TEULU ASAPH Esgobaeth Llanelwy Diocese of St Asaph Awst/Medi August/September 2014

FREE TEULU ASAPH Esgobaeth Llanelwy Diocese of St Asaph Awst/Medi August/September 2014

The Prime Minister: We should be confident about our status as a Christian countryShould and ‘more evangelical’ about our faith Church Is David speak out Cameron about ‘fuelling political sectarian injustice? division’ by bringing God History into Politics shows that Christianity has shaped Christian beliefs the culture are under attack and soul from influential Th Formerof Britain Archbishop of militant atheists © Telegraph Media Group Limited 2014 Canterbury: It’s not discouraging that 6 out of 10 We are a post- people identify themselves as Christian Christians in England and Wales nation A Christian Country?

A view from Bishop Gregory across in the media should make us reflect rather than The new atheists would have us all give the answer complain: too often Christian faith has been experienced “definitely not”. For them, Christianity is mere ho- by people as judgementalism and narrowmindedness. I cus pocus, and there is a determined effort to drive reli- wouldn’t actually want to be labelled as a Christian coun- gion out of the public forum and from our schools. Hang try, if that involved all the worst of historical Christian on a minute though, the census (after all the best of all practice, which sought to enforce a narrow-minded con- opinion polls since it includes 100% of the population) formity on the nation. However I am worried that the says that 59% are still describing themselves as Christian, decline of Christian religion in Britain also means that the which would be a clear majority, even if we could wish best of Christian values – simplicity, generosity, fidelity, that more than 4% showed a greater desire to turn up forgiveness and faith, chastity and caring for the outsid- to Church regularly. Furthermore, what the new atheists er - these values are slipping and being eroded, and the cannot deny is that our constitution, law, social attitudes, quality of our national life does appear to be coarsen- superstitions, national character, our heritage and histo- ing. All this challenges Christians to be a lot better in ry, our literature, culture, art, calendar and family life are our witness. Jesus Christ isn’t done with this nation yet. still dominated by Christian ways of thinking. With so There is actually great opportunity. Stories from the Bible much formed by immersion in the Christian faith and still are becoming more exciting, appealing and challenging woven deeply into the fabric of our society, we certainly again, because people aren’t over familiar with them, can’t say that this is a secular country, although faith is far and they make a fresh impact. The name of Jesus is still more scattered, diverse and less regimented now. widely known and respected, and this gives us the chance Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Wales, court- to make him better known. People generally feel that ed the headlines a little while ago by saying we’re a religion and spirituality have something to offer even if “post-Christian” country. I know what he was saying: they’re not sure what: we are still sought out at moments that Christianity shaped us, and is still influential, but is of personal or national commitment or crisis. The chal- no longer a dominant force. The trouble with that phrase lenge for Christians is to make an impression with the best is that it suggests that Christianity has somehow shut up of Christian faith: to offer worship on a Sunday that is shop and gone away. That is something I definitely won’t passionate and inspiring, to undertake mission in society affirm. Nor am I one of those who believe that Christian which really does change things for the better and which faith is beginning to be persecuted – derided occasionally, engages with those whom the rest of society is tempted squeezed by modern morality more often, and less often to write off, and to exhibit a love that makes the example given a privileged position – but we’re still free to express of Jesus living and real. In the end, I don’t believe that the our ideas and to worship and to educate and to encour- label “a Christian country” means much. It is the quality age people to believe. of the Christians that counts! The gentle, occasionally rough, mocking we come

SOCIAL CULTURE

NATIONAL

CALENDAR

CHARACTER HISTORY

ART

ATTITUDES

HERITAGE

LITERATURE

LAW

FAMILY LIFE FAMILY

ARCHITECTURE CONSTITUTION A Christian Country?

A view from Lord Barry Jones A view from Darren Millar AM This is a Christian country. The great majority of Christianity has shaped modern Wales in fellow citizens will tell you quietly, when asked, more ways than we might think. Not only “Yes I am,” even if it is best not to ask “What is a Chris- do our towns, villages and countryside play host to chap- tian?” or “Why?”. That could complicate matters. I els, churches and sacred sites, but our education system, would not welcome a theological examination myself. social housing provision and many of our hospitals can Were I fortunate to get near to the pearly gates, I might trace their roots back to people of faith. just manage, “Well, yours truly held fifty surgeries a year For such people, it wasn’t a national moral compass that for thirty-one years and conducted 15,000 personal inter- compelled them to take action to address the problems views, Mr Peter” and hope for the best. Most of us are they identified; it was the moral compass inside each in- shrewd enough to know that we are greatly imperfect. dividual that led them to move in a certain direction - and In Church life things have changed: tea following the so it is today. Each one of us has our own sense of right service, children playing, women priests. It looks more and wrong which is informed by the many external sourc- equal, which is good because Welsh people are not ones es around us. The views of our family members, the news for the gradations of social class. The Church has made media, faith leaders and even celebrities can all influence huge efforts to catch up with the great social and eco- our own judgement regarding what is, or isn’t, accept- nomic changes that may have wrecked its standing in the able. For some, the views of a Premier League football- esteem of the general populace. This relevance has dan- er will have greater influence on their morality than holy gers. In the House of Lords I sometimes look at the Eng- writings. For others the opposite will be the case. The lish Bench of Bishops and wonder if they could fight their interesting thing about people is that we sometimes way out of a paper bag - so careful, so measured and so change our views. What we consider to be right one day, politically correct they must be. But the Church should not we may consider to be wrong the next. In my own ex- underestimate its latent support. People are grateful that perience, I had a dramatic change of heart on all sorts they can go for a baptism, a marriage or a funeral. They of issues following my conversion to Christianity. Things know that a priest offers advice and encouragement. But which I found acceptable suddenly became unacceptable, the tide of secularism is flowing very strongly. Our church and vice versa. When enough of us change our individ- will not hold the line unless it moves even closer to the ual moral views it results in a tipping point in society as people. I believe that our Josie Public, in the last resort, a whole. A good historical example of this was seen in is Christian. But she wants a strong simple lead. I know attitudes towards slavery prior to its abolition. So the cu- countless thoughtful people who want the church to re- mulative moral judgement of each person contributes to main. It’s a church worth having. It’s not gone yet, but it where the moral compass of society as a whole is point- is perhaps standing in the last chance saloon. ing. This direction may, and often does, change with time.

The Academic Perspective Want to know more? Dr ap Sion offers further reading to Dr Tania ap Sion, Glyndŵr University enlighten the debate. More titles are listed online. Dr ap Sion is a senior lecturer in Pasto- Davie, G. (1994). Religion in Britain since 1945: Believ- ral Sciences and argues that if to be a Christian means at- ing without belonging. Oxford: Blackwell. tending Church, then the case is clearly made. However, Fane, R.S. (1999). Is self-assigned religious affiliation she offers religious, sociological & theological reasons to socially significant? In L.J. Francis (Ed.), Sociology, The- challenge the view that Christian Britain is no more. ology and the Curriculum, pp 113-124. London: Cassell. You can read her response to the question and the full Voas, D., & Bruce, S. (2004). The 2001 Census and Chris- contributions from Lord Barry Jones and Darren Millar tian identification in Britain. Journal of Contemporary AM on our website: http://bit.ly/Mv8Rae Religion, 19, 23-238. 3 Two Priests and a Deacon ordained to serve in the Diocese of St Asaph

Reflecting on the ordination service, Revd Jonathan Skip- per said: “It was a wonderful occasion, absolutely bril- liant. I was quite nervous as I had a number of things to do in the service but it was great to see so many people here for the three of us. A lot of my family are here and it’s been a very special day. The sermon from Bishop Dominic was great – it was a wonderful reflection on the days we spent on retreat.” The three new clergy were ordained by Bishop Gregory, who laid hands on their heads to invoke the Holy Spirit Two new priests and a deacon were welcomed to the or- before leading the congregation at St Asaph Cathedral in dained ministry during the Petertide Ordination on Sat- prayer for their new ministry. Commenting on their ordi- urday 28 June. Revd Sam Erlandson and Revd Lorraine nation the Bishop said: “Ordinations are a time of joy for Badger-Watts were ordained as Priests after becoming the Church as we set apart a new generation to bear wit- Deacons in 2013. Sam will continue to serve as Assis- ness to God’s love in the world. Lorraine, Sam and Jon- tant Curate of Llay, Rossett and Isycoed, while Lorraine athan are three young people who each bear witness to will continue as Assistant Curate in Petryal and Betws yn the love of God working in different ways through their Rhos. Jonathan Skipper – an artist from Penybontfawr lives, and who bring a new vitality to the witness of the near Oswestry – was ordained as Deacon and will serve as Church.” Assistant Curate of Llanfyllin, Bwlch-y-Cibau and Llanwd- In the days leading up to the Ordinations, Teulu Asaph dyn. Prior to the service, our three ordinands had been asked Bishop Dominic Walker how the Church can en- on retreat with the retired Bishop of Monmouth, Bishop courage more people to consider training for the or- Dominic Walker. He preached at the ordination and used dained ministry – particularly the younger generation. Psalm 73 v 23 as his text: “Nevertheless, I am always with “I think it was rather sad that we went through a period you; you hold me by my right hand.” when we said to young people ‘go away and get a life’ because they did and then they never came back again. “Or perhaps when we told them to get experience of life they worked in a university library but if we had ordained them and put them on a housing estate they would have got much more experience of life. We need to have more courage to say to young people when we go into schools and universities: ‘think about this, it’s a possibility and it’s a great way of life.’” Bishop Dominic led the ordinands on retreat ahead of the ordination service and thinks for us to have more people coming forward for ordination we need to make our offering more attractive. He would like to see a better website Bishop Dominic went on to remind Lorraine, Sam and with ordination information as well as good literature going Jonathan of the importance of their hands in service to to schools and universities. But above all, Bishop Dominic Christ and encouraged them to let God take them by the says good priests encourage other good people to consider hand during their ministry. He said: “Remember that you ordained ministry. He added: are in God’s hands and minister in His strength, not your “We need to get some of our best priests into ministries own. Remember that there has only ever been one per- where they are working with young people so that they can enthuse them about ordination.” fect priest – and they crucified him.”

4 Farming is crucial to Wales. Sadly FCN is becoming more crucial to farming

The telephone call was vague, just an and the dependence upon Single address and a request: “can you help Farm Payments to mention a few. me?” The elderly lady left no more than Another day, another call. that for us to go on, writes Chris Coe, A tearful woman approached us at Welsh Regional Director of the Farming a display stall. “Help,” she asked, Community Network (FCN). “my husband has shot himself, I am I arrived at the farm; there were no animals, not even alone, my debts are mounting, my son the compulsory dog! All was quiet. The door was open has left, I cannot cope.” and despite the fact that I could hear raised voices, no We ‘walked with’ this lady for some time, and still do. one answered my call. I slowly entered the farm cottage, Walked with in the sense calling to the occupants all the of helping her contact the ...25% of ...we time. As I entered the front agencies she owes money farming receive room I was met by a terrible to. Walked with in the sense sight. of using one of the financial families 1000 calls live below a month for An elderly gentleman sat experts who volunteers shouting at a frail old lady with us to help her manage the poverty help... whose hair was covered in her budgets and see a way line... blood. There was little furniture forward. Walked with in the and from the candles scattered sense of being there for her everywhere, no electricity. I quickly established with them and supporting her all the way. Today she is a great deal that I was with FCN and that I was there to help. The stronger and is coping well. gentleman kept asking, “Am I going mad? Am I going As a charity we ‘walk with’ over 6000 people a year. mad?” The lady, still blood covered, was slumped and Helping in a practical sense; helping with the ploughing only murmured. and harvesting; help with accessing grants and dealing It wasn’t long before the emergency services were on with bank managers and solicitors, and even going to scene and we began the process of bringing help. Regular court as a pastoral friend. Helping with cattle passports; visits in support of the health services bringing prayer and helping fill in forms, things which sometimes are the pastoral care have turned the situation around. catalyst to send someone over the edge. The blood, it turns out, was from the lady self-harming. A FCN brings Christian Ministry in a practical way to help all cry for help. The gentleman, her brother, was retired from people connected to the farming industry. farming and in need of psychiatric help. Losing his work, We receive approximately 1000 calls a month for help, his identity, he could not cope. Two months on, with and we ‘walk with’ approximately 6000 families at any the proper help both brother and sister are at home and one time. Your prayers and support are very much living more normal lives. A cry for help, unusual perhaps needed and appreciated. To learn more about our work in the run of things, but nevertheless true. Suicide rates you can find us at www.fcn.org.uk are still higher amongst the farming industry than any other. 25% of farming At the Diocesan Conference in October families live below the poverty line and ...suicide we will be having a service for the the average income for an upland farm is rates are Farming Community Network. FCN are just £14000 per annum. That is without still highest the recipients of this year’s Diocesan the extra hardship cause by weather and amongst the Offering. TB, the continuing changes in legislation farming industry... 5 Newyddion Eglwysig

Neil commented: “I’ve always New clergy for enjoyed meeting new people and Church in Wales Flintshire Parishes going to new places, so I’m very much ready to Cross the looking forward to going to Buckley, Bishop Gregory has welcomed new serving the parish and working with Threshold priests to their roles in Connah’s the community and colleagues across Quay and Buckley. the Mission Area.” A Conference will be held in Cardiff in Revd Robbie Dennis was inducted at The Bishop added: “Neil’s faith and September to mark the new Church St Mark’s Church in Connah’s Quay pastoral care have been reflected in law allowing women to become in June and the photo shows him his ministry in Mold, and he now bishops in the Church in Wales. with the Bishop after the service. offers his service to the new Mission It will be 12 months on from the Area around Buckley. I am sure that historic vote at the Governing Body his new parishioners will warmly in September 2013. welcome him and benefit from his That vote opens ministry.” the Episcopate to women from Readers Licensed September by Bishop Gregory this year. The “Crossing the Threshold”, Bishop Gregory welcomed two new conference Readers to their ministry as they were includes licensed at the annual Reader’s Day in Bishop Commenting on his appointment, Gresford in June. Geralyn Wolf – Bishop Gregory said: The day started with the Eucharist the retired Bishop of Rhode Island in “Robbie is a South African, with before teaching from the Venerable the United States. long experience of working for Dr Peter Pike – Archdeacon of The Revd Preb Dr Jane Tillier who is reconciliation and justice in society. Montgomery. For the first time, a the West Midlands’ Representative of He will bring a new dimension to the House of Bishops in the Church ministry in this part of the world, and of England will also speak, along with we are delighted to have him on our theologian Dr Jane Williams. team.” There will be small group discussions Meanwhile Revd Neil Kelly who and a question time panel at the day has just completed his Curacy in conference at St Michael’s College in Mold has been inducted as Priest in Llandaff on Thursday 4 September. Charge of Buckley. Prior to entering The day will end with the Eucharist at the ordained ministry Neil worked bookshop was available for Readers 7.45pm at Llandaff Cathedral. for a national horticultural charity, courtesy of the Churches Together The conference has been organised and then in rehabilitation, supporting team in Cardiff. Pictured are our two by the Venerable Peggy Jackson, people with mental health issues, new Readers with Bishop Gregory. who played a big part in the historic refugee and asylum seekers and On the left is Dr Julie Regan and on yes vote last autumn. See back page latterly youth offenders. the right is Brenda Smedley. for booking information.

6 Church News

this year. Fair Trade churches should y gyfrol fel y mae, boed yn emynau New Archdeacon use fairly traded products wherever na chawsant eu dethol i’r gyfrol for St Asaph possible. brintiedig neu yn emynau sydd wedi Fair Trade stalls will be on offer at the eu cyfansoddi ers cyhoeddi’r gyfrol Diocesan Conference (11 October) yn 2001. Bishop Gregory has appointed Revd and the Llangollen Food Festival (18 Byddem yn falch o gael clywed Canon John Lomas as the new and 19 October) this Autumn. barn cynulleidfaoedd ar hyn er Archdeacon of St Asaph. John was The Fair Trade stall at the Diocesan mwyn ein cynorthwyo fel pwyllgor ordained in 1994 and has served his Conference will have a whole range i benderfynu ar y ffordd ymlaen. entire ministry in the Diocese of St of goods available, including catering Os oes gennych farn ar y mater Asaph, most recently as Transition packs of Fair Trade tea, coffee and mae croeso i chi gysylltu â mi trwy Missioner. He said: “I’m really sugar sticks which are suitable for use e-bost (rhcgriffiths@btinternet. pleased to become Archdeacon at a in churches, schools & community com) neu drwy’r post traddodiadol: time when the whole ethos of the groups. There is a 10% discount Coed y Berllan, Ffordd Bryn-y-môr, Church seems to be changing from on these goods if you order them Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 2HX, maintenance to mission – it excites beforehand for pick up in Llangollen ac edrychaf ymlaen at ddarllen eich me.” on the day. Please phone or email Lis sylwadau. Perkins by 4 October to place an order Rhidian Griffiths, Chair of Caneuon Diocese achieves on: 01248 712389 / 07874 902629 Ffydd’s General Committee is asking Fair Trade status or email [email protected] for help in deciding which hymns You can find further information should feature in an electronic version More than 70% of our churches now and resources about Fair Trade at of the 2001 Welsh hymn book. use Fair Trade goods at services and www.fairtradewales.com and www. functions which means St Asaph is fairtrade.org.uk Cathedral wants now officially a Fair Trade Diocese. new Choristers It’s part of a Wales-wide initiative Helpwch ni gyda’r which is aiming to see all six Dioceses llyfr emynau get Fair Trade Status so that the Church in Wales can become a Fair Cymraeg nesaf Trade Province – the first of its kind in the Anglican Communion. Mewn cyfarfod o Bwyllgor Cyffredinol Caneuon Ffydd a gynhaliwyd yn ddiweddar trafodwyd yr angen i gyhoeddi geiriau’r emynau a geir St Asaph Cathedral Choir is looking yn y gyfrol mewn ffurf electronig, er for new boys and girls aged between mwyn ei gwneud hi’n haws i’r nifer 7 & 10 to join them as choristers. cynyddol o eglwysi a chyfarfodydd Director of Music Alan McGuinness sy’n gosod emynau ar sgrin o flaen y said: “Being a chorister is a fantastic gynulleidfa i allu gwneud hynny. Yn and rewarding opportunity.” St Asaph is the second Diocese sgil hyn holwyd a ddylem ddarparu To arrange an informal voice trial to reach the 70% target after the yn yr un ffurf electronig emynau please contact Alan at the Cathedral Diocese of Bangor achieved it earlier ychwanegol na welir mohonynt yn Song School on 01745 584053.

7 Where will our leaders ministries but also nurture our own gifts and we have to start with the culture of the Church. Is Church really for 2020 come from? a place where we see the fruits of the spirit – love, joy, Revd Manon Ceridwen peace, gentleness, faithfulness, patience and self-control? James, Director of We also need imagination – not to see the church as it Ministry. When I became a Vicar for the first time in the Ogwen Valley, the church at St Ann’s Bethesda had just closed and the members were about to renovate the dilapidated mission church in the centre of the village of Mynydd Llandygai. Before the works began there was soil on the ground, rotten bits of wood, hanging plaster and cobwebs. In my Easter Sunday sermon that year I asked them to imagine what the dark and decaying church would look like fully renovated. It was difficult to picture at the time, but after a couple of months’ hard work, the church looked like new. Nearly everyone in that small congregation did something to build that church using their gifts. Just as the small congregation at Mynydd Llandygai had to imagine what their new church would be like, so we have to imagine what kind of a church we are building for the future, and work towards it. This is what 2020 Vision is all about. In the Developing Who would Steering Group we have you suggest a particular responsibility for developing to lead in leadership, and if we believed the statistics, it your Church? would be easy to feel depressed. Far more clergy are retiring than are entering ordained ministry, so where are we going to get new leaders from? The simple answer is, look around you, with imagination. We all live in communities where there are people of all ages with all kinds of gifts that could be offered in service to the church and community. My experience is that if a church is a happy place, where people are accepted for who they are and allowed to make mistakes, where the jobs and decisions are shared and where new people are genuinely welcomed then it is much more likely to grow, if not in numbers, certainly in leadership and ministry. Churches where we have to ask really is, but as what it could be. We say every Sunday permission to throw away a broken kettle or where we that we believe in God the Holy Spirit. Do we really believe can’t sit in someone else’s pew is not going to be a place that God is empowering our Churches with the gifts we that will welcome newcomers or grow new ministers. need for our work? Jesus said that to move mountains we We have a responsibility both to encourage others in their need faith as small as a mustard seed...

8 Tool Kit for Churches

The first instalment of the 2020 Vision Tool Kit has arrived in Churches during July. It means there is now guidance, information and advice for everyone as we continue our

And: How can 2020 Vision be strengthened to reflect our real concerns and priorities? There will be further in- stalments to the Tool Kit in 2015.

Developing Mission Areas in Bro Famau Reader John Foxlee from the Bro Famau group of parishes reflects on their journey towards Mission Areas... I wonder if you recoiled mentally when you read in the Church in Wales Review that Mission Areas should be groupings of about 25 parishes? I just could not see how in such a vast area the people could relate to one vicar or even ministry team. We have been through a lot of reflection, prayer and discussion since then and it has fallen into place as a more workable scheme. Our situation in Wales is quite similar to the early Church. We are few, but fired with enthusiasm to spread Christ’s message to an apathetic society, we must use our resources to enable that to happen. How will this brave new Church work? There will be a ministry team, clergy and licensed lay ministers. We should regard everyone living in our parishes as a potential Church member and therefore enable a link to be created with them, whether it is attendance at Sun- day services, visiting them in their homes or by written journey towards Mission Areas in the Diocese of St Asaph. and internet communication. Mission Areas are large and Please read this Tool Kit and use it in your churches. Bish- include experts in all sorts of fields who can help other op Gregory has asked every PCC to respond by answer- people, and the local Church can draw these together ing two questions. What can our parish offer to give or and make them available. We have the chance to use our do to help the mission of the Church? gifts to build a Church to serve God in the 21st Century.

9 Eich newyddion chi

Middleton’s wedding in 2011. During 100 years in the the concert in Connah’s Quay, Paul same parish was interviewed by Bishop Gregory about his faith. Revd Bryn Parry- Jones from St David’s Church said: “The evening was such a wonderful success. The interview with the Bishop was revealing, I think, in allowing us to see how much Paul’s faith colours every aspect of his life, particularly his music.”

A member of Prestatyn Parish Church His job involves education and has now been worshipping with the support of all staff and volunteers as Christian community at Christ Church they provide spiritual care as well as for 100 years. providing that care directly himself Roy Stewart celebrated his 106th or in conjunction with the team of birthday on 12 June and Revd volunteer chaplains, working with Canon Quentin Bellamy reminded local schools and support groups. the congregation that Roy has been There have been a number of In order to solo skydive, Gary needed a member of the church in Prestatyn events to mark St David’s Centenary to complete a set of exercises at 8 since he was 6 years old – in 1914. including their annual summer fete in levels, needing to achieve a certain The picture taken by David Morris June. standard before progressing to the shows Roy with Quentin at Prestatyn next level. Once Gary completed all Parish Church. Vicar qualifies as the levels to the required standard Skydiver he then had to perform a qualifying Composer takes jump. part in Centenary Gary passed this on 21 April 2014 Revd Gary Windon – hospice chaplain and qualified for his British Parachute Celebrations at Nightingale House in Wrexham – Association ‘A’ licence. From this, has qualified as a skydiver. Gary completed further training and The composer who wrote “Wherever He first jumped 10,000 feet out of a after completing his 62nd skydive he You Are” – Christmas number 1 for plane in a Tandem Skydive last year, qualified for his ‘B’ licence on 3 May the Military Wives in 2011 – has raising £1,285 for the hospice and 2014. performed at St David’s Church, loved it so much that he has now An additional Tandem Skydive date Connah’s Quay as part of the church’s done 62 jumps and qualified as a has been added to Nightingale House 100th anniversary celebrations. skydiver in May. Events calendar, on 20 September Paul Mealor was born in St Asaph Gary has worked at the hospice for 2014 – If you are interested in and became internationally acclaimed the last 6 years and works to ensure registering for the September Tandem when his Motet, Ubi caritas was the provision of spiritual and pastoral Skydive please call Amanda on 01978 performed at Westminster Abbey care to all patients, carers, visitors, 314292 or e-mail amanda.kinsey@ during Prince William and Catherine staff and volunteers there. nightingalehouse.co.uk

10 Your News

UK’s greatest organists is an immense passed through the doors of the honour.” ancient church to view the work of The score of this work is published 100 artists and photographers from by the Chichester Music Press Wales and England, including 34 and may be ordered from www. people exhibiting for the first time. chichestermusicpress.co.uk/ The youngest was 16-year-old George hommageaparis Morris and the oldest, 88-year-old Derek Moore. Most of the exhibits Portrait piece were on sale to members of the St Asaph Composer popular at Virgin public at prices ranging between £15 and £350 and by the end of the six- enjoys London Art exhibition day exhibition, 55 had new owners. Premiere A percentage of the income will go to A Mold man’s first attempt at portrait church funds which have benefited A composition by St Asaph Cathedral’s painting won him the “most popular by some £16,000 during the previous Assistant Organist John Hosking piece” award at the sixth annual five years of the Virgin Art Exhibition has been premiered at Westminster Virgin Art exhibition at Mold Parish taking place. Cathedral. John’s new organ suite Church. Hommage à Paris was played by Civic Service for Master of Music at Westminster new Mayor Cathedral Martin Baker in June. Mr Baker commissioned a work that could be taken across the world All Saints’ Church in Deganwy hosted to bring new music to the concert a Civic Service for Councillor Ruth platform. The 16 minute composition Parker after she was inaugurated as pays tribute to the style of many Mayor of Conwy and Constable of of the famous French organist- Conwy Castle. composers, from Louis Vierne to Hundreds of visitors chose “The Ruth and her husband and Consort Pierre Cochereau whilst still retaining Quarryman” as their favourite exhibit. David Raggett are members at All an original voice. It’s the work of retired policeman, Jo Saints’ Church. This new work will receive its Welsh Arwel Hughes, a member of the Green premiere at St Asaph Cathedral on Hut Art Group which meets at the Wednesday 6 August at 7.30pm. Bethesda Chapel in New Street every Commenting on the composition, Tuesday. He said: “I wasn’t sure my John said: “It was quite a daunting first effort at portrait painting would prospect as I have never written be up to standard and was surprised for solo organ before; most of my when it was voted the most popular compositions are written for choir. at the exhibition. It’s given me even The organ, despite being an organist more impetus to start another!“ Reverend Pam Wright, pictured here myself, is a difficult instrument to Jo’s prize was a voucher for art with Ruth said: “It is an honour and write for effectively – and knowing materials from The Bookshop in Mold a privilege to be serving as Mayor’s it would be performed by one of the High Street. More than 1000 people Chaplain.”

11 in the morning Matins service on the Puppets and 27th. Immediately after the service, WW1 remembered Pilgrims in Ruthin Heather will give a short talk on the in Whitford puppet show and answer questions from the congregation. A series of events have taken place in St Peter’s Church in Ruthin will host This is a joint venture between Ruthin the Parish of Whitford to remember sculptor and puppeteer Heather Craft Centre, Denbighshire County those who gave their lives during Burnley in September who will bring Council and St Peter’s Church, and World War 1. Children from Ysgol her pilgrim’s puppet show to the Revd Stuart Evans said: y Llan have taken part in the Flint town. “We are thrilled that our especially & District Rotary Club initiative to created ‘Space’ in church is being remember their lives and sacrifice by used in this imaginative way. As creating portfolios to bring the names well as enticing others to cross the of the men commemorated to life. threshold of our beautiful building, we hope this interplay of art and religion will encourage those who attend Heather’s workshops to contemplate the power of a Creator Heather is a figurative sculptor, beyond ourselves.” working with clay. Over the last few years she has undertaken portrait Pilgrimage goes on commissions which have included for Mynydd Isa Their work provided narratives about a finial waymarker depicting Owain their backgrounds, occupations, and Glyndwr, a statuette of Cardinal the impact the War had on their Newman and Sigeric, who later families. The Parish of Whitford has became Archbishop of Canterbury, displayed the children’s work in the and his mule. Church. Commenting on the project, This latter sculpture was cast in Vicar’s Warden Frances Taylor said: bronze and is now in the grounds of “During the project, the children Glastonbury Abbey. developed close connections with the The Sigeric piece was sculpted for a person they were commemorating travelling exhibition in the millennium Twelve months ago Mynydd Isa Local and helped us all to remember them year. Inspired by the story of Sigeric’s Ecumenical Partnership (MILEP) and the sacrifice they gave. pilgrimage to Rome, Heather made followed the Stations of the Cross at “We have been delighted to display some rod puppets and devised Pantasaph Friary led by Revd Sally the work of the children and the a performance based upon the Baird as part of the Year of Pilgrimage. winning project was submitted by pilgrimage which had 23 showings They enjoyed it so much that they Sean Jones about his Great, Great, across Europe. Now that show is repeated this year. Ann Gannon, Great Uncle Thomas Davies who coming to Ruthin. a Roman Catholic member of the served in the War.” Part of the ‘Open Doors’ weekend partnership, told the story at each Sean is shown in the photograph with on 26 and 27 September, Heather’s station as seen through the eyes of David Hanson MP who presented puppet show will replace the sermon Mary before prayers were said. him with his prize at the end of June.

12 the room above St John’s Church to War Graves tidied teach people the art of felt-making. in Bistre At the end of the five weeks, this of August offering pilgrims a place for piece of art was created – the A peer mentoring service for military reflection and contemplation. inspiration coming from the stained veterans have spent the summer The yurt is on display in the South glass window in church. Freelance months tidying war graves around Transept and houses the Glass Quilt North Wales. – 49 stained glass windows in a “Change Step” visited Bistre woven metal screen – designed to Churchyard in May with a remit to help visitors think about light and the tidy up Commonwealth graves. spiritual effect it has on them. The Glass Quilt is visiting all six Cathedrals in Wales. Before heading to St Asaph the yurt was on display artist Ticky Lowe led the workshops at St David’s Cathedral and Bangor and started with simple brooch and Cathedral and will finish its journey flower making. After the final piece around Wales at Llandaff Cathedral has been displayed in the art gallery it in February 2015. will return to St John’s Church, sitting It’s a project designed by artist Anna opposite the stained glass window Jeff, one of the veterans who Bessant who calls the Glass Quilt “a that inspired its creation. volunteered said: “It was an honour space for meditation”. Commenting to tidy up the war grave of Jonathan on the project she said: Birthday cake for Baldwin. Jonathan was in the Royal “The Glass Quilt is above all about Pentecost Sunday Welch Fusiliers and was the first light. Light is a powerful symbol casualty of Buckley in the Second which can speak to us beyond This beautiful Pentecost cake was World War. I was originally going thought and beyond our conscious enjoyed at All Saints’ Parish Church to join the Royal Electrical and understanding.” in Mochdre for Pentecost Sunday. Mechanical Engineers as I come from A number of visitors have been to The large candle in the middle a long line of career soldiers. But the Cathedral especially to see the represents Christ, the Light of the after the Falklands and the sinking of Yurt which will move on to Brecon World, who promised to send the the Sir Galahad with the loss of Welsh Cathedral on Tuesday 12 August. Holy Spirit. The 12 birthday candles soldiers, I felt it was my duty to join represent the 12 apostles and the the Welsh infantry and help rebuild Church Art project tongues of fire. Meanwhile the red our numbers to serve my country.” displayed at hearts represent the gifts of the Holy Spirit while the strawberries represent Cathedral displays Wrexham Gallery the fruits of the Holy Spirit. yurt to help Felt work completed by members pilgrims reflect of St John’s Church, Rhosymedre has been put on display at the Oriel A Mongolian Yurt will be on display Art Gallery in Wrexham. Five weeks at St Asaph Cathedral until the middle worth of workshops were held in

13 Sylw ar ysgolion

Decision on Ysgol Llanbedr in ing presented Roksana with a certificate and Mrs Sylvia Harris presented the prize as a trustee of the Archbishop September Alwyn Trust. Roz said: The decision on whether or not to close Ysgol Llanbedr “We were delighted won’t be made until September – which means the school with the response to will stay open for at least the Autumn term. the competition, we The Diocese of St Asaph referred the decision to close the are rightly proud of faith school to the Education Minister Huw Lewis AM in our Church Schools April sending three boxes of objections to Cardiff. and using a logo designed by a pupil in our schools on all our correspondence is a lovely way to ac- knowledge this.” The picture shows Roksana with fellow St Giles pupils Courtney Edwards who was placed third & Wiktoria Milczanowska who was highly commended.

Can you help our Diocesan schools’ team? We’re looking to recruit new members to two hugely important programmes to support our Church schools. It normally takes 16 weeks to come to a decision but as The Bishop’s Visitor Scheme this date falls in the school holidays, he will not make a The Bishop’s Visitors play a vital role, both supporting ruling until the new school term in September. and challenging our schools, offering wis- This means that Ysgol Llanbedr will be open on 3 Sep- dom and guidance where appropriate, tember 2014, pending a final decision from the Minister. and helping the schools move forward and be the best they can be. They visit New logo for Education Team a school at least once every half term, A pupil from St Giles VC School in Wrexham has won but often much more frequently, to be our schools competition to design a new logo for the a listening ear and a source of advice. Diocesan Education Team. Roksana Ordak won a The Section 50 Inspectors book token for her winning design which The Section 50 inspects and cele- was kindly provided by brates all that is good about a Church The Archbishop Alwyn school. It happens in tandem with the regular Estyn Trust Fund. Roksana’s inspection, and seeks to ensure that our schools’ Christian winning logo will be character and ethos is being maintained and developed. used on all letter- Most inspectors spend a day in school before writing a heads, documents report. and mailings for If you feel you could contribute to either of these roles a year. Rosalind or would like more details and information please get in Williams, Director touch with Roz Williams or Simon Cameron at the Dioc- of Education and esan Office in St Asaph on 01745 582245 or by email Lifelong Learn- [email protected] Focus on Schools

St Joseph’s “excellent” mendous work that is going on in our Church schools. I school report look forward to seeing a different topic each half term and St Mary’s in Ruabon have started us off with a beau- Our joint faith school in Wrexham – St tiful display.” Joseph’s Catholic and Anglican High School – has been ranked as “excellent” in a recent inspection. As part of the Section 50 report for all faith schools, St Joseph’s was asked to provide two case studies outlining their best practice in the areas of chaplaincy and the Christian life of the school. The report noted that the Christian life of St Joseph’s was “inspira- tional” and that the quality of prayer, worship and plan- ning was “outstanding”. The school employs three chaplains, including Revd Mary Stallard who is the Anglican chaplain at St Joseph’s. Commenting on the effectiveness of this chaplaincy team the report said: “The three part- time chaplains provide an important and unique role. They dedicate themselves to the faith life of the school and make themselves available at all times of the school day and beyond, to support and listen to the students with a quiet sincerity and concern.”

Church Schools get creative in Diocesan Office Our Church schools are being invited to decorate a new display board in the reception area of the Diocesan Office in St Asaph. Each half-term a different school will visit the office and put up a display of the work they have been doing in Re- ligious Education. Director of Education and Lifelong Learning Roz Williams came up with the idea to strengthen the links between schools and the Church office. The first school to take advantage of the display board was St Mary’s VA School in Ruabon. Pupils from St Mary’s put up a display of Joseph and his multi-coloured coat before having a tour of Diocesan Of- fice and the Bishop’s office. Commenting on the initiative, Mrs Williams said: “This is a great way of brightening up the reception hall of the Diocesan Office and for us to see some of the tre-

15 O gwmpas yr Esgobaeth Around the Diocese

Saturday 9 - Sunday 10 August - Berriew Listening for Life - A course from Acorn Christian Village Scarecrow Festival. 2pm - 5pm including a Songs Healing Foundation running on the following Tuesdays. of Praise service at St Beuno’s Church on Sunday at 3pm. 16 September - 6.30pm 30 September - 6.30pm Summer Music at St Giles’ Church, Wrexham 7 October - 6.30pm Free admission with refreshments afterwards. 3pm. 21 October - 6.30pm Sunday 10 August – Mari van Hulzen (Flute) with The course will be held at Christ Church, Bala. More Gerry Howe (Piano). information from Revd Canon Martin Snellgrove on Sunday 24 August – Peter West (Baritone) with 01490 413520. Christopher Enstone (Piano). Songs of Benjamin Britten. Sunday 14 September – The Llanfair Singers, Tuesday 23 September - Come and sing new directed by Graham Trew. Music for a summer afternoon. music for Advent and Christmas. An event organised by RSCM at St Mary’s Church, Mold. 7.15pm costing £7. Friday 29 August - Organ recital at Colwyn Parish Places to be booked with Alan McGuinness at St Asaph Church, Station Road, Old Colwyn by Revd. Edward Cathedral: 01745 584053. Yendall, at 7.30pm. £5 (including refreshments) Saturday 11 October - Diocesan Conference: Friday 29 - Sunday 31 August - Patron Saints Unlocking our Potential. Keynote speaker will be Linda Flower Festival - St Mary’s Church, Cefn. 10.30am - 5pm Jones, Lay Canon at Liverpool Cathedral. Llangollen daily including vintage tractors, farming memorabilia, Pavilion, 10am. quilting and earthworks. Also Festival Service on Sunday at 6pm with Bishop Gregory speaking. More information Messy Church celebrated in Prestatyn from 01745 540345. We’ll be recognising the work of Messy Church around the Diocese in the October/November edition of Teulu Thursday 4 September - Crossing the Threshold. Asaph. This picture shows the 2nd anniversary of Messy A conference to mark the opening of the Episcopate to Church at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Prestatyn. women in the Church in Wales. St Michael’s College, Cardiff. Registration by 20 August via Revd Jan Gould at St Michael’s College, 029 2056 3379. See page 6.

Tuesday 9 - Friday 12 September - Clergy School at St Anne’s College, Oxford.

Colwyn Bay & Rhos Cytun (Churches To- gether) wish to appoint a volunteer ordained Christian Chaplain as Lead Chaplain in Colwyn Bay Town Centre Chaplaincy. All expenses paid. Further details and role description available from www.colwynchaplaincy.org.uk

Teulu Asaph is designed by Martyn Walsh, edited by Phil Topham and printed by PWS Print Limited Copy for October/November edition to [email protected]. Deadline: 1 September Thank you for contributions and please accept our apologies that we cannot print everything we are sent.