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Meithrin Gobaith Growing Hope www.stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk www.facebook.com/pobl.dewi http://twitter.com/PoblDewi September / Medi 2019 Processions, pipes, poems and song Dewi Sant is welcomed back to Brittany

GIANT statue of Dewi feet tall and is the creation of black and gold flag of St David. Sant (St David) has been -based sculptor The statue was unveiled by A ceremoniously unveiled Paul Kincaid, for whom the cere- local schoolchildren. The Director in the acclaimed Vallée des Saints mony was the culmination of nine of La Vallée des Saints, Sebast- sculpture park in Brittany, France. months’ work. ien Minguy, welcomed the latest Dewi is the latest addition to Paul lives in the village of addition to his collection, Paul over 100 exhibits of Celtic saints Llansawel, near , and is a Kincaid spoke about his work and with connections to Brittany at the warden at St Sawel’s . there were songs and poems from, venue, which attracts hundreds of “It has been a wonderful thing among others, -born thousands of visitors each year. to make,” he said, “but it’s been singer Ffran May, who sang a song It is thought Dewi travelled daunting, too. Dewi Sant was a big she wrote specially for the occa- extensively through Brittany man and this has been a big task. I sion, and the chaired bard of the spreading on the conti- only hope I have done him justice.” 2016 national , Aneirin nent. A number of churches and About 1,000 people gathered Karadog. chapels in the region are dedicated in the park for the ceremony. Pipe A simultaneous performance to him. bands led a procession of druids, of the Welsh and Breton national The statue, hewn from a single bards and friends to the statue, anthems by members of the piece of granite, stands over ten which was draped in the traditional concluded the ceremony.

Ar 5 Awst 2019 derbyniwyd y Canon Andrew Loat yn aelod o Orsedd Cymru yn Eisteddfod Genedlaethol Sir Conwy, Joanna has been awarded a doctorate for her thesis Llanrwst. Daw Andrew yn on the relationship between science, theology and the world. aelod o’r Orsedd trwy arholiad. She received her accolade at a ceremony at the University of Llongyfarchiadau mawr iddo Nottingham on Tuesday, 23rd July, with members of her family ar ei lwyddiant. Ei enw yng present. Read all about it at ngorsedd fydd Cascob https://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/news/2019/07/bishop-joanna-phd/ FOCUS ON WHOLENESS & WELLBEING – Pages 10 - 12 Am ddim Free 2 Pobl Dewi, September 2019 Eileen Davies, Archddiacon Ceredigion St David’s yn trafod materion cefn gwlad As she takes up her ministry as Archdeacon of Cardigan, Eileen Davies, in an Centre of Mission interview with Lyn Dafis, looks back at her work as the diocesan Rural Affairs Adviser and thinks about the future of rural life ‘Move to Merlins Bridge estate just outside Haverfordwest, where you don’t know anyone, and create a Christian where CHYDIG fisoedd yn ôl none exists; oh, and there is nowhere on the estate to meet. Whilst bellach sefydlwyd yr Y you’re doing that, can you also resource the wider ?’ That Hybarch Eileen Davies yn was the challenge facing lead evangelist Sister Val Legg just over Archddiacon Ceredigion. Golyga hyn newid mawr iddi three years ago. She was joined in this endeavour two years ago hi ond fe fydd hefyd yn newid by pioneer evangelist Ruth Busisa mawr i’r esgobaeth. Dros y T has been a really rocky road, not able to stay after school. These blynyddoedd cysylltwyd enw I but it has also been exciting and have a take up of one in three eligi- Eileen yn agos â’r weinidogaeth often surprising. God has definitely ble pupils attending. We run prayer i drigolion cefn gwlad ag been at work. Within the first week spaces, help with Welsh and read- amaethyddiaeth trwy ei rôl fel we had been offered the use of two ing, take assemblies, help with a Ymgynghorydd Bywyd Gwledig. rooms in the Methodist chapel toddler group and hold weekly staff Gadawodd y swydd bellach on the edge of the estate. We use prayers. The school also puts us in bellach, ond fel archddiacon these to run a youth drop-in twice a touch with families who may need bydd yn dal i fod â chysylltiad week. A short while later a chance a bit of extra help. gyda’r weinidogaeth honno. conversation led to the possibility Older people are not left out Yn gyntaf, felly, hoffwn of using the village hall, something either with home visits, a monthly eich holi, Eileen, am thought impossible. We now regu- service in the sheltered housing eich gweinidogaeth fel larly run holiday activities there, complex and occasional minibus Ymgynghorydd Materion using the hall free of charge! trips all on the agenda. Gwledig yr esgobaeth. Our recent mid-term review Looking wider, I serve on vari- says that, despite various diffi- ous diocesan committees, have “Fel un a gafodd ei geni a’i magu culties, we are on track. We run a few training sessions and yn Llanllwni, Sir Gâr, dwi’n are well-established within the preached in a few churches around teimlo’n angerddol dros faterion community and have three, small the diocese. With the Bishop’s gwledig. Dyma pwy ydw i. Ces worshipping groups, with the backing, I hope to be visiting every i fy magu ar dyddyn ac ers deng possibility of a fourth, all very LMA soon to encourage them in mlynedd ar hugain dwi wedi different in character. This may faith sharing. bod yn ffermio llaeth a defaid “Nac oedd, fe wnes i dderbyn arfer bod yn waith cymdeithasol seem odd, but actually mirrors the We produce a newsletter three gyda fy ngŵr, Dyfrig – a nawr yn syth. Hyfrydwch oedd cael fy iawn, gyda llond ydlan o bobol yn way the estate works. times a year. If you would like to hefyd gyda’r mab, Owain. nhrwyddedu i’r gwaith ym mart dod ynghyd ar gyfer y cynhaeaf Much of our work focuses receive a copy please get in touch “Rhyw bymtheng mlynedd Llanybydder a channoedd yno yn ac ar achlysuron eraill pan oedd on St Mark’s VA school. We run [email protected] yn ôl gofynnodd yr Esgob y gwasanaeth a dwi’n cofio hyd angen cymorth. Dyna’r adegau ar FROG, an after school club, with or 01437 763976 Carl i fi ymgymryd â gwaith heddiw’r ffermwyr yn ymuno i gyfer sbort a hwyl gyda’n gilydd a lunchtime mini version for pupils Ymgynghorydd Materion ganu ‘Pantyfedwen’ gyda hwyl.” yn ogystal â gwaith. Erbyn heddiw Gwledig yn yr esgobaeth yn dilyn mae ffermwyr yn gweithio ar Beth sy’n wahanol i rhaglen deledu a wnes i gyda eu pennau eu hunain oherwydd weinidogaethu mewn Dai Jones (Llanilar) yn y gyfres bod ganddynt y peiriannau ardal wledig yn hytrach Cefn Gwlad yn edrych ar fy a’r dechnoleg i’w galluogi i na mewn tref? ngwaith fel gweinidog a ffarmwr. weithio heb fod angen neb arall Roedd cael fy ngofyn i wneud “Mae ffermwyr a thrigolion i’w helpu. Gallan nhw fynd am y gwaith gyda’r fraint fwyaf y cefn gwlad yn gyffredinol yn ddiwrnodau – os nad wythnosau gallwn i fod wedi’i derbyn.” wynebu pethau cwbl wahanol i’w – heb siarad gyda neb!” hynafiaid. Y mwyaf arwyddocaol Dwi’n cymryd nad oedd yw unigrwydd, yn arbennig y Gallwch ddarllen gweddill angen i’r esgob ddisgwyl dyddiau hyn. Roedd ffermio yn y cyfweliad hwn ar-lein. yn hir am ateb.

Prayer activity at FROG Pobl Dewi, September 2019 3

Appointments

Revd Mark Ansell Revd Lindy Morgan Revd Elizabeth Rees Revd Canon Dewi Roberts appointed Priest in Charge of appointed Assistant Curate of to become joint Priest appointed Priest in Charge of Revd Ceirion Rees LMA, Aberystwyth LMA, in Charge of the LMA of Llanddarog and Llanarthne w to become joint Priest 18 June 2019 18 June 2019 Aberystwyth, Llangyndeyrn, in Charge of the LMA of 23 September 2019 3 September 2019 Aberystwyth, 23 September 2019

Ordinations Faith on the art trail Since becoming Curate in Garnant, Caroline Jones has been surprised, once more, by just how effective art is as a tool to help underpin our meditations, reflections and workshops OR our Advent meditations we Garnant and Cwmgors set off to see Flooked at images of the nativity this fabulous collection in ’s down the ages and during Lent we National Gallery and, even though considered images of the Passion it was a Sunday, the place was over a period of hundreds of years. buzzing. My first degree back in the I had picked out some reli- 1980s was a combined BA honours gious paintings for us to view on in Art and English and for my thesis arrival and then just one big Monet I ‘did’ the Davies sisters collec- as a teaser for the Davies Collec- tion of French Art in the National tion. The Renaissance and Baroque Gallery in Cardiff. Back in the day, paintings were superb and we I actually had hands-on access to looked at things like the baby their letters where they wrote about wearing a fabulous coral necklace what they had seen and bought and in one painting only to discover how much they had paid. It was a this was to ward off the evil eye. privilege to read about how these The Davies Collection was two women, with little or no art a feast of a different sort and we training, began to admire and buy lingered there for more than an works of art, some of which were hour. We marvelled at the lumi- The following were The following were Sophie Whitmarsh, considered, by the establishment of nosity and sheer looseness of the ordained Priest ordained Deacon Stipendiary Assistant Curate the day, to be the work of lunatics. brushwork in many of the paintings in the and LMA of Revd Shirley Murphy, Joan Allen, NSM(L) Margaret and Gwendoline but Renoir’s ‘Lady in Blue’ domi- , styled Stipendiary Assistant Curate Assistant Curate in the Davies had an amazing eye for art, nated the room. Minor Canon in the of Narberth Rectorial Benefice of Monkton especially ‘modern’ art. They were We also found a new, small w Mounton w Robeston Matthew Webster, NSM(L) the first serious British collectors exhibition of Kyffin Williams’s Gillian Butcher, NSM(L) Wathen & Crinow & Minwear House for Duty Assistant of Impressionist and Post-impres- portraits and landscapes. Assistant Curate in the w Templeton Curate in the Grouped sionist art including works by greats I believe that art can change Parish and LMA of St Davids Parishes of St such as Monet, Van Gough, Cézanne you. Certainly, our trip felt like a Revd Helen Nicholls, NSM Cathedral, styled Minor Canon Peter w St John’s & and the female Impressionist Berthe pilgrimage in many ways and when Assistant Curate in the LMA/ Morisot. By 1924 the collection we gazed at those images I think Carol Court, NSM(L) & Capel Y Groes United Benefice of Bro Lliedi contained some 200 works. we all were reminded of our bless- Assistant Curate in the LMA/ Carys Hamilton, NSM(L) On June 23rd members of ings, and how all of life is holy. Revd Lindy Morgan, NSM United Benefice of Bro Assistant Curate in the LMA/ Assistant Curate in the Sanclér United Benefice of Bro Teifi LMA/United Benefice of Robert Moore, NSM(L) Aberystwyth Rebecca Evans, House for Duty Assistant Stipendiary Assistant Curate Curate in the Grouped in the Parish of Llanbadarn Parishes of Carmarthen St Fawr & Elerch & Penrhyncoch Peter w St John’s & Abergwili and Capel Bangor & Capel Y Groes Roger Nock, NSM(L) Assistant Curate in the Parish of Brechfa w Llanfihangel Rhos Y Corn

An extended version of this article can be found on the PDExtra pages of the We keep all those ordained in our prayers diocesan website at https://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ 4 Pobl Dewi, September 2019

ahead of me on the journey was The first of many The BBQ that reassuring and it was touching to receive such positive support from On Saturday 13th July some 45 Worship Leaders from across the wider group, even though we the diocese met at the Halliwell Centre, Trinity St Davids, wasn’t a BBQ do not yet know each other well. Carmarthen, for their inaugural annual conference. The day was Others in the Aberystwyth organised by Robb Wainwright, Diocesan Lay Development On 19th June, Jo Harbidge attended the annual Bishop’s group are all at different stages too, Officer, and his wife, Lindy, in order to put in place support and Barbeque in Carmarthen, along with 32 others belonging to from those preparing for interview to some at the very beginning of training for Worship Leaders. Caroline Llewellyn, a Worship Fellowship of Vocations groups around the diocese their journey, sensing God’s call Leader in Begelly, looks forward to future meetings HE event, I was told, would iar faces, having met many of the and discerning their next steps. For S with all good meetings, the Tnot be a BBQ but a buffet this other guests at the weekend away these new members, the evening A day began with coffee, then year. The sun shone gloriously as a in Tenby last November. I found was a chance to glimpse some- opening Worship led by David and friend and I were driven down from myself re-entering already-started thing of the range of people serving Elizabeth Thomas from St Elidyr’s Aberystwyth by Vocations Advi- conversations and catching up with across St Davids, and to begin Church, Ludchurch, followed by sor and friend, Mark Ansell, who the progress of others as they also engaging in conversations about an encouraging address by the was, no doubt, looking forward to pursue their journeys. In a short their passions and concerns. Bishop in which she expressed catching up with those exploring eight months, I have moved from The groups will meet again her thanks, saying that without their vocations. We enjoyed a deli- listening to others discuss their in November, and perhaps, next Worship Leaders, weekly worship cious array of canapés followed by training to starting my own appli- summer, weather permitting, would be unable to continue across a much-admired trifle, as we sat in cation for ordained ministry. Being there might finally be a chance to the diocese. Bishop Joanna’s garden. able to share the decisions I have barbeque after all. There were two workshops: one made with those who are slightly led by Revd Dr Ainsley Griffiths Diverse group (pictured) on the subject of worship Fellowship of Vocations groups, and the other by Heulwen Evans on of Evening Prayer which was led, co-ordinated by Robb Wainwright, prayer stations; these were offered bilingually, by Lorna Shufflebot- meet all over the diocese to provide twice, once in English and once in tom, Rob Jones and Rhian Morgan, mutual support and a safe place to Welsh. Worship Leaders then split all from Llandeilo Fawr Parish. explore what God might be call- into their archidiaconal groups to The day provided an opportu- ing individuals into, whether it be discuss how and when they wished nity for Worship Leaders to meet, lay or ordained ministry. The Bish- to continue meeting, with the be encouraged and receive infor- op’s Barbeque is one of two yearly expectation that the groups would mation on helpful resources and events where these groups meet also organise next year’s confer- suggestions to think about which up. Living at the northern end of ence. It is intended that the event might improve the ways we lead the diocese, it is easy to feel out of will move around the diocese and worship. It is hoped that the archi- touch with what is going on down Robb would welcome interest diaconal groups will meet two or in Tenby, or over in . from anyone who feels that there three times in the coming year. Meetings like these bring together is a venue known to them that can If you are a Worship Leader and a diverse group of men and women cater for a group that may number would like to attend future events who share the common goal of 100 and has at least three breakout please contact Robb Wainwright: listening to God and carrying out areas. tel: 01834 849459/ 07768 390060; his work in the world. The day finished with a service e-mail: [email protected] It was lovely to see famil- Dathlu mewn dull traddodiadol Building community links On Sunday night, 16th June, a service was held to celebrate Trinity Sunday in Christchurch, Carmarthen. The idea for the service came from Archdeacon , to try and resurrect the singing festivals of the past. Eluned Rees enjoys the event OS Sul, 16 Mehefin trefnwyd cawsom ‘gyfweliad gyda Duw’ N Oedfa Gymraeg i ddathlu gan Brif ferch a Phrif fachgen Gŵyl y Drindod yn Eglwys Ysgol Bro Dinefwr , Lowri Crist, Caerfyrddin. Syniad yr Rowlands a Siôn Roberts. Y Archddiacon Dorrien Davies oedd pregethwr gwadd oedd y Canon ceisio atgyfodi’r Oedfa Ganu Eileen Davies. Manteisiodd o’r gorffennol a bu Pwyllgor yr Archddiacon ar y cyfle i’w gweithgar yn gwneud y trefniadau. llongyfarch gan y byddai’n Thema’r gwasanaeth oedd ‘Myfi cael ei sefydlu rai dyddiau’n yw’r Ffordd, y Gwirionedd a’r ddiweddarach fel Archddiacon Bywyd.’ Fe ganwyd rhan helaeth Ceredigion. Paratowyd lluniaeth o’r gwasanaeth, a dosbarthwyd i ni gan wragedd yr eglwys, taflenni pwrpasol ymlaen llaw ac roedd cyfle i gymdeithasu gyda’r emynau i’w defnyddio a mynegi diolchiadau i’r a’u hymarfer. Yr oedd y Cymun rheiny a gymerodd ran yn y o dan ofal yr Archddiacon a’r Yr Archddiacon Dorrien Davies gwasanaeth bendithiol hwn. Barch. Delyth Richards, a daeth Mawr obeithir y bydd mwy cynulleidfa werthfawrogol ynghyd Bu Côr Plygain Llandeilo, o dan o wasanaethau fel hyn yn y dyfodol, ac i’r perwyl hwn fe i addoli yn y Gymraeg. Roedd y arweiniad Rhian Morgan, yn Since 2017 the members of Cawdor Court, in Narberth, have canu, gan gynnwys siantiau Taizé sefydlwyd pwyllgor, sef Pwyllgor Canon Suzy Bale wrth y delyn, been inviting members of the local community to join them for gan osod awyrgylch dawel a a charol haf ‘Mwynwen Mai’. Archddiaconiaeth Caerfyrddin – lunch twice a year, in the summer and at Christmas time, thus myfyriol i gychwyn yr Oedfa. Yn lle’r gweddïau traddodiadol Cymreictod a Dwyieithrwydd. strengthening existing bonds, and forming new ones, with those living locally. Cawdor Court is a development of retirement apartments and links with the local churches already exist, with Am ragor o erthyglau, nad oedd hi’n bosib eu cynnwys yn y rhifyn hwn, ynghyd â chyfieithiad o rai ohonynt, monthly Communion Services held for residents in the communal ewch i dudalen area. The clergy and the team are always made welcome with PD Extra ar ein gwefan: www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ cakes and refreshments after the services Pobl Dewi, September 2019 5 Chic church Praise Him with stringed instruments charity catwalk Curate and Morris dancer Jonathan Parker finds folk in church ROUND 170 years after most of the more than 100 congrega- gathered showing that, in this How many times have you been to a fashion show where the A Victorian clergy ejected their tion. Accordions, concertinas and with a population of 5,500, there clothes are totally perfect and the price of the garments is out village bands in favour of organs an octave fiddle were among the live people from over 43 different of this world? St Michael and All Angels Church in Dafen – part and robed choirs, St Mary’s, Fish- instruments brought along, creat- countries of their birth. A wonder- of Bro Lliedi LMA in – recently turned this concept on its guard, welcomed them back: for ing a different sound to accompany ful diversity that contributes to head, as Claire Phillips explains one day only. song and prayer. Morris and Welsh the vibrancy of Fishguard and St Mary’s had already been a Folk dancers in costume gave extra Goodwick. ORKING alongside RSPCA those on low budgets, and help venue for the singers, dancers and colour to the church. Regular congregation Llys Nini and using clothes charities struggling with the ever- W musicians who performed at Fish- Jeremy Martineau’s address members, visitors to the Folk Festi- from the charity’s shops, the increasing costs to carry on their guard’s annual Folk Festival but celebrated God’s gifts of creativ- val and two self-confessed atheists Church Entertainment Commit- good work. this year we invited them to join ity and the diversity of humanity, told us of their positive and enjoy- tee, supported by our children and RSPCA Llys Nini runs an our 10am Sunday service, too. encouraging us to embrace vari- able experience of worship. As she youth and members of the Minis- animal re-homing centre based in However, to truly engage with the ety in our worship. Music itself handed back her maracas at the try Team, produced an evening Penllergaer, , but, whilst wider community we knew we had has order and form, while allow- end of the service, one 90-year-old of many surprises at the fashion affiliated to the national RSPCA to be flexible in our approach and ing creativity and imagination. Just member commented, ‘What a pity show held in May. It was not just charity, it receives no automatic so moved our monthly All Age as our society needs both order it’s all over.’ Well, we will certainly the quality and affordability of the funding to help support the daily Service to coincide with the Folk and freedom, so can our worship. have another go next year! clothes on display, but it was also running costs of the centre. All Festival weekend. The LMA , Jeremy referred to data recently the professionalism of the church this is done via fundraising and Christopher Brown, gave a group members who became models for the work of their charity shops. of us free rein to work with festival the evening (some of whom are They are very grateful for the organisers and local folk musicians more commonly seen wearing dog opportunity to work with the local to create a service rooted in Church collars!) community in order to raise aware- in Morning Prayer but The evening produced many ness of the work they do. shaped around the folk musicians. laughs, many tears, great commu- There was some concern musi- nity interaction and raised over Deuteronomy 15:10 Give cians would be too busy to attend £1,000 – much needed money for generously to them and do so in the middle of a hectic weekend both church funds and for RSPCA without a grudging heart; then and a full schedule. Having secured Llys Nini. because of this the your the involvement of half a dozen, we Recycling your unwanted God will bless you in all your advertised the service and invited clothes can help the environment, work and in everything you put people to drop in on the day with provide good quality clothes to your hand to. their instruments. As it turned out, the church vibrated with musicians and singers joining in enthusiasti- cally using the ‘dots’ (sheet music) we provided and involving many Cursillo: growing in faith

Cursillo St Davids recently held its annual weekend at Llangasty Retreat House, Brecon. The group was joined by five new pilgrims and also welcomed the National President of Cursillo, as Judy Webb reports HE team leading the week- St Davids Cathedral. We wish Many of our fellows were in the Tend, both clergy and laity, them a wonderful ministry as they two cathedrals for the ordinations, gave a series of talks and medita- take up their new appointments. but nonetheless a goodly number tions over the course of three days, June 29th also saw a visit from of Cursillistas were in Carew to with plenty of opportunity for the National President of Cursillo, welcome Trevor. discussion on what we had heard Trevor King, who attended the The next Cursillo Weekend and giving us all an opportunity to Ultreya being held in Carew. This will take place between 18th and grow in faith. was his first visit to West Wales. 21st June 2020, again at Llangasty. The weekend was quite focussed but there was time to go Information about Cursillo can be found on the diocesan website for a walk or relax while looking at https://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/cursillo-st-davids/ at the lake. Some of our partici- pants this year were bell ringers, and they took the opportunity on the Saturday afternoon to ring the bells at Llangasty Parish Church, along with two local ringers. The result was wonderful, especially when heard from the house a short distance away, but also really inter- esting to watch! Our thoughts and prayers were with two of our fellow Cursillis- tas on ordination day, 29th June. Sue Rumbelow was priested in For more articles which, unfortunately, could not be , and Sophie accommodated in this issue, plus translations of some, Whitmarsh deaconed in St Davids please visit the PD Extra page of our website: Cathedral. Sue is serving in the Llwchwr Ministry Area, Swansea, www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ and Sophie as a Minor Canon in 6 Pobl Dewi, September 2019 All change

The tent at the show There’s a new look to this year’s Diocesan Conference

The Pembrokeshire County Show is one of the highlights of the calendar. It attracts thousands of visitors every year, who come to see and take part in various events, spend money on craft and trade, and educate themselves about new technologies and advances in agriculture and farming. The diocesan church tent provides refuge and a space to take stock, in the centre of what is otherwise a very busy three days. This year was no different, says Sophie Whitmarsh E have a core team of people workers, Amanda, Jeremy and Bishop Joanna, Archdeacon Paul HE first thing that’s changed is on Standing Committee. Wwho pull together resources Michelle, all came together to Mackness, and Revd Neil Hook Tthe venue. This year’s confer- Every diocesan organisation from across the diocese, to provide provide free activities, games and (pictured) all took their turn to ence will take place in the Medrus submits an annual report to confer- three main areas of support during support for parents during the preside at the . In a place Conference Centre at Aberystwyth ence detailing their activity during the week. These are the Hospitality three days. It was wonderful to that is surrounded by noise, (Radio University, instead of the tradi- the past year. And even these are area, the Children and Youth area, see so many children enjoy their Pembrokeshire, in particular, who tional location in Lampeter. changing and will address the and the Worship area. Free tea, time, make lots of crafts, and play very kindly loaned us a micro- And the format is different too. conference theme, Grasping the coffee, biscuits and bottles of water plenty of games, including a giant phone), the Eucharist is a gentle Worship will open both the morn- Nettle. (kindly provided free from Princes Connect four, giant Jenga, and pick reminder that amongst the noise ing and afternoon sessions, with Reports from the Diocesan Gate), were served this year by up sticks. There was also a space and the business of the show and the Eucharist at the beginning of Board of Finance, the Mission Chloe (15), Katie (12) and Rachel where children could write or draw life in general, God has his hand the day. and Ministry Directorates will (10), with the help of Nia, Emma, their own prayers and place them firmly placed on our lives. Then there are the people who be accompanied by presentations Howard, Tim and others from the on the prayer tree. The rural and agricultural actually attend. January marks on Ministry Share, Developing diocesan office. More than 400 Whilst the children were enjoy- communities will always play an the start of a new triennium, the Vocations, Leading Worship and drinks were served over the three ing themselves, the adults came for important role in the life of our three-year period for which repre- Evangelising the Diocese. days. refuge, a place to sit, have a chat, diocese. It’s important that as a sentatives are elected to diocesan But two things remain Val Legg from the Church and, for some, to worship. The church we support them and their committees as well as conference untouched. Bishop Joanna’s pres- Army, Plant Dewi, and the dioc- Eucharist plays a large part in the families in any way we can. Look- itself. Elections have been taking idential address will close the esan youth and children project tent and this year was no different. ing forward to next year! place across the diocese and the conference, and Question Time, results will be among the first a session introduced last year in things to be announced. which anyone in the diocese can ask And as if that wasn’t enough, anything and get an answer, is to Copyright for the winning Centenary hymn there’s the matter of the constitu- be repeated. Questions are selected composition will be retained jointly tion. Changes can only be made by in advance from those submitted. by the composer(s) and the diocese. conference and a motion, proposed Questions (and answers) will be competition There is no cash prize. It is hoped by Archdeacon Paul Mackness, posted on the diocesan website. that the winning entry will be St Davids Diocese is inviting entries into a competition to find will be put that seeks to adapt elec- The conference takes place on included in the order of service for a new liturgical hymn to celebrate its centenary and that of the toral arrangements for conference Saturday 5th October; it promises the diocesan centenary service in in 2020 in the light of the new LMA struc- to be an interesting day. St Davids Cathedral. ture and increase lay representation HERE are two categories: Entries can be submitted elec- Tan Open category and one tronically or by post. The closing reserved for entries from Church in date for entries March 1st 2020 Wales Schools. Entries by multiple Electronic submissions should authors will be accepted. Authors be sent to competition.stdavids@ FINAL COPY DATE may submit multiple entries. There © Dbolton [CC0] churchinwales.org.uk is no entry fee. for the The hymn can be new words both as an independent text and, Postal Entries should be sent to: set either to an existing tune or a where appropriate, a PDF score, Centenary Hymn Competition, December edition of new tune. It should be celebratory plus an optional mp3 recording, , in tone and suitable for congrega- using an entry form obtainable from Diocesan Office, Pobl Dewi tional hymn singing. Entries can be the diocesan website at https:// Abergwili, in English and/or Welsh. [email protected]/ Carmarthen SA31 2JG Complete hymns, of at least competition where you also find 6th November 2019 three verses, should be submitted conditions of entry. Pobl Dewi, September 2019 7 Growing Hope Growing Hope

obaith eithrin G M Hope Growing Purpose, joy and resolve An inaugural event called ‘Men Of ’ was held on 14-15th June at Greenlinks Farm behind the Henry Tudor School in Pembroke. It is hoped that this will become an annual event around Fathers’ Day. Peter Lane reports GROUP of men led by Adam Purpose, joy and resolve. There Roberts. There was a camp fire A Cumine organised the two- were over 20 men who came round which everyone gathered explained what can be done and Adrian Vaughan, from Calvary day event, which was ecumenical for different periods of time to and had fun. The food over the how this will work for us. Church, Haverfordwest, spoke and aimed at Christian men specif- enjoy the worship, presentations weekend was excellent and the Michael Bave, from Bethel about how to build our resolve by ically. It was felt that God was and fellowship. We were blessed meal times became a focus for Baptist Church, Pembroke Dock, looking at how we can choose our active in Pembrokeshire and that with music from Josh Maynard fellowship. then shared some of his experi- way to through following this event would be able to moti- on drums and Jeremy Stone on On the Saturday, there were ences to show how, even in bad Christ to avoid the price of sin and vate and strengthen men to play keyboards. Malcom Hughes led the three sessions which covered the situations, it is possible to find death of our soul. their part in His work. Ministers worship on his guitar as well as the topics of purpose, joy and resolve. joy. He explained how joy is the It was moving to see how many from a number of local Christian singing. The sessions were interspersed strength of the Lord and that we men came forward to pray with the churches across denominations Most men came on Friday with singing and prayer. can rise above our own difficult ministers at the end. All the content were also involved to put together evening and stayed overnight Josh Maynard, Team Vicar in situations with the strength of the was well-received and most went the content. under canvas. They enjoyed a Monkton, showed that our purpose Lord who is with us when we ask away buoyed up by the event. The theme this year was meal, worship and a talk by Peter was simply to glorify God and he Him.

Vestry Venture The Vestry Venture at came about in order to provide an informal meeting space for people in the village. But it has become so much more than that, says Jane Shaw HE idea grew from a church items for sale such as plants or a short talk (with slides or glove Trenovation, which resulted in clothes. All profits go towards the puppets) and a song or prayer, toilet and kitchen facilities as well church and, despite initial worries, after which we return to the vestry as a largish room in which to sit. we have been able to meet most of for a craft activity, such as colour- Initially we considered offering a our annual energy costs. ing a picture of St David, making parent-and-toddler group, but after Newcomers to the area are a Mothers’ Day card, or designing consultation it became evident particularly welcome, as they get a an Easter garden. After refresh- that there was a greater need for chance to meet new friends, learn ments, the hour ends with saying somewhere for people of all ages, what activities are on offer, and pick the Grace. Spin-offs from Rainbow including those with young chil- up useful tips about local services. Church have included a Christmas dren, simply to meet informally. So Soon after the venture started, Nativity service for parents and the the Vestry Venture was born. we realised there were families who wider community. We meet on a Tuesday after- wanted to involve their children Since the village school closed, noon between 2 and 5pm. The more in church. So we decided to Vestry Venture has provided a space three-hour slot means that there is start Rainbow Church on the Sunday to reunite parents whose children a window of opportunity for those previously reserved for Matins. As have moved to different schools. seeking adult company before the numbers had dropped dramatically, This has led to further projects: the children arrive back from school. it seemed the perfect opportunity to children have thoroughly enjoyed Simple refreshments are available try something different. planting bulbs to create a wild- for a nominal donation; there are The children arrive at the vestry flower meadow in the churchyard. paperbacks to swap or share, as with an adult. Table-top games They have also nurtured seedlings well as a safe play area for small are played for the first 20 minutes for the new Llansadwrn Commu- children. Occasionally there are before we move to the chancel for nity Garden. Growing hope indeed!

Follow Pobl Dewi on Rainbow Church www.stdavidsdiocese.org.uk A reminder The diocesan Calendar of Intercessions and weekly homilies are both available from the Home Page of the diocesan website: https:stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk. http://twitter.com/PoblDewi We’ll be posting weekly reminders on Twitter and Facebook www.facebook.com/pobldewi from now on. Hope it helps. 8 Pobl Dewi, September 2019

Firstly, we had a youth group, with their leaders, who came to serve with the team. It was lovely Hitting the beach to watch the teenagers not only communicating Jesus to children but getting stuck in to team life, making the effort to talk to others, overcoming fears and enjoying growing in their walk with God. Secondly, at story time on the Friday, when we were looking at Jesus’ death and resurrection, the Hannah Bunting, a diocesan project worker specifically room was silent, all children were involved in children and youth work in Aberystwyth, has attentive and thoughtful which then enjoyed watching the development of the town’s beach influenced the conversations after- mission over the past 14 years wards. Thirdly, on the Sunday we held a final service in the Castle Park. Each year it is threatened S the main leader for the beach club material, Backpackers, look- with rain and each year we pray; A mission, one of the delights ing at Jesus’ journey to the cross, this year it rained until five minutes Outreach for our times is caring for such a versatile team, from Palm Sunday to the glorious before we started! Looking out Children and youth work is alive, well and growing some of whom have been coming Easter Day and the resurrection. across the crowd, which was from in Bro Lliedi LMA, says Michelle Lloyd for 10 years whilst for others this Through our parents and toddlers, a mix of the local churches, was was their first year. Being under the we are able to offer some relief so uplifting and to see unchurched E have a variety of groups, 2017 and two families who attend banner of Scripture Union means in the summer holidays as most passers-by stepping into the cele- Wtailored to the needs of have had their children baptised. that we are able to appeal across local groups stop and it has been bration was encouraging. different ages, which meet through- In line with our stated aims denominations bringing a good lovely to watch the children grow The Aberystwyth Scrip- out the year across our LMA. of getting children and young mix of . through that group and into the ture Union Beach Mission runs Messy Church meets once a people involved in as many things Throughout the week we run a holiday club. Unlike most beach each summer. To find out more, month on a Sunday afternoon. New as possible, our family services holiday club, parents and toddlers, missions, we attract mainly locals sign up to the team or bring your families are joining us and we are include creative prayers writ- youth games and family beach which provides a great opportunity family along please get in touch: reaching out to more unchurched ten by the children and our new, activities every day, plus one-off to continue those links after the [email protected]. families, showing the love of our contemporary ‘Families at 5’ half events like film nights and parties. mission. The team dates for 2020 are Lord Jesus Christ. There is also a hour service takes place on the last The theme for this year was based Three encouraging things Saturday 15th August to Sunday Messy Church lunchtime club held Sunday of the month. on the Scripture Union holiday stand out from this year’s mission. 23rd August. in Stebonheath Primary School Something new for 2018, and every Thursday, for children in repeated this year, was free Guard- Years 3 to 6, where weekly attend- ians of Ancora sessions held in tivity. Thankfulness was the theme, ance averages 20. Rob Lowe and schools. Guardians of Ancora, a Thinking outside and evenings finished with each I deliver assemblies to 10 schools game designed by Scripture Union, of us thanking God for something in the LMA and we held Year 6 is a virtual world which 8-11 year from the day. One pilgrim summed prayer station leavers’ services olds can enter and where the box up the experience: “The best thing across two days in St Elli in June. stories come alive. It is a fun, epic It’s all about building relationships, says Amanda Coombe, about pilgrimage was . . . all of it!” Outreach to secondary schools has parkour adventure game where Another pilgrim said “I really like included the Message Wales Eden players have to run, jump, roll and Roose LMA Children, Youth and Families Worker going on pilgrimage as we went to Bus (pictured), which was well slide their way through stories of HE church is a place to go people, which led, a year later, to a St Davids Cathedral at the end and received. the Bible, in which they meet Jesus to when you are dead!’ More young people’s discipleship group, we got to have fish and chips!” The and experience the miracles he T Youth Fellowship Squad than one child echoed this view which is ongoing and the highlight pilgrims meet monthly for different performed. This app is downloaded in a primary school club, which I of my week: the conversations and outdoor adventures and our group Junior Youth Club, which meets free onto Kindle pads or iPads and help run with St Peter’s Church, the cake! is growing. every Wednesday during term can be played in school, at home or Johnston, one of my 22 churches. The early Bank Holiday Our Park Pop Ups started three time, is attended by 27 children when out and about. A commonly held view, I have no saw a group of children and years ago with five children and aged 6-10 (pictured). We started Plans for the future include the doubt, from research that I have young people from St Jerome’s, young people joining us in the park our Youth Fellowship Squad in launch of an after school Lego and read, and a challenge to us all! Llangwm, St Mary’s, Burton, and – on a Thursday in early August we September 2018 for pupils in Faith club, funded by the Dioce- Thus, we have tried to find St Clement’s, Neyland, undertak- saw 50 children and young people. Year 6 and upwards and seven san Children and Youth grants and different ways of being church to ing their second pilgrimage from We have also met over 50 fami- young people come along to Dafen a weekly music session for disad- the children and young people in Solva to St Davids. The weather lies through a Parent and Toddler Church Hall every Thursday even- vantaged children, thanks to Rob our LMA. We started a monthly was beautiful and the scenery a Group we set up in St Clement’s, ing. Parent and toddler sessions Lowe’s successful bid for funding outdoor activity club for young reminder of God’s amazing crea- meeting a need in the community. have been running since September for music equipment. Our weekly secondary school work has made connections with young people, some of whom now come to a Youth Club at the Church of the Holy Spirit. Our latest venture in Neyland is a weekly young peoples’ drop in – Space to Be – a place to chat with friends, enjoy hot chocolate and cake, games and practise skills like cooking, paint- ing nails, woodwork. It’s not about numbers but about relationships which start conversation, and which provide opportunity to share Jesus in lots of different ways, faith journeying with people. So here’s the chal- lenge: are we prepared to think outside the box (the church) and step out of the boat? Pobl Dewi, September 2019 9 Camping Carry-on What really matters Plant Dewi’s Dad and Me project offers activities that enrich father/child relationships. To celebrate Fathers’ Day an overnight for Religious Education in Wales? camp provided an opportunity for fathers and their children to Tania ap Siôn, Director of the St Mary’s Centre, Wales, and author of a new storybook spend time together in the great outdoors – something they all series for primary schools, considers the challenges of the new RE curriculum enjoyed, says Sue Fletcher ANDALPH the Wise sat in cynefin. Here, cynefin is defined and Search for Meaning observes OR some children this was quickly eaten, and marshmallows his chair, scratched his old broadly as “not just a place in a and questions cynefin in real places their first camping trip and, on were toasted on an open fire. ‘R F grey head, and thought about the physical or geographical sense: and among real people in Wales. arrival, they were clearly excited. Fuelled with energy the chil- very big question. “What really it is the historical, cultural and Randalph’s quest challenges read- A sudden shift in weather patterns dren ran and played until darkness matters?” he asked the empty social place which has shaped, and ers to ask themselves, ‘What really promised heavy rain but fathers fell and when exhausted they room in a deep, booming voice. As continues to shape, the community matters here in St Davids Diocese?’ braved the forecast conditions and started retiring to their tents to usual, there were no other voices to which inhabits it.” What answers might you give to quickly set up their tents in the enjoy a good night’s sleep. answer him . . .’ So, Randalph the Randalph’s Spiritual Quest young people in local schools? playing fields of Pembroke Dock Heavy rain fell in the night. Wise sets out on his spiritual quest Community School. However, the glorious morning and search for meaning through Once the tents were set up and sunshine dried up all the tents and Wales. all was shipshape, a father against put a smile on everyone’s face. On his travels, Randalph children football match took place. Continuous reminders as to encounters the depth and diver- The children laughed when fathers who won the football match and sity existing in places and people were told that they could only walk stories of noises in the night were around Wales. These help him to during the game and only kick the recounted as everyone enjoyed discover some of the things that ball with their left foot. The chil- their cereals and toast together. really matter, such as, ‘Bringing dren’s laughter increased when Many happy memories were Health and Healing’; ‘Caring for some of the fathers were sent off created, leaving everyone asking the Future’; ‘Living with Nature’; for continuously flouting the rules. when the next camp would be – ‘Making Spiritual Journeys’; The children inevitably won the watch this space for more about ‘Remembering the Past’; and game! Dad and Me. ‘Serving Others’. Food followed, expertly cooked Peter Arnold is the Plant Dewi Randalph’s Spiritual Quest by Peter, our Plant Dewi volunteer staff member who leads on the and Search for Meaning is a new chef for the evening. Sausages, Dad and Me project – call 01267 storybook series for 8 to 11-year- burgers, salad and sauces were 221551 for further information. old learners, created to support Religious Education within the Humanities’ Area of Learning and Experience of the radically differ- ent ‘Curriculum for Wales 2022’. This new curriculum is completely different in number of ways, and has the potential to bring with it some exciting challenges. For example, it is unusual to see the responsibil- ity for the development of a school curriculum so largely placed with teachers and schools. The draft guidance documents, published by the in April 2019, were developed by teachers working together in a network of ‘pioneer schools’. It will also be teachers and schools, in their own local contexts, which will deter- Randalph’s Spiritual Quest and Search for Meaning (2019; mine how best to approach and Bear Lands Publishing) is available as a free download from Big beach picnic deliver this new curriculum. http://www.st-marys-centre.org.uk/resources.html One interesting feature of the Humanities’ Area of Learning and Experience (in which Religious Education sits alongside History, Geography, Business Studies and S Llawddog Penboyr Social Studies) is the emphasis on

Plant Dewi Christmas cards are now available from the Carmarthen office. Tel: 01267 221551 Pictured are St Mary’s Church, Tenby’s Sundayfunday Club on their recent Big Beach Picnic to celebrate the beginning of If you would like to hold the summer holidays. Children and adults enjoyed a wonderful a Christingle service day on the North Beach and are seen enjoying fresh doughnuts in aid of Plant Dewi, before hitting the surf and spending the afternoon mostly in the please get in touch sea! They all later participated in a sandcastle competition, which with Catrin Evans Yr Hybarch Eileen yn siarad â phlant Eglwys S Llawddog was won by Issac and Eilidh. on 01267 221551 or Penboyr ddydd Sul, 14 Gorffennaf mewn gwasanaeth i’r plant, ac Apart from Messy church every first Saturday of the month [email protected] hefyd gwasanaeth i ail agor yr eglwys ar ôl ail-wneud y wal. Braf when all children are welcome with their parents, Sundayfunday for a Christingle pack oedd gweld cymaint yn bresennol gyda’r prynhawn yn gorffen â Club recommences on Sunday 8th September at 10am. phaned yn Neuadd yr Eglwys. Diolch i bawb am y gwaith caled 10 Pobl Dewi, September 2019 In times of trial and times Focus on of joy – we are there! Healthcare Chaplains don’t diagnose, operate or use scanners Wholeness & wellbeing but are pastoral practitioners absorbing grief, hurt, depression, anger, uncertainty and the myriad of feelings that manifest themselves within a healthcare setting. Euryl Howells, Senior Chaplain for Hywel Dda University Health Board, finds his Services of healing ministry a privilege ESUS’ recorded activity relieved Health and wholeness are vital for all of us, and healing includes J human suffering – physical, the spirit as well as the mind and the body. Jesus sent his disciples mental, moral, and spiritual – out to heal the sick as they proclaimed the good news of the healing holistically. The NHS Kingdom of God, and in the Letter of James those who are sick recognises that illness or health is are encouraged to call for the elders of the church to pray over not solely about physical results, it them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. With such also affirms spiritual and emotional a strong biblical mandate, Ann Howells is surprised that more well-being. churches are not offering services of healing on a regular basis We cannot express our intan- gible role, versus the tangible HEN I arrived in Llandybïe Healing Services booklet (2008). of other professionals. Those of WI discovered that there had Some asked for prayer every time, limited vision consider a chaplain been a tradition of including prayer others just occasionally, but all a nuisance, others a luxury that the for healing in the Friday morning appreciated the opportunity to NHS should not finance. However, Eucharist, but by the time I arrived, receive it. I have found that it is an accepted with no religious background, but the tradition had lapsed. Having After moving to the Llanll- discipline resourcing patients, staff people whose faith is lapsed, or seen the value of such services wch group of parishes, I asked the receiving their ministry myself, and visitors to re-mobilise and who have never practised an active in other parishes in which I had congregation at St Mary’s whether was intensely moving. It brought empower the ‘wounded’. belief, struggle, encumbered and served, and after consulting the they would like to have a healing home to me that God’s Holy Spirit We are the proverbial beer, unsure, resulting in untold spiritual congregation, a decision was made service within the Sunday Eucha- was at work, through the words of reaching parts others can’t. Chap- distress at times of trauma. Special- to revive the tradition. Those who rist from time to time. We held our prayer and the actions of laying on lains befriend in a non-judgemental ist Spiritual Care providers are wanted to receive prayer with the first healing service earlier this hands and anointing with oil. way, walking with patients and essential. Emotional and spiritual laying on of hands and/or anoint- year, following the same pattern After the service I received loved ones. I’m resourced, as I distress is different; pain, dying, ing with oil were invited to stay as I had used before. I was amazed many positive comments from believe, by a never-failing, eter- fears and afflictions make people behind at the altar rail after receiv- and humbled to see almost all the those in the congregation. The nal God of love. We pray with and physically unwell, Blessing/ invo- ing Communion, with those unable congregation staying behind at the church committee has requested for those who ask or tentatively cation is preferred to sacramental to come to the rail being able to altar rail to receive prayer. Watch- that we hold further services in the suggest it, simply being there - not care. The NHS cares from the receive Communion and prayer ing my colleagues, Adam and future. I would encourage others to evangelising, but building a rela- cradle to the grave; as staff, we in their seats. I used the form of Carol, moving along the row as we do the same so that you may expe- tionship. God does the rest. encounter patients who are at every prayer from the Church in Wales took it in turns to offer prayer, and rience this blessing, too. Most requests come from those stage in life, from pre-natal to palli- ative care. Bishop James Newcome addressing false presumptions of chaplaincy ‘that chaplains are ther- not be what it seems at first. In one who are housebound they just can’t apeutic, not evangelistic’. instance, someone wanted to join get to activities. There are very few Within the NHS we are reli- Community Connectors some social activities but, follow- volunteers available to call upon so gious specialists – advocating that Julie Campbell is the Community Connector for North ing our conversation, I found out if you feel you could help in this religion, life-style and culture are Pembrokeshire covering an area that incorporates Solva, St that the reason they had lost confi- way – a simple conversation or respected, met, promoted, encour- reading aloud could make all the Davids, Fishguard and , up to the Ceredigion border. dence was based on difficulties in aging staff to entwine their reality. difference. I would like to connect Individuals and LMAs are invited to explore links with the their younger life. We therefore We buttress workforce colleagues, discussed specific support services to church groups to help support organisation, which would be to everyone’s benefit dissecting their feelings of compas- to help them move on from this, people so if you can help me to sion fatigue, processing complex S our title suggests, we con- dementia to access appropriate starting on a one-to-one basis then make connections do get in touch. workloads, sharing their ethical nect people to services and activities. moving into a group. If anyone would like further infor- quandaries. A mation, ring PAVS on 01437 activities to improve health and I visit people at home work- One area I struggle with is find- Normal day well-being. I am based in Pembro- ing out together what is important, ing befrienders. No-one wants to 769422. There’s no ‘normal’ day. The core keshire Association of Voluntary what their interests and concerns admit they are lonely but for people activity is to transform the dark- Services (PAVS). The aim is to let are. Some people have become ness of sickness, conscious of people know what is happening isolated because of health issues. its impact on patients, relatives in their local community and how For some it’s a loss of confidence, and staff. There’s joy too – asI they can get involved, reducing perhaps following retirement, a write, a new father brings joyous social isolation and helping people bereavement or when friends have news, a success after round three live independently for longer moved away. of IVF! There is sacredness to in their communities. There are For example, someone may being welcomed on the pilgrimage Community Connectors through- be caring for their partner and with people who are exposed and out Wales so check your council looking for activities to attend vulnerable. website to find out more. together but need transport that Please advise me of any visits, Pembrokeshire has four can take a wheelchair. Sometimes support or advice that may help Community Connectors to cover they might want someone to sit parishes and individuals. the county, with one Connec- with an elderly parent so they can [email protected]; tor specialising in children and take a break. The reason some Direct: 01267 227563; families and another supporting people are referred to me might urgently 01267 235151 asking individuals and carers living with for Long Range contact. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram & Facebook @CCPembs or email [email protected] The team: (back l-r) Sophie, Gwyneth, Jo, Julie, (front) Fern and Mia Pobl Dewi, September 2019 11 What the doctor orders . . . “So, this problem isn’t an accident, or an emergency?” “No, doctor”, she sighs, “but I couldn’t get a GP appointment”. Working as a GP trainee in A&E last winter, Katherine Cohen had this conversation repeatedly

surgeries are constantly medics and physician associates GP trying to create more Your medicine box all offer specialist treatment and appointments, but they struggle Painkillers advice. to match demand. However, if we (paracetamol brings There are other specialists to all made a few simple changes, down fevers as well consider, too – just ask the GP recep- it could ease demand and make as treating pain) tionists if you’re not sure who to see: appointments available. • Pharmacists provide self-care Antihistamines Firstly, look after yourself: advice and help with medica- stop smoking, lose weight, cut Rehydration salts tion problems your drinking, take your medica- Antacids • Opticians see eye problems for tions, moisturise and relax. Many Thermometer free (call to check they offer of our health problems would be (a fever is 38° and this). They have better tools eradicated if everyone did these above) than GPs to look at your eyes (seriously). and are real experts Simple first aid kit Secondly, prepare for common • Health visitors assess young ailments. Gather the medicines children’s behavioural and shown in the box (discuss with a appointments. If you would use developmental problems pharmacist if you have health prob- it for a hospital appointment, you • Call 111 for urgent (not emer- lems or questions) so you can treat should use it for a GP appointment. gency) problems when your simple problems at home. Next, consider if another GP is closed. They can book Thirdly, prioritise your health healthcare professional could emergency dental and GP and know your rights. Many who address your problem. Gone are the appointments “cannot get an appointment” actu- days of GPs to whom every prob- • Local clinics and groups, e.g. and professionals working together. after ourselves, direct our problems ally cannot get an appointment lem is referred: we now work as family planning clinics, carer Professionals will continue to do appropriately and practise toler- time that suits them. You are enti- a team of specialist professionals. support groups and so on the best with what they have, but ance and patience. tled to take leave to attend health Nurses, physiotherapists, para- NHS survival depends on patients as patients, we must learn to look

yr angladdau. Mae’n amser dan gystudd daeth ei gyfeillion Caplan yng nghartref Hafan y Waun hiraethus i’r perthnasau ac i staff i’w gysuro. “Eisteddasant ar y y cartref, ac mae’n galw am gryn llawr gydag ef. Ni ddywedodd Ingrid Rose shares some of her experiences working as a chaplain sensitifrwydd. Mae’r profiad yr un ohonynt air wrtho at Hafod y Waun, an MHA home in Aberystwyth o wasanaethu mewn amrywiol am eu bod yn gweld fod ei eglwysi o fewn Ceredigion, yn boen yn fawr”. Job 2:13. AE’N rhyfedd sut mae yn gartref i bron 90 o breswylwyr eu gofal corfforol, meddyliol ac ogystal â gweithio fel athrawes Diolch i Dduw am y cyfle M Duw yn ein galw. Mae’r sy’n dioddef o wahanol ysbrydol. Doedd gen i fawr o a phennaeth bellach yn gymorth i geisio bod yn gyfaill i bob daith ysbrydol, ryfeddol hon sy’n raddau o’r cyflwr dementia. brofiad o’r cyflwr dementia cyn i mi yn fy swydd newydd. un o breswylwyr Hafan y ymestyn dros ddeng mlynedd Sefydlwyd cartrefi MHA dechrau ar y gaplaniaeth. Rwyf Pan oedd Job yn dioddef yn Waun. Fel Caplan deuthum ar hugain ers fy ordeinio yn gan y Parchedig Walter Hall ac bellach wedi derbyn hyfforddiant gorfforol ac yn feddyliol ac o innau i “eistedd gyda chwi”. ddiacon ac yna’n offeiriad yn yr mae’r brif swyddfa yn Derby, mewn amryw o feysydd fel Eglwys yng Nghymru wedi bod Lloegr. Ers ei sefydlu mae’r rhan o’m cwrs sefydlu. yn gyffrous. Rwyf bellach wedi elusen wedi cael ei chefnogi Fel caplan mae’n ofynnol fy ngalw i fod yn Gaplan yng gan yr Eglwys Fethodistaidd. i mi gefnogi’r preswylwyr a’u Nghartref MHA, Hafan y Waun yn Prif nod yr elusen yw rhoi llais perthnasau, hefyd y staff. Bob Aberystwyth. Mae Hafan y Waun i’r genhedlaeth hŷn ac i feithrin wythnos byddaf yn cynnal gwasanaeth dwyieithog a hyfryd yw gweld geiriau’r emynau a’r salmau yn llifo nôl i’r cof. Byddaf yn cydweithio â’r tîm gweithgareddau a’r therapydd cerdd. Pleser bob amser yw cael croesawu corau ac eitemau gan ysgolion lleol. Cydweithiaf gyda nifer o wirfoddolwyr yn cynnwys aelodau Cytûn Waunfawr, Aberystwyth. Bydd Cytûn yn ymweld â’r cartref yn fisol gan gynnal gwasanaethau Feeling good Cymraeg. Byddaf hefyd yn gwasanaethu ar y Sul fel rhan o gynllun gwasanaethau’r A group, led by Shirley Murphy, meets every Monday at the Eglwys Fethodistaidd. Gwelir Bloomfield Centre, Narberth, where they spend an hour in prayer, felly bod eciwmeniaeth yn meditation and stretching to yoga exercises. The time spent with datblygu yn hollol naturiol o God and doing physical exercises, away from the hustle and fewn muriau Hafan y Waun. bustle of busy lives, relieves stress and contributes to feelings Yn anffodus bydd rhaid of wellbeing ffarwelio ag ambell un o’m preswylwyr o bryd i’w gilydd. Teimlaf hi’n anrhydedd i gael FINAL COPY DATE cynorthwyo’r teuluoedd wrth for the December 2019 edition of Pobl Dewi drefnu angladd, paratoi teyrngedau ac yn aml gwasanaethu yn 6th November 2019 12 Pobl Dewi, September 2019

tiveness. Courses of antibiotics or fantastic services across our hip operations have clear costs and diocese. However, the funding Viable, alternative treatment measurable outcomes. The success is haphazard and often they are Around half of GP appointments are not directly related to medical conditions. of social or green prescriptions is bidding in competition with each Jack Evershed, Chair of Rural Health and Care Wales, considers green health, or far more difficult to quantify and other for short-term support. This social, prescribing the NHS needs more imagination needs to change, if, as the NHS when assessing efficacy. keeps saying, social prescribing is INCE the foundation of the a connection to nature is a funda- with these symptoms are offered a There are innumerable chari- a key factor in future plans. S NHS, our nation’s health has mental part of our wellbeing. “social prescription” – referral to a table organisations offering these improved dramatically. Free access Hospital trials have demonstrated local social or activity group, rather to fantastic healthcare is a major that people recuperate more than a medical or pharmacological contributor alongside dramatic quickly in a room with a view of prescription. The benefits of taking improvements in, for example, the natural world, rather than one part in a group activity in tranquil housing, education, nutrition and with a view restricted by build- woodland provides some meas- working conditions. Medical treat- ings. Interestingly, patients shown urable mitigation of those three ment of disease and injury has led pictures of nature did not show the complaints. Similar benefits could to massive reductions in the conse- same improvement. So, there is be obtained from joining an art quences of acute illness, and, to a something within us that requires a group, a choir or taking an exercise certain extent, an expectation that direct connection to nature. class, but there is an added, hard to there is a medical solution to all our There are consequences to our quantify benefit, from being in the conditions. modern lifestyle that can have a natural environment. However, according to NHS damaging effect on our wellbe- The NHS is now taking the idea around half of GP ing. Loneliness, stress, and lack of social prescribing very seriously, appointments are not directly of physical exercise are well- but those responsible for commis- related to medical conditions documented causes of illness. sioning the services are required and people are presenting with Increasingly people presenting to provide evidence of their effec- ailments that require different solu- tions. There is a large and growing For more information visit body of evidence which shows that https://ruralhealthandcare.wales/green-health-practice/ Mutually beneficial The benefits of mindfulness In her late twenties, Kristie Godden-Griffiths grappled with a series collaboration of painful events. Her confidence shattered, anxiety became her persistent inner voice. It was the discovery of mindfulness St Michaels Church, Llandre (Llanfihangel Genau’r Glyn) is a founder member of Peaceful meditation that finally unlocked her captive thoughts. Grateful for Places (www.peaceful-places.com), a collection of 17 places of worship in North Ceredigion the release, Kristie spent the next decade offering free teaching for visitors. Attention has now turned to schemes of benefit to the local community, sessions on the gift of mindfulness as Roger Haggar explains NFORTUNATELY, I am not NE of the recommenda- Green Health in Practice Network, health in a creative environment. U alone in trampling through a O tions that I learnt from the contact has recently been made These wellbeing activities have quagmire of stress. The latest figures National Churches Trust is the with the Woodland Group of Mind potential for reducing demand on on wellbeing in Wales, from the value of churches forming partner- Aberystwyth. A familiarisation the NHS. Office for National statistics (ONS), ships with other organisations, so visit has taken place and Mind There are also opportunities for show that anxiety is on the rise. that they can work together for the Aberystwyth are in the process strengthening the interface between Hearing a number of heart- mutual benefit of the community. of drafting a grant application for the NHS and the voluntary sector, piercing personal battles from our Some two years ago, space funding mutually beneficial activi- in line with the Wellbeing of Future congregation, with the blessing of was created in Llandre church, ties, including, possibly, installing Generations (Wales) Act 2015. my Vicar, Canon Patrick Thomas, I facilitated by Peaceful Places, for a new access bridge for extracting For instance, local GP surgeries ran an eight-week course of mind- a disabled toilet, kitchenette and fallen trees, which have blocked would probably benefit from more fulness classes in Christ Church, two meeting rooms. Although the stream since Hurricane Emma. outdoor options for placing their Carmarthen. these facilities are well-used after The local church and its facilities referred mental health patients. I had a lovely group of 20, Over time, mindfulness brings Sunday services, they remain rela- can support these activities within There are significant opportunities ranging in age from 19 to 70. about long-term changes in mood tively under-utilised during the our community. for churches to become actively Each week I gave a talk on differ- with increased levels of happiness week. Hence, potential partners Other likely partners include involved, as compassions of faith ent stumbling blocks, such as fear and well-being. Scientific studies were sought who could make good local arts and craft groups wanting and spiritual support, in such well- or guilt, then I guided the group have shown that mindfulness not use of these facilities, and bring to maintain a good level of mental being outreach. through relevant meditations so only prevents depression but it also long-term benefits to the local that they could gently build the positively affects the brain patterns community. skill of mindfulness and gradually and increases peace and happiness. Caring for God’s Acre apply it to everyday life. Other studies have shown that emerged as one very willing So what is mindfulness? regular mindfulness-meditators see partner, providing training in Mindfulness means maintaining their doctors less often and spend wildflower recognition (pictured) a moment-by-moment awareness of fewer days in hospital. Memory and hay scything, culminating our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensa- improves and creativity increases. in the development of a Church- tions, and surrounding environment, Having completed a term of yard Management Plan. They through a gentle nurturing lens, free introductory ‘secular’ mindfulness are helping us as a church to from distraction or judgement. The sessions, I am looking forward to take a step towards becoming an wonder of mindfulness is that when facilitating an eight-week Christian Eco-congregation. dark thoughts hover overhead, mindfulness course. Secular mindful- As Llandre Church is rather than taking them personally, ness is personal and horizontal: you surrounded by woodland, accessed you learn to treat them as if they pay attention to yourself, in order to by several footpaths, there is poten- were black clouds in the sky, and to be more present for others. Chris- tial to partner with organisations observe them with friendly curiosity tian mindfulness introduces a vertical involved with outdoor woodland as they drift past. In essence, mind- dimension: you are paying attention activities, aimed at improving fulness allows you to catch negative to God and your relationship with physical, mental and social well- thought patterns before they tip you him through his grace to you in Jesus. being. Following advice from into a downward spiral. Pobl Dewi, September 2019 13 Mission possible Presentations from China and Africa featured at this year ‘s World Mission Day on 8th June in Christ Church, Carmarthen, as Dewi Roberts reports E began with a documen- mostly mud housing, with very few order to promote the holistic salva- Wtary about the life of Gladys able to afford brick housing, and tion of everyone, considering all Aylward, chronicled by Carol the school buildings are not much aspects of human life, physical Purves, accompanied by photo- better. The land is rich in raw mate- as well as spiritual. Psychologi- graphs, illustrations and recordings rials but it has suffered from war, cal, social, economic, medical and of Gladys’ voice. corruption, death, disease, hunger, spiritual help is offered to women, We saw how an ordinary mercenaries, child soldiers and including many widows, and girls © VCA News>com woman experienced the extraordi- rape. Rape, sexual violence, and who have suffered sexual violence. nary, simply because she said “yes” the abuse of women is the tragedy Many receive training in new to God! In 1932, young Gladys within the tragedy here. skills, such as weaving mats and Christians under sensed a calling from God to leave The Church and the Moth- baskets, so that they can support London and go to minister in China, ers’ Union (MU) are playing themselves. A number of orphaned where she assisted ageing mission- their part in helping rape victims children are supported and can now threat in India ary Jeannie Lawson. Together they rebuild their lives by giving them go to school. We were very grateful opened an inn for mule drivers and skills and confidence to stand on to Jennie for a moving presentation A series of persecution incidents has raised concerns for many told them stories about Jesus. After their own two feet. The vision and which showed how much can be Indian Christians following the re-election of the Bharatiya Janata Mrs Lawson died, Gladys began to mission of the Church and the MU done to improve lives with a few Party (BJP). Since the BJP’s landslide victory in May, International take in unwanted children, eventu- in Bukavu is to share the gospel in extra resources and skills. Christian Concern has documented a large increase in attacks ally numbering about 100. When against Christians. Shirley Murphy interviews an Indian national Japan invaded China in 1938, who wishes to remain anonymous for security reasons Gladys and the children travelled for days on foot across the moun- N February and March 2018, on cell phones. In 2018, more tains to safety. Gladys continued around 2000 Muslims in vari- than 12,000 Christians were I her work with children until her ous states were massacred by mobs attacked. But this number is only death in 1970. of militant Hindus. Many other the tip of the iceberg, researchers After the inspiring documen- Muslims lost their loved ones, say, as increasing numbers of tary, we enjoyed a feast of cake homes or livelihoods, and huge persecution acts go unreported. The and sandwiches ready for part two: numbers are still unable to return to number of churches attacked has a presentation by Revd Dr Jennie their homes because of the hostility increased substantially from 34 last Annis (pictured) on her recent of their Hindu former neighbours. year to 98 this year and Christian visit to Bukavu in the Democratic However, the plight of the Chris- schools have also been targeted by Republic of Congo. tian minority in India is also acute. Hindu radicals. The authorities do At once, we were struck by The widespread attacks on Chris- not hold the perpetrators to account the uncertainty and precarious- tian churches has increased in and India now ranks as the tenth ness of life in this part of the world, the past year. The Hindu extrem- most dangerous country to live in especially for women. The living ists barge into the middle of if you are a Christian. conditions are basic to say the least; services and threaten and abuse the A number of Christians and worshippers. If this does not scare other observers have wondered the Christians away the extremists aloud why the government is not get the police along and shut down focusing on more pressing issues, DRC elections and the opposing camps of Kabila and the church and the fellowship by such as unemployment, health, Tshisekedi. The prime minister’s force and chase the worshippers illiteracy and access to clean water. office said Ilunga had launched away. They also wonder at the govern- longing for stability ‘formal consultations’ with the pro- On 20 June, 2018, five Chris- ment’s hostility to conversions; in Tshisekedi coalition, ‘Cap pour le tian women (aged 20 to 35) were fact, the percentage of Christians In his previous article for the June edition of Pobl Dewi, Roger Changement’, known by its French beaten and abducted from their of the total population, far from Dirokpa from our Companion Diocese of Bukavu, reported on acronym as Cach, and Kabila’s school while they performed a increasing through conversions, the presidential election in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Common Front for Congo (FCC). street play. A day after they were has actually decreased over recent Roger now provides an update on the appointment of Sylvestre The breakthrough came on released (the attackers threatened to decades. Ilunga Ilunkamba as Prime Minister and considers whether the 26 July 2019, when the two blocs kill them if they went to the police), Please pray for Christians in situation has changed in the DRC signed an agreement to attrib- the women reported the assault to India and that the government there ute 42 ministerial positions to the authorities. It was soon confirmed will, once again, allow religious RESIDENT Felix Tshisekedi FCC of Kabila and 23 to Cach of that all five women had been gang- freedom. Pwas sworn in on 24th Janu- Tshisekedi. The country’s politics raped, which was allegedly filmed ary, after elections that marked the remain overshadowed by Kabila, DRC’s first peaceful transition of who holds extensive influence after power since the vast country gained his 18 years in power. His politi- independence from Belgium in cal allies retain the upper hand 1960. While the presidential elec- in parliament, provincial assem- tion was won by opposition leader blies and governorships across our Tshisekedi, he has to share power unstable country. His men also play with a legislature dominated by a major role in security services. supporters of his predecessor, Tshisekedi is struggling to push Joseph Kabila, who ruled for 18 DRC coat of arms through his pledges for reform; he years. told Ilunga that the priorities would After four months of nego- by the outcome of a disputed vote be ‘social: education, health, secu- tiations, 72-year-old Ilunga on 30 December 2018. In fact, it rity and establishing peace’. Ilunkamba was appointed on 20 is seven months since Tshisekedi This is what the entire popula- May 2019, under a political agree- became President and three months tion of the DRC is hoping for, as © The Georgia Stratght ment between Tshisekedi and since Ilunga was appointed Prime the establishment of the govern- Kabila regarding the creation of a Minister and still no government ment and the fulfillment of the new An extended version of this article can be coalition government. has been put at place. The process president’s promises are awaited. found on the PDExtra pages at The task of forming a cabinet in has been prolonged, over and over Please pray for a peaceful and https://stdavids.churchinwales.org.uk/life/pobldewi/pdextra/ our vast country has been delayed again, by disputes between the better future for the DRC. 14 Pobl Dewi, September 2019 Church in context John Holdsworth, Director of Ministry in the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf, considers the troubled history of Lebanon and today’s reconciliation initiatives in the country OR people of a certain age The Anglican contribution to inally by Christians persecuted Fthe names of the camps at the wider community is a Centre for elsewhere, who found refuge in the Sabra and Shatila are as ingrained Mentally Handicapped Children, in caves and steep sided valleys of on the memory as that of Aber- the mountains above Beirut, and a Mount Lebanon (as it was called). fan. In September 1982 there was visit there also proved rewarding Armenians fled there from the a massacre of Palestinians there, as the students entertained children 1915 genocide, and we visited a including women and children, with music and song, much to their new museum describing that event, many of whom could not be recog- delight. based on a former orphanage. nised sufficiently to be identified. The theme for the week-long Modern Lebanon came into being 1,500 were killed in a day. course was Church in Context. It as part of a Christian-inspired For students at the Diocese reflected the belief that context vision that there should be a safe of Cyprus and the Gulf Summer shapes every aspect of minis- place for Christians and others to School, a trip there, in the Lebanese try, and that our context is both live together. capital, Beirut, was a memorable complex and unique. A visit to Evidence of very early Chris- experience. We saw the initiatives a reconciliation project in Sidon tian communities is to be found of the Joint Christian Committee, demonstrated the theme well. The in the Qadisha (Holy) Valley with making heroic attempts to provide leaders had brought their experi- many monasteries built on the education and some training in ence of the situation in Northern site of earlier cave hermitages and skills such as hair dressing and Ireland to a project aimed at help- Christian cells. St Anthony’s is electronics, and to divert the young ing school age children to forgive, particularly spectacular, with its from extremism. For a population and to live peaceably with those of cave interior now fashioned as a of 70,000, its resources are pitiful; different religious cultures. shrine for healing. Perhaps one day its children’s playground – one of Lebanon has long been a there will be a shrine for reconcili- only two on the site – pathetic in refuge for persecuted Christians. ation and healing where the camps the face of the need. Its communities were formed orig- of Sabra and Shatila once stood.

Pastor Sangbo Lee and his wife Lee and his wife are ministering An annual South Korean blessing Eunmi Kim-lee from the group. We in central London to the Koreans had been up the tower of Monkton living there, their London experi- Priory Church praying over the ences and their previous ministry area with a retired local cleric. On in Korea showed that wherever that keeps rolling on returning to the ground, we shared we are in the world, the Lord is at work, and we (His people) wres- In last year’s Pobl Dewi, Peter Jones wrote about the South Korean Presbyterian our experiences of ministry with one another over a cup of tea. The tle with the same problems and Church week-long prayer mission in Pembroke. This year was his second encounter revelation that came from our chat temptations. with these young Christians who have a passion to pray for the area was the similar issues, blessings, A blessed week and who knows ACH night over the week, the & Seek, Pembroke (Jer. 29:12). We the Pembroke area. Out of this new heartaches, struggles we all had what will have happened by the E South Korean visitors pray meet for prayer and worship on a desire to work together, Pembroke in common. Even though Pastor time they return next year. from 10 in the evening through to Friday evening every other month Castle is opening its gates to allow three in the morning, having been from 8pm to midnight and we have free entry on 8th September, from praying in local churches and chap- seen up to 45 people come from 12-5pm for a Picnic, Prayer and els during the day. across the different churches and Praise event that is open to anyone They pray with a determina- chapels. who wishes to attend. Ferryside tion, and a great expectation that We have seen a growth in God is good, He does hear, and the Lord hears and responds. meeting together, praying for one I am sure it will be a blessing to all This year, in preparation for another, supporting each other’s who come. them coming, the local churches events and general encourage- During the week’s visit, my set up a prayer meeting called Pray ment for Gospel-centred work in wife, Carol, and I spent time with

When teenager Keiran Wooldridge decided to be baptised, he decided to do it in style. So he and two other members of the congregation at St Mary’s Church, Kidwelly, took the plunge with a full-immersion ceremony in the sea off nearby Ferryside. “It was a first for us all,” priest-in-charge Revd Trevor Copeland The team with Pastor Lee and local minister Rob James and his wife, Mo, at Pembroke castle said, “and it was a wonderful occasion” Pobl Dewi, September 2019 15

to religious vows, and the law of the state. It is, he confesses, a problem Tensions between within Islam but, with such frank- ness on his part, what of Christianity faith and state might we similarly ask ourselves? The reference to Islam’s Early in July, the Lampeter Campus of Trinity dilemma cannot fail to remind us St David was the setting for a fourth Interfaith Conference, of the tensions which we expe- entitled ‘Practising what is preached: Practices of justice in a rience – not, perhaps, as starkly multi-faith context’. Derek Davies, Diocesan Interfaith Officer, drawn between faith and state, but finds the conference informative and challenging very real nonetheless. They mani- Singing together fest themselves, sometimes too T is often said that one of the action here? Or are all choices tragic confrontationally, in the differing I benefits of interfaith dialogue is ones?” perspectives of those who, on the that it has the capacity to heighten The key word here, it seems, is one hand, see the Church as subju- awareness of dimensions of one’s ‘tragic’ and with its use he takes us gating the Word of God through her accommodation of secular norms Unexpected visitors and interfaith collaboration at its very best. own faith, which, far from under- back both to the character of Anti- and on the other hand those who Viv Sayer is delighted mining that faith, can place it on gone in Sophocles’ tragedy and the a broader and more secure foun- themes of Shakespeare’s Measure are not so persuaded. The question HEN a visitor to Llansad- Rainbow Church grew out of dation. This has proved to be my for Measure: the conflict between presses itself upon us – are all the Wwrn offered to share with Llansadwrn’s Vestry Venture (see experience and whilst, unfortu- an amalgam of the Word of God, choices which we face tragic ones? us a chant he had written, the last page 7) and benefits greatly from nately, a brief report can only touch the duty of conscience or adherence We pray not. thing we expected was a worship the commitment of its volunteers, upon such matters the following song which could join our regular including Vivienne Couch, church quotation from an abstract of the hymn repertoire. organist and gifted musician. On paper given by the Muslim philos- Why was this so unexpected? this occasion, Vivienne’s talents opher, Dr Shabbir Akhtar, at the Well, maybe because our visi- proved indispensable as she helped conference leads to an example of tor, Micky, had found his way to us sing, Peace I give to you, I give such possibilities: Llansadwrn with fellow student, to you my peace as we sat around “The duty of justice, both indi- Mike, from the Mandala Yoga the table in the vestry. It was prob- vidually and communally, is a Ashram, a retreat and yoga ably not the singing experience our central moral imperative of the centre down the road from us at visitors were expecting but they Qur’an, stressed also in the Prophet’s Pantypistyll. joined in nevertheless. practice. Faith is as faith does. One We are always delighted to They also joined us in the lacuna in official Islam, however, is welcome visitors but, on this church and listened to Shem’s its silence on how Muslims should occasion, we wondered whether reflections on the power of the show sensitivity to the consciences Llansadwrn Church was really Holy Spirit, then helped the of non-Muslims. This problem arises the place they were looking for. children to make Holy Spirit head- regularly for relatively powerless and Our visitors had come hoping for bands, complete with synthetic voiceless Muslim minorities settled a church service with hymns. We flames. In fact, Mike made his own in the West where state law occa- explained that this was Rainbow headband which he wore to share sionally clashes with private Islamic Church, a gathering for children in the refreshments at the end of the belief. What is the just course of and families with the emphasis on morning! fun rather than formal worship. It was as they were about to We meet once a month, assem- leave that Micky spoke about a service so united that it included bling in the vestry for table-top the chanting which is such a key not just regulars from the churches games before going into the church feature of life at the Ashram, and in the Llanwrda group, but a young for a Bible story presented by the then showed us the chant he had soloist, Bethan, with a voice like Vicar and her mischievous sheep, written. When Vivienne offered to liquid crystal, the hymn writer, Shem. Afterwards there is a craft set it to music, we knew that we Micky, and three of his friends activity based on the story, followed had in the making a hymn for the from the Llansadwrn Ashram. by fellowship and refreshments. following week’s united service –

Buddhists. They play an active role Buddhist-Christian in and around Narberth, Pembro- keshire, as well as in London. Suzanne has been a monk of this dialogue of life tradition for more than 18 years while Bridget was previously a Although Buddhists represent one of the smaller religious first order Franciscan Nun who communities in Britain and Ireland, it is one of the three largest left the order due to spiritual bank- global religions along with Christianity and Islam. Shirley ruptcy. Now, together, they both Murphy spends time with two Buddhists committed to interfaith strive to do as much as they can collaboration in helping people around London HRISTIANITY and Buddhism common values that are neces- and Narberth with whatever their C are vastly different religions sary for the common good. Given needs are, be they financial or spir- which sometimes seem to occupy the global issues facing the world itual. They support the churches different philosophical worlds. today, this search for shared values in Narberth, the food banks, the Nevertheless, there are many initi- can no longer be regarded as museum and have a commitment to an understanding of the experi- ultimately not about exchanging atives that seek to develop better optional. This is not only true from interfaith dialogue, being regularly ence that transformed Siddhartha information and knowledge, but understanding between Christians a practical point of view, but also joined by Muslims, Christians and Gautama into the Buddha, the about communion of hearts in the and Buddhists. for theoretical reflection on global members of other faiths. Suzanne Enlightened One, 2,500 years ago. deepest layer of human existence. Interfaith cooperation is issues. is also an artist and you can see her To understand what is at the core of It is a shared experience that trans- based on the dialogue of life: at I had the privilege of spending paintings at https://suzannerees- the Christian life of faith and love, forms us into brothers and sisters grassroots it is a living dialogue time with Suzanne Rees Glanis- glanister.co.uk/ we are required to look at Jesus of living together for the common between persons of different reli- ter and Bridget Gilfillan Upton In conclusion, to understand Nazareth, who gave his life on the good – for the “common well- gions. The dialogue of life between (pictured left to right), who are the Buddhist life of wisdom and cross out of love and who is the being” of all humankind and the people and communities uncovers both practising Japanese Nichiren compassion in depth requires Risen Lord. Interfaith dialogue is natural world. 16 Pobl Dewi, September 2019

Bishop Joanna, “to meet some Bishop Joanna visits of our American Friends who do so much to support our cathedral and take such a great interest in our ‘American Friends’ our diocese. We greatly value all that they do and this very special ARLIER this summer Bishop preach at choral in St relationship.” EJoanna attended the Living David’s Episcopal Church, Wash- our Vows conference in Richmond, ington DC. Virginia. This is part of a three-year After the service there was programme for newly appointed a reception when there was an Beverly Bivins, Secretary , run and sponsored by the opportunity to enjoy the Friends’ of AFSDC; Bishop Joanna; Episcopal Church of America. warm hospitality and meet some Revd Kristen Hawley, Rector While in the States she was of their members, several of whom of St David’s Episcopal pleased to accept an invitation had travelled long distances to be Church, Washington DC; from The American Friends of at the event. Revd Harold Hallock, St Davids Cathedral (AFSDC) to “It was a privilege and a joy,” said President of AFSDC

Forthcoming Events at Tŷ’r Pererin Retreat Days Thursday 3rd October 10am – 4pm HARVEST & HOSPITALITY: FOOD FOR THOUGHT Theological thoughts on food, harvest, hospitality and creation. The morning will set a Biblical context for harvest and hospitality, followed by preparation of a two-course vegetarian lunch What’s on at (V&GF). The afternoon reflections will take us further into the theology and practice of hospitality, followed by a time of worship. You will be able to take home food to share with family and friends as St Davids Cathedral . . . a future gift of hospitality. Led by Kate Iceton, of Love Nutritious Food, & Janet Ingram, Cathedral Education & Pilgrimage Officer Cloister Gallery Exhibitions Booking by 16th September essential £20 per person 10th to 23rd September Jude Howells 24th September to 7th October Arts and Crafts Friday 1st November 10am – 4pm 22nd October to 4th November Martin Crampin KEEPING HOUSE IN A CLOUD OF WITNESSES Concerts A day of prayer and reflection around the Feast of All Saints, inspired by the words of two 20th 12th October 7.30pm Cardiff Polyphonic Choir Century Welsh poets. Drawing on a verse from the Letter to the Hebrews, Waldo Williams 18th October 7.30pm Haverfordwest Male Voice described living in Wales as ‘keeping house in a cloud of witnesses’, while Gwenallt spoke of the Choir Communion of Saints as ‘the two-one church’. Led by Revd Canon Dr Patrick Thomas 23rd November 7.30pm Goodwick Brass Band £5 donation to cover costs, including refreshments 14th December 7.30pm Côr Dyfed Lunch may be taken in the Refectory or bring your own packed lunch

Special Sunday Services Thursday 5th December 10am – 4pm 29th September 10.30am RNLI: dedication of new D-class boat during BREAD & STARLIGHT the service Learn the traditional craft of bread-making as you reflect on the stories associated with Elizabeth and Mary in their 1st Century communities. What insight does the growing and reaping of crops 6th October 10.30am Harvest Service and the making and eating of bread give us about the Nativity stories? 10th November 10.30am Remembrance Booking by 30th November essential Sunday Service £20 per person to include lunch & something to take home 1st December 10.30am Cytûn Christingle Service 1st December 6.30pm Advent Procession Thursday 5th December, 7pm at Ty’r Pererin Please note: from 3rd November, every Sunday BREAD & STARLIGHT Evensong will be at 4pm Bread & Starlight by LAMPS Collective; a one-woman show for Advent. Elizabeth, mother of John the Baptist, recalls the months of her pregnancy and a very special visitor. Touching on the themes of mystery and miracle, what is temporary and what lasts, Bread and Starlight combines For further information about the above services and events storytelling, song and space for reflection in the lead up to Christmas please contact the Deanery Office on 01437 720202 Tickets £5 at Tŷ’r Pererin on the night or book ahead or email [email protected] See our website www.stdavidscathedral.org.uk Tuesday 29th & Thursday 31st October 11am – 4pm Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter FAMILY ACTIVITY DAYS AT THE CATHEDRAL A series of activities for half term. Make your own ‘All Hallows Lantern’ to take home

The diocese has designed and produced a new logo which For more information or to book a place, contact will be introduced gradually over the next few months. Janet Ingram, Anyone who wishes to incorporate it into documentation Tŷ’r Pererin, Quickwell Hill, St. Davids and publicity can download it from the diocesan website: Tel: 01437 729151 https://s3.amazonaws.com/cinw/wp-content/uploads/ [email protected] sites/4/2019/08/DiocesanLogo2019.png Find us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter Pobl Dewi, September 2019 17 The Cistercian Way and the Welsh Camino In 2023, St Davids Diocese will be marking the 900th anniversary of Pope Callixtus’ famous Bull of 1123. This declared that two pilgrimages to St Davids were the equivalent of one to Rome, and three were the equivalent of one to the Holy Land. This was a boon to the faithful living in in the British Isles in those days: nearer, quicker and safer. Caroline Evans, Diocesan Faith Tourism Officer, and Maddy Gray of the Cistercian Way, suggest new pilgrimage trails to mark the anniversary

NE way could be the estab- it turns south to visit the modern pick up the coastal path, going past Olishment of a new pilgrimage Trappist community on Caldey places associated with David’s life route to St Davids – a Welsh Island. We think the Welsh Camino – Solva, where he was baptised by Camino, a Camino Cymreig, as might be better with a more direct the Irish saint Ailbhe, and his birth- an offshoot of the existing Cister- route to the west, to St Davids. place at St Non’s Well. cian Way, which was developed as We need a route that is pleas- The Welsh Camino would a round-Wales heritage trail linking ant to walk, with not too much road end at St Davids Cathedral, but © Prof Maddy Gray the iconic Cistercian abbeys with walking, and plenty of interest there could be scope for routes Llanddowror Church: detail of stained glass window other historical sites – much of it on the way. The Carmarthenshire going even further. Pilgrims might on old pilgrimage routes. Ramblers have suggested a few walk along the coast path to Fish- The Cistercian Way runs from alternatives, going from guard and take the ferry to Ireland and Tintern on the to Llanddowror, Whitland and to explore sacred sites there. Or Welsh border, up the Rhondda Narberth. It could then go a little they could cut back to re-join the Valley to Penrhys, and back to bit north to Llawhaden and Spit- Cistercian Way going north and the coast past Margam, and tal – the name Spittal suggests a the North Wales Pilgrims’ Way to Pontardawe, where it picks up the hospice for pilgrims. Then it could Ynys Enlli. Wales has always been St Illtyd Walk. It then cuts across follow footpaths and minor roads a pilgrimage country, and it would south of Carmarthen to Ferryside, past Scolton Manor and Treff- be wonderful to revive as many Llanstephan and St Clears. Here garne to the coast at Newgale to routes as we can to St Davids.

church truly deserves its Grade 1 A must-visit listing – “a largely complete medi- eval church of a scale and detail In the second of our occasional series on ‘little gems’, Caroline unexpected in so rural a location”. Evans finds St Michael’s Church, , a memorable experience To welcome the visitor is a

ESPITE enjoying the Mydd- wall, reputed to come from the lost table with Visitors’ Book, a vase © Prof Maddy Gray D fai Visitor Centre, and its café church at Dol Howel, now drowned of flowers and guides to the church with splendid coffee and cakes, on in the Usk Reservoir. Beside the pasted onto hand-held boards. It Two cross-incised stones (NPRN 304182), thought to possibly several occasions, I am ashamed inner door is a memorial stone for is thought that there has been a be of early post-conquest date, located some 60m west-south- to say that I had never taken the one of the physicians reputedly church in Myddfai since the eighth west of the Llanddowror church building, where they reportedly time to visit St Michael’s Church. descended from the original medi- century with the current building lay buried until at least 1907 In the middle of the village, and on eval physicians of Myddfai, a fact being developed in two stages, a circular rise, it is open to visitors behind the legends of the Lady the north portion completed in the away with the dimensions, the the walls of the south chancel. daily and proved to be an amazing of the Lake and . late 13th century (pictured) and stone flagged floors, whitewashed During recent renovations, experience. As you step inside, the Tardis-like the south nave added in the 15th, walls, medieval windows, octago- traces of medieval paintings were Going into the porch, there dimensions take one’s breath away. divided by five elegant arches. nal font and the fabulous ceilings, found but were too delicate and is a holy water stoup set into the The barrel-vaulted double-naved It would be easy to get carried but right through the church is scattered to be left uncovered, evidence of the people who have apart from two sections (pictured). been connected with this sacred It is thought that, in early years, the space. On the walls are many church walls were covered with memorials for people which reflect colourful paintings. the importance of this parish as a St Michael’s Church, Myddfai, centre of religious worship and Llandovery, SA20 0JD. learning. Lettered slabs in the north Grid ref SN77243014. chancel floor date back to 1691, Myddfai Visitor Centre is and stone panels with readings line closed on Mondays. 18 Pobl Dewi, September 2019

Reflection The turning of the year Archdeacon Eileen Davies reminds us all that we depend on farmers and their careful stewardship of the land in these times of change S you read this, can I ask if and ready for harvest”; there is reap of what we have planted”. A you have eaten today? If you the same sense of urgency in our The seasons are changing and have, have you thanked a farmer? agricultural industry today. Farm- shifting weather patterns pose new For, whatever we eat, someone has ers face many challenges, such as challenges. The agricultural indus- to produce that food for us, whether ensuring the crops are harvested try is taking a long, hard look at it is a meaty feast, a vegetarian dish when ripe, and when the weather itself as we face climate change or a vegan meal. permits, fat stock are sold and and the impact that farming emis- Whatever our eating habits, slaughtered when the animals are sions have on global warming, as food consumed by all of us has to in their prime, all according to we all have a responsibility to look be grown, carefully nurtured and the seasons, “four months and the after our land. Experts in climate farmed. Jesus was asked by His fields are ready to be harvested, change warn that global warming disciples, on many occasions, for but the fields are white and ready”, will increasingly lead to extremes food, and in John’s Gospel Chap- John’s Gospel reminds us. Just as in weather conditions, causing ter 4, His disciples urged “Teacher, there are seasons for harvesting, so, droughts, flooding and heatwaves, have something to eat”. But Jesus therefore, should we consume the which threaten food security and replied “My food is to obey the fruits of the harvest in their season, reduce yields, which, in turn, will of the one who sent me and to for the best flavour and nutritional increase food prices. finish the work he gave me to do”, value, despite living in a consumer Will people change their eating knowing, in essence, there was no society that expects fruits and habits and what might a balanced, time to eat. vegetables all year round, whether nutritious diet look like? Will our Jesus goes on to say “But I seasonal or not. Ecclesiastes tells daily bread include plant-based tell you, take a good look at the us “There is a season for every- foods, grains, beans and lentils, fields, the crops are now ripe thing, a time to plant, and a time to nuts, fruits and vegetables, all of which are sown and nurtured, cared for from field to fork? What will our fields grow, and will our livestock graze the naturally grown Christ said “I have sent you to working together, we can make a grass? We are the stewards of God’s reap a harvest in a field where you difference to the land that has been creation, and we have to manage did not work, others worked there entrusted to us, and we will all the land, as it is doing many things and you profit from their work.” By receive the harvest of eternal life. for us and we need to support it to continue doing just that. Conserv- Mae’r dyfodol yn ein dwylo ni, rhaid i ni weithio law yn llaw ing peatlands, wetlands and gyda’n Creawdwr, yn stiwardiaid ffyddlon o’r tir, gan ddiolch a grasslands, and planting trees are gwerthfawrogi ein ffermwyr, sy’n rhoddi i ni ein bara beunyddiol. actions that farmers are taking, Mae awdl Dic yr Hendre i’r Cynhaeaf yn cwmpasu’r cyfan: alongside producing food of the Tra bo dynoliaeth fe fydd amaethu highest quality to ensure an ever- A chyw hen linach yn ei holynu, increasing population is fed and A thra bo gaeaf bydd cynaeafu, that the agricultural industry is A byw greadur tra bo gwerydu, viable and sustainable for future Bydd ffrwythlonder tra pery – haul a gwlith, generations. Yn wyn o wenith rhag ein newynu.

Visitors at the vicarage Caldey Island pilgrimage During and immediately after World War 2, British citizens were not permitted to fraternise with prisoners of war. At the end of 1946 these restrictions were lifted and Remembrance-tide brings poignant memories for Peter Lewis

LERGY children usually Cheriton two fields away from when they came to say goodbye C choose the major festivals to the vicarage. The government had just before they were sent home. contract the childhood diseases. In recently removed restrictions on Some continued to write, but as my home, we had mumps at Easter fraternising with the former enemy, the Iron Curtain descended and and chickenpox another Whitsun, so my father had invited some of they were in East Germany, the but for one Christmas soon after these new ‘parishioners’ to spend cards stopped. But the memories WW2 we decided to have measles. part of Christmas with us. Fortu- remained. Lying in the bedroom with the nately, some spoke English well, In subsequent years I was shutters closed, I heard singing from and conversation had inevitably never able to equate those brutal, the room below, which stopped and got around to families. The guests uniformly humourless and stupid was followed by the sound of foot- had asked to see us. For some it stereo types used to depict Germans steps on the stairs. The door opened was too powerful a reminder of the in war films and popular culture The youth from St Mary’s Church, Tenby, made their annual and my parents entered followed by families and children they’d not with those of my former playmates. pilgrimage to Caldey Island where all the prayer requests a group of shabbily dressed men. seen while being held in captivity. I realise, particularly at Remem- left in St Mary’s were taken to the Calvary Cross then Some started to cry. Christmas and measles over, brance-tide, you can’t say that some placed on the altar in the Old Priory by the younger children. These were German prisoners they continued to call. I remember people are all bad and others good. All enjoyed a fun-filled but peaceful day on the island and the of war still waiting to be repat- playing with them and collecting Nations, races, classes, former sand sculpture competition was won jointly by Riley, Melanie and riated. They were being held in firewood from the woods nearby, enemies, ourselves – we are all a Morgan. Everyone agreed that the pilgrimage gets better every the former RAF Camp at Carew and tearful but joyful farewells mixture of both. year! Pobl Dewi, September 2019 19 Côr Plygain Llandeilo Fawr Seeking that important, Rhian Morgan explains how renewing the old Plygain (traditional Welsh Christmas carol service) at Llandeilo by forming a choir led to regular Welsh-language services in elusive ingredient the church, and the opportunity to sing in churches and chapels throughout the south, How can churches offer tourists that ‘special visit’? A secular and of course to make lots of new friends survey being carried out in Pembrokeshire might offer some FURFIWYD Côr Plygain eleni oedd cael gwahoddiad i Penrhyn-coch yn ei nod o helpful pointers FLlandeilo bymtheg mlynedd gyfrannu at ddau wasanaeth gefnogi plygeiniau newydd y yn ôl yn dilyn awydd ymhlith rhai arbennig. Cynhaliwyd de. Llawenydd mawr yw nodi COURSE of lectures by a recharged”. The questionnaire goes o aelodau’r eglwys i ail-sefydlu gwasanaeth gan Archddiaconiaeth fod y traddodiad yn ymledu, ac A noted Welsh academic deeper asking if the holiday time hen wasanaeth y Plygain. Caerfyrddin i ddathlu Gŵyl eleni byddwn yn cefnogi plygain inspired Arianna Sella (pictured), has helped them reflect on who Yn sgil ail-sefydlu’r Plygain, Ddewi yn Llandeilo ym mis newydd yn Eglwys Llanymddyfri. a Master’s student at Bergamo they are, on their relationship with sydd yn cael ei gynnal bob Mawrth, ac yn fwy diweddar Rydym hefyd yn ymweld University in Italy, to offer to others and the world and on their blwyddyn yn eglwys Llandeilo i ddathlu Gŵyl y Drindod yn â sefydliadau a chymdeithasau come and work for Fishguard spiritual life. A further question Fawr ar nos Sul olaf Ionawr, Eglwys Crist, Caerfyrddin. Gan amrywiol gan gyflwyno and Goodwick Chamber of Trade asks if their stay has helped them daeth awydd i ail sefydlu ein bod yn canu ym misoedd rhaglen o hen garolau a and Tourism during the summer. feel better about those four aspects. gwasanaeth Cymraeg yn yr yr haf, fe wynebwyd y sialens darlleniadau tymhorol o dan Funded by the Erasmus project that The aim of this research project eglwys hefyd. O dan arweiniad trwy ganu carol newydd, un o y teitl ’Cadw Gŵyl’. enables students to study and work is to help those involved in tour- y Parch Peter Bement, fe garolau’r haf, sef Mwynen Mai, Edrychwn ymlaen at dymor throughout the EU, she is focussed ism better to know their market gynhaliwyd y gwasanaeth ynghyd â rhai o siantiau Taizé. yr hydref lle byddwn yn ail on a questionnaire that is designed and how the businesses dependent Cymraeg cyntaf ers degawdau yn Mae’r côr yn teithio i ymgynnull yng Ngwesty’r Cawdor to find out more about visitors on tourism can provide what visi- 2004 ac erbyn hyn cynhelir dau blygeiniau ledled de Cymru, i ymarfer gan baratoi’r hen and tourists. The questionnaire is tors want from this special area. wasanaeth Cymraeg bob mis. gan geisio dilyn esiampl parti garolau a dysgu rhai newydd. being promoted by accommoda- Pembrokeshire earns over £550m Dyw’r côr ddim yn gôr tion providers and also used in a year from tourism, which also traddodiadol ond yn grŵp o street interviews by Arianna. The employs 14,000 people. The search unigolion – ffrindiau erbyn research will discover where visi- for wholesome re-charging offers a hyn – sy’n dod o dref Llandeilo tors are from, how and why they great opportunity to share the great a thu hwnt, yn gapelwyr ac found out about the area, what they quality of life that the area offers. eglwyswyr. Ein llysenw ar y côr did and enjoyed, how much they The same approach in market yw ‘Y Plygaineers’ ac rydym yn spent and what improvements they analysis is surely required by cael llawer o hwyl wrth ymarfer would recommend. churches. How can God’s mission a theithio gyda’n gilydd. Among the questions framed by be furthered without a better Mae niferoedd y côr yn Jeremy Martineau, with help from understanding of what resonates cynyddu bob blwyddyn ac colleagues at Warwick University, with people? As churches try weithiau ceir ‘confoi’ o ryw is a section that relates well to the harder to connect with their resi- hanner dwsin o geir yn gadael mission of any local church. This dent population, so do many try to liw nos i gyrraedd eglwysi section reflects the findings of the ensure that visitors to their church a chapeli ym mherfeddion Celtic Routes Interreg project from receive a great welcome. When the sir Gâr a thu hwnt. a survey of passengers on the Fish- congregation is not present innu- Pinacl gweithgaredd y côr guard-Rosslare ferry. In summary, merable people still come through these found that “We want great the church doors – what will they memories from a short break and to find that connects with their- jour On the pilgrimage trail escape from it all and come home ney through life? Mary, Mary, quite contrary, How does your garden grow? With silver bells and cockleshells And pretty maids all in a row. Viv Sayer considers the history of the nursery rhyme and its, perhaps surprising, link to our diocese HERE are various explanations VIII. It was this desire to turn the ion bread, whilst the ‘cockleshells’ Tfor how this popular nursery tide of which earned are the traditional symbol worn by rhyme originated. When l started Mary the nickname ‘contrary’. pilgrims to the shrine of St James at teaching children’s literature at Desperate to conceive, her false Santiago de Compostela in north- Trinity College, Carmarthen, in the pregnancies and swollen abdomen ern Spain. ‘The pretty maids all 1990s, the explanation which most explain the seemingly innocent in a row’ complete the picture of appealed to me involved a trou- question: ‘How does your garden Catholic piety, referring, as they bled queen, Mary Tudor, and her grow?’ The ‘silver bells’ represent do, to a procession of nuns. burning desire to reverse the reli- the bells of the Catholic Mass rung It was the music of the name gious reforms of her father, Henry as the priest elevates the commun- Santiago de Compostela that captivated me, so much so that l resolved to go there and see the world-famous cathedral for myself. It was a turning point in my jour- ney of faith. Although I did not walk the Camino, the ancient It wasn’t long after my return to of one to Rome. pilgrim trail, I was lucky enough to Wales that I discovered a link with There is an intriguing post- stay in the 15th-century hostel built our own cathedral at St Davids. On script to this story. In March, I by Ferdinand and Isabella of Spain. the reredos in Holy Trinity Chapel was licensed as priest-in-charge Aptly described as the most beau- you can see a 14th-century carving of Llanwrda. Nearby, accord- tiful hotel in Europe, the building of St James (pictured), complete ing to the authors of Pilgrimage: is graced by formal colonnaded with cockleshell, hat and pilgrim a Welsh Perspective, lies Rhiw/ gardens which became, for me, staff. Today St Davids is redis- Lôn Cwmpastel (Compostela), in the focus for contemplative prayer, covering its role as a pilgrimage direct line with the south-Wales whilst the nearby cathedral drew centre: this was hugely important ports from which so many Santiago me repeatedly despite its spectacu- in medieval times, two pilgrimages pilgrims embarked. Reredos, Holy Trinity Chapel, St Davids Cathedral lar gaudiness. to St Davids being the equivalent 20 Pobl Dewi, September 2019 Book Reviews

the pagan gentile sailors cry out A book for our times to their own gods, only to become Meticulously researched The Prodigal Prophet worshipers of YHWH. Jonah A short history of the Jonah and the Mystery of remains hard-hearted and even Anglican Chaplaincy, God’s Mercy violent in his view of the Assyri- Warsaw, Poland By Timothy Keller ans while the Assyrians ‘hearts are By David H Williams (Chaplain Pub: Penguin Random House; softened and they turn from their 1995-1997) 2018 violent, evil ways. Jonah’s biggest Pub: 2019 ISBN: 978-1473690509 issue is not with the gentiles, it’s Price: £5 inc p&p, available Price: £12.99 with God who would offer mercy from the author, The College of The book of Jonah is every bit as and forgiveness to his enemies. St Barnabas, Lingfield, Surrey relevant today as it was 2,500 years I appreciate Keller’s honesty RH7 6NJ ago. Keller’s latest book displays and courage to present the truth Anglican churches and chap- some of his most central contribu- about justice, grace, mercy, and laincies are scattered across the tions to 21st century Christianity, forgiveness on more than just an . Many minis- including the importance of the individual scale. Through the story ter to established congregations, gospel of grace. Jesus as the true and of Jonah, God is showing that he others primarily to British tourists. better Jonah, tackling our idols, and cares for all people everywhere, This meticulously researched and popular for establish- even the pagan, gentile sailors detailed little book tells the story ing the plausibility of Christianity and the brutally violent Assyrian of Anglican mission in Warsaw, between evangelistic work and against secular worldviews. needed words of wisdom for today. Empire. God cares. God wants to where the author served as Chap- chaplaincy duties to the ex-patriot In addition, his insights into the Keller’s book and the story of show grace and forgiveness. Are we lain during the 1990s. British. After the war, the ministry text are excellent. Keller has a way Jonah are extremely timely for our willing to follow a God who wants The Warsaw Chaplaincy orig- was confined to occasional relief of seeing what’s going on at a deep political/religious climate. The story to show love to those we consider inated as a mission to the Jewry work among the remnants of the level and yet explaining it in acces- of Jonah, Keller argues, tackles our enemy? in the parts of Poland ruled by Jewish Christian community, and sible terms. Perhaps more unique in topics like nationalism, racism, prej- Overall, Keller’s book is a the Russian Empire. Revd Lewis intermittent Anglican worship was this volume is Keller’s treatment of udice, and religious elitism. Jonah quick, thrilling read diving into the Wray, a wealthy clergyman and held in the ballroom of the Brit- nationalism. Drawing on C S Lewis, reveals the dangers of combining story of Jonah and its implications pillar of the London Society for ish Embassy in Warsaw. With the Keller tackles the subject of patriot- religion and patriotism and placing for the 21st century. Promoting Christianity among fall of communism and a conse- ism – both the good form of national national pride over devotion to God. Revd Shirley Murphy the Jews, toured Eastern Europe quent growth of the ex-pat British pride and the dangerous entice- Jonah is full of reversals. The in 1817 and 1818, meeting the community the mission completed ment to national supremacy: much prophet of God refuses to pray while Tsar and establishing a relation- its transformation into an Anglican ship with the Russian Government Chaplaincy under the aegis of the which opened the door to mission. Diocese in Europe. in family love. Fritz was one of There had been an Anglican pres- The main emphasis of this The dogs that would not die four children, all but one of whom ence in Poland since 1706, and in brief history is on the careers and The boy who followed his survived. Younger brother Kurt the early 19th century there was a comings and goings of the mission- father into Auschwitz was evacuated to the USA, sister huge Jewish community in Poland aries. It would be interesting to A true story Edith to England. Both prospered; – 40,000 Jews in Warsaw alone. know more about the prevailing By Jeremy Dronfield seventy-five years on, Kurt’s name Relations with the Tsarist social and economic condition of Pub: Michael Joseph; 2019 appears at the foot of the Prologue government were not consistently Polish Jewry. There was hostility ISBN: 9-780-24135-9198 and his contribution to Dronfield’s good, however, and resentment as well as enthusiasm from parts of Price: £12.99 (This review work – in both interviews and corre- on the part of the Lutherans, who the Jewish community. Did some refers to the hardback edition. spondence – is central. had influence with the Russian see baptism as a convenient escape Paperback now available) Next year, on 27th January, authorities, also hampered the from social exclusion and perse- IN September 1939, Gustav Klein- Holocaust Memorial Day will mark mission from time to time. The cution? The Russian authorities mann and his teenage son, Fritz, the 75th anniversary of the libera- Crimean War led to the expulsion suspected this to be the case. But were among thousands of Austrian tion of Auschwitz-Birkenau. of the missionaries, and the world some remarkable conversions are Jews rounded up by the Nazis and And as Kurt says, “My fami- wars of the twentieth century also recorded, and a longer book might sent to Buchenwald concentration ly’s story of survival, loss of life brought the work to a halt. Few of have found room for more detailed camp. and rescue . . . is representative of the mission’s converts survived the stories about how these Jewish Three years later, having all who suffered through those days holocaust, and there were known converts came to recognise Jesus survived one living , Gustav and therefore needs never to be to be Jewish-Anglican martyrs in as the true Messiah. was selected for transfer to another forgotten.” Treblinka. Revd Peter Bement – Auschwitz. But not Fritz. When David Hammond-Williams There were sometimes tensions the now eighteen-year-old heard their experiences: Gustav in a secret of his father’s fate, he immediately diary which he somehow managed insisted that he, too, should be on to preserve throughout his ordeal, the list. He could not – would not – Fritz in a memoir published in 1995 be parted from his Papa. alongside the diary and entitled But Contributions to Pobl Dewi Jeremy Dronfield’s book is their Still The Dog Will Not Die. story, a story of unconditional love These unique volumes are at We welcome articles of interest from readers and, in particular, we between father and son. And it’s a the heart of Dronfield’s exhaustive would like to encourage submission of articles in Welsh. heart-wrenching read. There have research, research that enables him Articles should be e-mailed to the Managing Editor: Tessa Briggs, been many books about the Nazi to tell the Kleinmann tale in raw, [email protected] death camps with their gas cham- searing detail. Yet, although the bers. But this is about the living subject matter is hard to stomach, it Photographs of children must have parental permission for publication in print and on suffering outside the chamber doors is made easier to bear by his novel- the internet. Please confirm this in writing to the editor when submitting photos. – of slave labour, starvation, sadistic istic narrative style. I hesitate to use soldiers and the stench of death. the phrase, but it makes you want to And it is as remarkable as it is turn the page, notwithstanding the Disclaimer horrific. Because both Gustav and fact that more atrocities await. Pobl Dewi and the diocese of St Davids take no responsibility, liability or share the views or Fritz survived, perhaps the only So, paradoxically perhaps, from opinions of any articles contained herein. All information is the responsibility of the person or father and son to do so from begin- out of the darkness emerges a heart- organisation submitting the article. Pobl Dewi take no responsibility for any errors or omissions ning to end. And both recorded warming story, a testament of faith