Pobl Dewi June 2015.Indd

Meithrin Gobaith Growing Hope www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk www.facebook.com/pobl.dewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi June / Mehefin 2015 Yes it’s ‘No’ St Davids Diocese has voted overwhelmingly against the acceptance of same-sex marriages in church

elegates at the extraor- Ddinary diocesan conference, held at Bronwydd Hall outside Carmarthen on Saturday 6th June, were invited to consider three options: 1 Maintain that the union of one man and one woman is the only definition of marriage recognised by the Church in Wales, and make no liturgical provision for recog- nising same-sex relationships. 2 Make provision for the bless- ing of same-sex relationships (i.e civil partnerships or state-recog- nised marriages), but not carry out same-sex weddings. 3 Conduct marriages for same-sex those preferring Option Two and embrace the right of every- couples pointed to the inclusivity of Angli- body to make their promises to the Voting was conducted by secret canism and referred back to the God who created them, regardless ballot in both houses: clergy and evolution of opinion over previ- of sexual orientation, if they felt laity. The voting was as follows: ously non-negotiable principles, called to the married state. Clergy Laity such as the remarriage of divorcees Central to many of the argu- Option 1 43 (61.5%) 42 (56%) and the ordination of women. ments, on all sides, was the conflict this. Which comes first? And to In the end, though, the diocese Option 2 12 (17%) 17 (23%) and supporters of Option between God and society which can what extent do they complement, spoke with a clear voice. Time will Option 3 15 (21.5%) 16 (21%) Three urged conference to respect emerge on moral questions such as or contradict, each other? tell what God decides to do about it. However, the result has no legal force. It is a recommendation to the Bench of Bishops, in common Armenian Christians make their Aelodau Eglwys Llanwinio yn dathlu with similar votes in the other five dioceses, who will bring forward annual Easter visit to Christ Church, eu nawddsant gyda gwasanaeth, proposals to the next meeting of the Church in Wales Governing Body Carmarthen cerddoriaeth a gwledd in September where the definitive vote will be taken. Full story page 17 Y stori lawn ar dudalen 13 Introducing the debate, Bishop Wyn stressed the importance of the occasion. “It will add weight and significance to our identity in our calling, our self-awareness and in the communities we serve,” he said. the 90-minute debate that followed observed the Bishop’s other imperative, that members should show due respect to the views expressed, however strongly they may disagree with them. “I don’t have to agree with you to love you,” as one member put it. speakers favouring Option One quoted Scripture from Levit- icus and St Paul, and warned of schism if same-sex marriages were sanctioned. FOCUS ON FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH – Pages 10 - 12 Am ddim Free 2 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 Growing hopefully

About 130 people from 31 different parishes, benefices and ministry areas headed for Trinity St David’s for ‘Growing Hope 2’, as Jenny Kimber reports

HIS year there were many who the keynote speaker was the Team, Plant Dewi, The Mothers Thadn’t been to Growing Hope Venerable Ian Bishop, Archdea- Union, Cursillo Cymru and Tŷ’r before and they were looking for con of Macclesfield. Using rugby Pererin. Churches Together ran an different things: “ideas on how to illustrations – always popular with excellent bookstall. expand our Sunday School . . . I’m a Welsh audience – he motivated the day seemed as success- interested in Messy Church . . . I’m us with his themes of hope and ful as ‘Growing Hope 1’, but were a brand-new Christian so I’m open growth so that, now fired up, we people’s expectations fulfilled? – to everything . . . need my batter- went off to one of the ten different It certainly seemed so: “I learned ies recharged . . . I want to try and workshops, to find knowledge and it’s important to form relationships help our parish to move forward . . inspiration. in the local community . . . the . we’re doing Leading Your Church there were opportunities to meditation workshop pointed me Into Growth, maybe this will help. hear good news stories of growth towards prayer . . . I wish I could . . . I need inspiration as to how to in the diocese, consider pilgrim- have brought the whole parish . move on and cope with the changes age and prayer visiting as a form of . . excellent and inspiring main . . . interested in prayer visiting.” outreach, dive into Messy Church speaker, his enthusiasm just flowed after the opening worship, or simply to be still and seek God over us – and I’ll follow it up . . . Bishop Wyn welcomed everyone in meditative silence. The aim of lots of ideas for our youth group . . . and announced the inauguration the day was that these shared expe- hope in a difficult situation . . . I’m of the St Davids Diocese Fellow- riences would find their way back going to organise a ‘pylon pilgrim- ship of Vocation (FOV), designed to individual churches and act as age’ . . . was inspired to help the to offer to those who feel called by the fertiliser for new growth. church to change and support our God a chance to meet others in the there was display material priest in achieving it.” same boat and to help them explore from the World Mission & Ecumen- that call. ism Team, Pobl Dewi, The Tourism Kingdom Values Fellowship of Vocation Reaching out to those in need is a biblical imperative, A new means for people who feel called to Christian ministry says Jeni Parsons, St Davids Social Responsibility Officer in St Davids Diocese to share their experiences was officially launched by Bishop Wyn at the conference. OCIAL Responsibility is our aware of areas of social hous- people need help with transport or call to live out the actions and ing in our communities is a start. filling in forms? Do local people S HE Fellowship of Voca- Fellowship members will be values of God’s Kingdom in our Churches and individual Chris- have relatives in prison or hospital tion will provide opportunities able to attend up to three dioc- lives, our churches and our diocese. tians have to know where the need and need help to visit them? Could T for anyone who feels called by esan events a year, two weekends We follow Jesus and his understand- is so that the love of God can be churches locally provide play God to explore their calling in the and an afternoon with the Bishop ing of his Bible (what Christians shown and acted out. Are there space for access visits for separated company of others making the during which there will be various often call the Old Testament) to lonely people in your neighbour- parents to meet with their children? same journey. opportunities to talk about your understand the values of God’s hood who would welcome a visit All of these have been done by Membership is automatic for and their journeys in faith. The first Kingdom for today. The prophet or local activities they could go to? churches in this diocese and else- those already undergoing training. event will take place in Tenby in Amos calls us to “do justice, love Are there people who need help where and are signs of the love But anyone can sign up by contact- November. mercy and walk humbly with God” of God abroad in our community. with food, clothing or furniture as ing their Vocations Adviser. and the people of Israel were told they seek to rebuild their lives? Do Could your church do any of this? that their love for God would be judged by how they cared for “the The hunt is on for a new logo for the new Fellowship, orphan, the widow and the stranger and we are asking you to come up with one for us. in the land”. Jesus, in the parable Bright ideas and eye-catching designs are welcome. of the sheep and goats, is heard to Please send your submission to: [email protected] say when you feed the hungry, give a drink to the thirsty, welcome a stranger, clothe the naked, care for the sick or visit the prisoner, you do (Silver and Bronze). All were it to him. As Christians we try to successful and are to be congratu- understand what that might mean lated. They will be presented with in our lives and our communities. T is always a special pleasure to their medals and certificates by the So, local churches support food Iannounce successes in the Royal Dean of St Davids at the Area Festi- banks, collect clothes for the Plant School of Church Music’s Voice val Service in Holy Trinity Church, Dewi charity shop to sell cheaply, for Life scheme. Many candidates Aberaeron, on Saturday 13th June. welcome new people into their have had to get used to the new Bishop’s Award: neighbourhoods. syllabus for this year, but all have Rhian Barwick the Diocesan Council for demonstrated a fantastic depth of lewis Davies Social Responsibility has the task knowledge of the music, musical Joanna Foster of supporting what churches are context and understanding of the georgia Gillespie doing and extending it, linking up liturgy. Reuben Mansfield with other agencies which do simi- In March, several candidates put sara Rothwell-Stemp lar work to further Kingdom Values themselves forward for examination Dean’s Award in our society. in the Bishop’s and Dean’s Awards Carys Reynolds My job as Social Responsibil- ity Officer for this diocese is to encourage, assist and inspire new ways of living out Kingdom Values St Patrick’s Church, Pennar, runs a cafe from 3-5pm where The RSCM has earmarked 21 June 2015 as Music Sunday when churches and that’s why the theme for the anyone can have a snack and a drink, find some peace, meet are invited to give thanks for the power of music in worship and to affirm Archdeacons’ Visitations is ‘Look- their friends, find someone to listen to their concerns and get the work of those who make it. ing Outwards’. We need to look some help if they need it. That’s what Social Responsibility looks Further information can be found at www.rscm.com/musicsunday where around us and see afresh – being like locally­ appropriate materials for a service may be found. Pobl Dewi, June 2015 3 Appointments Ordinations

To be ordained Priest on Saturday 27th June in St Davids Cathedral Revd Mark Ansell Revd Heather Evans Revd Caroline Mansell to continue serving as Curate to continue serving as Curate2 to continue serving as Curate in the Parish of Henfynyw in the Benefi ce of Llanbadarn in the United Parish of with Aberaeron & Llanddewi Fawr & Elerch & Penrhyncoch Pembroke Dock Aberarth with Llanbadarn & Capel Bangor Trefeglwys Revd Josh Maynard Revd Marina Evans to continue serving as Curate 2 Revd Stephen Bessant to continue serving as Curate in the Parish of Hubberston & to continue serving as Curate2 in the United Parish of Herbrandston in the Parish of Llanstadwell Pembroke Dock St John, St Patrick & St Teilo Revd Robin Morris, to Revd Jennifer Britton continue serving as Curate2 Revd John Hancock to continue serving as in the Bro Ystwyth & Mynach to continue serving as Curate2 Curate2 in the Benefi ce of Group in the Parish of Llanstadwell Revd Canon Dr Jeni Parsons Carmarthen, St Peter & Revd Dewi Davies Revd Judith Morton, Vicar of Penbre, to serve appointed half time Diocesan Abergwili & Capel-y-Groes Revd Vanessa Hope-Bell Social Responsibility Offi cer, to continue serving as to continue serving as also as Acting Area Dean of 2 Revd Heather Cale 2 Curate in the Benefi ce of Cydweli, 1 May 2015 1 January 2015 Curate in the United Parish to continue serving as of Catheiniog (Llangathen, Llanllwchaearn & Llanina 1 Curate in the United Cwrt Henri, Llanfi hangel Revd Glenys Payne Parish of Haverfordwest & Aberbythych, Llanfynydd, to continue serving as Curate1 Haverfordwest LMA Carmel) & Tywi Cothi LMA in the Parish of Dafen & Revd John Couch Revd Alan Kent Felinfoel to continue serving as Curate2 to continue serving as Curate2 in the Benefi ce of Llansadwrn in the Benefi ce of Cardigan with Llanwrda & Manordeilo & with Mwnt with Y Ferwig with the Bro Dyfri LMA Llangoedmor

To be ordained Deacon on Sunday 28th June in St Davids Cathedral Mr Lyn Lewis Dafi s Mrs Ann McKnight Mr Jeff Thomas to serve as Curate in the to serve as Curate2 in the to serve as Curate1 in the Parish of Llanbadarn Fawr Benefi ce of Cilycwm & Parish of Llansadwrn w & Elerch & Penrhyncoch & Ystrad-ffi n w St Barnabas Llanwrda & Manordeilo & in Revd Canon Sian Jones Capel Bangor Rhandirmwyn & Llanfair-ar- the Bro Dyfri LMA Priest-in-Charge of the United y-Bryn (Cynghordy) & in the Benefi ce of Catheiniog, to Revd Peter Ratcliffe Mr Richard Davies Bro Dyfri LMA Dr Emma Whittick serve also as Acting Area appointed Priest in Charge of to serve as Curate2 in the to serve as Curate in the Mr John Morgan Dean of Llandeilo, Cilgerran w Bridell & Llantwyd Benefi ce of Letterston Parish of Dafen & Felinfoel to serve as Curate2 in the 30 April 2015 & Eglwyswrw, w Llanfair Nant-y-Gof Rectorial Benefi ce of Tenby & 26 April 2015 & Puncheston w Little Mrs Delyth Wilson Caldey LMA Newcastle & Castle Blythe to serve as Curate2 in the Revd Dr Allan Barton Benefi ce of Cynwyl Gaeo appointed University Chaplain for the University of Wales, Mrs Belinda Roberts 2 w Llansawel & Talley & Trinity St David, Lampeter Campus, Mr David Jenkins to serve as Curate to serve as Curate2 in the Abergorlech & in the 6 May 2015 in the United Parish United Parish of St Ishmaels of Haverfordwest & Bro Dyfri LMA Haverfordwest LMA 1 Non-Stipendiary Mrs Jenny Kimber 2 Non-Stipendiary Minister [Local] to serve as Curate2 in the Ms Viv Sayer Confi rmations at St Mary’s, Hakin to serve as Curate in the Grouped Parish of Lampeter Parish of Newcastle Emlyn with Llandyfriog & Troed-yr- aur with Brongwyn & Cenarth We keep all those to be ordained in our prayers

Celebration of a new ministry A service, conducted by the Vicar, Revd Fr Dewi G. Davies, was held at St Illtyd’s, the parish church of Penbre with Llandyry, during which Ven Roger Hughes, Archdeacon of Carmarthen, commissioned two new Worship Leaders, Margaret Richards and Vincent Lloyd. Also present were Reader, Susan Lilleyman, Pictured with Bishop Wyn are (left to right) Donna Walker, Gina and churchwardens Wendy Edwards and Laura Richards who were confi rmed at St Mary’s, Watkeys, Elizabeth Jones and Hakin, on 19th April Pat Thomas 4 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 Following in St David’s footsteps

Narberth w Mounton w Robeston Wathen & Crinow and Minwear w Templeton

Templeton Q & A Minwear meeting Templeton assembly

Llanfi hangel-ar-Arth w Capel Dewi

Caerfelin Assembly Capel Dewi Cake

Llanwnda and Goodwick

At the Charterhouse Lifeboat restoration project, an afternoon with seafarers old ...... and new. Today’s lifeboat sits in the harbour at Goodwick Pobl Dewi, June 2015 5 North Dewisland

Detail from Mathry tapestry Q & A with Year 5 at Croesgoch School Cwmann Llandewi Brefi & Llangeitho The Journey continues . . . Bishop Wyn’s three-year journey visiting every parish – and every church – is now into its second 12 months. Follow the Bishop’s footsteps by visiting his Travelblog on the diocesan website. Here’s the link Meeting the Churchwardens at Cwmann Vicarage www.followingst davidsfootsteps.com Kilgetty

First to last – the first Bishop of St Davids and the 128th

Llanbadarn Fawr Group

A trip down memory lane at St John’s Penrhyncoch, where Admiring the work of young hands at St Michael’s, Cosheston Bishop Wyn’s father was vicar in the 1950s 6 Pobl Dewi, June 2015

the Clergy Fees debate was looked subject at a later meeting equally heated, with cleric after of the GB. It was good to see a Heated debate in a crowded space cleric giving very passionate argu- subject about which the church has ments as to why the proposals to a gospel imperative reaching the The Church in Wales Governing Body returned to its historic home, the town of remove clergy fees in favour of a agenda for a change. Llandrindod Wells, where for many years the GB had met at the pavilion, and it was non-pensionable allowance should the GB overran its time consid- here after a break of over thirty years, in a rather crowded and airless space, that it met be rejected, not least because of erably due to the debates and, at the from 15th to 16th April. Paul Mackness reports the effect on clergy families and request of the Standing Commit- HIS meeting saw rather became clear that despite an initial taken by Dr Todd and Revd Canon their income levels. This had been tee, our Private Members Bill to Tmore heated debate than had move towards a greater represen- Jenny Wigley resulted in a very a recommendation of the CiW look at removing age restrictions occurred in previous sessions. tation of women across the CiW, heated debate, only exacerbated by Review, and one that was bound to was postponed to a future session. Following the Presidential both at diocesan and provincial the suggestion that men should step provoke a reaction from the clergy. A working group has already been Address, when Archbishop Barry levels, the past two years had seen back from senior posts in order to Much to the shock of the work- set up by the Standing Committee Morgan urged us all to exercise our a reversal. This was a reporting of allow women to occupy a propor- ing group that had put together the to look at this issue with a view to vote in the upcoming General Elec- the statistical information, sadly tion of them. Male members of the proposals it was soundly rejected reporting as soon as possible. We tion, and a video montage of “The however what occurred in the GB and, more significantly, female with a large number of absten- still have the option, if the recom- Time is Now” 2020 Vision Confer- debate came across as a berating of representatives took to the micro- tions as well. In my capacity as a mendations from this group are not ence held in November 2014, the the GB, and the CiW as a whole, phone arguing that the best person member of the CiW Review Group what we want, to bring forward our report of the Working Party on the for this turn of events. should be appointed for the job, I had warned this would happen motion for debate and vote. Representation of Women in the My experience of the GB has regardless of gender. Following an two years ago! Further details are in High- Church in Wales (CiW) hit the GB taught me one thing, it doesn’t like amendment the report was received group work this session was lights, available in churches or with the subtlety of a juggernaut. being told what to do or being told but many of its recommendations on Evangelism, with the view to online. Presented by Dr Gill Todd, it off, and sadly the rather hard tack were noted, not endorsed. holding a debate on this often-over- Q: What is a camel? New Testament from the New World N 29 April 1810, Thomas response has been overwhelming, OJames and Rachel Phillips with most of the copies coming A: A horse designed by a committee! were married in Llanwinio Church. from local people. Many of the With apologies to those who are fond of camels, Tessa Briggs is encouraged to think that this old Eight years later, they left to seek a labels inside the front cover name joke does not apply to the new, slimmed-down Diocesan Conference Standing Committee new life in America; and six gener- loved ones to be remembered as ations down the line, Errol James the books are opened Sunday by HE old Standing Committee, Diocesan Board of Finance and the settled in Massachusetts. When Sunday. Twhich comprised, potentially, Parsonage Board, together with all he and his wife Nancy heard that each page carries the same text 48 members, held its last meet- reports submitted for the October Llanwinio Church was seeking in two columns, Y Beibl Cymraeg ing in December 2014 and, under Diocesan Conference. donors of bilingual Welsh/English Newydd on the left and The English rules passed by Diocesan Confer- Much of the work of diocesan New Testaments, Errol was quick Standard Version on the right. ence last year, the new committee committees, groups and teams is to contribute, dedicating a copy to All five churches in the group convened on 24th March. Under a mystery to those who are not a Thomas and Rachel and buying are now equipped with enough the old constitution, the Standing member of any of them. The Bishop two more to circulate among the copies for everyone to be able to Committee was large, unwieldy and senior staff of the diocese are Welsh community in his part of the follow, whichever language the and overly-complex. There are now keen to encourage more of us to US. reader chooses. And for those only 21 of us and we are tasked with had detailed presentations from get involved in all areas of deci- the project is part of a drive by whose firstlanguage in English, it’s a fairly heavy remit but it is hoped the Nominations Board and the sion-making. So, when a vacancy the Crymych Group of Churches a chance to brush up their Welsh on with a smaller, more focused group Churches and Pastoral Commit- arises on a committee, please to have more readings in Welsh, familiar territory – with a crib sheet the business of Standing Commit- tee, which were informative and give due consideration as to how without excluding anyone. The just a glance away! tee can be discussed robustly and clearly set out how each of the you could contribute. You don’t help take the diocese forward in groups operates, together with generally need any special qualifi- these times of rapid change. their remits – copies of the brief- cations, you just need commitment In March, we considered ing notes about these groups are and ‘life-skills’, as they say. re-grouping and boundary changes, now up on the diocesan website at Oh, yes, and by the way, I am Local Ministry Areas, 2015 Dioc- http://stdavids.churchinwales.org. not fond of camels! esan Conferences and the current uk/information/boards In June we status of the Year Book. We also will receive presentations from the ‘Reading The Bible Sure and Strong’ Sharon Edge reports on a scheme to be rolled out by the Lay Development Team from September

eading The Bible Sure such obstacles as nerves, those ‘Rand Strong’ held in St Mary’s dreaded BIG WORDS and unpro- Church Hall, Cardigan, on Satur- nounceable names and places, to day 24th January was the pilot for mention but a few things. He then future events to be held by the Lay proceeded to give some very sound Project Co-ordinator Susie Copus and Clydau Churchwarden Dai Development Team from Septem- pointers on how best to read the and biscuits, to take away the feel- Evans sort through just some of the bilingual New Testaments ber 2015. The aim of these informal lesson so that all could hear clearly, ing of it being a ‘training day’ and half-day events is to encourage and de-constructing some of the myths to provide a relaxed atmosphere so inspire confidence in people to regarding pronunciation, show- that people could enjoy themselves By the end of the morning we Cardigan, for hosting this event come out of the pews and take an ing how easy it is to overcome whilst learning. had two willing volunteers who and providing the welcome active role in their church services. mistakes and how to approach the Half way through the morning had never before stood and read refreshments. Revd Robb Wainwright (Direc- tongue-twisting elements of read- we were each given a selection of aloud in front of anybody, but did Please look out on church tor of St Davids Lay Development) ing scripture aloud. We were given readings to choose from and prac- so on that day. They both read with notice boards and email for this started the morning by giving the handouts which were clear and tise reading, with the opportunity a confidence they admitted they and other similar events in your 20+ people present some useful informative. to listen and help each other perfect had never felt before. parish or deanery. advice on how to overcome all of this was done over coffee our ‘reading out loud’ skills. thanks go to St Mary’s, Pobl Dewi, June 2015 7 Ageing well Make a difference The Older People’s Commissioner for Wales, Sarah Rochira, is addressing the concerns of those aged to a child’s life over 50 Could you be a Carmarthenshire foster carer? INCE taking up post in 2012, Don’t rule yourself out of this challenging and rewarding experience, says Sue John-Evans SI have been a regular visitor to the parishes that make up the ARMARTHENSHIRE Foster- company of children and young Diocese of St David’s, meeting Cing Service needs to recruit people, are warm, sensitive to the older people and finding out about a diverse range of foster carers to needs of others, have time, flexibil- the issues that matter most to them. reflect the needs and make-up of rewarding experience, it can enrich ity, patience, energy and a sense of In the past year alone, my team the county’s children and young your life and those close to you. humour, you could be the person and I have made over 30 visits to people in care. You will be making a difference we are looking for to provide a the area through my Engagement Ideally children and young to a child’s life experience, seeing child or young person with a safe Roadshow. people should be able to live safely their confidence and self-esteem space to grow and develop, help- These engagement events and happily with their parents and grow. Whilst it is recognised that ing them reach their full potential. have included meeting members families, however where this is not fostering a child in your own home These qualities are necessary to of carers support groups run by Sarah Rochira possible we find suitable foster- can be a challenge, foster-carers meet the needs of children and the British Red Cross in Aber- carers to provide our vulnerable say that they enjoy the personal young people who need a positive aeron and Lampeter, while we also Maes Mwldan, an assisted living children with secure, stimulating satisfaction of “giving something foster care experience. visited Llanelli Library, where the complex, and the British Red Cross and nurturing foster family homes. back” and talk of feeling valued We are urgently seeking new team witnessed the success of a carers support group in Cardigan. Carmarthenshire Fostering and fulfilled as human beings . Carmarthenshire Foster carers project that is opening up a whole My team also visited Rickeston Service provides high quality, Who can become a foster-carer? if you would like to know more new world for many older people Mill Care Home, Haverfordwest, foster-family homes to children Rule yourself in; anyone can apply. please contact us, or if you know by helping them to get online. The where the Salvation Army organ- and young people who are in need We encourage interest from all someone who might be interested Digital 2.0 Project’s First Click ises a Harvest Festival every year of stability and security. They may sections of the community. You please share this important infor- Group teaches basic first steps, for residents, while I spent a day need foster care for lots of different will need to be over 21 years of mation, as a sharing and caring such as using search engines to with groups run by Age Cymru reasons; their parents may be ill, age, we also like to hear from those gesture. find information, setting up email Pembrokeshire. in prison or having relationship or who are post-retirement, as long Our contact details are 0800 accounts and listening to music on some of the major projects my financial problems, some of them as your health is good. You do not 0933699 or www.carmarthenshire. sites such as YouTube. office has been involved in over the will have been abused. need any formal qualifications. gov.uk/fostering On other visits, my team last year, have included my Care Fostering isn’t all about giving If you have a spare bedroom learnt about how clubs in Tumble Home Review, which looked at – you can get so much out of this and if you genuinely like the are helping to tackle loneliness whether older people living in care and isolation by providing social homes have a good quality of life opportunities to people who live in and my call for the preservation of rural locations. vital community services that older every week, around 100 older people rely on, such as bus routes, Exploring Community people attend the Cinio a Chlonc public toilets and day centres. The vision for establishing a modern monastic community in West Wales was luncheon club and Cyfle i Bawb If you would like me, or a discussed at a meeting in May. Matt Webster invites readers to get involved group at Tumble Hall, where they member of my team, to visit any are able to play bingo, have a group or organisation you are HIS was a very encourag- nity from Mucknell Abbey near Hugh shared some of the life and cooked meal, take part in dance involved in, please contact eliza- Ting day, one that represented Worcester, the Franciscan Commu- history of Hilfield Friary and how and movement exercises and listen [email protected] a beginning with perhaps plenty nity from Hilfield Friary in Dorset it has provided a place for people to regular speakers. or call 02920445033. of caveats (tentative, explorative and Ven Andrew Jones from North to grow, initially for wayfarers and I enjoyed afternoon tea with For more details about my and so on). The day was an oppor- Wales. now for younger people. Follow- 100 members of the Crundale work call 08442640670, or visit tunity to explore something new, During the first part of the day ing the talks we shared communion Over 60s, while my team visited www.olderpeoplewales.com connecting deeply with our ancient we listened to different perspec- together, which was a special heritage, a day that opened the tives on community, starting time of stillness, reflection and very real possibility that we might with Andrew Jones helping us togetherness. establish a monastic community think through how community after lunch we spent some time here in West Wales once again; a was expressed by the early Brit- discussing the morning and the community drawing from the early ish Christians in this land. Then vision for a new community, then British Christian communities, but we were brought right up to date we went out and looked at possi- a community very much rooted in with a report on the recent confer- ble locations for such a community, our time, too; a community both ence in Whitby which brought ending the day in the Cambrian contemplative and missional, together traditional communities Mountains. rooted in prayer and worship but with the “new” communities that We are forming a group of looking outside itself. have started in recent years. Abbot people interested in pursuing this Members of the local church Stuart shared something of Muck- vision. Please contact me at and clergy gathered with members nell Abbey’s beginning and its [email protected] if you of the Benedictine Commu- heart to pray for unity. Finally, Br wish to join the conversation.

An extended version of this article can be found on the PD Extra pages of the diocesan website at http://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/

FINAL COPY DATE for the September 2015 edition of Pobl Dewi 19th August 2015 The community at Hillfield Friary 8 Pobl Dewi, June 2015

take a step together. Once again we made joyful sounds in our singing Messy Cathedral and in our praise. Grace was sung On Saturday 21st February the cathedral played host to the and then all were invited to Tŷ’r first Messy Cathedral event at St Davids. This event had Pererin, the Cathedral’s Educa- been in the planning for some time and was co-ordinated tion and Pilgrimage Centre, for a picnic lunch. The sun shone and we jointly by Clare Williams, for the Education Department at enjoyed sharing food together. the cathedral and Lesley Cox, Messy Church Co-ordinator this event has received much for South Wales. Given the popularity of the event it is positive feedback from those hoped that it will not be the last time that Messy Cathedral involved. Its success reminds us of happens in St Davids the importance of getting together VER 130 people gathered craft, games and races, making and sharing resources and ideas Ofrom all across the diocese bara brith and dressing up as a where we can. Messy Church is a – from Llanelli and Aberystwyth, monk with storytelling. The cathe- growing form of ministry to chil- Pembroke Dock and Llandysul, dral was alive with joy and fun as dren and families; groups went Tenby and Milford Haven, Manor- old and young joined in together. away encouraged to have more bier, Cardigan and more. For after the activities there was joint events and keep in touch. It Mystery many it was a coming together of a short celebration of worship is hoped that another Messy Cathe- Messy Church groups, for some it together led by Lesley. We were dral event will be organised in the was a chance to experience Messy reminded about St David’s call to future. Many thanks go to all who Church and gain contacts and do the little things and invited to took part and supported in any way. Incorporated ideas, for others it was an oppor- God’s Hi-Five Youth Church, which meets regularly at Golden tunity to bring a small number of Grove, near Carmarthen, investigated the mystery of the Holy children and families to a larger gathering. Spirit to celebrate Easter the day began with a welcome OD’S Hi-Five Youth Church consider starting a youth minis- – tea, coffee, squash and biscuits as Gbecame ‘Mystery Incor- try: “There were lots of reasons people arrived. The theme for the porated’ for the evening as, in a why a youth church might not have day was ‘St David’ and, after sing- real life Mystery Machine, they worked here. We have very few ing and an introduction, a familiar followed a trail of Biblical clues young people in this particular rural topic came alive to children and between the churches of Llanga- context, with many other activities, adults through the activities on then and Golden Grove. This led such as sports and Young Farmers, offer. them to uncover more about the to compete against, and none of us Families were able to take mystery of the Holy Spirit – and had previous experience of working part in making a daffodil, St got them a Fair Trade ‘Real’ Easter with this age group. But the voice David craft, prayer activities (with egg into the bargain. of God calling us to start something biscuits!), making a dove, footprint One of the young people who was louder than those other voices took part, Alicia Marquis aged 14, so we did it anyway! When you said of the Easter hunt: “it was believe that both God and the next ment we are hoping that we shall fun, it had a really good theme. generation of Christians are of para- Seven new posts see growth in several ways: we We learnt a lot of things that we mount importance then all reasons hope to encourage faith in Christ of children and their parents; witness wouldn’t have learnt in other against giving it a try melt away. Investing in young people ways. It was really inspiring and My advice is this: if you feel God greater outreach to the young; inte- HE diocese is about to adver- interesting.” calling you to start a youth initiative will be two project workers in grate young people into worship tise for a lead person to head Revd Sulin Milne said: “This in your area go for it! God can do T each Archdeaconry. A number of and church life; make sure that seemed a fitting theme for our amazing things through us when we up a new team of six project parishes in the diocese requested all our congregations are child Easter hunt this year as we have step out in faith.” workers for children and youth. support and resources for particu- friendly. been helping our young people to god’s Hi-Five Youth Church the leader will, with the lar local projects and six have been Please pray for this initiative, understand how they can come to meets fortnightly on Friday nights, Bishop, be responsible for inter- chosen, one for each worker to which is a direct result of those seek and experience the mystery 7-8.30pm, at Golden Grove Church viewing, forming, line-managing focus on. deanery conferences we held to of God. The Scooby Doo adven- Hall. Contact Revd Sulin Milne for and mentoring those who will be Once the team is assembled hear the views of congregations. ture was a fun way of underlining further information at sulinmilne@ appointed to six project posts in we shall announce who the work- Pray for Archdeacon Will, as he all that.” She added with a smile: yahoo.co.uk; tel: 01558 668268), the diocese. Once the leader is ers are and where they will serve. heads this up, and those whom God “At Easter we reflect on new life. or see God’s Hi-Five Youth Church appointed she/he will get to work They will also assist the leader in is calling to serve in this way in our If anyone doubts there is life in the on Facebook. forming the team in order to enable training and enabling other projects diocese. church today then come spend an the Mystery Machine is avail- specific project work, already to begin to flourish. Dennis Wight, evening with God’s Hi-Five!” able for hire from Lee on 07970 begun, to develop and grow. There With this amount of invest- Director of Ministry sulin urges other churches to 350092. Pobl Dewi, June 2015 9 Bye Buy Childhood Welsh Week at Jeffreyston DIOCESE OF ST DAVIDS 2015 ESGOBAETH TYDDEWI Over the past decade, Mothers’ Union has played a signifi cant role in speaking out against the commercialisation and sexualisation of childhood. Brenda Evans reports on the latest developments N 2010 we launched our Bye Buy they take measures to protect chil- IChildhood campaign, which, dren. But it is right that Mothers’ with its accompanying report, Union continues to be vigilant on sought to infl uence those who these issues, and encourages all of shape childhood – government, us to continue to play our part in Calendar of Intercessions Calendr Ymbiliau the commercial world, parents and not only ensuring that everyone August – October 2015 Awst – Hydref 2015 Pray without ceasing Gweddïwch yn ddi-baid the wider society; calling them to adheres to government regulations, take a responsible attitude towards but also strives for best practice to images and information that is support parents and children.” geared towards children. We know how much our Calendar the Buy Bye Childhood 2015 members have supported this report highlights new research campaign and how it was key to fi ndings, as well as the results of the successful outcomes of the of in-depth interviews with a number 2010 report. to encourage further of parents. at the end of the report support this year we have produced there are six recommendations an accompanying engagement Intercessions to government which we believe pack which has been designed to Revd Ian Aveson will ensure children and family enable all members to engage with is now the Editor life are not adversely impacted by the issues raised in the report and of the Calendar of commercialisation. think about how they can join in We have been thrilled with with the campaigning activities. Intercessions and the progress that has been made the pack has sections designed he invites readers in tackling the issues raised in to help people ‘pray’, ‘enable’ and to get in touch our 2010 report. However, there ‘campaign’. there should be some- HaVe now taken up is still much to be done and we thing for all members, from those I responsibility for the are aware that issues raised in wanting to support through prayer, Calendar of Intercessions the fi rst report are still relevant those needing extra support and and the next edition will to parents today. the archbishop guidance for their family and those cover the quarter august of York, Dr John sentamu, said who want to be empowered to to October. I am working “I’ve supported Mothers’ Union’s actively campaign about the topic. in conjunction with the Bye Buy Childhood campaign Remember, we are always happy to Communications team to since it was launched in 2010 and hear from members about how they make minor changes to the I know just how thrilled Mothers’ have supported the campaign design and layout of the Union members have been to see the report and engagement booklet, which I hope will the response from government, pack can be downloaded from meet with your approval. Industry and the third sector, as http://www.byebuychildhood.org/ Please also bear with me as I endeavour to keep the information up-to-date. Having said that, please let me know, at any time, of any amendments or correc- tions to the information in the calendar which you think need my attention. BYE BUY CHILDHOOD: I would also like to invite parishes to send A report into the me details of any special events, projects or other commercialisation matters which you would and sexualisation of like us to pray for and which could be included. childhood 2015 the text should be an abso- lute maximum of 40 words and must include the date and church/parish/l Ma/ benefi ce details. Obviously, the further in advance you send me infor- mation, the better, as the booklet is published quar- terly in advance. generally speaking, the deadline for receipt of information for St Oswald’s School, Jeffreyston, held its annual ‘Welsh Week’ a forthcoming calendar recently with a variety of activities. The whole school had visited will be the beginning of the St David’s Cathedral the previous week and during Welsh Week month preceding publica- they enjoyed Mabinogion storytelling and dressing up. The series tion, thus, for the quarter of events concluded on the Friday morning with an Eisteddfod, covering august to Octo- when the children performed various pieces which were very ber, the deadline is 1st July. kindly judged by Mr & Mrs Harry. Parents and friends of the Contact me at school were also invited to the watch the performances and to [email protected] Valuing children as children, not consumers stay for tea, coffee and Welsh cakes 10 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 Focus on Family History Research Written in stone

Mary Baker brings guests to Wales from all over the world and one of the most compelling reasons for their visit is the need to discover their roots eMeteRIes are a wonder- they hold – perhaps by making we often fi nd ourselves spread Cful resource when people are available a plan of names and dates around a churchyard trying to peer searching for long lost family. in the church porch or an online through moss and lichen, wading When I was studying archae- version. through knee-high undergrowth or, the treasure of personal heritage mystery when family members ology we did many graveyard Due to the plethora of, for in some cases, tearing ourselves on we seek. We must be aware that they knew nothing about are found surveys and used a wonderful paper example, Jones, Davies and thick bramble bushes. the moss more recent deaths draw those in the family plot. tool devised by Harold Mytum (the thomas surnames, a family is and lichen of course cannot, nor who grieve and would not appreci- It is so moving to see somebody excavator of Castell Henllys). the often hard to chase. We have to should they, be removed. ate the odd whoop of delight as we who, after years of family research, survey he devised allowed one make sure we have the correct some graveyards are ultra- make a discovery. has fl own across the Atlantic to to record the content and style of given name, and the more unusual tidy and the gravestones have been I have studied the typology of fi nd their great-great forbear and the grave marker. Many similar the better. When we can marry moved to the outside walls to allow memorials and have an eye that to stand where they lie. tears often surveys have been carried out in names, dates and the name of the for easy maintenance or because of can pick out the age of stone we are fl ow as connections with “home” our diocese and it would be useful farm, house or street then we can stone topple danger! looking for and point the family in are re-established. It is something for the churches involved to allow be pretty sure we have the right We also have to be careful to a general direction. We sometimes never forgotten. public access to any information family. There are diffi culties and respect the sacred space that holds make discoveries that unveil more

Parish records and your family history Who am I? Philip Wyn Davies explains his role as St Davids Archives Adviser Regardless of our families, past and present, faith and offers to help clergy and researchers with parochial records communities can provide roots from which self-worth and HOMas Cromwell – love him 1538. In many parishes no regis- Besides being Vicar of trega- confi dence can grow, writes Jeremy Martineau or loathe him? Whatever one ters survive from before the 18th ron and various other parishes, not t Hat do those who search may think of the Hilary Mantel century, and even where the to mention area Dean of lampeter registers, graveyards and version of tudor history, Cromwell registers survive it can be particu- and Ultra Aeron, I am the St W historic records look to discover does have at least one good deed larly diffi cult tracing family links Davids diocesan archivist, or rather about themselves? to his account. In 1538 he ordered because what appear to be family archives adviser. Before I left the Who am I? Am I defi ned by my that every parish priest was to names are really patronymics. the National library of Wales to train genes, those of my forebears, my keep a record of all the baptisms, son of thomas Williams may well for ordination I was responsible for education, upbringing, the culture marriages and burials in his parish. have called himself John thomas, the Church in Wales records held around me, my faith? From birth to For the fi rst time the names of and this practice continued into there. My principal responsibility death we are re-shaping our world the ordinary people of england the early 19th century. the prob- now as diocesan archives adviser and seeing how we fi t into it and and Wales begin to be preserved, lem from then onward is that so is to offer advice to any of the can manipulate it to our advantage. of a “broken heart” by a relation- although few parish registers in many people shared the same few clergy of the diocese about the safe We discover and shape our identity ship ending that once gave so much Wales go back anywhere near surnames. keeping of those parish registers in the process of interacting with signifi cance. and other records for which they our surroundings. those who search church and are responsible. I do my best to During life’s key stages most other registers for knowledge about ensure that any registers or records people question and explore their their origins may discover some no longer in use are deposited in identity, with sometimes tragic and painful truths – was great-grand- the appropriate local record offi ce, sometimes amazing results. the dad born on the wrong side of the or in the National library in the provision of education is society’s blanket? case of diocesan rather than paro- attempt to strengthen the strong, to the Psalmist rejoices in the chial records. any of the clergy help and encourage the weak and inner knowledge that each of has who want my advice or help have to correct the wayward. the judi- a specially close relationship with only to ask. I can be contacted by cial system tries to provide further the almighty (Ps 139). this loving email: [email protected] corrective infl uences for those who relationship is the one that sustains But what help can I offer to have strayed too far. Rejoice with and is not weakened by life’s trag- those searching for their ancestors, those who “come to their senses” edies, even if we sometimes fail to or indeed for any other informa- as result. know it. tion that might be found in church For those with an uncertain In our human relations, those records? Here again I can offer family of origin perhaps they can who love us give us signifi cance advice. I must emphasize, however, see themselves as a blank sheet, and a sense of worth, building our that I do not hold any registers or ready to be written on by life confi dence in who we are. Those other records in tregaron Vicar- unfettered by any history. But the who live alone, perhaps in old age, age. Historic parish registers and absence of data from forebears are especially vulnerable to the other parochial records should all can be a medical disadvantage. pain of involuntary isolation. have been deposited in the local as the traditional family structure a faith community is important record offi ces in Aberystwyth, becomes looser, with fewer formal in providing a “loving family” that Carmarthen or Haverfordwest. relations abounding, knowledge itself draws its identity from the Diocesan records should be in the of whom one’s parents are is less one who cannot be identifi ed, who National library. the staff of these certain. Identity is not so easily is beyond our knowing. “as I have institutions will do their best to given, but has to be created and loved you, so you must love one help you with your research. Baptismal records from 1802 developed. No wonder we speak another.” (Jn 15.12) Pobl Dewi, June 2015 11

ested in local history and began drawing up family trees for local Absorbing and families, businessmen and work- ers in the various maritime, metal and coalmining industries. I rewarding became fascinated with this type of research. Local chapels and Benita Afan Rees offers some tips on researching ancestors churches were a wealth of infor- mation. Very often their walls were N the late 1990s I began think- made it compulsory for all births, decorated with memorials and Iing about what my husband and marriages and deaths to be regis- plaques containing valuable clues. I could do when we retired. We tered at a register office, certificates Their graveyards held even more discussed everything from pottery were issued and a second copy was interesting details. to sports activities. We could not retained at Somerset House in As the civil records went from agree on anything. Around this London. 1837 and the census forms from time I became interested in my We were on our way but we 1841 it was difficult to trace people family history and decided to start soon discovered that parish records before these dates. Parish records researching my ‘roots’. Where were also a valuable source of were the primary source of infor- to begin? The obvious was to ask information, especially for events mation. We travelled the length family and friends but many of the before 1837. Where would we find and breadth of Carmarthenshire, people who held the history had the records we wanted? Some- Cardiganshire and Glamorganshire, died. What to do? We headed for times, the church or chapel where visiting chapels and churches. We the local library and the county their marriage took place held found local people including clergy, archive service where we found details of births, marriages and wardens and vergers most helpful. census and parish records. deaths, in leather-bound books. In The result of all this research We learnt that from 1837 it some instances local family history and interest in local history was the was necessary to register births, groups have transcribed parish publication of CDRoms and books marriages and deaths. The civil records making research easier. on local history. We have found nating hobby and have spent many walks of life. It is truly a hobby registration of these events began Because I began researching visiting places of worship and happy hours taking photographs for all age groups which is both on 1 July 1837. The new legislation my family tree I became inter- checking parish records a fasci- and speaking to people from all absorbing and rewarding.

Rector’s complaint – In a letter back to the Middle Ages. Docu- ants were prominent landowners dated 1870, Sir William Dunbar, ments of that time show a first in Carmarthenshire and Cardigan- Rector of Walwyn’s Castle, Haver- name followed by ‘atten Oke(s)’ or shire before leaving the area in the fordwest, complains about the lack ‘atten Ock(s)’. Literally, Noakes’ early 20th century. The comedian Have you ever wondered where your family’s surnames came of building maintenance. Revd ancestors lived ‘by the’ or ‘at the’ Marcus Brigstocke descends from from? Are variant spellings connected or completely separate? Dunbar served at Walwyn’s Castle oak tree(s). The name became ‘atte this family. Such questions have led many family historians to embark on a from 1862 to 1876. Nokes’ and later simply Nokes (or Sad story – James Morris, a one-name study – collecting and analysing all occurrences of a Deceitful bishop – Robert Sher- one of its variants). gardener of Slebech, Pembroke- surname and variants. Margaret Southgate, Representative for borne, originally from Hampshire, Famous descendant – Although shire, had much sadness in his old Wales, Guild of One-Name Studies, invites readers to dig deeper became Bishop of St David’s Brigstocke is derived from Brig- age. He lost his sister in 1885; his in 1505 on the basis of a forged stock village in Northamptonshire, wife in 1890; his granddaughter HE Guild of One-Name Stud- Disputed will – In a major papal bull! When this was discov- it came to Wales in 1626 when in 1891 and his daughter in 1892 Ties has over 2,700 members family conflict in the Consistory ered, Henry VII wrote to the Pope a John Brigstocke married Mary before passing away himself in worldwide, researching over 8,600 Court of St David’s over the will asking for leniency, and appar- Bowen in Cydweli. Their descend- 1893. surnames. Far from being a dry data of a John Thomas, alias Badham, ently Bishop Sherborne was not collection exercise, a one-name who died in 1728, one submission punished, but went on to become study often uncovers fascinating on behalf of John’s widow asked a Bishop of Chichester in 1508. At www.one-name.org you can find out more about the Guild details about the name and its bear- witness, “Had the deceased not been Developing surnames – The of One-Name Studies, check if your surname is already ers. I’m grateful to Guild members drinking for some hours the day you surname of a more recent bishop being studied, and contact the relevant researchers, or me for the following examples: witnessed the pretended will?” (George Noakes, 1982-1991) goes at [email protected] Preserving the Past for the Future David Llewellyn, Archivist-Education and Outreach, at Pembrokeshire Archives and Local Studies in Prendergast, Haverfordwest, invites readers to delve into records spanning almost 8 centuries

RCHIVES form our link with from the 1800s or a diary from the collection with its huge number Athe past and help to explain 1900s. of books and published items on the world around us today. They they are important as, unless Pembrokeshire. The sheer amount are a fantastic way of learning things were written down and of information here on Pembroke- about our own identities, or that of kept, our only recourse to the shire is staggering. our communities, and are inspiring past would be memory. Here we With all this information people to use as you can access the actual have over 132,000 written records come to see us from all over the records of the time, not just look at on 4.5km of shelving. They date world, from as far afield as New something on a screen. They are from 1272 up to last week’s local Zealand and even Japan! Most come mostly written records (we also newspapers and the vast major- as individuals to find out more about keep old photographs and maps) ity of them are available to view their past or that of their communi- that have been retained because in our public research room. We ties. No appointment needed and free of their historic and cultural value. also keep extensive church records to use, just pop in. Family history, These documents tend to be unique from the diocese, such as parish house history, college projects and and irreplaceable so we have to registers, church wardens’ records so on remain popular choices for take great care of them but, at the and minutes, items on the fabric individuals but we also offer booked same time, make sure that they of buildings and the overseers of group visits for a small fee. If you are For more information visit www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/archives can be accessed as far as possible. the poor. There is also free online a member or leader of a group and Some examples may be a parish access to census returns, family would like to arrange an outing with Tel: 01437 775456 register from the 1600s, a letter or history websites and, importantly, a difference then don’t hesitate to Facebook: www.facebook.com/PembsArchives map from the 1700s, a newspaper we hold the Local Studies book contact us. 12 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 You simply never know until you’ve tried Researching your ancestry can have the most extraordinary results, as Jenny Kimber and her family discovered

Y mother, Joan Pyll, was but we learned his name, courtesy Mborn in Guildford on 10 of Barnardo’s who had opened February 1923 to Susan Pyll. There their files. was no father’s name on her birth By then I had really got the certificate. bit between my teeth. My grand- Mum remembered very little father had been in the Guards and about her early life except she they were able to tell us that he had recalls being in the workhouse on died but that he had married and her own and being visited, when fathered 4 children – 2 sons and 2 she was 4, by her mother holding daughters. So where were they? a small baby, whom she knew was Using online Births Marriages her brother Jacky. She never saw and Deaths and an online elec- her mother again but she had been toral roll, I discovered that one of Joan and her brothers – Jack is on the right, Ray on left given a small photo of Jack which the sons had died but I wrote to his she treasured all her life. widow (I worded that letter very carefully!) and she put me in touch Barnardo’s with my mother’s half-brother Her next move was to Barnardo’s living only 70 miles away and 2 and to various foster parents, then half-sisters in Australia. Lots more on to school certificate and teacher Joan’s brother Jacky – she kept photographs, including ones of my training college. The war was this photo for over 60 years grandfather. a great leveller – her parentage six months later Mum met hidden behind her ATS uniform. end of the programme, the phone them – they looked so alike. Marriage and three daugh- rang, Dad answered it and, hand- At the start of my research my ters started her thinking about her ing the phone to Mum, simply said mother did not know any of her parentage and we did some digging “It’s your brother”. Mum took the immediate family. Finally though – with little success. Mum wrote to phone and spoke to her brother for she had more relatives than she the Charlie Chester Show on Radio the first time in her 70 years of life could count. 2 and asked if he would broadcast – suddenly she had 26 new rela- Mum died just 5 months after- an appeal for her brother. This went tives and lots of photographs of her wards but I feel so happy that we out on Sunday evening, 22 August mother, sadly no longer alive. Her were able to fill in for her the last Joan and second family – Dave and Queenie and Peggy, who 1993, the year Mum was 70. father had never married her – so pieces of our family jigsaw puzzle. At half past five, before the we didn’t know his whereabouts came over from Australia Family history at the National Library of Wales The National Library of Wales offers a wide range of services for those researching their family histories, says Beryl Evans, Research Services Manager T has always been an important search for evidence to corroborate registers. Access to parish registers Ipart of Welsh culture to know information – certificates, photo- is also available on microfilm in the where you came from. In Wales, graphs, letters, newspaper cuttings. reading room along with original the ‘Land of my Fathers’, the Once this information has been bishops’ transcripts, nonconform- Laws of Hywel Dda stated that it arranged in order, you can then ist records, estate records, maps, was a duty to know one’s relatives consider contacting or visiting the pictures and photographs from all to the ninth remove and Giraldus NLW. Check the website www.llgc. over Wales. Cambrensis believed that even org.uk/visitus for information on Welsh Newspapers online gives the poorest of people were able to opening times, obtaining a read- free access to digital images of the recite six or seven generations of er’s ticket and facilities available. papers up to 1910 http://welsh- their family tree. Search the catalogue for any docu- newspapers.llgc.org.uk whilst pro- the National Library of Wales ments that you may wish to consult bate records before 1858 can be (NLW), overlooking the town of during your visit http://cat.llgc. searched and viewed, again for Aberystwyth, is considered to be org.uk free, at www.llgc.org.uk/probate one of the great libraries of the If you intend to visit the library For more information relat- world and the premier centre for in person and want to know how to ing to a variety of family history family history research in Wales. get the best out of our collections sources at the NLW check out www. The library gives access to a vast and services, why not book one of llgc.org.uk/enquiries or contact the number of records – parish records, the Information Sessions. These Enquiry Service, on 01970 632 933. Pedigree Chart at the National Library of Wales census returns, probate records, are one-to-one, 30-minute sessions, maps and newspapers to mention tailored to fit your requirements, just a few. with a member of staff www.llgc. to begin your journey to org.uk/surgeries discover your family history, some the library can offer free homework will need to be done, access to findmypast.co.uk and Am ragor o erthyglau, nad oedd hi’n bosib eu cynnwys yn y rhifyn hwn, ynghyd starting with yourself. Gather as ancestry.co.uk, two of the leading â chyfieithiad o rai ohonynt, ewch i dudalen much information as possible about commercial companies that offer your family members, working online access to vast collections of PD Extra ar ein gwefan: www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ backwards from generation to gener- family history material including ation; talk to friends and family, Welsh census returns and parish Pobl Dewi, June 2015 13 Gŵyl Gwynio Members of Llanwinio Church celebrate their patron saint with a service, music and a feast. An enjoyable time was WHAT’S ON AT had by all, says Phil Higginson N dilyn awgrym yr esgob ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL . . . YWyn y dylem ail-greu’r ŵyl a gynhaliwyd 23ain o fl ynyddoedd Wednesday 17 June yn ôl i ddathlu ein nawddsant, Diocesan Schools’ Leavers Pilgrimage and Service daeth aelodau a ffrindiau’r eglwys 10.30am – 2pm at ein gilydd ar Ddydd llun y Pasg – a dyma wledd a gafwyd! Friday 19 June gwledd lythrennol, felly, ym and every Friday through the rest of the Summer mwyty’r elaichi yn san Clêr, lle Holidays eisteddai 30 ohonom i gyd-fwyta bwyd Indiaidd blasus – diolch 10.30am (beginning at Oriel y Parc) i Hussein a’i staff am weini Prif saig yr Ŵyl, wrth gwrs, rymus, ysbrydolgar, a oedd yn fi nish 12 noon with prayers at the Shrine in the Cathedral. arnom yn y Cinio Gwynio. oedd y gwasanaeth yn yr eglwys, esbonio’r cysylltiad rhwng gwaith A coastal walk with refl ections led by Tŷ’r Pererin Ond agorwyd yr Ŵyl gyda gyda’n Ficer, y Parch. Jonathan merthyron fel gwynio yn y canol gwledd gerddorol, gyda John Copus, yn gweini’r Cymun oesoedd, a phrofi ad Cristnogion Saturday 27 June a Danny tose (pîbgod), Micky Bendigaid. ein pregethwr gwadd mewn gwledydd fel Kenya, Diocesan Ordination Service for Priests, 10.30am tose (ukulele), Bronwen a David oedd Lyn Dafi s, cyn ddirprwy Nigeria a Pakistan heddiw. Petersen (ffl iwt a drwm), a gyfarwyddwr yn y llyfrgell Diolch i bawb a ddaeth Sunday 28 June Philip Higginson (mandolin) yn genedlaethol, sydd nawr yn i ddathlu gyda ni; dewch Diocesan Ordination Service for Deacons, 10.30am chwarae emyn-donau Cymreig, paratoi ar gyfer y weinidogaeth eto’n llu ar Ddydd llun y wrth i ni orymdeithio o ben yng Ngholeg Mihangel sant Pasg y fl wyddyn nesaf! Tuesday 30 June – Wednesday 1 July feidr Fron Uchaf i’r eglwys. yn llandâf. Clywsom bregeth Diocesan Schools Retreat at Tŷ’r Pererin email [email protected] for more information

Friday 10 July It’s showtime Pembrokeshire College Graduation Amser i’r sioeau, meddai Eileen Davies, Ymgynghorydd Materion Gwledig Esgobaethol. Monday 3 August Mae’r sioeau amaethyddol wedi cychwyn, lle fedrwn fwynhau cwmniaeth da ein gilydd, Young Musicians’ Platform Concert, 1pm ac edmygu cynnyrch gorau cefn gwlad. Yng nghanol y bwrlwm fydd yr Eglwys, yn estyn croeso cynnes i chwi ymweld â ni, rhannu eich profi adau a gofi diau, cyfarfod â Tuesday 4 – Friday 7 August ffrindiau a rhannu yng nghariad Crist Rambert School of Dance He summer months are with free performances at 1pm and 4pm each day tus, and it’s time to support our local agricultural shows, where the Monday 10 August best stock, such as cattle, sheep, Young Musicians’ Platform Concert, 1pm horses and pigs, will be on show, alongside the fi nest gardener’s Saturday 15 August produce, crafts produced by nimble Cor Meibion De Cymru Concert, 7.30pm fi ngers and sumptuous cookery, all in the fi eld and under canvas. Days Monday 17 August of sheer enjoyment bringing people from all walks of life to appreciate Young Musicians’ Platform Concert, 1pm the very best of our rural areas. there also the church will Summer Concert Series be, lending a listening ear, offer- This series of evening concerts runs every Wednesday ing a warm welcome, with light from 15 July, up to and including 16 September with music refreshments kindly provided by from St Davids Cathedral Choir, Wyre Forest Young Voices the Mothers’ Union. This is a time and other visiting artists. Each concert begins at 7.30pm to meet and greet friends old and new, an opportunity for children to enjoy badge-making and face- local show. We will also be at tian witnesses share their story. We Cathedral Explorers painting courtesy of Plant Dewi, Pembrokeshire County show, from are there for you, please come in, Cathedral Explorers is a trail for children and families which and where Christian resources 18th to 20th august, row D109, as, together, we have a gospel to includes a look around the Cathedral, activities, games will be readily available from the near the main entrance. Come and proclaim, good news to all. and crafts. These will run every Tuesday in the school emmanuel Bookshop. join us for mid-day worship, to Welwn ni chwi yno. We look holidays this summer beginning at 11am and 2pm. They look out for us at your pray together and listen to Chris- forward to seeing you. start at the font and are open to all with limited spaces. We invite donations to cover the cost of these trails.

Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 September Cyfraniadau ar gyfer Pobl Dewi Festival of the Friends of St Davids Cathedral Y mae croeso i erthyglau oddi wrth ddarllenwyr, ac yn arbennig cyfraniadau Cymraeg. For further information about the above services and events Dylid anfon erthyglau at y Golygydd: Tessa Briggs [email protected] please contact the Deanery Offi ce on 01437 720202 neu fe ellir postio ffotograffau ynghyd â 50 o eiriau at: or email [email protected] Pobl Dewi, Swyddfa’r Esgobaeth, Abergwili, Caerfyrddin SA31 2JG See our website www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk wedi’u nodi at sylw ‘Y Golygydd’ Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter 14 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 Caring for God’s Acre Spreading the word Burial grounds are sources of historical interest and havens for wildlife. Project Offi cer Harriet Carty The Diocesan Tourism Team has an idea that might help is keen to see more of us involved in the conservation of these sacred spaces churches’ ministry of welcome HURCHYARDS and ceme- few lessons about fundraising and He idea is to create a data- Visit Wales agenda these days Cteries are fantastic places for involving local people, with their tbase of contacts for parish or (there’s even an action plan) but wildlife, history and local culture, snowdrop tea, Carol Party and, church leafl ets that can be used so is austerity. tourism budgets are containing monuments to local unusually, a Potato Challenge! to forge links with local accom- under pressure. so a little self-help legends, species-rich grasslands st elidyr’s, ludchurch, decided modation providers who can then might . . . er . . . help. full of wild fl owers, a wealth of to have an area of long grass to help direct visitors to your doors, the proposed diocesan data- wildlife and ancient yews which see what plants and animals were whether it be to worship or simply base would contain details of what often pre-date the church itself. days, a telephone help line and case present and provide a haven for have a wander. leafl ets are available and who to Churchyards are generally studies. the latter cover a range of butterfl ies, bees, bugs and birds. After all, what’s the fi rst thing contact to get hold of them. By managed by hard-working volun- topics from involving more volun- they now have an incredible show you do once you’ve settled into collating them geographically by teers who do a brilliant job. this teers and bringing in local experts, of fl owers, including orchids, and your holiday let or guesthouse? county, the tourism team would work is so important that there is to managing ivy. all are exam- have seen an increase in the wildlife. Chances are that having a mosey then be able to feed this information a national conservation charity ples of good management and Members of st Michael and around your immediate surround- into its network and co-ordinate dedicated solely to burial grounds: show different ways to make your all angels, Cosheston, set up the ings will be pretty high on the list. their inclusion in hotel bedroom Caring for god’s acre. We advise churchyard a vibrant and interest- Cosheston Community History and where, likely as not, will browsers and tourist information and support all those involved and ing place to visit and learn about. group following a church fund- that include? Why yes, the village points, to name but two. are currently in the middle of a I have been visiting south West raiser based on local history. this church of course. so why not lend so, here’s your chance. tell project, supported by the Heritage Wales recently with Canon sarah is now a thriving group organising a hand to families doing the same us how to get hold of your leaf- lottery Fund, to take our message geach and found some inspira- themed displays, visits and build- thing on your doorstep? let. You don’t even have to send us across england and Wales. this is tional examples: st Ishmael’s in ing a digital collection of local It’s all very well having a stock one, just the name of your church, done through conferences, training Pembrokeshire can teach us all a photographs. of leafl ets at the back of the church. your email address and/or phone It is amazing to learn about But they will only get read by number. the dedication and inventiveness people who have already chosen to email the information to of people who are managing these visit. the purpose of this exercise stdavidscomms@churchinwales. places. Caring for god’s acre would is to entice others to do so. org.uk and the tourism team will love to hear about your churchyard, Faith tourism is high on the do the rest. how you are managing it and what challenges you face. Please have a look at our website www.caringforgodsacre.org.uk where you will fi nd an Action Pack, crammed with informa- tion and management advice, and an education Pack full of ideas and activities for young children. Both are bi-lingual. sign up to our e-news letter to receive regu- lar updates and tips and please consider becoming a member of Caring for god’s acre. The R S Thomas Literary Festival and Open Poetry Competition 11-13 September at St Michael’s Church, Eglwysfach He three-day festival will take place at Glandyfi Castle on tfeature Dr Rowan Williams, 12th september. the former archbishop of Canter- the poetry competition will bury; gillian Clarke the National be held on sunday 13th septem- ART ON THE FAITH TRAIL 2015 Poet of Wales; Robin Huw Bowen, ber. Poets will submit one or two www.aotfte.artmost.eu the celebrated Welsh triple Harp original and unpublished poems musician; Christine Kinsey who written in response to a poem by R. This year’s Art on the Faith Trail Exhibition will be launched will give an illustrated talk on her s. thomas. entries will be judged by Bishop Wyn at St David’s Cathedral at 4pm on Friday 19th June. career as a leading Welsh artist after being read aloud in the church and the relationship between her during the afternoon: 1st prize The trail will run from the 19th June to 31st July at: St David’s Cathedral; paintings and the poetry of R. s. £250; 2nd prize £100. St Aidan, Solva; St Hywel, Llanhywel; St Nicholas, St Nicholas village; thomas; Professor tony Brown Booking is now open. the full St Rhian, Llanrhian; St Gwyndaf, Llanwnda; St Brynach, Pontfaen; St from Bangor University; Professor programme, booking forms and David, Llanychaer; St Giles, Letterston and St Peter’s, Little Newcastle. M. Wynn thomas from swansea competition entry details, can be The exhibition at the cathedral will be in place and open to the public University; Jim Perrin the climber downloaded from www.eglwys- before the opening of the full trail. and guardian correspondent and fach.co.uk or contact the Festival our local RsPB site Manager, administrators Joy Neal/alison More information and images of artists’ work can be found on the

Dave anning. swanson, tel: 01654 781203/322. Photo © John Hedgecoe exhibition website www.aotfte.artmost.eu an evening reception will R S Thomas There is no overall theme to the exhibition. The “Faith Trail” in the title is a reference to the paths used in ancient times by pilgrims making their way to St David’s Cathedral. The Art On The Faith Trail project, which For more articles which, unfortunately, could not be accommodated in this started in 2012, produces exhibitions which are as diverse as the artists issue, plus translations of some, themselves who include: Rod Williams, Jean Thomas, Nigel Sutton, please visit the PD Extra page of our website: Miriam Scott (poet), Raul Speek, James Ramage (photographer), Elly Morgan, Buzz Knapp-Fisher, Robert Jakes, Richard Blacklaw-Jones, www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ and Eliot Baron. Pobl Dewi, June 2015 15 Contemporary and relevant A large and extended family Peter Sedgwick reports from the fifth meeting of The Friends of St Peter’s Church, Carmarthen, was launched at a dinner in the Ivy Bush Royal Hotel the Third Anglican Roman Catholic International on 4 November 2014. The first six months have exceeded expectations, says Leigh Richardson Commission (ARCIC) which was held just outside Rome from 27th April to 4th May HE dinner was attended by Tover 40 people including the HERE is often deep scepticism Bishop of St Davids, the Archdea- Tabout ARCIC: one Facebook con of Carmarthen and the Patron, post this year said ‘ARCIC is as Major General Robert Talbot Rice dead as the dodo!’ Which shows of the Welsh Guards, who also how insular people can be. It is happens to be the 14 times great absolutely clear that Pope Francis grandson, in direct lineage, of Sir sees the Roman Catholic Church as Rhys ap Thomas. Through a chance made up of provinces and dioceses. meeting at a Freedom Parade by Provinces in everyday language are the Welsh Guards in 2013, General countries or even continents. These Robert had asked to see the tomb are what govern the church, not the of his ancestor, which is inside St Pope nor the Curia in Rome. We Peter’s – little did he realise that he had a week’s intense discussion would be asked to fulfil this impor- on how the Anglican experience tant role for the church less than of synods, at deanery, diocesan two years later. and provincial levels, with laity so our talks were very robust. It the Friends was launched in and clergy, could help resource is this sort of nitty-gritty discussion direct response to the increased this historic shift in Roman Cath- which is the heart of contempo- concern in the town about the olic thinking. Anglican members rary ecumenism, and not long-term future of St Peter’s. In 2013 come from Canada, South Africa, grand plans for reunion. In God’s there was a bleak forecast for the Australia, Singapore, as well as time, that may happen. But for following year. However, 2014 Britain. In turn we were pressed on now we learn from each other. saw a complete turnaround in the two issues by our Catholic friends. The jargon word for this is ‘recep- church’s fortunes. Through signifi- First, how do Anglicans keep their tive ecumenism’: what can each cant town events over the last few Communion together? What is the church learn from the other? That years, we were reminded that St glue that stops it all fragmenting? is very far from being dead, and Peter’s has a large and extended Photography © Mike Walters Is it the meeting of Archbishops? has never been more relevant. We family which goes far beyond Major General Robert Talbot Rice The Lambeth Conference? Canon met 20 miles south of Rome by a our regular worshipping commu- Law? Past history? Secondly, if a beautiful lake in the hills at a place nity. The townsfolk of Carmarthen and, earlier this year, a sponsored chain mail and Knight’s Garter church is concerned with an issue called Villa Palazzola. Genera- hold the church in high regard, motorbike challenge around the crest enamelled badges!) and we which is far–reaching (I thought tions of young Welsh and English and, as a site of national historical UK. They recently hosted a hugely hope to establish a gift shop in St of the Church in Wales and same Catholic men spent the summer importance, St Peter’s has many successful evening with historian Peter’s in the coming months. sex relationships, if – and it is there away from the heat in Rome hundreds of visitors from all over Dr Susan Fern, author of the best- It’s been an exciting six months a big if – Governing Body and training to be priests. It was poign- the world – so this was an opportu- selling book on Rhys ap Thomas, and it looks like the first year will the bishops decide to change the ant to think of them. And we met nity to consolidate and to build on The Man Who Killed Richard have achieved far more than we current discipline on recognis- Pope Francis for an hour in private. that goodwill. III, and they’re looking forward had hoped for. ing those relationships inside the Warm, encouraging, larger than Within a few days of the to a concert with the band of the For more information, or for church) should this be decided at life: words fail me in describing the November launch, The Friends Welsh Guards in September and any help with setting up your own worldwide, provincial, diocesan or intensity of his personality. Next had already organised a concert an auction later on in the autumn. friends’ association, please contact parish level? year, in Canada. with the Carmarthen-born baritone They have produced several Rhys [email protected] Mark Evans, a Christmas Craft Fair ap Thomas teddies (with woolly Family fun for Easter Cursillo: breaking boundaries The leadership teams of St Davids and St Asaph dioceses recently met to propose and define the practical details needed to implement the Cursillo method of growing disciples across the Province. The meeting was called for, and chaired by, the National Spiritual Director for Cursillo, Revd Hugh Burgess of St Asaph T present in Wales, each as a direct result another meet- Abishop can invite or reject the ing was called at which Bishop Cursillo format within their own Wyn, Bishop John (Swansea & diocese but in Scotland it works Brecon), Revd Hugh Burgess (who as a single body covering all the is also a member of the British dioceses. In view of this, Revd Anglican Cursillo Council), and Hugh Burgess with the support of Mrs Hazel Burn (Lay Director, St Bishop Gregory (St Asaph), has Davids Cursillo) discussed ways already asked the Welsh bishops in which to begin the process of if they would consider sanction- shared “best practice” across dioc- ing this arrangement for Wales. esan borders. Their response was to ask for a two of the pioneering propos- paper which Revd Hugh wrote and als to emerge from that meeting produced, outlining how a strong include the introduction of a On a sunny Easter Saturday in Llangwm, St Jerome’s held Cursillo can support the 20/20 combined diocesan Cursillo team their popular Easter Egg Hunt. Children of all ages, from in and initiative vision. This was well leadership, alongside shared Spir- around the village, foraged in the churchyard for the elusive eggs received by the Bench of Bishops, itual Direction. As Revd Hugh said – everyone found a few and some found upwards of 15. Pictured pending further information from “It’s not so much getting rid of the Revd Hugh Burgess are six people from the same family who joined the egg hunt. those dioceses who see the value boundaries as not being bound by There was also the usual Easter bonnet competition, producing of Cursillo in helping to encourage them.” more information, please get in some fabulous creations. The church was full for the short but and promote active discipleship at If you feel Cursillo support touch as follows: joyful service local level. may help you, or you would like [email protected] 16 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 Not just dusty old books The man who killed a Bill Hines, Information Services Departmental Fellow at Aberystwyth University, is revelling in the discoveries being made in the university’s library king of England BERYSTWYTH is well the library includes important An 1857 copy of “Missionary In the chancel of St Peter’s Church, Carmarthen, is the magnificent known as the library capital theological collections assem- Travels and Researches in South A tomb and effigy of a Tudor-era nobleman in full armour. This is of Wales and probably contains bled by Revd Penllyn Jones, first Africa” was presented by David Sir Rhys ap Thomas, the man reputed to have killed Richard III more books per head of population Registrar and Librarian of the Livingstone to Dr William Cooke, at the battle of Bosworth. Alun Lenny considers the man who than anywhere else in the coun- College (1872-1902), who used a founder of the Hunterian Society. try. Although the rich treasures of to hold prayers in the Old College Several religious books came from changed the course of history the National Library are known to Library at the start of each working the collection of George Powell HE Welshman Henry Tudor played a leading part in suppress- scholars throughout the world, it is day. There are also many volumes of Nanteos, near Aberystwyth, Tlanded at Milford Haven in ing various revolts against Henry perhaps not widely appreciated that from Revd John Davies, a biblical including a 1620 volume of psalms August 1485 with a small army, VII and later fought in France for the university also contains some scholar and minister at Glandwr in presented by his friend, the poet, intent on taking the English throne. Henry VIII. After being made a fascinating old materials. Over Pembrokeshire, and some classics Algernon Swinburne. We also hold Rhys ap Thomas joined him with Knight of the Garter, he held the recent years I have been working texts from William Basil Jones, an a single volume from the library a thousand Carmarthenshire men last great medieval tournament, at with the special collections in the important reforming Bishop of St of Daniel Rowland of Llangeitho, at Welshpool: “Rice ap Thomas Carew castle in 1507. Rhys was university library and have been Davids in the later 19th century. who led the Calvinistic Methodist with a valiant crew,” as Shake- 76 when he died in 1525, having excited to unearth volumes once However, the joy of the collec- revival in the mid-18th century. speare remarks in his play Richard retired to the Greyfriars priory to owned by famous figures such as tion probably lies in some of the some volumes found their way III. Under Henry’s Red Dragon be cared for by the monks in his Samuel Johnson, Horace Walpole individual volumes associated with to Aberystwyth from unexpected banner the army marched to final days. After the monaster- and Sir Isaac Newton. famous people from former times. foreign sources. There is a splen- Market Bosworth where it clashed ies were closed down by Henry did polyglot bible of 1572 from with the much larger royal army. VIII, Rhys’ tomb was moved to the Royal Library of Saxony with The fierce fighting ended when St Peter’s. When the tomb was the embossed arms of Electress Richard’s “horse was caught in opened for renovation in 1856, a Anne of Denmark, a contempo- a mere and a Welshman slew him bone from his right arm was miss- rary of Queen Elizabeth I, on the with a halberd”, as the French ing. The Carmarthen Chronicle cover. Another polyglot bible chronicler Jean Molinet noted. The suggested that someone had taken from the 19th century came from Welsh warrior-poet Guto’r Glyn the bone “as the relic of the arm the library of Prince Louis Lucien sang about Rhys killing the boar, that slew a king.” Bonaparte, philologist and nephew cleaving his head – the boar being the Battle of Bosworth and of Napoleon Bonaparte. A number Richard’s coat-of-arms. Henry the Tudor dynasty changed the of eminent prelates are also repre- Tudor was crowned on the battle- course of history on many differ- sented including volumes owned field, where Rhys was knighted by ent levels. Henry VIII broke from by a couple of former Archbishops a grateful monarch. He was also Rome and established the Church of Canterbury and also a theolog- granted extensive lands and castles, of England. Elizabeth I granted the ical volume presented by Henry becoming Governor of Wales and translation of the Bible into Welsh, Compton, Bishop of London, who a Privy Councillor. King Henry, thereby ensuring the future of the invited William III over to England whose own father had died of the language. And of course, had Rhys and later crowned him. plague in Carmarthen castle before ap Thomas’ battle-axe missed its the list is endless and we hope he was even born, called Rhys Tad target, and Richard had won the that these collections will be more Bach – Little Father. battle, the present Queen would not From the 1747 Warburton edition of Shakespeare used by widely publicised and accessible in a formidable warrior, Rhys be on the throne today! Samuel Johnson in the compilation of his dictionary future. Tremain Textile Challenge 2015: “All things bright and beautiful” nter our competition and Ehelp support this CADW 2* historic rural church at Tremain, near Cardigan. No entry fee but donation to Ffrindiau Tremain Friends would be appreciated. Viewing will be open to the public 2-5pm, 26th, 27th, 28th, 29th and 30th September. Groups of 10+ may visit at 7pm by prior appointment. there will be a candlelit Harvest Songs of Praise at 5pm on Tuesday 29th September. On Wednesday 30th September, Ffrin- diau Tremain Friends AGM will be held at 4pm, which will include the announcement of the competi- tion results and presentation to the Textile Challenge winner. Competition rules and more information: Tremain Textile Challenge 2015 Parcllyn Farm, Betws Ifan, Beulah SA38 9QN e-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] Alan © Lenny tel: 01249 810657 Effigies of Rhys ap Thomas and his second wife, Janet Pobl Dewi, June 2015 17

the most moving moment of Dublin, a Roman Catholic Auxil- came when Dr Ara Kanekanian iary Bishop, a Jewish rabbi and the A genocide remembered of Cardiff Metropolitan Univer- former Moderator of the Methodist Patrick Thomas attends a series of moving events held in Wales and Ireland sity read an English translation of a Church in Ireland. It was a deeply to mark the centenary of the Armenian genocide poem which his father had written emotional experience, particularly as a child in a Beirut orphanage. when the Irish Armenian Choir N the morning of Friday 24th Jewish community. She was one family perished, and the Armenian The young boy had watched his sang the traditional chants ‘Der OApril a group of Armeni- of the children brought to safety Genocide. Martin Shipton of the parents and other family members Voghormya’ (‘Lord have mercy’) ans from Wales, Manchester and in Britain by the kindertransport Western Mail then interviewed me, being killed. He had managed to and ‘Hayr Mer’ (‘Our Father’). London, with Welsh and ecumeni- on the eve of the Second World in front of the audience, about my hide and escape, but the poem The Armenian equivalent of Welsh cal friends (including our former War. She drew parallels between new book, Remembering the Arme- described in nightmarish detail the hiraeth is garod – a sense of loss so diocesan Bishop Huw Jones) gath- the Nazi Holocaust, in which her nian Genocide 1915. things that he had witnessed. In his profound that it breaks a person’s ered in the garden of the Temple of trauma the dismembered corpses heart. Yet Armenians always Peace in Cardiff. A simple service seemed to speak to him. combine the Cross of suffering and was held at the khatchkar (cross- On Sunday 26th April I gave an death with the Tree of Life. That stone) which is a memorial to over address at the Irish Armenian Geno- faith in Resurrection has miracu- a million Armenian victims of the cide Centenary service in Christ lously enabled them to survive genocide which began in Otto- Church, Taney. Other speakers even the horrors of genocide. man Turkey 100 years ago. Prayers included the Anglican Archbishop were said in Armenian, Welsh and English, and flowers were placed in front of the memorial by the descendants of genocide survivors, all of whom lost family members in what Armenians describe as ‘The Great Crime’. In the afternoon around 100 guests gathered in the Pier Head Building of the National Assembly in Cardiff Bay. Among the speak- ers was Ruth Barnett from the

‘A near-run thing’

The Battle of Waterloo took place on 18 June 1815. To mark the 200th anniversary of Wellington’s victory, which stabilised Europe and heralded peace until the Crimean War almost 50 years later, Tessa Briggs joined a guided tour of the battlefield and accompanying sites

HE aftermath of the French On 1 March 1815 Napoleon victory as a ‘near-run thing’. Of TRevolution had provided escaped and, by 20th March, was the 68,000 Allied forces there were Napoleon Bonaparte with a spring- in Paris gathering an army. The 17,000 casualties, with the Prus- board to fulfil his ambition of Allies immediately renewed their sians suffering 7,000 casualties making France a European empire. declaration of war. Wellington from their army of 50,000. From However, despite the French had never been defeated by Napo- Napoleon’s army of about 72,000, Republic being officially recog- leon, who described Britain as ‘the losses included 24,000-26,000 A member of the Armenian community laying flowers in the nised at the signing of the Peace of most powerful and most constant killed or wounded and 6,000-8,000 colours of the Armenian national flag Amiens in 1802, Napoleon wanted . . . of my enemies’. The Battle of captured. to make France the most powerful Waterloo was fought near Brussels, lieutenant-General Sir Thomas country in Europe by conquering between the French, under Napo- Picton, who was born in Pem- other countries, including Britain. leon, and the Allied armies of the brokeshire, was the most senior So, in 1803, war was declared on 7th coalition, commanded by the Allied officer to lose his life. He A special Easter France, and the Napoleonic Wars Duke of Wellington from Britain was in command of the 5th Infantry were fought over the next 11 years and General Gebhard Leberecht Division when he was shot through with the Allies eventually remov- von Blücher from Prussia. the temple. Picton had fought the celebration ing Napoleon from power in 1814 the battle was a bloodbath battle wearing civilian clothes and Every Easter a group of Armenian Christians travel from Cardiff and exiling him to Elbe. and Wellington later described the his top hat, together with the bullet to Christ Church, Carmarthen, to join in the Sung Eucharist. which killed him, can be seen in London’s National Army Museum. This year they included a new face: the Cardiff-based operatic There is a memorial to Picton in soprano Mary-Jean O’Doherty, who has an Armenian mother. Carmarthen and a school named Mary-Jean is a member of Genealogy, a group of singers of after him in Haverfordwest. Armenian heritage from several continents, who are representing the 23rd Foot, the Royal Welsh Armenia in the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest Fusiliers, formed part of the 1st ANON Patrick Thomas, Vicar the only one in the world to include Battalion and included 23 men from Cof Christ Church, is Honorary the Lord’s Prayer in English, Welsh Cardiganshire and 18 from Pembro- Pastor to Armenians in Wales. “It is and Armenian. keshire. Wellington, inspecting the always a special joy to welcome our Mary-Jean is married to the Regiment in Belgium in March Armenian friends at Eastertime,” well-known Welsh pianist Caradog 1815, wrote of them: ‘They are not he said. “This year we were espe- Williams, and has herself learnt strong [in numbers] but it was the cially glad that Mary-Jean was able Welsh. Canon Patrick presented most complete and handsome mili- to join them. I suspect that Arme- her with a copy of his book ‘From tary body I ever saw.’ Four officers nia will be getting a lot of votes Carmarthen to Karabagh: a Welsh and 11 men of the 23rd Foot lost from Christ Church people when Discovery of Armenia’, as a gift for their lives at Waterloo, with 8 offic- the Eurovision Contest comes her mother. ers and 78 men wounded. round.” The service was probably 18 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 Reflection

oppression and injustice. so – what’s the point of What’s the point churches? They are much more than a collection of bricks and mortar and slates and wood, of churches? erected to keep the local worship- ping congregation dry and warm Margaret Le Grice reflects on how the past impacts the present (if your heating system is work- and encourages us to look beyond the church buildings for ing!). They have sacramental inspirational mission and ministry to those who visit our sacred significance, and can help people spaces discover God through architecture, history, art and social discourse. VER the summer months, possibly re-named by the Normans, But the tourist who sees them as many people will visit who did not appreciate the Celtic O a smaller, quirkier version of the churches in our diocese, from saints. For others, the names of the local museum needs help to go the cathedral in the south to the saints have been lost, so their dedica- beyond what they see in front of small, simple church of St John tion is rather vague, such as Trisant. them. the Baptist, Ysbyty Ystwyth, in the Some churches have a history which We may not know how many north. There are church and chapel reflects the local source of employ- to modern monasticism, which is witness to more recent harsh living people will visit our churches, nor faith and heritage trails, including ment, be that agriculture or industry. also alive and well. Monasticism is conditions in mining, agriculture how God will touch them when Saints and Stones and Peaceful For visitors coming to our churches not just about groups of women or and at sea. The sad and difficult they do. But we are the temporary Places. There are Celtic crosses over the summer, there is a wealth men who lived strict lives of prayer lives of ordinary working people custodians and stewards of these inside or outside some of our of historical and social interest in all and discipline several hundred in the more recent past can lead to sacred places. Take a long, hard churches, such as Nevern. Some, of them. years ago. New Monasticism is an prayer and action on behalf of those look at the one(s) for which you are like Ystrad Fflur and Llanbadarn But – what is the point of important part of the contemporary in other parts of our world who are responsible, and ask God to show Fawr, have monastic connections. churches? Will any of our visi- Fresh Expressions of Church. living and working in conditions you how he wants to reveal himself Some, like Llanafan and Hafod tors ask that question, and will we some of our churches, espe- which were outlawed here over a to all who pass through. in the Bro Ystwyth and Mynach be doing anything to help them cially their graveyards, bear hundred years ago, in situations of Group, have strong connections answer it? with the local gentry families. If your church is built on an Some have literary connections, ancient site, and is dedicated to God like Eglwysfach, where R. S. in the name of a Celtic saint, what Thomas was parish priest. Many about providing visitors with some Music for a Summer Evening are on very ancient sites, not least information about Celtic Christi- the cathedral, and Ysbyty Cynfyn anity, and, copyright permitting, The third season of concerts entitled ‘Music for a Summer Evening’ is now under way at St Tudwal’s is thought to be within a prehistoric providing them with some modern Church, Llanstadwell, and offers an exciting programme of performances, says Dorothy Cox stone circle. Some churches, and Celtic prayers? There has been a their surrounding settlements, take revival of interest in Celtic spir- UILDING on the success their name from a saint, who may ituality in recent years, much of it Bof the first two concerts by be very local to that area. non-Christian. However, Christian pianist Paul Israel and classical Others, including the many Celtic prayer is alive and well today guitarist Anastasiya Kryvanos, we dedicated to God in the name of – why not help people to discover it? are looking forward to welcom- St Michael and All Angels (includ- If someone is interested in ing baritone Richard Parry, harpist ing Llanfihangel-y-Creuddyn) were monasticism, give them pointers Isabel Harries, soprano Georgina Stalbow and, bringing the season to a close in September, the Good- wick Band. In October there will be a Young Performers’ Platform A winning recipe when the very best of Pembroke- shire’s youthful musical talent will be on display and, new for 2015, a Junior Showcase featuring the next generation of musicians to watch – all aged 13 or under! the concerts start at 6pm and last between 45 minutes and an hour, after which refreshments are served, in the vicarage garden if the weather is kind, when there is a chance to talk to the musicians. tickets are just £5 and £2 for children at school. Parking at the Richard Parry church is very limited so a shuttle runs from the car park at Brunel Quay, Neyland from 5.10pm. Myfyrdod For more details visit www.musicatllanstadwell.org.uk Pasg 2015, Garissa, Kenya or phone Dorothy on 01646 602464. Eu crechwenau creulon a’u coesau’n haerllug ar led, 2015 Dates eu drylliau’n poeri June 21 Richard Parry a’u credo’n gynddeiriog. Carmarthen Deanery held a Fair Trade Coffee Morning in Trônt at ei gilydd February to raise awareness of Fair Trade goods and to July 12 Isabel Harries tu ôl i’w mygydau llwfwr, encourage parishes to sign up to the pledge to enable Wales Aug 16 Georgina Stalbow o dan eu baneri du to become a Fair Trade Province. A cake competition was held, Sept 27 Goodwick Band yn bwrpasol o anhysbys, with all the cakes having to be made from Fair Trade ingredients Oct 11 Junior Showcase a gyda gwaedd i gorddi’r diniwed: where possible, which Wyn Maskell won with his chocolate Oct 18 Young Performers’ “Dewch i ni ladd Cristnogion heddi.” cake. Archdeacon Roger judged the cakes, ably assisted by Mrs Platform Hughes. There were also stalls from Traidcraft and Christian Aid Eluned Rees Pobl Dewi, June 2015 19

A PILGRIMAGE TO THE HOLY LAND 1-11 February 2016 St Davids Diocesan Pilgrimage with the Archdeacon of St Davids Pererindod Esgobaeth Tyddewi Gydag Archddiacon Tyddewi RIBUTES were paid tacross the Province to the former archdeacon of st Davids, Dewi Bridges, who died in May. He was archdeacon of At a special service on Sunday, 19th April, Llandysul Sewing Club st Davids from 1982 until presented a vase to Tregroes Church in memory of Ann Hunt. he was elected Bishop Ann, who died last year, was a faithful member of the church and of swansea & Brecon in the sewing club. She was also a great friend to many and worked 1988. He was also Rector of tenby from 1980 and hard in the community retired there in 1999, remaining active in lead- ing worship until fairly recently. the full obituary Ascension Day at the Cathedral can be read on the diocesan website at http://www.churchinwales. org.uk/news/2015/05/ tributes-are-paid-to- bishop-dewi-bridges/

McCabe Pilgrimages A comprehensive 11-day pilgrimage based in Jerusalem and the Galilee Some places left

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NI BU NOS MOR eRY Reverend Dr DYWYLL NAD OEDD Valexander gordon MacWilliam, or Dr Mac SÊR THERE WAS (as he was affectionately known), of llangain died NEVER A NIGHT SO on 24 October 2014, aged 91. The annual children’s festival took place in the cathedral on DARK THAT THERE He was a former Head Ascension Day, attended by around 400 children and their WEREN'T STARS of Religious studies at trin- teachers from Pembrokeshire schools. The theme of the day ity College, Carmarthen was ‘I am (the one and only)’ and children explored the ‘I am’ (1958-1982) and Dean sayings of Jesus from John’s Gospel in song, games, Godly WWW.CYNNAL.WALES of st David’s Cathedral Play, prayer, drama, art and craft. A huge thank you goes to the (1982-1990). talented team of volunteers who staffed the day. Pictured are the funeral took place at st Peter’s Church, St Jerome’s Sunday School, Llangwm. Violet, aged three, was Carmarthen, and the burial the youngest there. Pictured are Bishop Wyn and Revd Victoria at llangain Church. Jones with Violet Thomas from St Jerome’s Sunday School, Llangwm. Violet, aged three, was the youngest there cynnal y Gwasanaeth Cwnsela Eglwysig newydd sydd ar gael ar draws Cymru i’r holl Glerigwyr, Gweinidogion a’u teuluoedd.

cynnal the new Churches' Counselling Follow Pobl Dewi on Service available throughout Wales for all www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk Clergy, Ministers of Religion and their Families. cynnal www.cynnal.wales

STAFELL FYW CAERDYDD LIVING ROOM CARDIFF www.facebook.com/pobldewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi WWW.LIVINGROOM-CARDIFF.COM WWW.CAIS.CO.UK 20 Pobl Dewi, June 2015 Book Reviews Wrestling with the Academic and accessible Religion and Society in the diocese was transformed by waves science-faith debate Diocese of St Davids, of religious revival and, although 1485-2011 many had their origins in the Introduction and by a beautiful Edited by William Gibson and Church, the main beneficiaries epilogue. The authors of the main John Morgan-Guy tended to be the Nonconformist chapters come from several differ- Pub: Ashgate; 2015 denominations – a salutary lesson! ent countries, although the UK, ISBN: 978-1-4094-4772-6 The 19th century is approached via the USA and Canada are the most Price: £70.00 an essay on the increasing popular- widely represented. The authors Over 40 years in the making, this ity of the celebration of St David’s range from young scientists early is the first history of the diocese of Day. On the 20th century, Harri in their careers to scientists who St Davids since 1888, a time when Williams writes on Bishop John have now retired. There is a marked the fortunes of the churches, both Owen who, despite opposing dises- preponderance of men: only three Anglican and Nonconformist, were tablishment, effectively became of the authors are women (and one very different. the ‘forefather of the Church in of those is a co-author). although published by an Wales’. The book concludes with a The spiritual and scientific academic publisher, and bran- chapter by William Price contain- journeys described are very varied. dishing a hefty price tag, this ing a series of mini-biographies At one end of the scale, Nicho- book is accessible to interested, of the bishops who have served las Higgs for example, never saw non-academic readers. Contain- the diocese since 1926. These last ‘. . . evolution as a challenge to the ing eight chapters, an introductory diocese during the 16th and 17th two chapters are the most Anglican Bible’ although he did face oppo- essay and a preface by the present centuries. For Morgan-Guy the focussed – unfortunately neither sition from well-meaning Christian bishop, it is the combined effort of introduction of Protestantism was reflects on the marginalisation of Christians & Evolution friends. However, at the other end seven different authors. Although ‘ill-fated, if not disastrous’, being the churches in the diocese today. R. J. Berry, ed of the scale, several authors have broadly chronological, most of the forced on a people who retained William Williams, the hymn Pub: Monarch; 2014 struggled for years, even decades, essays also have a more specific their love for all things Catholic. writer, once compared the outbreak ISBN: 978-0-95721-524-6 to reach an acceptance of evolu- thematic focus. The volume is a The chapter is an over-pessimistic of the Methodist revival in the mid- Price: £9.99 tion, often coming from strongly history of religion in the diocese, account. A more positive, at times 1730s to the dawning of the sun I have been passionate about biol- ‘literalist’ backgrounds. These are and some chapters deal almost sharply contrasting picture, can be after a long dark winter’s night. ogy for as long as I can remember. moving stories – the struggles are exclusively with the Church; others found in Robert Pope’s chapter on One hopes that Christians today This led to a career in academic so clearly presented. The strong focus more on the Nonconformist theological writing, in which he will be inspired by this record of biology where my main research influence ofa particular anti-evolu- denominations, resulting in a slight argues that an essentially Calvin- the success of the gospel in our focus was on DNA and genes. In tion book, The Genesis Flood, unevenness of coverage. ist theological tradition, shaped by diocese in previous generations, all those years I have never doubted comes through in several chapters. The first two chapters by John Puritans and Nonconformists, has and pray that the same sun will that science and my Christian faith I was once lent a copy by a well- Morgan-Guy focus on the Refor- dominated the diocese. once more shine upon us. are entirely compatible and in fact meaning friend and became very mation and its outworking in the From the 18th century the David Ceri Jones are complementary. I never found cross as the authors ‘rubbished’ the evolution to be a problem and even work of scores, if not hundreds, of from my teenage years, understood very able scientists in a wide range England, gives us a manual that is the Genesis accounts of creation of disciplines. The wide accept- An essential resource packed with useful and “do-able” not to have a scientific purpose. ance of The Genesis Flood1 has 100 Ways To Get Your ideas; ideas that need not cost much But many others have had a differ- made some of these intellectual Church Noticed money! He covers how to think ent experience. and spiritual journeys very diffi- By Neil Pugmire about our church in terms of image and so we turn to Christians cult; the honesty with which they Pub: Church House Publishing; and developing a communications and Evolution, in which 17 of the are presented is inspirational. 2014 strategy, putting your building to 18 chapters describe the puzzles, there are just a few inaccura- ISBN: 978-0-7151-4467-1 work inside and out, liaising with struggles and even torments that cies (which don’t detract from the Price: £17.99 the media, logos, noticeboards, leaf- a range of scientists have had as impact of the book) and inevitably Life has been described as a “merry- lets, websites, parish magazines and they came to terms with, and then the writing styles differ between go-round”, the older you get, the tourism, to name but a few. So our accepted evolution (the 18th chap- chapters. In the main however, more the same stuff comes around traditional poster, which remains ter discusses how and why people it is very readable and I recom- again. Take the film “Far From the a practical, useful and do-able change their minds). The book is mend it for anyone interested in the Madding Crowd” – original film method to publicise an event can, ‘topped and tailed’ by the editor’s science-faith debate. with Julie Christie in 1967 – bril- for example, be made more atten- John Bryant, liant! Re-make 2015 – Thomas tion-grabbing by Neil’s suggestions Emeritus Professor of Cell & Molecular Biology, University of Exeter Hardy would have wept (my opin- (p102), and of course can also be Past-President, Society for Experimental Biology ion of course). But this is absolutely put on your website, your Facebook Former Chair, Christians in Science NOT the case with Neil Pugmire’s be viewed as an essential hand- page, linked to Twitter and so on. 1 John Whitcomb and Henry Morris, Presbyterian & Reformed Publishing, 1st edn, 1961 new, updated, book which should book resource for every church Some of the suggestions are obvi- in the land. His 2006 publication ous, but we sometimes forget about (which is still available) has been them. Reading this book, one often revised to bring us fully up to date gets that “Duh – of course – why Contributions to Pobl Dewi with newer communication methods didn’t I think of that!” moment. such as social media, websites and this book is very readable, We welcome articles of interest from readers and, in particular, we mobile apps. Of course, anything unpatronising, jargon-free and “dip- would like to encourage submission of articles in Welsh. written about electronic technol- in-able” – it has an easy-to-digest Articles should be sent to the Managing Editor: Tessa Briggs, ogy can be out of date even before layout with useful “How to do it” [email protected] it is published. However, Neil has step by step instructions at the end of each section. This “book” can or photographs accompanied by a maximum of 50 words can be posted to: covered those methods for which there is much technical guidance also be purchased as an e-book, Pobl Dewi, The Diocesan Office, Abergwili, Carmarthen SA31 2JG, available for “beginners” (probably there is a companion website at marked for the attention of ‘The Editor’ from a nine-year old in my case) and http://getyourchurchnoticed.com/ he does not lose us in “techie speak”. and a Facebook page with lots of as our Church lives in this useful stuff, links and case studies – Disclaimer high-speed age of communica- I will be dipping in regularly. I can Pobl Dewi and the diocese of St Davids take no responsibility, liability or share the views or tion, it can be a challenge to get thoroughly recommend Neil’s book opinions of any articles contained herein. All information is the responsibility of the person or ourselves noticed. Neil Pugmire, a and he should be congratulated. organisation submitting the article. Pobl Dewi take no responsibility for any errors or omissions former journalist and now commu- Caroline Evans nications adviser for the Church of St Davids Diocesan Tourism Group