Summer 2015 | Esgobaeth Llandaf |

Matchstick Have your Harvest 2014 | Esgobaeth Llandaf | Diocese of Llandaff Ancient Chapel School leavers welcomed Royal picture Cathedral say guests special Page 5 Page 12 Page 4 Pages 6/7 Code for Women Bishops published as history is

made at Llandaff

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Poverty pleads

with politics

The Church in has called on the Welsh £1 a day be? How incredibly naive I was for I am a self government to minimise the impact of poverty confessed foodie. Over the course of five days I turned on people in Wales, as churches throughout myself into a miserable, hungry, emotional wreck. the Llandaff Diocese see a rise in the numbers “I became very emotional on the last day. It suddenly using foodbanks. dawned on me whilst my short lived misery was over, for The call comes following the recent meeting of the 1.2 billion people this is how life is. I felt guilty because I Governing Body of the when the extent had dipped my toe in for five days, and moaned and of church action on poverty was outlined to members. groaned my entire way through.” More and more churches, including many in this Ben said,“I personally think the foodbank and its Diocese, are responding to poverty on their doorstep by volunteers do an amazing job, but it’s a job we should setting up services to help people in need such as not be doing in this day and age. However, if we did not foodbanks. hundreds of people in the Vale each week would be New figures now show that the number of people going hungry.” given three days worth of emergency food by Trussell He said every week he saw people come to St Mary’s Trust foodbanks in Wales rose to 85,875 during needing help and support because of delays in benefits, 2014/15 – up from 14,696 in 2011/12. the bedroom tax, who were embarrassed, or who just Here at Croeso we decided to raise awareness by didn’t know where to turn. challenging one cleric to eat only ‘foodbank’ food for “I am so proud of our parish and its response. But I three days and a lay person to eat only £1 worth of food will be much happier the day we close St Mary’s a day for five days. foodbank distribution down as there is no longer a Kate Lawless, who attends St Nicholas Church in the need,” he added. Vale and is DAC Administrator with Care of Churches, You can read the full accounts from Kate and Ben joined 30,000 people across the world to take up the inside on page three. Live Below the Line challenge to live on a £1 a day for Writing in this edition of Croeso the Archbishop of five days and raise money for anti-poverty organisations. Wales, Dr Barry Morgan, who is also , many families would go hungry and without the support While the Revd Ben Andrews, Rector of Barry, ate only thanked parishes for their work with foodbanks and and backing of Christians not only foodbanks but many food contained within the emergency three-day parcel highlighted the issue of poverty across the world. other forms of charitable works in our communities issued by foodbanks like those in his own parish to “An increasing number of people depend on would be much impoverished.” those in need. foodbanks. I am immensely grateful to parishes in the In his letter the Archbishop also highlighted the work Kate said, “Foolishly I thought how hard could living on diocese for all you do in this regard. Without such help, of Christian Aid in tackling poverty across the world. Raising money and raising hopes Charity Shop donates £200,000 in ten years A Valleys charity shop has given bric-a-brac. good causes in the area have benefited.” away a staggering £200,000 to Parish priest the Revd Christopher Work has just been completed on new local and international good causes Lewis-Jenkins said, “We decided to open steps and disabled access for St and charities since opening its a shop as parishioners were keen to do Barnabas Church which was paid for from doors ten years ago. some mission and we haven’t looked proceeds from the shop. Set up and run by volunteers from the back since the first day we opened – “The new stone ramp which allows easy parish of Dinas and Penygraig, the Church stock for the shop just keeps pouring in access to the church for wheelchairs and Charity Shop at Tylacelyn Road, Penygraig, every week. pushchairs cost £13,000 which we has been a great success since opening a “We have a team of around 50 funded ourselves from the shop,” said Mr decade ago. volunteers who do everything from Lewis-Jenkins. Volunteers Christine Ellis and All money raised is split between the working in the shop to testing the toys, On March 1, parishioners celebrate the Petronela Hopla (left to right) two parish churches of St Barnabas and sorting the stock behind the scenes or 100th anniversary of St Barnabas Church outside Church Charity Shop with Dinas Mission, local charities and good taking what we can’t sell for recycling.” with a St David’s Day celebratory mass the Rev Christopher Lewis-Jenkins causes, an orphanage in Arequipa, Peru, Shop manager Mrs Anne Lewis-Jenkins presided over by the Archbishop of Wales, plus international disasters around the said, “I think the shop has been so Dr Barry Morgan. The church, which cost world. successful because people know that as £2,500 to build first opened its doors on parish, from the proceeds of the church Open Monday to Friday, the shop sells soon as the money comes in, it goes back March 1, 1915. charity shop, to the Archbishop’s Mission clothes, books, toys, household goods and out again and so many local charities and A donation of £1,000 was made by the Fund. 2 croeso Summer 2015

Comings and goings

Appointments curacy in the parish of Newton Nottage, Pontygwaith where his father was the use. It gives me great New Priest for Porthcawl, before moving to Caerphilly in Vicar. He studied History and Theology at pleasure to appoint him to be a member Pen Fawr 2007. He became Vicar of the Benefice St David’s University College, Lampeter of the Cathedral Chapter.” of Tonypandy with Clydach Vale in July and after graduating spent a ‘gap year’ Mr Cox will be installed as Canon 2009. In 2014 he also became the working at the Mayflower Family Centre, a (Warthacwm) at on priest-in-charge of the parish of Christian Community based in the East Sunday, June 21, at Evensong at Williamstown which was added to the End of London. 3.30pm. Benefice. “I feel very honoured to be offered this Bishop David said, “Philip has a ministry in recognition of what has been Ordinations at Llandaff substantial track record as a faithful happening in my parish. My parents Cathedral parish priest, rooted both by his ministry would have been really proud. I hope that Saturday, June 27, at 10.30am and upbringing in the Rhondda.” I am able to make a valuable contribution To be ordained deacon: to the mission of the Cathedral Chapter,” Sandra Birdsall – to be Assistant said Mr Cox. Curate at All Saints, Penarth (stipendiary) As a Canon of the Cathedral, Mr Cox will Rhian Linecar – to be Assistant Curate become a member of the Cathedral at City Parish of St John the Baptist and Chapter. He joins a team of Canons, who Dewi Saint (NSM) together with the Dean, have Jonathon Wright – to be Assistant responsibility for the maintenance and Curate in the Rectorial Benefice of ministry of the Cathedral. Whitchurch (stipendiary) With a childhood spent in the Rhondda, The Archbishop said, “Peter Cox is not James Griffiths – to be Assistant the new priest for Pen Rhondda Fawr is only a faithful parish priest and Area Curate at St Mark’s, (stipendiary) already familiar with his new patch. Dean but he has facilitated a sea change Terry Cox – to be Assistant Curate The Revd Philip Leyshon was in the outreach of All Saints Penarth to (NSM(L)) licensed as the new priest-in-charge of the town as well as transforming the Kent Middleton – to be Assistant Pen Rhondda Fawr – which takes in church building for more flexible Curate at Christ Church Park (NSM) Cwmparc, Treorchy and , at a special service in February at St George’s Church, Cwmparc, by the Assistant Bishop of Llandaff, David Wilbourne. Church honour for cleric Father Philip moved to the parish from from Penarth nearby Tonypandy where he was the priest-in-charge of Tonypandy with A well thought of cleric from Penarth is to Clydach Vale and Williamstown. be recognised with a church honour. Revd Peter Cox Having been brought up in the Rhondda The is to be made a from the age of nine, Father Leyshon is Canon of Llandaff Cathedral by the looking forward to helping to develop a Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry Morgan. ministry area to encompass the parishes He will occupy the Stall of Warthacwm. of Pen Rhondda Fawr, Ystradyfodwg and Mr Cox has been Vicar of Penarth All Tonypandy with Clydach Vale and Saints since 1997 - a parish where he Williamstown. began as a curate in 1979. He was Vicar at Aberpergwm with Blaengwrach for four "The Church has been blessed through To be ordained priest: (pictured left to right) Revd Rhun Gwynedd ap each generation with women, men and years followed by eleven years as Vicar at Bargoed and Deri with Brithdir before Robert – continues as Assistant Curate in the Rectorial Benefice of children dedicated to sharing the Good Aberavon (stipendiary). Revd Thomas Bates – continues as Assistant News of the Gospel. The new ministry returning to Penarth. He has been Area Dean of Penarth and Curate in the Rectorial Benefice of Merthyr Tydfil St.David and area way of working seeks to continue Abercanaid (stipendiary) this journey of faith and proclamation,” Barry for the past four years. Originally from the Rhondda, Peter grew Revd Pauline Smith – continues as Assistant Curate in Rectorial said Father Philip. Benefice of Coity, Nolton and Brackla (stipendiary) He was ordained in 2003, serving his first up in the parish of Tylorstown and The Archbishop writes ... My Dear Friends, I am immensely grateful to parishes in the diocese for make choices. At any one time, Christian Aid is involved This edition of Croeso contains articles about hunger all you do in this regard. Without such help, many in projects in 50 countries. and poverty. We do indeed live in a world where a billion families would go hungry and without the support and The foundational story of the Hebrew people was that people live on less than a dollar a day and in our own backing of Christians not only food banks but many God had rescued them from slavery so that they could country, an increasing number of people depend on food other forms of charitable works in our communities decide their own economic and political future. It is banks, even though we are amongst the richest of would be much impoverished. revolutionary stuff – God liberating Hebrew slaves from nations. Last month we observed Christian Aid Week. Christian oppression and subjugation. So too during His earthly Aid was set up by the churches in these islands to help life, Jesus sought to rescue people, not just from root out poverty in our world and to challenge and spiritual ailments but from everything that diminished or change structures and systems that favour the rich and enslaved them as human beings. powerful over the poor and marginalised. It is, as its The God of Jesus is concerned not just with spiritual Chief Executive puts it, “The love of Jesus in action, and matters but with everything that restricts human prayer undergirds all its work.” flourishing. The Bible has two thousand verses about But what is the definition of poverty? One of the poverty and justice and Jesus said that He had come “to features of a great deal of village life of our world is that preach good news to the poor, release to captives, sight the water supply is non-existent and that every drop has to the blind and to inaugurate the Lord’s Jubilee.” That to be carried, often from a source miles away. That was a reference to the Jewish Jubilee when every 50th means that the women of these villages, because it is year, all debts were cancelled and all slaves set free. women who do so, are reduced to being water carriers, We do not know whether this liberation from oppression, seven days a week, 365 days a year. In that sense, they poverty and debt ever happened but Jesus wanted to have ceased to be human beings – they are just pieces free people from the grip of everything that ground them of machinery for fetching water, simply trying to stay down and dehumanised them. He has now entrusted alive. that task to us, His followers, and has promised us the Poverty is being imprisoned in that kind of impotence gift of His Spirit to enable us to do so. because they have no choices. Christian Aid, amongst other things, gives such villages’ access to taps and so Yours in God’s love transforms lives. Women are set free from the burden of being mere water carriers, beasts of burden, and be enabled by the gift of water to grow crops and vegetables. Christian Aid continues God’s world of freeing people from slavery and giving them the possibility of becoming truly human – of being able to croeso Summer 2015 3 FOOD FOR THOUGHT The Revd Ben Andrews and from lack of sugar and caffeine, which how he fared living on drove me to my bed at 7pm on day 3, and foodbank food for three was beyond grumpy! On a physical level I days applaud anyone who can even function whilst eating so little. The parish of Cadoxton-Juxta-Barry is What became clear was how food and heavily involved with the Vale Foodbank socialising are so intertwined. As a family - collecting food and running a we didn't eat together once that week, distribution centre at St Mary’s Church and I sorely missed the conversation in Holton Road on Friday afternoons. around the dinner table with my son and The Rector, the Revd Ben Andrews , husband. I turned down an offer to meet a took up the challenge of eating only friend at the pub for dinner and found food from an emergency foodbank myself not interacting with my colleagues. parcel for one person for three days. Lunch was no longer social, I dined alone His parcel which cost £9.03p, "Al Desko". consisted of baked beans, hot dog Whenever there is a birthday or event sausages, sweetcorn, new potatoes, a within the family it is accompanied with a chicken and mushroom pie, chicken meal, when I see my friends we have soup, rice pudding, pasta, pasta sauce, drinks or dinner. When events are held in tea bags, squash, cereal, long life milk, church its usually with a "bring and share", sugar and biscuits. or "meet and eat", even the Eucharist “I felt lucky as I had plenty of cooking illustrates how Jesus and his disciples equipment – I also had a cooker, kettle, broke bread together at the last supper. microwave and was not worried about Food is such a huge part of our social fuel bills. Some people come to culture it is so sad to think that people foodbank with very limited cooking miss out the social aspect of this because facilities, some people don’t even have of poverty. a tin opener or a plate. So in one sense I became very emotional on the last day. I was lucky. At first my parcel, looked a It suddenly dawned on me whilst my short lot but it soon went down fast,” said the lived misery was over, for 1.2 billion Revd Andrews. people this is how life is. I felt guilty because I had dipped my toe in for five “One thing I found myself doing was like bread that I missed. Kate Lawless and her thinking ahead - how could I make this days, and moaned and groaned my entire “I personally think the foodbank and account of living on £5 for 5 way through. I also have the luxury of go further, I had plenty of cereal but its volunteers do an amazing job but it’s days... milk was limited. shopping ethically wherever I can. I found a job we should not be doing in this day the experience had compromised my “I did manage to feed myself for three and age. However, if we did not days with two hot meals a day from the What was the last thing you spent £1 morals and it didn't feel good. When a kilo hundreds of people in the Vale each on? These days £1 doesn't get you very of rice costs 45 pence, I can't imagine allocation - it works in that sense but I week would be going hungry. found myself being very careful with my far. It won't buy you a trendy coffee, let anyone is getting a fair deal, and I had no “I truly value and support the work of alone a meal, but one fifth of the world's choice in buying battery caged eggs. Lack food, there was no waste. the foodbank, in my last parish I “During the challenge I kept a small population live off £1 a day for food, of Fair trade and animal welfare was a regularly had people knock the vicarage housing, education, health and every guilt that weighed heavy. When I buy food video diary which was published on door asking for money, instead I would facebook and I was very grateful for the other necessity. Around 1.2 billion people I want to know that it is not only give them food from our cupboards. live in extreme poverty. nourishing my family, but the promise of kind words of encouragement and Several times I went to Asda and spent comment I received during the three Live below the Line is a simple concept. "fair" is being passed from my purse to the £5 on food to keep people going. It is From April 27, people across the world producer and workers. After the challenge days.” so sad that we need foodbanks During the three day challenge Ben came together to unite against extreme I went back to my normal way of living, but otherwise so many people would be poverty and spend no more than £5 for 5 there are children out there who go to went to see Barry 372 Air cadets and going hungry, and the most upsetting ended up talking to them about the days on all food and drink. The challenge sleep every night with the gnawing pain of thought is that many of those would be didn't attempt to replicate poverty, but to hunger, mothers who are unable to feed foodbank, as they had seen his video children. diary. raise awareness and fundraise. their babies because they have no milk, “Every week I see people come to St Foolishly I thought how hard could living men and women who go hungry whilst “The cadets decided that once a Mary’s needing help and support month they would bring in some food for on £1 a day be? How incredibly naive I undertaking back breaking labour. because of delays in benefits, the was for I am a self confessed foodie! Put Extreme poverty goes hand in hand with the foodbank and three of the older bedroom tax, people who are cadets decided they would follow my me in a kitchen with a few ingredients and high infant mortality, low life expectancy embarrassed, or just don’t know where I can tell you in 100 different ways how and poor health. example and live off the same amount to turn. I am so proud of our parish and of food.” much I love you through my food. Food I was so touched that people believed in its response. But I will be much happier evokes happy memories of great family me enough to make donations to my Another day the challenge took Ben the day we close St Mary’s foodbank on a trip down memory lane, eating a gatherings all crammed around a table, of nominated charity "Safe Foundation". Safe distribution down as there is no longer a long summer barbeques with friends, of supports locally-led, people centered Fray Bentos chicken and mushroom pie, need.” some tinned new potatoes and sweet picnics on the beach with my younger projects increasing access to basic human corn – a meal which he hadn’t eaten brothers. Breaking bread with my family rights like education, safe water and since his student days 20 years ago. and friends holds an emotional place in healthcare in the developing world. Of “I am in the fortunate position that my heart. course, it's all very "armchair warrior" of usually I enjoy a varied menu each Over the course of five days I turned me to write about poverty, but my tales week, I get choice, which I now value myself into a miserable, hungry, emotional and tears make no difference. Donations even more having been through this wreck. I had no idea how much food could and people do. experience. I am very lucky that I can control my mindset, body and affect my You can read my blog at eat something different every day if I social life. My memory, concentration and www.livebelowtheline.com/me/katelawles want to. I am privileged I can eat fresh temperament were awful. I encountered s123 foods. It was the simple everyday things the most dreadful headaches all week 4 croeso Summer 2015 Governing Body, April 2015

For the first time since 1974, the Governing oppress people, then it is merely paying lip service to the The Time is Now Conference, held last November. The Body of the Church in Wales held its meeting teaching of Jesus about good news to the poor.” various diocesan presentations that took place as part in Llandrindod Wells, from April 15-16. The The Governing Body, through a motion, was invited to of the conference made it very clear 2020 Vision 144 delegates gathered in the Pavilion consider some of the ways in which the Church in Wales initiatives and, most importantly, recognition of the need Conference Centre for a packed twenty-four can address poverty and disadvantage, following the call of a change of culture, are widespread throughout hours of debate and discussion. of scripture. The Revd Jon Durley, the Llandaff Diocesan Wales. The conference heard about training courses in With three weeks to go before the General Election, Community Development Officer, emphasised the Monmouth, local ministry initiatives in St. Davids, Archbishop Barry used the opportunity to call upon vocation of each member of the Church to serve through Children, Youth and Families Ministry Enablers (CYFMEs) people to vote – and to use their vote for “policies that works of justice, charity and inclusion. He outlined some in Bangor, discipleship initiatives in Llandaff, detailed will be of most benefit to the common good, even ways in which the Church is active in service of the poor considerations for mapping Ministry Areas in Swansea & though they might not be of benefit to us personally.” and the marginalised, through practical projects of all Brecon and saw a presentation from the St. Asaph Youth Archbishop Barry distinguished politics from party kinds, which are in evidence in almost every parish. Forum. politics. “Running through the whole of the Bible is the These include of course food banks, but also breakfast The essential vision behind the Church in Wales belief that God is on the side of the poor, the clubs, community lunches, debt advice, night shelters review of 2012 was that the Church can be the bearer of disadvantaged, the oppressed….If the Church of God and holiday clubs. good news to the world. The Governing Body divided into does not speak out against structures that enslave and The Church in Wales 2020 Vision Group reported on groups to consider some questions about evangelism and reflected on good examples in different parts of Wales. It also heard about work among children and young people in the dioceses of Bangor and St Asaph. The lengthiest debate was in response to a report on the representation of women in the Church. The expected cultural change that gender equality would be embedded in the Church in Wales has not been achieved; there has not been the appointment of more women into senior posts and the greater involvement of women in Church decision making. The Governing Body accepted this, and commended the report for discussion at all levels, with a series of recommendations to be implemented during the next three years. The Governing Body was given an update on the progress of establishing a new Theological Education Institute for Wales, based at St Michael’s College, Llandaff, but with training for both ordained and lay ministry provided throughout Wales. Other reports included that of the Standing Committee, with plans to celebrate the centenary of the Church in Wales in 2020, and the Ethical Investment Committee, with new provision to preclude investment in payday loan companies. A stitch in time for St Edward Cope Two skilled parishioners restored their grateful to Beverley and Julia for all their hard work and church’s original cope as part of the expertise. We were delighted that the cope was ready in celebrations to mark the church’s 100th time to be worn by the Archbishop as he joined us to birthday. celebrate our centenary.” And the St Edward Cope was ready in time to be worn The photos show Mrs Beverley Williams with the cope by the Archbishop of Wales when he joined them to and the cope worn by the Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry lead a special anniversary service. Morgan, at the service on Palm Sunday. Costume designer Beverley Williams and seams- mistress Julia Gidwell spent months painstakingly restoring the St Edward Cope in time for the centenary anniversary service of St Edward’s Church, Roath, Cardiff. The cope – a decorative vestment worn like a cape – shows the arms of Edward the Confessor. It dates back more than 80 years when members and teacher of the church’s Sunday School started a fund to provide a cope for the church. It was made by the Benedictine Community of Nashdom at a cost of £58. 10.0 and was worn for the first time by the Revd Henry Wellington on Easter Day in 1929. Over the years, however, the fine damask of the cope became shredded and much damage was done to the fine gold embroidery. Beverley scoured London searching for the right silks to use to bring it back to its former glory. The new materials cost £500 – a cost met by a church benefactor. Beverley says, “We had to reconstruct and re-line much of the body of the cope but the embroidered panels are the originals. The back panel was in good condition and didn’t need much work but the panel around the neck and shoulders was very badly worn. All the gold couching had lifted so that had to be put back by hand. We were able to rescue the braid around the hem and attach it to the new part too. It took about three months, on and off, for us to complete and hopefully it will last for the best part of another century now!” The Vicar of Roath, the Revd Canon Stewart Lisk, says, “It is a wonderful transformation and we are very croeso Summer 2015 5 Matchstick model of Llandaff Cathedral is back on display

It’s made of thousands of loft in the cathedral. There it catches the right) of Pwllmelin Road, Fairwater, matchsticks and even has replica attention of visitors and is a particular Cardiff. stained glass windows but for favourite of Sunday School children who Mr Tucker, a former bus driver and taxi many years this stunning model of pass it on their way back from receiving proprietor, had spent months drawing up Llandaff Cathedral was hidden Communion. scaled plans for it from 150 photographs away in a back room office. Standing 4ft high, 5.5ft long and 3.5ft taken by his daughter Barbara Davies. Mr Recently rediscovered this matchstick wide, it took three years to build and was Tucker had taken up modelling in the model is now on display under the organ made by the late Bill Tucker (pictured 1970s and was able to spend more time on his hobby after taking early retirement. It was used to raise funds for the 1985- 1990 Llandaff Cathedral Restoration Appeal by going on display at the David Morgan store where customers were invited to enter a “guess how many matchsticks” competition, making a minimum donation of 20p in return for an entry form. And on March 1, 1991, the model took pride of place at a service of praise and St John’s in a purpose built glass case. thanksgiving for the restoration of the His daughter Barbara Davies, of Cathedral, where it was viewed by the Fairwater said, “He used to spend hours late HRH The Princess of Wales and her and hours in a corner of the living room son, Prince William. making his models on a table under a As he signed the visitor’s book with his light. mother, it was the Prince’s first public “His model of Llandaff Cathedral was royal duty. Mr Tucker and his wife Iris his biggest project and took him around were invited to the service by the then three to four years to make. Dean, the Very Reverend Alan Davies, He started off making small models of and were introduced to the Princess tanks and railway stations and then he when she viewed the model after the did a large one of Tintern Abbey followed service. by St John’s Church and then Llandaff Before embarking on the Llandaff Cathedral. Cathedral model, Mr Tucker had built a “It s lovely for it to be on display once Assistant virger Christopher Preece with the matchstick model of similar model of St John the Baptist, again as he spent so much time and Llandaff Cathedral Cardiff, which is on permanent display in effort making it,” added Barbara. vicar gears up!

An Aberdare Vicar cycled around all 16 Archdeacon of Morgannwg, the Venerable Christopher churches in his deanery to pray for a parish Smith; a Messy Church session; a community concert mission taking place this summer. featuring local talent; and a disco for the young people The Revd Richard Green, Vicar of Aberdare St , of the parish. The week was rounded off with a special decided to go on the cycling pilgrimage of prayer to Eucharist on Sunday, June 7, led by the Assistant prepare for “Springboard” - a series of events which Bishop of Llandaff, David Wilbourne. took place in the parish to renew the existing faithful “This is an exciting time for our parish. We are hoping and reach out to potential new worshippers. that this week will have both reinvigorated the people He cycled to every church in the Cynon Valley already involved with the church, and also helped us essence for months and years to come. deanery and prayed not only for the mission, but also reach out to people in our area who don’t currently “For it to be worth anything it must all be rooted in for each parish he visited and for the deanery as a come,” said Revd Green. prayer. I am a keen cyclist, so I decided to visit every whole. “We called this series of events “Springboard”, as we church in our deanery on my bike to commit it all to The “Springboard” week took place from May 30 hope it will be a true springboard to encouraging us to God. We also had a day of prayer in the parish on until June 7. It featured a series of events, including an do new things, as well as to doing the things we Ascension Day where lots of parishioners took turns to open-air Songs of Praise service in Aberdare Park; currently do a bit better. In fact “Springboard” didn’t pray for Springboard in 15-minute slots throughout the special services in each church addressed by the finish when the week ended – we hope to carry on its day”, he added. Diocese’s decision on same-sex weddings Same-sex couples should be their views on three options: maintaining Church’s six dioceses will now be at the conference, but what needs to be allowed to marry in church – that’s the status quo of marriage as the union considered by the the Bench of Bishops emphasized is that the vote which the conclusion of delegates at a of a man and woman; conducting same- who will make a report to the Governing ultimately matters will take place at the special conference for Llandaff sex weddings; or blessing same-sex Body in September. Governing Body. The result of the Diocese and their views will now relationships. The Archbishop of Wales, Dr Barry conference vote is designed to ‘inform’ be fed into a Wales-wide Prior to May’s conference in Aberdare, Morgan, who is also Bishop of Llandaff the GB where our diocese stands on the consultation on the issue. discussions on the issue were held at said, “The purpose of the conference was matter.” The conference was held to decide the deanery, parish and PCC meetings with to discuss which of the three options – Sixth-formers from St John Baptist Diocese’s formal response to the issue of views fed through to the conference via the status quo of marriage as the union school, Aberdare, helped delegates by the change in the law which came into elected representatives of parishes and of a man and of a woman; the blessing of making a presentation on the issues effect last year allowing same-sex deaneries. A vote was taken at the same-sex relationships; or same-sex involved. After small-group discussions, couples to marry in Wales and England. conference which now becomes the marriages in church – is the way forward the conference delegates were asked to It forms part of a 12-month formal response of the Diocese. for the Church in Wales. vote on the three options proposed by the consultation during which all six dioceses The responses from each of the “There was a vote on the three options Doctrinal Commission. in the province are being asked to give 6 croeso Summer 2015 Church buildings un Access for all improved at a Valleys church Access to a Valleys church has been opened up for all, thanks to a major restoration project. A service of thanksgiving was held at Holy Trinity Church in Ystrad Mynach recently to celebrate the completion of a six year project to improve the Church, the facilities it offers to the community and the means for everyone to take part in worship and other activities. The work included the construction of a sweeping new stone ramp to allow easy access for wheelchair users to the church and the provision of a disabled toilet. It also included decorating work inside the church to spruce up the walls and floor, installation of new lighting and heating, plus restoration work on the organ. A little used room in the crypt was renovated to transform it into a light, modern meeting room with facilities for making hot drinks. This room has been named the ‘All Saints’ Room’ as it features lit stained glass windows from All Saints Church, Llanbradach – a church in the parish which closed around 20 years ago. The Venerable Christopher Smith, Archdeacon of Morgannwg said, “The work done to improve access for everyone is superb and should help and encourage Canon Steven Kirk and Archdeacon Christopher Smith (left to right) outside Holy Trinity Church other parishes to think about what can be done to meet with parishioners the needs of everyone who comes, or wants to come, to church.” A Pontypridd church is awarded £71,900 for roof repairs Urgent roof repairs can be carried out to St enable us to put the roof in really good working order for Gwynno’s Church, Ynysybwl, Pontypridd, after a long time into the future. It will help us now to plan it won a significant slice of a £1.4m ahead knowing that we do not need to be concerned Government grant. about the roof leaking.” The £71,900 grant for St Gwynno’s Church is part of a St Gwynno’s is an important part of the local history large cash award to be given to Church in Wales and we are seeking ways to develop that into the future, parishes in the first round of awards from the Listed making more of such a wonderful building. Over the next Places of Worship Roof Repair Fund. few years I hope and pray that we can make even more It will mean that work can be carried out to make the of a connection with the local community, providing a roof weathertight and enable parishioners to forge place for civic events such as Nos Galon, and a place ahead with plans to make even more use of the building people can come and visit either as a place of prayer without the worry of the roof leaking. and / or as a place of history. The Revd Michael Gable, Area Dean of Pontypridd, We are pleased that the Government has seen a said “It is very good news to have this grant, it will vision for St Gwynno’s Church.” Window into the past An appeal has been launched to examined and although it is in raise funds to refurbish an relatively good condition, work does historic stained-glass window need to be carried out on it to ensure that honours casualties from that it does not deteriorate. The main the First World War. issue is that the masonry around it The window at St Paul’s Church in needs to be repaired as there are Grangetown, Cardiff, is one of the some gaps between the masonry and largest stained-glass war memorials in the window. Wales. It is also one of the few “The window needs to be removed windows that depict air, sea and land and cleaned and replaced securely in battles alongside religious images and order to survive another century.” what makes it even rarer is that it also It is hoped that the restoration work shows scenes from the trenches. will help publicise the window and Dating back to 1920, the window is what it represents. In addition to the now in need of restoration as masonry World War One depictions, the window around it is at risk of giving way. The also has representation from the four church is hoping that the public will dioceses in Wales which existed help fund the cost of the work which is before disestablishment in 1920, expected to run into tens of after which two additional dioceses thousands of pounds. were created. The restoration work to the window Donations can be made at will be part of a wider redevelopment https://mydonate.bt.com/charities that is planned for the church, which /stpaulschurchgrangetow n centres on sharing the building with a Picture shows the Revd David housing association. Morris and the window at St Paul’s Associate priest the Revd David Church Morris said, “We have had the window croeso Summer 2015 7 nder the spotlight

As restoration work to St David’s Church Tower in Neath comes to an end, we take a look back at the mammoth fundraising project which has brought the church and local community even closer together. Sheila Coleman reports Pictures: James Davies Appeal was towering success

From celebrity concerts and art competitions, to for the Victorian coffee mornings and raffles the St David’s Gothic Style Church Tower Appeal has travelled every avenue church’s 150th to raise the £500,000 needed to restore and anniversary next repair the iconic Neath landmark. year. Launched just over two years ago the Tower Appeal hit Said Canon Ryan; the ground running with a gala concert by world-renowned “On behalf of the St mezzo-soprano and former St David’s Church chorister David’s Tower Katherine Jenkins. Appeal Committee I Katherine launched the Appeal in May 2013 by would like to thank performing at the church where her singing career began, everyone who has attracting an audience from as far away as Europe and taken part in the garnering much needed media coverage. fundraising While an online auction for one of the dresses she wore process. The Tower for the American television show ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Appeal is now over, raised even more funds for the Grade 2 listed building. but the work of the “We couldn’t have wished for a better start to the church continues Appeal,” said Canon Stephen Ryan, Rector of Neath. and we are “Katherine really drew attention to our fundraising efforts indebted to those and gave us a tremendous platform on which to build. She who continue to has been with us all the way and we can’t thank her support us enough.” throughout the With grant assistance from bodies including The National year.” Heritage Lottery Fund, CADW, and WREN, and more than £35,000 raised by a host of community events, concerts and donations the target was eventually met. “During this project we have been overwhelmed by people’s kindness and support, we cannot thank everyone enough. It has truly been a community effort,” said Canon Ryan. Work on the tower and the roof above the choir stalls began in earnest in June 2014, with scaffolding which encased the church for nearly a year earning the Tower the nickname locally of the ‘Pagoda’. “We would also like say special thanks to our architect Mike Garner for all his support and advice and to the building contractors David. A Siggery Ltd.” The project was completed just a few weeks ago, and the Tower once again stands proud over the town, in readiness Rhondda church transformed for the community

A Rhondda church is set to become a flexible space for community groups at the back of the paid tribute to all those who had worked so hard to community hub following a £200,000 make- church, with a purpose built kitchen and toilets and transform the church. She said, “The church was able over. WIFI hub. A designer glass partition leads into the to access lottery funding in order to turn the dreams of More than 300 people packed into St David’s worship area. so many into this current reality. Church, Tonyrefail, to celebrate its transformation as it The project, designed and managed by architect “The re-opening of the church with its new facilities was officially re-opened by the Archbishop of Wales, Dr Stefan Horowskyj of Abergavenny who worked with was a great occasion. The project came about Barry Morgan. builders Edmunds Webster of Treboeth, Swansea, had following an extensive survey of community needs It now includes a stunning mezzanine floor and a been a number of years in development. Work started administered by on site at the end of last year after the parishioners and project received a boost from the Big was driven on by Lottery’s People and Places Fund. The the church was closed while the work was encouragement of done. many local The Archbishop, who gave the address people.” and cut the ribbon, said, “This is an Maureen Harris, imaginative and creative way of re- the project co- configuring the church so that it can be ordinator for the used both for worship and as a flexible church, said, “The community space for the people of new hall will be Tonyrefail. available for the “Anyone coming in through the doors use of the whole of this place can see that the worship of community and we God is at the heart of what it is about. hope this will But this re-ordered church also makes it provide a positive clear that the church of God is here to contribution to serve the community – it also exists for those who live and those who do not belong to it.” work in Tonyrefail.” Parish priest, Canon Ruth Moverley, 8 croeso Summer 2015

Easter message brought to life An exciting project designed to bring the (Resurrection). message of Holy Week and Easter to local There was time for activity and reflection at each school children was hosted by St Margaret’s display, culminating in the children gathering around the Church, Roath, during the week leading up to final display to hear the story of the Resurrection. Passion Sunday. “Far from being the end, for Christians throughout the The Easter Experience brought together people from all world this is a new beginning. This is why Easter is three churches in the parish to prepare the event celebrated by the giving and receiving of Easter eggs, as beforehand and to help with the presentations for the a symbol of new life and hope for the future. The children visiting children from Marlborough Primary School. were offered a chocolate mini-egg and moved on to the People baked Easter biscuits, provided chocolate eggs, squash and Easter biscuits,” said Diocesan schools made objects for the displays, helped with advertising, officer Kathie Mayer. transported equipment, manned the displays and greeted “It was a very busy week. Over 240 children came from visitors. During the week the church was transformed by the local school and the feedback from both teachers Around the six displays which brought the story of Easter to life. and children was very positive. Everyone who came to St The displays included Hopes and Dreams (Palm Margaret’s that week learned something new about the Sunday); Servant King (Washing of the feet); Remember Christian message of Holy Week and Easter, and found it Diocese Me (Last Supper); Alone (Garden of Gethsemane); very thought-provoking,” she added. Sharing our Sorrows (Good Friday) and The Empty Tomb

Hot Cross bun puppet explains the Ecumenical Easter at a Neath church meaning of Easter Hundreds of schoolchildren visited a Cwmafan church to hear the story of Easter brought to life through an innovative puppet show. The Puppet Ministry at St Michael’s Church was led by children’s officer and priest-in- charge of Cwmafan, the Revd Elaine Jenkyns and Reader Sue Powell. Around 400 children from Anglicans and Indian Orthodox celebrated Holy Week side by side in an local schools attended including pupils from Cwmafan Primary and ecumenical venture at a Neath church. Pontrhydyfen Primary. While Anglican services were being held in St Catherine’s Church, Melyn, Neath – the Star of the show was a Hot Cross Bun puppet called Harold church hall was used by the Indian Orthodox Community for their services. Carter-Bunnington - operated and voiced from behind the curtain Dozens of members of the Holy Innocents’ Indian Orthodox Church Wales attended the by Mrs Jenkyns. colourful services throughout the week – with many travelling from all over Wales. After being introduced to the children, Harold talked to Sue about Team vicar, the Revd Lynda Newman said, “We were approached by the Indian Orthodox the meaning of Easter. He explained how the cross on his head Community as they do not have a base in Wales and travel to different venues for their reminds us of the cross that Jesus died on; the spices in the bun services. remind us of the spices that were used to anoint his body; the “We were delighted to welcome them to Neath and were able to offer them the church hall bun's round shape reminds us of the stone across the entrance to for the packed programme of events and services they held during the week. On Palm the tomb and the yeast in the bun ensures it rises as Jesus rose Sunday, the Anglican service was being held in the church while members of the Indian from the dead etc. Orthodox Church were holding their service simultaneously in the church hall. Mrs Jenkyns said, "We greatly value our links with the local “Their service was a real assault on the senses. The hall was full of the beautiful aroma of schools. It is always a pleasure to welcome pupils of Cwmafan incense being burned and rose petals were strewn all over the floor. Everyone looked School to St Michael’s. It is great to have fun whilst teaching the wonderful in their colourful clothing, and it was a real joy for us to contrast the two forms of children about Jesus. Puppets seem to have become a popular part worship.” of our ministry to children and I am sure we will do more.” Rector of Neath, Canon Stephen Ryan said, “We were delighted to welcome the Indian Orthodox Community to Neath in this great ecumenical venture.” Cardiff vicar is recognised by the Prime Minister A Year of Celebration A centenary year of celebrations at All and is the focus for many different events of A vicar who is transforming the lives of children Saints, Porthcawl, finished with a all sorts, concerts, May fairs, civic services through the ‘Making Music Changing Lives’ orchestra mass attended by more than 150 and special services for the schools. The project in Ely, Cardiff, has been given a prestigious parishioners and as many former centenary provided an opportunity to raise our award for her work by David Cameron. curates and ordinands that could be community profile even higher and to The Revd Jan Gould, of the Church of Resurrection in Ely, was found. emphasise the service we aim to give to all presented with a Points of Light award from the Prime Minister, The service in February brought to a close a our parishioners, churchgoers or not, in David Cameron, during a reception at 10 Downing Street to year of special events staged by the parish to Christ’s name,” said the Rector, Father Philip celebrate St David’s Day. mark the 100th anniversary of the church. Masson. These events included a bake-off cake competition for the whole town, a pilgrimage walk around the the four churches in the It’s Festival time again! parish, a moving service for the outbreak of The 10-day Ely Festival kicks off with a flower festival WW1, a concert by Noteworthy choir from at the Church of the Resurrection on Friday, July 3, at Maesteg, a winning entry in the Porthcawl 7pm, which will be opened by BBC Presenter Beverley Carnival (a church on a flatbed truck) and a Humphries – tickets £4 to include Pimms, strawberries Candlemass Christingle attended by more and cream and live music from The Chords. The flower than 100 children. festival, continues on the Saturday and Sunday. By the end of the centenary year, £2,000 had been raised for local charities after A Church Fete will be held on Saturday, July 4, from 11am-1pm, volunteers took up the challenge of seeing and on Sunday, July 5, a Strawberry tea at 4.30pm followed by how much they could raise from an initial £10 Songs of Praise at 6pm. On Tuesday, July 7, the Making Music stake given to them by the church. Changing Lives orchestra will be performing in the church at The Archbishop visited for All Saints’ Day 5.30pm and on Thursday, July 9, the City of Cardiff Symphony and a lasting memorial to the centenary Orchestra will be performing a variety of ballet music at 8pm. celebrations has been the creation of a For details of any of the above event and tickets please contact garden on the north side. Revd Jan Gould on 029 2067 9833 [email protected] “All Saints stands in the centre of our town croeso Summer 2015 9 ‘A Day In the Life Of....’ Churchwarden Deryn McAndrew

o what does a churchwarden do? As we continue our Sseries of articles in Croeso illustrating how God works through all his people in the Diocese – both ordained and lay, we took a peek into what a typical day for one churchwarden entailed. Deryn McAndrew has been the Rector’s church warden in Caerphilly for four years and also treasurer for nine. With the creation of the new benefice of and Caerphilly earlier this year, it means Deryn’s responsibilities now cover five churches. Recently this work has included involvement in a project to re-order St Martin’s Church – the first phase of which involved removing the pews at the back and replacing with chairs to make space for the area to be used by groups such as Rainbows, Brownies and Guides. A lifelong church goer, Deryn, became more actively involved in the running of the church when she retired from her IT 8.00am 10.00am project/quality manager job nine years

6.30am looked at other records, such as the log I couldn’t sleep so I started particularly book and inventory, as well as records of early by clearing emails from the previous gas and electricity testing, Health and day and drafting an article for the Safety, fire risk assessment etc. It was benefice magazine on the Spring Fair. just after 1pm when we broke, with the inspection of the building having to be 8.00am rescheduled for another day. I stopped for breakfast – just banana and a hot cross bun. 1.30pm Lunch at nearby pub with Barbara and 9.00am then home to catch up on emails. Back to my upstairs office to make some phone calls to try to find someone 4pm to do the lunchtime recital the next day – I met up with some colleagues in St the act that had been booked had gone Martin’s to arrange chairs for the sick. workshop that night. Now that we have A few more bits and pieces – including replaced the rear pews with comfortable chasing Glamorganshire records office chairs this was an easy task. On the way about a CD of burial records that was home I noticed our ‘wild garden’ in the incomplete, and printing “voting slips” for church yard was looking a bit untidy from the straw poll to be taken at the the winter – I must try and get one of the workshop on “same-sex relationships” garden team onto it. While there, I that evening. This was so that our stopped for a moment to look round – 4.00pm deanery reps could be informed as to the the churchyard is really lovely with position of the benefice for a deanery primroses and daffodils etc. options. Our clergy team counted the including notes for ‘a day in the life of’ meeting the following week. More work on the computer at home results, which were then announced. before I forget! including a call from Father Mark to print And so, home for the night. After It had been a good day and I had even 10am some information sheets for the evening something to eat, I went upstairs to tie up managed to get through my to do list and I met up with our warden Ron Lewis – his printer would not talk to him! a few loose ends on the computer there was some good fellowship. (pictured), Barbara Turner and Pat Chucas, to go through the registers and 6pm other records as part of the annual Back to church for a short magazine return for the Archdeacon and RB. We meeting to agree the articles required for entered the information from the this month and decide who to ask to do registers into my computer, and also them. Just time before the next meeting for Peter and I to have a look at a drain outside which seemed to be blocked. Thankfully a brick had fallen in which lifted clear and it was all sorted out easily. 7.30pm The same sex meeting was an excellent example of how Father Mark’s method of “respectful listening” can work. People who wanted to speak gave in their names, and were called in turn. Everyone listened without interruption, then anyone who wanted to speak after hearing these presentations was able to do so. It was all immensely moving as we listened to well- thought out opinions, and personal 5.00pm perspectives. We then passed the voting papers around the group, listing the three 7.30pm 10 croeso Summer 2015 Ministry Area of Pontypridd

As work forges ahead on the With the Revd Elaine Jenkyns’ number of mission and ministry church and creation of Ministry Areas, we appointment to the parish of Cwmavon, possibilities for the town. The focus was increase its take a look at what is happening in my fellow priests - the Revd David Sheen, not on how to maintain what was mission and one part of the Diocese. The Revd the Revd Peter Lewis - and myself met currently in place but on how to grow the ministry in Michael Gable, Area Dean of and agreed that working together in the Church by sharing resources, skills and Pontypridd. Pontypridd, writes about the town would make great sense and that a talents. Together more could be achieved There are background and the way forward rectorial benefice might well be a suitable than separately. The group used the challenging times ahead as a new priest in Pontypridd. route to take. Seven Sacred Spaces as a model to help is appointed and structures are worked “As the Church in Wales moves towards Then at the beginning of 2014 David consider what was happening and what out in ways which enable the local its centenary as a province in the Sheen moved on to become chaplain at could be added or strengthened. activities in each church to thrive and Anglican Community, it has been a time Cardiff University, which left four parishes It was decided to wait until the shape grow alongside the activities for the of discussion and reflection for all with two incumbents and two vacancies. of the ministry area became evident to whole town. parishes in the Diocese. In the summer of 2014 a ministry area advertise and fill the two vacant posts. As Balancing local and parish needs and Following the Church in Wales Review, conversation began and it was decided the ministry area was given free reign as desires will take prayer and effort. If we have been encouraged to engage in that these four parishes would make a to how to utilize its allocated 3.25 people enter into this ministry area with a conversations - to develop a vision for the suitable unit. Representatives from each stipends the group proposed three full view of only looking to the local or only future ministry and mission of our of the parishes met monthly led by time stipendiary priests rather than the looking to the whole it is less likely to churches and parishes. Richard Jones, the then Parish Resources two full time and two part time as had flourish. They need to view the whole At the Diocesan Clergy School in Officer. been the case - and to put the remainder picture.” September 2013 we were asked to The group looked at what already was towards employing an administrator. A copy of the report can be found at discuss how a ministry area might look happening and considered how to A positive discussion was held about http://parish.churchinwales.org.uk/l368/ for us in our own areas. become more effective and increase the how to grow, rather than maintain the ministryarea/” Human trafficking discussed at Llandaff conference

Migration and human trafficking were working to tackle poverty. It is also sponsoring the main issues discussed at a recent an education programme to raise people’s three-day conference held at St awareness of the dangers of traffickers and Michael’s College, Cardiff, attended by also helping to rehabilitate those who escape 30 delegates from around the world. from their slavery, especially young women who Delegates from Llandaff joined those from the have been rejected by their families and United Churches of Bangladesh, North India, communities. South India and Pakistan, from churches in the “After hearing from the United Churches, Netherlands, Germany, Norway and Sweden plans are being made to galvanise the churches and from other UK churches and mission in the UK into a co-ordinated course of action to agencies. support and lobby on behalf of the churches of The conference was hosted by the Llandaff South Asia,” said the Revd Chris Reaney, World Diocese due to its links with the Church of Mission Officer for the Llandaff Diocese. Bangladesh. “In the meantime please continue to keep During the conference Bishop Paul Sarker, Bangladesh and its Church in your prayers, and the Bishop of Dhaka, said latest published all the Christians of South Asia,” he added. figures show that around 20,000 people are The conference was also attended by the trafficked from Bangladesh each year including Revd John Webber who last November children, adolescents, young women and men. represented the Diocese on a visit to The Church of Bangladesh is trying to combat Bangladesh as the Church of Bangladesh Pictured (left to right) Revd Chris Reaney, the Archbishop, human trafficking by doing all it can to alleviate celebrated 40 years as a united church. Bishop Paul Sarker (Bangladesh) and Revd John Webber the reasons for wanting to work abroad by So who are the Diocesan Spirituality Committee and what do they do? The Spirituality It also runs courses, which range from another helps one to discover the reality Committee is a Exploring Spiritual Accompaniment of God in everything and to link more group of lay and (ESA), to Deeping your Spiritual Journey closely one’s prayer with a desire to ordained people (DSJ) and The Next Steps Course. The follow God’s will in the way one lives from across the next ESA course runs from this one’s life. There are people in the Diocese that September with places still available. Diocese – men and women, ordained facilitates spiritual “More and more people these days and lay, who have trained as spiritual direction in the Diocese and are finding some benefit in spiritual directors in the Ignatian tradition. compiles the Diocesan Prayer direction. This is the name for the “But, in fact, any Christian who finds Diary. process of accompanying someone on people sharing stories about where God The group is available to help organise his/her spiritual journey but, in spite of is in their lives is already carrying out reflective days, workshops and groups in using this old name, directors are not as something of this ministry. Anybody can young people, suffering and pain and response to local need. This could directive as they used to be in times benefit from spiritual direction. It is not sustaining prayer. include retreats and quiet days with past,” said committee member the Revd for any one type of person.” The 11-month course costs £110 and details advertised on the Diocesan Edward Dowland-Owen. One person who attended the course more details are available from the Revd website. “Sharing thoughts and feelings with on reflections said, “I attended both the Moira Spence on 01656 881960 or ESA and DSJ courses. They afforded me email [email protected] time for prayer and introspection that I might not have got without them as a croeso busy professional in the Public Sector. I Q: Do I have to be ordained to study this would definitely recommend them to course? This edition of Croeso has been produced by the editorial team of Alison Young, anybody who is exploring how God is A: No, it is open to all. Archdeacon Philip Morris, Kate Lawless, Rowena Small, Sheila Coleman and the calling them to ministry whether that be Revd Anthony Beer with contributions from throughout the Diocese. Please send clerical or lay.” Q: Do I have to have any qualifications? your articles and pictures for the next edition of Croeso to Alison Young, Diocese of The next Exploring Spiritual A: No, Just an open heart and mind. Llandaff, The Court, Coychurch, Bridgend, CF35 5HF or preferably by email to Accompaniment course runs from You may find it helpful to have taken [email protected] . The next edition will be published on September 12, on the second Saturday part in the first module of Living Faith Thursday, October 1. The copy deadline is Tuesday, September 8. Croeso can be of each month from 10am to 3pm at the –Spirituality and Prayer. seen on our website www.llandaff.org.uk Diocesan Office in Coychurch, Bridgend. Topics covered in the course are Q: Who is leading the course? confidentiality, what is spiritual A: The Diocesan Spirituality group will Check out our web-site accompaniment, know yourself, listening facilitate each session with occasional www.llandaff.org.uk skills, challenges of prayer, exploring guest speakers creative skills, bereavement and aging, croeso Summer 2015 11

SCHOOLS Top of the class

With new headteachers recently taking over at A: Llansannor & Llanharry Church in Wales School felt Education is the main factor in making a difference to the helm of two of our primary schools, we welcoming and like a family school the minute I walked children’s lives. I wanted to be a part of that difference. decided to catch up with them to find out who through the doors. I empathise with the aims of a they are and to learn about their plans for the Church in Wales school to serve its community by Q: What’s the difference between being a classroom future. providing an education of the highest quality within the teacher and a headteacher? context of Christian belief and practice. At the same time A: I am still a teacher. I loved my 17 years as a Sue Prosser, joined it promotes strong Christian values through the classroom teacher but I was keen to use my strengths, Llansannor & Llanharry experience it offers learners. skills and knowledge to lead and develop others in Church in Wales Primary becoming valued and effective facilitators, striving with School as headteacher in Q: What do you think is the biggest challenge facing the same desire as I have to achieve the highest January this year. faith schools today? possible standards for all pupils.The biggest difference A: I think many of the c hallenges faced by leaders of / difficulty is how the nature of the job actually takes Q: Why did you become a faith schools today are similar to those for leaders of any me away from the direct involvement with pupils. I have teacher? other maintained schools. However, there are some A: I trained to become a to make sure I take myself away from my desk and issues which, while relevant to all schools, raise some spend time with them. teacher quite late, completing specific issues for faith schools. e.g. my PGCE in 2001. I had spent • the need to maintain distinctiveness as a faith school Q: What attracted you to this particular post/school? 10 years working in the private and retain our school’s religious character which can be A: The setting of the school is idyllic – all my previous sector prior to this, working abroad in Brussels for two challenging with increasing secular values. years before returning to Wales. When I had my own • balancing the two priorities of educational attainment schools had very little/no school grounds and I feel children I became fascinated in child development and and moral and spiritual development. privileged to come to school every day. I am thoroughly learning - something that is still with me today. • the need to build the capacity of the school, including enjoying my first year of headship and have already the recruitment, retention and development of staff and learned a great deal from the challenges and Q: What’s the biggest difference between being a governors and balancing the importance of having staff experiences I encounter every day. No day is ever the classroom teacher and a headteacher? who actively practise the faith of the school with the same – education is indeed a life-long journey. A: Good schools are all about the calibre of their need to maximise staff quality. teaching staff - they make the biggest difference to our Q: What are the main differences between working in a children’s lives. I see my job as ensuring they have the Q: They say school days are the best days of your life, church school as you do now and in a non-church best tools, resources, training and learning environment please choose three words to describe your own school school as you have previously? to do their best and ensure every child thrives and days? A: There are the obvious differences, for example RE achieves their potential. Being headteacher allows you A: Friendships, Adventure, Laughter being a core subject and holding daily Worship instead to lead a team to achieve a vision, drive change and of Assembly. However more importantly, I feel that raise standards. Gen Hallett has been the working within the context of Christian belief and headteacher at St practice, and an understanding of shared values, our Q: Do you miss the classroom side of your work now Andrews Major Church in pupils’ well-being is at the heart of their success. you are a head? Wales Primary School A: Yes! It’s early days, but I already miss the interaction since September 2014. Q: They say schools days are the best days of your life, with the children. At the moment, it feels like there is please choose three words to describe your school always something that pulls me away from the Q: Why did you become a days? classroom and teaching and learning. teacher? A: Happy, Engaging, Life-changing. A: Teaching is one of the most Q: What attracted you to this particular post/school? important jobs in the world! Pupils create mosaic of church year Young people lobby A new mosaic depicting the politicians church year has been created by pupils at a Vale school. Eleven young people from St John Baptist High Each of the 200 pupils at St Brides School, Aberdare attended the Citizens UK General Major Church in Wales Primary School Election Accountability Assembly in Methodist Central near Bridgend had a hand in helping to Hall, Westminster, on May 4. create the stunning 20ft by 14ft artwork Citizens UK is a non-partisan organisation in which which was made from broken tiles. faith groups, and many other organisations come The mosaic was made in conjunction together to effect change in their local communities. with artist-in-residence Kate Derbyshire Last year Citizens UK groups were launched in Cardiff from nearby St Nicholas, who spent a and in The Vale, and a group is in the process of being month working with pupils at the school. set up in the valleys. It was officially unveiled and blessed by The purpose of the accountability assembly was to the Assistant Bishop of Llandaff, David celebrate the achievements of Citizens UK over the last Wilbourne during a service at the school. few years and to hold the three main party leaders to A new altar donated by nearby Ewenny account for promises they made to Citizens UK in the Priory Church, replicating the church’s run up to the last general election and to get them to own altar was also unveiled at the commit to working with Citizens UK over the next few service. years to address key issues. Headteacher Duncan Mottram said, In the run up to the General Election the young “We are delighted with the finished result people in St John’s School were engaged in which every single child in the school encouraging the whole of the Sixth Form to register to played a part in creating.” vote. The mosaic illustrates the various “The young people registered 70% of the Sixth Form stages of the church calendar of Advent, to vote. At the beginning of this task, the young people Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter, were not very interested in the Election because they Ascension, Pentecost and Trinity. weren’t able to vote and were not very keen to vote in Pictures show (left to right) Archdeacon the future. However, their experience of persuading Philip Morris, Duncan Mottram (head), others to register and their experience in London, pupils Anna Roberts, Andre Joseph, Elin where they heard about issues that were important and May and Bishop David. they realised that they too can make a difference,” said the Revd Dr Sarah Rogers, the diocesan youth officer. 12 croeso Summer 2015 Tell us what you think of Croeso

The editorial team is currently reviewing the quarterly Diocesan 4. Do you have any suggestions for new content? newspaper, Croeso, and wants to know your views on it. What do ...... you like or dislike about it? Are there things that you would like to ...... see more or less of? It is your newspaper, and we want to know ...... how it can best serve you, its readers. You can complete the ...... survey via a link (https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/3HDSCDH), or simply fill in this form and send it to Alison Young, Llandaff Diocesan Office, The Court, Coychurch, Bridgend, CF35 5HF 5. Is there anything that you would like to see more of? ...... 1. How often do you read Croeso? Always / Often / Sometimes / Rarely* / Never* ...... * If you ticked rarely or never, could you tell us why? ...... 6. What do you think Croeso should achieve as a Diocesan ...... newspaper? Tick as many as apply

2. Do you like the style of Croeso as a tabloid newspaper? J It should share good news from parishes in the Diocese Yes / No J It should inform about Diocesan and Provincial events and plans 3. What do you think of The Content? Excellent Good Average* Poor* J It should be a voice for people in the pews

The Bishop’s Letter J It should reach out to those outside the Church Comings and Goings Around the Diocese J It should seek to be proactive and campaigning on topical issues People profiles and interviews J News from the Church in Wales It should offer a church perspective on current affairs Schools’ Focus Features 7. Is there anything else you’d like to say to us? The Design? ...... The Layout? ...... * If Average or Poor, could you tell us why? ......

Spotlight on the Older People’s Commissioner for Introducing ‘All Together in One’ Wales, Sarah Rochira A monthly non-denominational signed service for Deaf “Since taking up have a good quality of life and my call for the people in the Cardiff and Newport area was set up 18 post in 2012, I preservation of vital community services that months ago and would welcome new members. Initially it have been a regular older people rely on, such as bus routes, was called the Cardiff Deaf Service but has now changed visitor to the public toilets and day centres. its name to ‘All Together in One’ to reflect the aims of the parishes that make Many of the older people I meet and speak group. up the Diocese of with across Wales tell me that they do not The group meets on the first Sunday of every month at the Woodville Llandaff, meeting know how to engage with their Local Authority Christian Centre in Crwys Road, Cardiff, at 3pm, and hold a service with older people and often feel powerless when proposals are followed by a buffet. The service is led by three people Betty and and finding out made to reduce or bring to an end essential Jonathan Bosman who are Deaf and Ann Jones who is hearing. about the issues community services they rely upon, services “The three of us all participate in the leading of a fully signed service. that matter most to often described as ‘lifelines’, such as local We are non-denominational, welcoming people from all church them. buses, public toilets and libraries. backgrounds. At least two of the people who attend our service My work has been guided by what people After listening to these concerns, I have consider it their church,” they said. have told me during these visits to meet older produced a practical Toolkit that is aimed at “The service lasts about 40 minutes and contains, worship, prayer, a people in settings such as lunch clubs and helping older people to make their voices short sermon with visual content (usually pictures using power point), gardening clubs, in care homes and social heard and influence the decisions that affect but also drama and film clips. Group participation is encouraged and housing complexes, 50+ Forums, day centres their lives. often we have a group discussion after the talk. and at groups for people living with different Through my Engagement Roadshow, my “We feel we provide a ‘Deaf Space’ for people to meet and receive disabilities and conditions. team and I have met with hundreds of older the Gospel in their own language and culture. Basic tenets of the Some of the major projects my office has people across the Llandaff Diocese during the Christian faith have been shared, questions answered, and we have been involved in over the last year, have past year, ensuring that their voices guide and been able to explain about the uniqueness of Jesus.” included my Care Home Review, which looked drive my work. Outreach weekends are held regularly with outside Deaf at whether older people living in care homes If you would like me, or a member of my preachers/evangelists invited to preside. Around 60 people – both Deaf team, to visit any group or organisation you and hearing attended the latest outreach weekend held earlier this year are involved in to discuss my role and remit – led by Bob and Gabi McFarland, a Deaf couple from Leicester. and any issues that matter to you, please “We are publicising our existence and these events as we would like contact [email protected] anyone interested to support our monthly meetings and outreach. Any or call 029 2044 5033. deaf people who sign, would be very welcome at the monthly service,” You can also find out more about my Care they added. croeso has been creatively designed & Home Review or request a copy of my Dates of meetings for 2015. Mersey Mirror printed by , The Foundry, Community Services Toolkit by visiting June 7, July 5, August 2, September 6, October 4, November 1 and 36 Henry Street, Liverpool L1 5BS www.olderpeoplewales.com or by calling December 6. Tel: 0151 709 7567 08442 640670.” To contact the group you can email them at email: [email protected] [email protected]

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