84 cents. one walking team that stays out regulars who visit us – the lonely, local level. They typically target hundreds of stories of individuals This will be credited to my Kiva until 2.30am, however, since the homeless, the widowed, the impoverished or marginalised areas or groups, in 83 countries around account ready to be re-lent. 2011, this has been augmented by grieving. These people do not to review applications and approve the world, and the reasons they All transactions are carried a caravan team which is out from go out so much to party, more to borrowers who demonstrate a need are asking for loans, then select out via Kiva’s website, with other 9pm-midnight. The caravan has simply meet other people and to for a loan and a reasonable like- the borrower off your choice, click information, such as repayment brought a whole new dimension to have some human contact. We see lihood of repayment. When you and lend. The range and extent is details, received by e-mail: our work and we now off er a warm, them walking up and down the lend, Kiva delivers the funds to the enormous and I would recommend www.kiva.org safe place for people to come and streets, not joining in, just being local Field Partner and, typically, selecting your own preferences: have a hot drink, and a quiet chat. out. In 2013 we received an award Christmas can be a very lonely from Dyfed Powys Police in recog- time of year. I remember one nition of our work, which included Christmas Eve going straight from increased public confi dence, Midnight Mass on to the streets, it “I don’t want to be a kangaroo . . . ” support and safety. There was one was freezing, with only one pub memorable instance where one of bothering to open as most people A Christmas refl ection from the heart of a child our team jumped into the river to were spending the night with fami- Y teacher said we had to be – she’s two. She’d like it. She can’t family – I think that’s what it’s save a drowning man; that young lies. Yet still we stopped and talked Man animal with a baby in the come to Dad’s when he fetches me called – for Christmas. He said he man often comes to the caravan to to those who felt the need to be out; Christmas story. When I texted my in his big car. He says she needs can’t always give people what they thank us for our eff orts that even- if they are out, then we make sure Dad he said I should be an angel, Mum. Anyway, he’s got a baby want. He blew his nose and wiped ing. I once heard him remark to we are out as well. but my Mum said that’s daft, now. That’s daft because the lady his eyes and gave me a present. a visitor “Oh them, they are our There is a saying, ‘A dog is for because I’m no angel. So I said, – she’s not my Mum – could look Gran sniff ed too. Pastors, they look after us”. The life, not just for Christmas’, perhaps “why can’t I be a cat because then I after the baby. I like Gran and I know the baby Jesus was with majority of the people we care for we should have another saying could hold a fl uff y kitten, ’cos I’ve Grandpa being there at Christmas. his Mum and Dad that Christmas; are those out partying; it may be ‘Lonely, not just at Christmas’. got one.” Gran took me to see Father Christ- so was I when I was little. I wonder It’s Dad’s turn to have me; my mas; in the stable I think it was. It if they stayed together – that holy Mum had me last year. Dad asked had lights round it. I don’t think he family. Who does Jesus spend me what I wanted. He told me to was a real one because when I said Christmas with? look in Mum’s big shop book and what I wanted for Christmas I said Andrea Martineau text him the number. I’d like an I’d like to be together as a whole i Pad; I know Mum can’t buy me one. She says “ask your Dad”. I haven’t bought him a present because Mum says he’s got every- thing. Last year in the play I was a wise person. Mum said “that’s daft too”. I had her best tea towel round my head, with Gran’s best brooch to fasten it. I carried a gold box to give to the baby. That gave me an idea so I got Mum some chocolates just the same. I don’t know if I like having two Christmases. I never know which I like best. Mum hasn’t got a tree because I’m not there. I told her she should because Melissa is Pobl Dewi, December 2015 11 DIY Christmas David Hammond-Williams recalls happy times preparing for a child’s Christmas in Wales ACK in the day, the anticipa- Using carefully recycled wrap- paper on the outside, tissue paper Btion of Christmas was almost . ping paper from the year before, two on the inside. Tissue paper and, . . almost . . . as exciting as the holi- pairs of small hands (and one rather of course, those little chocolate day itself. Exciting, and rewarding larger one) would get to work. delicacies. when it came to a bit of seasonal The best bit was shaping the Care was taken to ensure each Dad time. chocolate mixture into neat shapes lucky recipient got at least several Mum was in there too, of – some cubes, some balls, some of their favourites. “No, Daddy, course. Being a bit of a whizz in squares – to be carefully inserted Auntie ‘x’ likes these ones best, not the kitchen, her role was to rustle into those little paper cases. This, those!” up a mouth-watering bucketful of clearly, required a degree of dexter- The eff ect was always magical. choccy heaven. Ours was to turn its ity that only small fi ngers can “Did you make these yourselves? contents into presents for friends supply. They’re delicious” was the general and family. No matter that almost as much response, eliciting beaming smiles For several months ahead of mixture ended up around mouths – on small faces and a glow of paren- this escapade, we would collect as quality control is essential at times tal pride. many small boxes as we could. like this! Today, those once-tiny fi ngers Then, early in December, the Now for the paper. Dad has the have grown and have tiny fi ngers air redolent with scrumptious scissors, the kids have glue sticks. of their own to nurture and cocoa cookery smells – and with Gradually, each of those little develop. And the tradition lives on various little fruity bits to hand – boxes is transformed into a brightly as – hopefully – I will discover in a the fun would start. coloured treasure chest; Christmas few weeks’ time. Happy days! Twelve ways to an Eco Christmas

Let’s all fi nd ways to celebrate without causing too much damage to the environment, fellow humans and planet, exhorts Tamara Morris, Facilities and Events Manager at Denmark Farm Conservation Centre, near Lampeter

S an antidote to some of the December. Dress it up with Eco Lodge at Denmark Amore commercial and not-so- home-made decorations, dried Farm during early and mid- We’re here to help green festive practices I’d like to fruits, spices, chillies and December. Make a weekend share our top 12 ways for a greener sparkly stuff then wake up to of it – shop by day and drop by Dewis Centre for Independent Living off ers advocacy support Christmas. the fresh smell of pine, bay night in front of a blazing wood across Pembrokeshire for carers, older people, adults with 1. Recycle, reuse, repurpose and leaves, cinnamon and oranges fi re. physical disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health reduce use; make gift tags from each morning. 11. Feed the birds; as nature’s conditions, as well as those with long term illnesses or sensory old cards; carefully remove gift 8. Make a well thought-out supplies start to run low, don’t impairments, enabling us to reach out to a wide range of adults wrap and fold it to use again; shopping list before you go forget to start feeding the across the county use old jam jars, dressed up shopping and stick to it so that birds. Get some helpful advice with ribbon, fi lled with home- you don’t get seduced by all from the RSPB or your local NE of our Independent Advo- • ‘GLOW’ Pembrokeshire made preserves as presents the festive marketing and end Wildlife Trust. Ocates will help you deal with, – Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and many other simple ideas to up with far more food than you 12. After all the festivities are over, and work through, issues in your transgender friends and save resources. actually need. why not come to Denmark life. They will not give you opin- family group: Pembroke 2. Shop locally: support local 9. If you are a small family, Farm for a peaceful walk on ions but will support you to make 21C, Thursdays 3.30 - 5pm. businesses, producers, crafts- consider buying something Boxing Day? Trails open dawn informed choices and stand up for Additionally, we are always people and events. smaller than a turkey for your to dusk, no charge. your rights. An advocate can attend looking for Volunteer Citizen Advo- 3. Don’t forget to scour all the Christmas dinner. Avoid wast- [email protected] meetings with you, or on your cates to off er a few hours a month, local second-hand and char- ing food by re-using leftovers www.denmarkfarm.org.uk behalf, and assist with paperwork one-to-one, supporting vulner- ity shops for some unique creatively. Tel: 01570 493358 or other aspects relating to your able and isolated people across treasures which you can wrap 10. If it all gets too much for you follow us on Facebook. issue. We work independently and Pembrokeshire to engage with the up with something sparkly to we have availability in our cosy objectively, off ering a confi dential community and access support transform into a truly special service. The issues we support are where it is needed. We provide all gift. as broad as the range of people we volunteers with on-going training, 4. If you can’t fi nd what you are assist so if you feel we could help support and expenses to ensure they looking for locally and need simply call to ask what help we can feel confi dent and able to support to shop online, please sign up off er. the person they are matched with. to www.giveasyoulive.com and Focused We welcome enquiries from nominate ‘Shared Earth Trust’ We also encourage self-led and people who feel that a Citizen as your charity. At absolutely peer advocacy. Supported by the Advocate could help them; this no cost to you, many companies Advocacy Facilitation Offi cer you could be for many reasons, such as will give a donation to support can take forward issues either a change in your life or loss of a our conservation work here at by yourself, leading a campaign loved o ne. Citizen Advocates can Denmark Farm whenever you or setting up a group with others come to your home or meet you make an online purchase. facing similar situations. This is somewhere you are comfortable 5. For something completely diff er- focused on empowering individu- and assist you to take steps forward ent, buy a voucher for a course als to feel confi dent to shout out for eg fi nding out about groups or or workshop at Denmark Farm their rights and those of others. activities you might like to join, Conservation Centre as a gift for Our open sessions are for rebuild confi dence to access your a special friend. anyone who would like help or local or wider community or you 6. Send e-cards. Many charities advice, as follows: might just want to meet regularly such as Friends of the Earth • Drop in session: Fishguard for a chat. and OXFAM off er this service Town Hall, every 1st & 3rd Contact our Pembrokeshire which provides valuable Thursday 10am - 12pm. offi ce by phone on 01646 629123 income for their work as well • Mixed Social Group: Simp- or e-mail as saving trees. Driftwood Christmas Tree son Cross Community Centre, [email protected] 7. Bring greenery indoors during handmade by Pod Clare Community Artist Fridays 10am - 2pm. 12 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 A very special weekend On 6th September, Revd Gareth Reid and the members of St Cynllo’s Church, Llangynllo, hosted an Interfaith Act of Commemoration to celebrate their church’s long connection with the ancient Bronwydd Estate and the Lloyd family. Sarah Foster-Russell reports from a moving event

E were honoured to be be achieved when people of differ- Wjoined by three former ent faiths and cultures determine pupils of the Jewish Aryeh House to work together towards a better School in Brighton which, during understanding of God’s greater WWII and owing to the Nazi threat purpose for us all. hanging over Europe, was evacu- The church’s Records Officer ated to Bronwydd Mansion. and local historian Sue Wright then Revd Alan Greenbat OBE, presented a fascinating exhibition JP, although now technically which included previously unseen retired, remains an active Honor- material relating to the Jewish ary Consultant in the Office of the Aryeh House School and its relo- Chief Rabbi and was awarded the cation to Bronwydd. Former pupils OBE for services to interfaith and and contemporaries who could not young people. attend provided us with their own Mark Negin has worked as stories and childhood recollections. Revd Alan Greenbat,OBE, JP an artist and renowned theatre We ended with a sumptuous buffet designer all his life. In retirement he Chapel at Henllan. in evening sunshine looking across illuminates manuscripts and paints: The weekend culminated in the valley to Bronwydd. his illustrations of the Hebrew text what can only be described as Thanks go to all those who took of The Scroll of the Book of Esther, an extremely moving as well as part but, most of all, our sincere the Megillat Esther, have been ‘groundbreaking’ Act of Commem- thanks and overwhelming respect exhibited at the British Library. oration and Thanksgiving. The must go to Revd Alan Greenbat, Completing this trio of ‘old’ interfaith service was specially Mark Negin and Suzanne Belson, Aryeh House School pupils was written by Revd Gareth Reid and without whom none of the above Suzanne Belson who travelled all Revd Alan Greenbat working would have been possible. the way from Montreal for this very together. The sight and sound of the A longer version of this article, special occasion. She presented the three clergymen standing together together with a letter of appre- Vicar and churchwardens with a each reciting the words of Numbers ciation about the service from a watercolour of Bronwydd, painted 6: 24-26 in Welsh, English and Non-Conformist Minister, can be for her by Mario Ferlito, the Ital- Hebrew clearly moved many of the found at http://stdavids.churchin- ian POW who also painted the specially invited congregation to wales.org.uk/pdextra/ wonderfully charismatic Catholic tears, and demonstrated what can Suzanne Belson and Mark Negin at the Bronwydd estate Stepping out of our comfort zone Dathlu canmlwyddiant On many occasions the best ideas come when we make space in our lives for God to speak, says Delyth Wilson after taking part in a successful event geni T Llew Jones HILE on holiday in France buy equipment for Pembrey-based Although there were difficulties Wthis year, a few weeks after charity Ski4All Wales. The charity, along the way, and torrential rain Tre-groes Church celebrates the centenary being ordained, I started pray- supported by the energetic owners jeopardised the day, it proved to be of the birth of T Llew Jones ing for God`s inspiration on how I of the venue Bethan and David a fantastic opportunity to evange- R ddydd Sul, 11 Hydref wardeniaid yr eglwys yn Nhre- could draw closer to the community Drinkall, along with co-organiser lise, engage with, and help, many Aroedd hi’n bleser o’r mwyaf groes. Daeth aelodau’r teulu in which I find myself serving as an Amanda Drury, provides adults people of all ages in a simple but cael agor drysau Eglwys Tre-groes ynghyd â llawer iawn o bobl Assistant Curate. On one particu- who have severe physical, visual sincere way. Friendships were yn y prynhawn a’r hwyr ar gyfer leol i fod yn rhan o’r dathlu ac i larly sultry afternoon, while sitting and neurological disabilities with formed and the church of Christ dathlu canmlwyddiant geni T ddiolch am gyfraniad ac athrylith and watching my grandsons swim, the opportunity to experience was seen to be there in the midst of Llew Jones. Roedd T Llew yn T Llew Jones ei hun. Rhaid God revealed one way I could start skiing and learn new skills as part the community. awdur llyfrau plant adnabyddus diolch i bawb a helpodd i wneud serving His people – by getting of their rehabilitation programme. I want to encourage everyone a phoblogaidd, yn brifardd, yn y digwyddiad yn arbennig ac involved with a local festival called I took God at His word, made reading this article to firstly pray for llenor ac yn brifathro, ond yn fwy unigryw a hynny yn enw`r eglwys. “The Big Cwtch”. WHAT? I confess contact with the Drinkalls and was guidance every step of the way and na dim yr oedd hefyd yn un o I had a brief “Jonah moment”. I overwhelmed by their encouraging be proactive in searching out ways couldn’t see how this would work response. They were thrilled that of engaging with the communities and whether the organisers, who the local church had approached in which we live. This may involve, I hadn’t met, would welcome any them. So, with the help of a couple as it did for me, stepping out of our input from me or the Church. of Llansawel Church faithful we comfort zone and trusting God in all “The Big Cwtch” is a unique set about organising the gazebo things – how exciting! festival, held in September in the and the equipment we needed. picturesque Glanyranell Park, near Llansawel, Carmarthenshire. Over 1,600 attended this year’s eclec- tic showcase of the best Welsh musical talent and the finest locally- produced food. Jodie Marie, Martyn Joseph, Kizzy Crawford, Drink More Water and The Noses were among the impressive mix of acts that appeared on stage. It is a family event, with pop-up restaurants and outdoor activities for the children in a safe environ- Final copy date for March Pobl Dewi is ment. The main reason for holding the festival is to raise money to 5th February Pobl Dewi, December 2015 13 Relevance in a culturally Gwasanaeth diverse society anifeiliad anwes Brenda Evans, the outgoing President of St Davids Mothers’ Union, refl ects on her On the Feast of St Francis, creatures great and small, term of offi ce and encourages members to consider their role in today’s world accompanied by well-behaved owners and friends, gathered at St David’ s Church, Capel Bangor, for the fi rst OW time fl ies! This triennial ain and Ireland, so this is where we main website home page). Please Family Pet Service and Blessing of Animals to be held at His almost at an end and as I should begin. note that once you click ‘Submit’ the church step down I thank everyone for We need to make it clearer what you will not be able to access the their support. makes us diff erent from other organ- survey again. It will remain live N y prynhawn ar Ŵyl Ffran- Lleol, y Barchg Heather Evans For many years we have talked isations. I can’t think of any other until 1st January 2016, after which Ysis o Assisi daeth creaduriaid adrodd hanes Ffransis a’r adar about, and looked at, Membership group that is a Christian, world- results will be analysed. mawr a mân ynghyd yn Eglwys ac fe wnaeth y Curad, y Parchg with questions such as: What is wide, membership-based organisa- We need to have confi dence Dewi Sant, Capel Bangor ar gyfer Lyn Lewis Dafi s, adrodd hanes membership? How we can become tion. We are meeting needs that are about who we are in Christ. We are y Gwasanaeth Anifeiliaid Anwes Ffransis a Blaidd dinas Gubbio. more eff ective? How can we culturally appropriate, all around the Church and MU provides an Teuluol a Bendithio’r Anifeiliaid Fe wnaeth gymharu hyn gyda’r encourage more people to become the world. We are inclusive; the opportunity to off er our gifts to the cyntaf i’w gynnal yn yr eglwys. chwedlau lleol am “Bwystfi l y part of this amazing organisa- work we do does not exclude whole Church. Knowing who we Cawsom ein bendithio â heul- Bont” gan gyfeirio yn gyson at tion? Why can’t we excite young anyone, anywhere. are in Christ gives us confi dence to wen hyfryd a olygodd ei bod Eliab, sbaniel bywiol Heather! members? Where are the members I believe we have to work hard off er our gifts. When members are hi’n bosib cynnal y gweithgared- Fe wnaeth pawb a ddaeth i’r of the future? to invest in relationships with the living out our aims and objectives, dau yn yr awyr agored. A’r gwasanaeth fwynhau gan ysgogi Attending Worldwide Coun- clergy, be open-minded: it’s a there is growth. canlyniad i hynny oedd llawer un o›r wardeniaid gynnig pleidlais cil recently, we focussed on our collaborative relationship. With every blessing as St o chwilfrydedd ymhlith y bobl o ddiolch a’r gobaith y byddai membership of Mothers’ Union Be fl exible in our structures – Davids MU moves forward under a oedd yn mynd heibio. gwasanaeth arall o’r fath yn cael (MU). Decline is greatest in Brit- MU is there to serve and fulfi l our the guidance of Revd Glenys Payne. Fe wnaeth y Gweinidog ei gynnal y fl wyddyn nesaf. objectives, not to fulfi l admin roles. We should explore alternatives to branches, eg Diocesan member- ship, MU social groups (prayer, lunch, updates and social events). We must do things in ways that suit us and our communities, in ways that help us engage and respond to modern life. As part of a larger consulta- tion project on what it means to be a member a survey aimed at MU members in Britain and Ireland has been launched http://bit.ly/1G5G0oa. We want as many to complete it as possible, the link can be shared easily, and the questions are simple Brenda Evans (the link is also found on our Revd Glenys Payne

Roger Clive-Powell, RIBA A Christmas Festival

VER the last 20 years, no-one which he saved and beautifi ed, and is being held at St Mary’s Church, Ohas done more to preserve the where his hugely attended funeral Burton, from Thursday 17th to Saturday historic churches of the diocese took place a week later. He was 19th December, 10am-4pm daily. The than architect Roger Clive-Powell also the highly respected Chair theme this year is ‘Christmas Carols’ and of Llanybydder, who sadly passed of the Cathedral Fabric Advisory each community organisation has been away on 5th October. Nearly 30 Committee and a member of the asked to depict their carol through, for churches benefi ted from his expert Diocesan Advisory Committee, so example, fl owers, art and craft. skill and dedication, above all we all owe him a debt of gratitude. We extend a warm welcome to all. his family church of Llanwenog, Tom Lloyd

A ‘Hymn and Flowers’ festival was held in St Mary’s, Begelly, from 27th to 31st August – it A new window had been scheduled to end on 30th but was extended on funding by a day due to the positive response and the generosity Looking for grants of those who visited. The to help with any kind festival included teddy bears of project? parachuting from the tower (always popular) and an Remember that Grantfi nder Evensong featuring the hymns searches can be carried out which were represented in for you by Dr N Ford the fl ower arrangements on contact the windowsills. Sponsored [email protected] pew posies and colourful 01646693452 arrangements decorated the rest of the church 14 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 Home-Start Reaching out through music Margaret Harrison, the founder and Life President of Home- On Friday 28th August, a beautiful late summer evening, an audience of 120 gathered Start died in August. The charity, launched in 1973, provides in Llanrhystud Church to hear a recital by the young and gifted organist Daniel Smith, help and support to 30,000 British families every year. Eluned aged 19. This was a performance from an outstanding talent, says Fenella Strange Rees, who lives in Ammanford, is a volunteer with Home-Start N a varied programme we were “Toccata and Fugue in D Minor” Abba melodies, and finally led the and encourages others, who don’t need any qualifications except Itreated to old favourites such as by J S Bach. Daniel’s performance audience in a spirited rendition of parental experience, to give a few hours every week Bach’s “Jesu joy of man’s desiring” explored to the full the varied Cwm Rhondda with everyone on RTH ymddeol o’m gyrfa and more modern items includ- nuances and moods of this thrill- their feet and singing at the tops of Wfel athrawes yn 2011, ing Daniel’s own improvisation on ing piece, ranging from boldly their voices. penderfynais fynd yn wirfoddolwr “Wishing you were somehow here dramatic to haunting staccato and This was followed by informal gyda Home-Start. Roedd chwe again” by A L Webber. reverberating majesty. chat, refreshments and an opportu- diwrnod o hyfforddiant, gan drafod The evening was introduced The concert concluded with nity for us all to thank Daniel, and sefyllfaoedd posibl a allai godi by the soloist’s father, Revd Julian tumultuous applause for the young to congratulate him, his teacher, gyda theuluoedd, a sut byddwn Smith, vicar of the parish. He musician, who further charmed his parents, his brother and his yn ymateb. Mae cyrsiau rheolaidd thanked us for coming, and paid his audience by insisting that his sister on an outstandingly success- i gynnig hyfforddiant pellach. tribute to his son for the dedication tutor, who had been page-turning ful evening. The concert raised Sefydlwyd Home-Start Daniel has shown in tackling the for him, came forward to share the the sum of £640 from ticket sales Dinefwr yn 1995, ac ers hynny ddim yn gwybod dim o’u hanes. challenge of learning to play the tribute. Daniel then returned to the and donations: all proceeds were cefnogwyd 1,433 o deuluoedd, Mae fy nau deulu ar hyn o organ. He reminded us that Daniel keyboard to tease his father with donated to Llanrhystud Church. a 2,808 o blant. Ond mae’r bryd yn lleol, un yn fam sengl has autism, and thanked Daniel’s gwirfoddolwyr yn cefnogi’r teulu sydd wedi mabwysiadu bachgen teacher, Menna Rhys Griffiths, cyfan ac yn ffrind iddyn nhw. bach, ac am gael sgwrs a for her role in the development of Mae’n rhaid bod yn wrandäwr, heb chyfeillgarwch yn ogystal â chyfle Daniel’s talent. feirniadu ond yn barod i roi barn i weithio yn y tŷ. Mae’r llall yn Daniel opened his recital with os yw’r rhiant yn gofyn. Mae’r fam i bedwar, o dan 5 oed, ac fe Handel’s rousing “Arrival of the gwirfoddolwyr fel arfer wedi awn i’r parc ac i’r ardd i chwarae Queen of Sheba”, and the audience magu plant eu hunain, ac maent o yn ogystal â chwarae fferm a was made immediately aware that bob oed ac yn wragedd a dynion. siop yn y tŷ. Rwyf fi wedi bod yn Daniel has an outstanding gift. As Hyd yn hyn rwyf fi wedi dywysoges, yn fabi, mami a dadi! the programme proceeded, Daniel cael saith teulu ac 14 o blant. Dim ond un teulu oedd exhibited not only his considerable Mae’r rhesymau dros ofyn am wedi penderfynu nad oeddent technical skill, but also his ability help yn gwahaniaethu – roedd am barhau. Gan amlaf, mae to reach out to the audience through un teulu lle’r oedd y fam yn aelodau’r teulu eu hunain, neu the music. His playing is confident dioddef o ganser, ac fe ai hi i’r ymwelydd iechyd, yn awgrymu and yet intensely personal, taking gwely am ddwy awr tra ’mod help Home-Start, ond yn yr his listeners with him through i’n chwarae gyda’r plant. Roedd achos hwn roedd gweithiwr pieces old and new in a shared dau deulu lle’r oedd 3 a 4 o blant cymdeithasol wedi cynnig fy help. experience that transcends the o dan dair oed – digon i’r fam Wedi cyfnod, a allai fod yn familiarity of well-known favour- i’w wneud tra ’mod i yno! fisoedd neu flynyddoedd, mae ites. The climax of the programme Fel cyn-athrawes iaith fe aelodau’r teulu eu hunain yn was the technically challenging ges hefyd weithio gyda merch o penderfynu pan nad oes angen Dwrci, ac un arall o Sri Lanka. help mwyach. Rwy’n tristáu wrth Doedd yr un ohonynt yn siarad eu gadael, ond yn falch i ddweud fawr o Saesneg, nac yn gadael mod i’n dal yn agos at y rhai y tŷ heb eu gwŷr, a’r llwyddiant lleol. Mae cynnal y teulu cyfan mawr oedd mynd â nhw i gylch yn bwysig, ac yn ddiweddar, A Pass chwarae, a siarad â nhw a’u dysgu estynnwyd oed y plant sy’n am arferion y gymdeithas hon. medru derbyn ein help, ond rwyf Yn drist iawn, symudodd y ddau fi’n hapusach gyda rhai bach. for Andrew deulu i ffwrdd o’r ardal, a dwyf fi Revd Andrew Loat, Llanbadarn Fawr, Special service at successfully passed a Welsh second-language exam this summer. He is pictured with R S Thomas Literary Festival his tutor, Felicity Roberts, who is also a member of Llanbadarn’s Welsh congregation. Cafodd y Parchedig Andrew Loat lwyddiant dros yr haf gan basio arholiad Defnyddio’r Gymraeg Lefel Uwch. Dyma fe gyda’i dystysgrif a’i diwtor, Felicity Roberts, sy’n aelod hefyd o gynulleidfa Llanbadarn Fawr

For more articles which, unfortunately, could not be A special service, led by Revd Canon Stuart Bell, was held on accommodated in this issue, plus translations of some, 12th September at St Michael’s Church, Eglwysfach, as part of the R S Thomas Literary Festival. Dr Rowan Williams preached please visit the PD Extra page of our website: the sermon and the lessons were read by Revd Canon Enid www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ Morgan and Ven Dr Will Strange Pobl Dewi, December 2015 15 Refugees welcome here By Christmas this diocese will be host to a group of refugees and we will be among the first. They will arrive in Ceredigion place and our task is to make them welcome in our midst HE gospel is one of welcome, response in return; you don’t have Thospitality and warmth to the to be official to do any of this – you widow, the orphan and the stranger just have to be human! in the land. Both the prophets in No doubt Ceredigion County the Old Testament and Jesus make Council has arrangements in it plain that to love God is to offer hand but everyone will rely on God’s hospitality and generosity good neighbours, simple practical and Christmas is an easy time to support and long-term befriending. do it. Our God is a God of compassion, Some tips: don’t be shy or abundance and welcome – so go embarrassed to be welcoming – and be God’s people in your own just be friendly and offer a smile neighbourhood. and a word of welcome; our task Jeni Parsons, isn’t to convert them to anything Diocesan Social but to be friendly to new arriv- Responsibility Officer als; their religion, whatever it is, If you want further help or ideas will not prevent you from being phone me on 01994 419808 friendly and receiving a friendly

Argyfwng y ffoaduriaid Since the placing of asylum detainees in Cardiff Prison in 2001, Cytûn (Churches Together in Wales) has developed partnerships that are being used to their full potential in the current refugee crisis

RS gosod ceiswyr lloches yng gan Brif Weinidog Cymru ar ENgharchar Caerdydd yn 2001, 17eg Medi a bydd yn cymryd mae Cytûn wedi datblygu partneri- rhan lawn yn y tasglu a fydd aethau pwysig sydd nawr ar waith: yn galluogi Cymru i groe- • Prif Weithredwr Cytûn, Aled sawu ffoaduriaid o Syria. Edwards, yw Cadeirydd • Anogwn ddatblygu cynul- Partneriaeth Mudo Strategol leidfaoedd y lleiafrifoedd Cymru dan nawdd y Swyddfa ethnig yng Nghymru, rhai Gartref, sy’n ceisio sicrhau fod wedi eu hadeiladu ar ffoaduri- awdurdodau lleol, mudiadau’r aid Cristnogol a erlidiwyd cyn trydydd sector a Llywodraeth ymgartrefu yng Nghymru. Cymru yn cyd-weithio’n • Cefnogwn fentrau arloesol effeithiol parthed ffoaduriaid megis Canolfan y Drindod, a cheiswyr lloches. Heol Casnewydd, Caerdydd, • Trwy weithio gyda sy’n gwasanaethu cannoedd phartneriaid megis Cyngor o geiswyr lloches yn Ffoaduriaid Cymru, Displaced wythnosol. Mae angen mawr People in Action, Dinas am arian i ddiogelu’r adeilad. Noddfa ac Asylum Justice, Gellir danfon rhoddion i mae Cytûn wedi ceisio “The Trinity Project’ drwy aid Cymorth Cristnogol. ceiswyr lloches a ddanfonir i Cymraeg i bobl ifainc ar gwasanaethu’r eglwysi trwy John Elias, 2 Springhurst • Trefnwyd Gwylnos cyn Gymru gan y Swyddfa Gartref, gyfer Sul yr Urdd ar 15fed sicrhau triniaeth anrhydeddus Close, Yr Eglwys Newydd, gêm bêl-droed Cymru v sefyllfa ceiswyr lloches Tachwedd, sydd ar gael i ffoaduriaid a cheiswyr Caerdydd, CF14 7EU. Israel 6 Medi yn Eglwys diymgeledd na ellir eu dych- ar wefan yr Urdd. Mae lloches yng Nghymru. • Cyd-weithiwn gyda Chom- S. Ioan Treganna. welyd i’w gwledydd cartref, ac gwasanaeth dwyieithog • Gofynnwyd i Cytûn, trwy isiwn yr Eglwysi am Fudwyr • Gweithiwn yn agos gyda anghenion unigolion a ddiod- Sul Cyfiawnder Hiliol ar Aled Edwards, gymryd rhan yn Ewrop a Phwyllgor Cymru Llywodraeth Cymru, llywodra- defodd sydd angen triniaeth gael ar https://ctbi.org.uk/ yn uwchgynhadledd ffoa- Cymorth Cristnogol, a hybu eth leol a phartneriaid eraill arbenigol – yn enwedig plant. racial-justice-sunday-2015 duriaid Cymru a drefnwyd Apêl Argyfwng Ffoaduri- i dynnu sylw at anghenion • Paratowyd gwasanaeth www.cytun.org.uk

Supporting refugees Cyfraniadau ar gyfer St Peter’s, Lampeter Velfrey, Pobl Dewi raises hundreds of pounds Y mae croeso i erthyglau oddi wrth ddarllenwyr, ac yn arbennig a year for charities, among cyfraniadau Cymraeg. them Plant Dewi and a school Dylid anfon erthyglau at y Golygydd: Tessa Briggs in Kenya, and supports Women’s Aid in Carmarthen. [email protected] Pictured is Susan Morris neu fe ellir postio ffotograffau ynghyd â 50 o eiriau at: collecting shoeboxes filled Pobl Dewi, with essential items which, Swyddfa’r Esgobaeth, Abergwili, Caerfyrddin, SA31 2JG along with other goods and money, have been sent to wedi’u nodi at sylw ‘Y Golygydd’ Syrian refugees 16 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 Bukavu – what now? Bishop Bahati’s visit in 2014 formally inaugurated the companion link between the dioceses of St Davids and Bukavu in the Eastern Congo. But that was just a start, says Will Strange F this link is going to be more container. Items which the churches And – this is not a one-way rela- Ithan just a colourful item on the in Bukavu would find useful tionship. We have a huge amount to diocesan website, it needs as many include: plastic cups, saucers and gain from our link with churches in of us as possible to be involved. plates; bedding; clothes (for adults a part of the world where ministry But how? Here are some very & children); shoes; sewing or and church-building can scarcely practical ways in which we can all knitting machines; knitting wool; keep pace with the growth in the help make this link an increasingly haberdashery; toys (not electric); numbers of people coming to faith valuable reality. old laptops. and wanting to join the church. The church in the Eastern In the interim, we need to One way in which we can Congo is growing and thriving. store the donated goods – could make this relationship more two- But our brothers and sisters there you donate a dry, secure space to way is to link clergy and parishes live at a level of poverty we would keep some of this material until the in the two dioceses. Many clergy in find unimaginable. They have also container is ready to load? Bukavu do have internet connec- been affected by sporadic violence, tion by way of their mobile phones. and live day by day in a very inse- This opens up all kinds of oppor- cure environment. To offer some tunities for parish-to-parish prayer help for their material needs, the contacts, or for bringing clergy in Bukavu Link Committee is putting touch with each other for prayer, together a container of useful, day- and perhaps for mentoring. to-day items which will go out next If you can help with the con- year. It will be accompanied and tainer in any way, or if you are distribution will be supervised. The interested in developing a direct cost is estimated at £10,000, so any link with a parish or with a cleric financial help towards that would in Bukavu, please contact Revd Dr be greatly valued. Jennifer Annis: 01348-840689 Then we need to fill the [email protected]

Parishes unite in Bro Teifi

Cruising along The eighth Local Ministry Area to be formed in St Davids Diocese has been inaugurated A collaborative approach to attracting visitors to Fishguard proves that the church, the wider community and businesses can work together for the good of all, says Jeremy Martineau IVE parishes and 18 congrega- Covenant pledging them to work Ftions have joined forces in the together as a focus for mission and T Mary’s Church, Fishguard, and visitors access the informa- town again, after several years of new Bro Teifi LMA. The inaugura- ministry. Sshares, with the rest of the tion they need about the area, its avoiding it. tion service took place in a packed Bishop Wyn also commis- town, a mission to visitors. Tour- services and businesses. It plays a One key task being undertaken St Mary’s Church, Cardigan, led by sioned the new joint ministry team ism is a major part of the local key role in the Town Team, which by the Refreshing North Pembro- the Bishop, Rt Revd Wyn Evans. under the leadership of Revd John economy. So St Mary’s church was awarded a further £50K from keshire tourism team (a Chamber Representatives of clergy and Bennett, parish priest at St Mary’s joined the Fishguard and Goodwick the Government to help strengthen project), is to help businesses work congregations from each parish laid and Area Dean of Cemaes & Sub Chamber of Trade and Tourism and the local economy. together to multiply the benefit to candles on the altar and signed the Aeron. now provides the secretary for the The arrival of more cruise ships all by improving the offer to visi- 160-strong business community. in 2015 will have challenged the tors. Its new brand “Blue Stone The designation of Fish- whole community to respond to the Coast and Country – Mysterious guard as the Welsh Government’s increase in visitor numbers. Shops North Pembrokeshire” aims to preferred south coast port for are encouraged to accept dollars draw out the unique qualities of cruise ships is a great boost, of and euros as well as £s. New town this special part of the diocese. which all are working to take maps have been produced and a If you are asking, what the advantage. Our representative on “where to eat in Fishguard and church has to do with the economy, the Chamber, with long experience Goodwick” booklet is in its second the answer is simple – all of our of industrial chaplaincy focused on edition already. The acting group life is of interest to the creator and the micro-business sector, is well in the church may have to develop loving God. Whether we strive and placed to provide good service to a second team, such is the demand thrive, suffer or succeed, all is of this sector of our community. The for the short history play referred God. We share sorrow with those in Chamber of Trade and Tourism to in the last edition of Pobl Dewi. pain, rejoice with those who laugh has developed an effective website The Government has agreed to and celebrate with those who do and App, Facebook, Twitter and provide a coach drop-off point to well. Instagram to help both residents enable coach companies to visit the Pobl Dewi, December 2015 17 Hywel: exile, warrior and saint Tucked into the hinterland of St David’s Peninsula is the ancient church of St Hwyel, dedicated to a man who lived a millennium and a half ago and who, according to legend, travelled far and lived an exciting and exotic life. Mary Baker continues her series on our ancient saints

CCORDING to some sources AHywel, or Hoel, or even Howel, as he is known, was born in Cornouaille, a region of Brittany, in the late 5th century and was a royal prince who ruled the area alongside his father. Before he came to the throne, however, family battles for suprem- acy forced him to flee to Wales where he and his family lived in exile with the protection of the then King of Dyfed, Aergol Lawhir. At this time the Romans had departed Britain and Christianity was being adopted and supported by the upper echelons of society. King Aergol was supposedly a goodly and Christian king who supported the Bishops of Llandaff and other religious foundations. It may have been that the young Hywel was sent to be educated in the religious college at Llantwit chapel for worship. All that remains others have him as a nephew. Major, known as the oldest college now of that era is a wonderful His heroic deeds include fight- in Britain and, some would claim, inscribed stone commemorating an ing several battles at Arthur’s side the oldest in the world! It was early Christian called Rinacus. and helping to defeat the Saxons. founded in the 4th century but Hywel is said to have left He even appears in the legend of fell into disrepair; however, it was Wales and returned to rule in Brit- Tristan and Isseult. re-founded by St Illtud in 508. tany where according to medieval One can imagine medieval It was while he was in Dyfed stories he returned to Britain to help pilgrims relishing the tales of that Hywel is said to have founded King Arthur by becoming a warrior derring-do as they came upon his the church at Llanhowell in knight. In later tales he is trans- church on the way to St Davids. Pembrokeshire. The original foun- formed into Sir Howel with a seat His peaceful church today is dation may have been a religious at the round table. Some sources a haven of calm and far removed community, with small huts and a declare that he is Arthur’s cousin, from battle and fame.

sary to re-point the tower exterior the heritage and work of St Mary’s bodies including the Pantyfedwen in lime mortar and replace its Church deserves such invalu- Trust, the Welsh Church Act Fund, A positive response temporary roof with a leaded one. able financial support. The church Allchurches, and the Representa- It is encouraging that national has secured a further £13,750 in tive Body of the Church in Wales. bodies like the HLF believe that grants from other sympathetic A popular and historic west Wales church is to benefit from a large heritage lottery grant of £70,800 to repair its ancient tower. The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) has confirmed that it will pay 67% of the cost of repairing the ancient church tower of St Mary’s Church, Newport, in Pembrokeshire HE grant will make it possible working congregation. It has Tto repair the dangerous internal associations with John Wesley, the floors of the tower and a section of Anglican priest and founder of the the roof, as well as the degraded Methodist Movement, who visited mullions of some of the windows. St Mary’s on several occasions. The bells will be re-hung and “We are grateful to HLF for other associated work will be this generous grant, which will undertaken. This follows an earlier enable us to undertake these essen- grant of £6,000 already paid to the tial repairs. church’s professional advisers to “In addition to repairing the help develop the case for receiving tower, we aim to restore the leaded the financial assistance. lights, make minor repairs to the Listed building floor and doors, set up a parish Associate priest, Revd Anthony website, renew the church sign, Wintle, appointed by the parish print a new edition of the church to oversee grant applications and guide, produce coloured post- church repairs, commented: cards of the building’s heritage “St Mary’s, a grade II* listed and provide a child-friendly nature building, together with Newport haven in the churchyard.” Castle, dominates the landscape. The current repairs, which The church receives thousands begin in the first week of January, of visitors every year, including will need to be the first stage of a archbishops and bishops, and it series of ongoing church repairs. In is supported by a loyal and hard- the coming months it will be neces- 18 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 Reflection

water; inquiry for truth.’ And this or veneration – whether they be journey was made for arrival. Each MPs, police officers, teachers, O come let us adore Him of us who is a Christian is indeed judges or clergy - are reduced to on a journey of faith – not for noth- objects of scorn, satire and deri- Matthew Baynham considers depictions of the Magi down the ages ing does Jesus say, ‘I am the way’ sion, sometimes deservedly, often and our own response to the babe in the manger – but when we sing, this Christmas not. It is important that we remind HEN will (or, heaven help few and far between. But you will journey of the Magi has been a time, ‘O come let us adore Him’, ourselves, at Christmas time, that Wus, did) your first Christmas get a completely different result if theme to which modernity could we shall set ourselves apart from the Nativity story is the beginning card arrive? Last year we sent ours you search for the Adoration of the relate. Modern – and post-modern the world which surrounds us: for of a different narrative of authority very early, because we’d changed Magi. There are numerous exam- – literature, music and art prefer we are worshippers, and not trav- and of a different kind of king, who address and needed to get our ples, and the list of their creators is indeterminate endings, unresolved ellers only. There is nothing we do has taken upon himself the vulner- retaliation in first. This time, we’ll a Who’s Who of some of the great- cadences, pictures to which the that is more counter-cultural than ability of the babe in the manger. It almost certainly revert to our more est artists of all time. There are viewer brings his or her own inter- the worship of God. All around is for that reason that he is worthy usual last minute approach, but it paintings with this title by Bass- pretation. ‘To travel hopefully’ us, figures of authority, respect of our Adoration. was nice to feel smug for one year, ano, Botticelli, Burne-Jones, da wrote R L Stevenson, a little earlier at least. Vinci and Rubens, amongst others. than Eliot, ‘is a better thing than When your Christmas cards do This, along with the shepherds at to arrive.’ Earlier Christian centu- start to arrive, have a look at those the crib, is a major theme in artis- ries, of course, did understand which feature the Magi. If your tic representation of the Christmas something of the powerful attrac- selection is anything like ours then, story through the Christian centu- tion of journey. We are beginning by a very large majority, you will ries. They are pictures full of to rediscover some of the spiritual find that they will feature the jour- worship: often, light in the picture significance of pilgrimage - not ney of the Magi. Bethlehem may will be shining from the babe, least in our Diocese of St David’s, be in the distance somewhere, with either in the crib or on his mother’s which was for many centuries one the star hanging over it, but the lap, as the Magi present their gifts of the most important centres of Magi will still be travelling, either and offer their adoration. If you pilgrimage in the western world. on foot or on camels, with their have any Christmas cards with this There is the danger, though, that gifts or their pages. They won’t scene, they are likely to be copies we romanticise pilgrimage, as so have arrived yet. of these older works. (They are many other aspects of Celtic Chris- You may not realise that this likely, too, to have come from your tianity can be romanticised: and the is a very modern phenomenon. posher friends, because reproduc- preference which our Christmas Search back through the history ing the image will not have been cards show for the journey over the of western art for representations cheap.) arrival should give us pause. of the Journey of the Magi and From at least T S Eliot’s Jour- As C S Lewis puts it in The you will find that they are very ney of the Magi onwards, the Great Divorce, ‘Thirst was made for Return visit to launch church guide Lent study course On 20th October, the Bishop of St Davids, Rt Revd Wyn Evans, returned to Prendergast in Haverfordwest only six weeks after his recent parish day visit to launch St David’s church guide. Cheryl Powell reports will focus on migration HE new full-colour booklet out of favour now but he pointed “for his effort in compiling and Tincludes a detailed tour of St out that, through them, “our people producing the publication, which and refugees David’s Church, Prendergast, with are remembered, their contribu- will be a tremendous contribution notes on its history, local people tions woven into the fabric of the towards the mission and outreach HE Anglican mission agency migrants living in London. and places associated with the church.” of St David’s Church.” TUs (formerly USPG) has Topics examined by the course church. After paying tribute to previous In thanking the congregation published a Lent study course for include economic migration, the Bishop Wyn was glad to see writers of church history, Bishop for their support, Canon Gwyther 2016 focusing on the global issue plight of refugees and communi- what a splendid Victorian building Wyn declared the new guide “duly said he was also “delighted with of migration and the plight of ties displaced by climate change, the church still is. He was partic- launched!” the attendance and support of the refugees. as well as human trafficking. ularly delighted to read about its The Rector, Canon Geoffrey evening, given by numerous indi- The five-week course, entitled The course is available online wall monuments to past church Gwyther, commented on how very viduals and organisations within Migration and Movement, features and free printed copies can be people. Such mural tablets seem grateful he was to Mr David Redd the wider community of Haver- stories from Brazil, Malawi, ordered. fordwest and surrounding district.” Myanmar and Zimbabwe, and www.weareUs.org.uk/lent Other speakers were Revd takes a look at the lives of Filipino Nicholas Cale thanking the Bishop and Mr David Redd, Church Treasurer. Haverfordwest Ladies’ Choir also attended the event and the large audience enjoyed many popular items superbly performed. The guide will aid the church tower repair appeal and thanks go to all who assisted with this very successful event. The guide is available at £5 from: the church; Victoria Book- shop, Haverfordwest; St Davids Cathedral Bookshop or £5.50 by post from Beracah House, Redstock Lane, Johnston, Haver- fordwest SA62 3QN. Follow us on Facebook! (Friends of St David’s Church, © Leah Gordon Prendergast) Refugee camp in Haiti following the earthquake in 2010 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 19

Something a bit different

Those planning carol services this Christmas are invited to visit the diocesan website for inspiration, where they will fi nd three tried and tested services written by Dorothy Cox

NEW addition to the on-line standard Bible readings interspersed given together with all the read- Aresources available from the with commentaries on the action ings and suggested carols. They diocesan website (http://stdavids. from Gabriel and Mary. ‘Letters can be used as they stand or can be churchinwales.org.uk/resources/) Home’ replaces some of the usual adapted, or changed, to suit indi- comes in the form of three Christ- readings with fi ctional letters from vidual churches and congregations. mas carol services. Although the some of those directly connected Each of these services fi rst traditional ‘Lessons and Carols’ with the Nativity, describing what saw the light of day at St Tudwal’s format is enjoyable it is sometimes they saw and heard. ‘Then and church, Llanstadwell, on a Sunday good to have a change. The three Now’ looks at how things might be evening before Christmas. services now available to down- a little diff erent if the events took Candle This year there are fi ve diff erent cards, which come in 10 card load are just a little bit diff erent. place in the 21st century. packs, costing £3.50 per pack, and three designs of Giftwrap at As people arrive they are each ‘Mary and the Angel’ uses the In each case a running order is given a candle, a carol sheet and £2.50 each. The cards are titled: an order of service. (Each candle Moonlit Bethlehem/Bethlehem o dan Olau’r Lloer is threaded through a small hole in The Nativity/Y Geni the centre of a small square of card to protect hands and/or gloves from Stained Glass Bethlehem/Bethlehem Gwydr Lliw any dripping wax.) The Star/Y Seren FREE During the fi nal carol the candles are lit and the lights Three Wise Men/Yri Gŵr Doeth AM dimmed as much as possible for DDIM * the reading from John’s Gospel, Cards are available from and people are encouraged to take their candle out with them after the Plant Dewi service to take the light of Christ- mas into a dark world. Dark Gate Buildings If anyone uses these services, 3 Red Street a small donation to the restoration fund for our church hall would be Carmarthen SA31 1QL appreciated, as would any queries, Please phone 01267 221551 for postage costs comments, feedback or new ideas. E-mail: All proceeds go to St Davids DSCR Plant Dewi. [email protected] Reg Charity No. 244178 Ideal for every Delfrydol i bob carol-singing achlysur canu event in Wales carolau • New publication • Cyhoeddiad newydd especially for Wales yn arbennig i Gymru • 10 popular carols in Welsh • 10 carol boblogaidd yn and English (including Gymraeg a Saesneg Follow Pobl Dewi on 5 original Welsh) (5 o’r rhai Cymraeg yn • Ideal for bilingual rhai gwreiddiol) www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk congregations • Delfrydol i gynulleidfa • Large print ddwyieithog • Useful tool for Middle East • Print bras refugee crisis support • Offeryn defnyddiol i • Available in packs of 20 gefnogi ffoaduriaid y Dwyrain Canol *P&P charges apply • Ar gael mewn *Taliadau P&Ph yn ychwanegol pecynnau o 20 http://twitter.com/PoblDewi www.embracechristmas.org/resources Use code BS CL1 01227 811646 www.facebook.com/pobldewi www.embracechristmas.org/resources Defnyddiwch Côd BS CL1 01227 811646

A5 WELSH BCS flyer.3.indd 1 09/11/2015 10:35 20 Pobl Dewi, December 2015 Book Reviews

one particular operation. What I wanted was positivity and hope Honest but extremely and, for me, it wasn’t there. Plainchant – start your One of the highlights, though, in the book was when Patrick referred disappointing to Christ living in the desert for 40 journey with this book days and that the desert experience When faith gets shaken had not only been necessary but also The RSCM Guide to By Patrick Regan essential for his ministry; the infer- Plainchant with Liza Hoeksma ence being that when we think we Pub: Royal School of Church Pub: Lion Hudson; 2015 are in a desert place that God is there, Music; 2015 ISBN: 978-0-85721-646-5 journeying with us through those ISBN: 978-0-85402-187-1 Price: £7.99 difficult times. I took heart from that. Available from RSCM Music I know a lot of people have enjoyed When I was asked to review the Direct, Catalogue No: RB559 this book but I just didn’t get on book, I thought that it would offer Price: £9.95 (discounts for with it. some help for our family as we have RSCM affiliates) One of the irritating difficulties suffered in the last nine years or so The charts are full of CDs of with the text was that I had to find through cancer but, to be truthful, I religious communities singing out from the internet what the XLP was left disappointed. Yes, the book plainchant, an opportunity to listen project, to which the author, Patrick is extremely honest and the author to over a 1,000 years of worship and Regan, frequently refers, is, and what lays himself very open and bare but join all those who have listened and it stands for. Its title is a shortened I wanted more; to find a way through chanted. Yet many of us wouldn’t version of the eXceL Project, which healing and pain with the love and dare to give it a go. After all you works to create positive futures for grace of God and how, practically, have to be able to sing, don’t you? young people in London. It is a char- we can experience that hand of God Well, bar the initial challenge ity that Patrick began some years ago Interspersed in the catalogue upon our lives when times of real of learning a different type of music parts of the communion service and and, through personal references to of dramas and illnesses there are stress and struggle occur. notation, for those of us who strug- the Te Deum. There is an opportu- the charity, its staff and associates, times of joy but also cries from the Reviewing a book like this is a gle knowing our minims from our nity to try the chant in Latin as well it was good to see that he would be heart about ‘where God was’ in his very personal thing – sorry to say I crotchets as this is often what stops as English. supported and encouraged through sufferings and that he ‘wasn’t sure won’t be rereading it. us in our tracks, it’s best to remem- All in all a great book that the times of heartache and extreme whether God was there at all’ and Revd Ian Girling ber that the majority of those gives practical support to anyone suffering that were to follow. indeed that ‘God had left him’ after religious communities you’ve wanting to try chant – candles listened to don’t have hundreds and incense optional. Go on, give of trained singers, let alone ones chant a go. who can read music. The reason it For those of you into smart Order in Wales and later to become sounds beautiful is because those phone apps the i-Chant app is a A must-read Rector of Cadoxton. Among the chanting believe in the words they great help in learning the tones and nuns was Rose Lewys, Prioress chant and it is an integral part of getting the hang of what it sounds The Tudor Cistercians of Llanllugan, and Annes, Abbess their worship. So let me challenge like without having to trans- By David H Williams of Llanllyr. The work is peppered you to dip your toe in the water and pose to modern music notation. Pub: Gracewing; 2015 with personal references – many take this book along with you on YouTube has lots of chant videos ISBN: 978-0-85244-826-7 appearing for the first time in print. your chant journey. and if you’re interested in singing Price: £25 The list of primary sources The first half of the book gives in a chant choir there are Schola’s This is a volume of outstanding and the bibliography are, in them- the history, how to read the nota- around the country. Or, alterna- merit – the culmination of half a selves, indication of the research tion and the various forms for tively, be brave and start your own. century of painstaking research and that has produced this splendid chanting the psalms written by Cate Langley valuable interpretation. The spade- book – a follow-up on the author’s Sr Mary Berry, founder of Schola work is mind-boggling and the tale previous excellent volumes. Gregoriana, Cambridge. However, told demands attention and concen- This is a must for any student/ this book comes into its own in its Journeying tration, page by page. The account, reader of Tudor history and every- second half where John Rowlands- For details of their 2016 in brief, is a remarkable one when one interested in the religious life Pritchard offers an opportunity to pilgrimages, contact them at Cistercians – some 900 at the of our nation. use chant within your own church Holyland Road, time – were seeing their end pro Warm congratulations to Revd by providing examples that any Pembroke SA71 4BL tem. The daily life of the 75 male Dr David Williams and Gracewing church choir, no matter how small, abbeys and 30 female convents is for this memorable work so nicely can have a go at bringing chant into 01646 279478 portrayed with all its difficulties, produced. their local services. Starting with [email protected] challenges, duties and, sometimes, R Brinley Jones, President, as little as greetings and farewells, www.journeying.co.uk questionable behaviour. There is a monks who were displaced would University of Wales TSD the chapters build to having a go at laudable honesty in the telling. move to other clerical appoint- The volume has chapters on ments, many with Oxford degrees The Monasteries: Background; were granted an average pension Fabric and Worship; The Commu- of £8pa!). The final chapter is The Contributions to Pobl Dewi nities: Composition and Character; Nunneries – of the 30 in England The Claustral Officers (e.g. bursars, and Wales, two were in Wales: one We welcome articles of interest from readers and, in particular, we cellarers, priors) and The Abbots; in Llanllugan, Powys, and the other would like to encourage submission of articles in Welsh. The Secular Community (including in Llanllyr, Ceredigion. In the mid- Articles should be sent to the Managing Editor: Tessa Briggs, temporary lay staff, travellers and 1530s there were some 250 nuns in guests); Uprisings and Martyrs; toto. [email protected] The Economy (including culti- There follows a fascinating or photographs accompanied by a maximum of 50 words can be posted to: vating the home demesne, Appendix of known Cistercian Pobl Dewi, corn-milling, farming, fishing, monks and an Appendix of Cister- The Diocesan Office, Abergwili, Carmarthen SA31 2JG, timber usage); The Suppression cian nuns. Among the former marked for the attention of ‘The Editor’ and Thereafter (with a reminder was David ap Ieuan ap Iorwerth, that Henry VIII and the Vicar- Abbot of Valle Crucis, 1480-1503, General Thomas Cromwell were a supporter of Henry VII and one Disclaimer not alone in suppression – there much praised by the Welsh poets. Pobl Dewi and the diocese of St Davids take no responsibility, liability or share the views or were precedents here and abroad Another was Lleision ap Thomas, d opinions of any articles contained herein. All information is the responsibility of the person or – and reports on the economic 1509, the last Abbot of Neath who organisation submitting the article. Pobl Dewi take no responsibility for any errors or omissions and spiritual state of those places had gained a B Canon Law and visited. The majority of those BD at Oxford, Reformator of the