signposts 150 march 2013
DESCRIPTION
Magazine for the Irfon and Wye Valley ChurchesTRANSCRIPT
Magazine for the Irfon and Wye Valley Churches
Issue No 150 March 2013
Lent begins on Wednesday 13th
February and
once more we are urged to spiritual reflection,
deeper personal vocation and good works which
benefit others. The importance of putting into
action the fine words we may utter with our lips
cannot be underestimated.
I am reminded of the account of the
transfiguration, which contains the words “This
is my Son, my chosen; listen to him.” And
transforming words into actions is often the
consequence of heeding that command to listen.
The church is to be an agent of his loving
purposes for the world in which we live; called
to ‘see’ Jesus, to take up the cross with him and
to be galvanised into loving action.
Economic times, both within the church and
outside, remain challenging; and the vast variety
of human suffering and need impacts daily upon
us in many different ways, not least through the
media. And although we may feel hard-pressed
as a church and as individual members of the
Body, Jesus still calls us to remember what we
are for – to be that agent of his love and to be
generous stewards of what we possess.
That being so, I am again asking you, as
members of the Diocesan family, to
support my Lent Appeal and, in doing
so, to help relieve some of the burdens
which others in our human family bear.
The three charities chosen this year are:
• Welsh Dragons Childrens Burns
Club based at Morriston Hospital.
• The Kaleidoscope Project working
with those with substance issues in
Brecon and Llandrindod Wells
• ZANE. (Zimbabwe – A National
Emergency) working to transform
societies in Zimbabwe.
Since I first decided to launch a Lent Appeal you
have responded brilliantly, and we have, since
that first effort, sent over £35,000 to support a
range of good and worthwhile causes,
demonstrating the Christian love and the
generosity of spirit that our Diocesan family
possesses. We now have another opportunity for
as many of us as possible to focus upon doing
something to bring light and hope to people in
dark times in dark places and in profound need.
By this time, you are well able to devise
imaginative or traditional methods of either
raising money for the appeal or simply setting
something aside as a personal discipline.
However you choose to proceed, I wish you well.
Jesus said ‘By this my Father is glorified
that you bear much fruit and so prove to be
my disciples.’
Contributions for next issue (April) Monday 11
th March
A Lenten Letter from Bishop John Davies
2
KING, MORTER, PROUD & CO
CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Worried about Self Assessment?
We can advise.
We also offer Specialist Advice in:
TAXATION Personal and Business
SELF ASSESSMENT
V.A.T.
AUDIT
FARM FINANCE
BANK HOUSE, BUILTH WELLS Tel : 01982 553687 Fax : 01982 552957
Are you struggling with a problem?
Do you need some advice or support?
Age Concern Powys offers FREE &
CONFIDENTIAL help
Give us a ring on 01982 553436
and ask for Emma or Kathy
SYDNEY
G.
THOMAS
& CO.
Solicitors West End House
Builth Wells
Tel. 01982 553289
J.A. Powell &J.A. Powell &J.A. Powell &J.A. Powell & Sons Sons Sons Sons Great House Garage, Newbridge-on-Wye
Tel: 01597 860 235
Fronheulog Retirement Home
A Private Family-Run Home for the Elderly
Caring for those you care about
� Day Care / Full time Care
� Holiday stays / Respite care
� Excellent 24hr Care & Attention by fully trained staff
� Choice of Menus, Special Diets catered for
� Regular activities and events
� Visiting GP’s, Hairdresser and Chiropody
Ithon Road, Llandrindod Wells, Powys 01597 824826
Caleb Roberts Insurance Services Limited
01982 553 050
Motor, House and Business Insurance
Free Quotations
Our historic Manor House, once the home of Lord Swansea, is now a three star country house hotel. Set in 27acres of parkland surrounded by the River Irfon we offer affordable luxury, an excellent restaurant and high quality bedroom accommodation.
‘‘‘‘SPECIAL OFFER!’SPECIAL OFFER!’SPECIAL OFFER!’SPECIAL OFFER!’ £20 off ST David’s Day Dinner 1 March Now only £29:00*
(Book NOW to get this special offer!)
Tel: 01982 552601 Tel: 01982 552601 Tel: 01982 552601 Tel: 01982 552601 email: caerberis@btcoemail: caerberis@btcoemail: caerberis@btcoemail: [email protected] www.caerberis.comwww.caerberis.comwww.caerberis.comwww.caerberis.com
Llanwrtyd Wells
21 En-suite Bedrooms
Restaurant and Bar Meals
Two Traditional Bars with Log Fires
Walking and Mountain Biking Holidays
Our own Microbrewery producing a range of fine
ales – the “Heart of Wales Brewery”
Launderette open for public use
Telephone 01591 610 236
www.NeuaddArmsHotel.co.uk
Powys Over 60?
3
Deanery Notices .
Sunday 10th MARCH
*Music* *Praise*
*Witness* *Fellowship*
ALL AGE WORSHIP
18.00 ST. MARY’S CHURCH
BUILTH WELLS
BreconBreconBreconBrecon CathedralCathedralCathedralCathedral
Tuesday 26th March
12.00 noon
Chrism EucharistChrism EucharistChrism EucharistChrism Eucharist
An opportunity to
commit ourselves afresh
to our ministries both
Lay and Ordained
Handel’s “THE MESSIAH”
Charity COME-and-SING St Mary's Church in Kington Saturday 16th March 2013
1.30-5.30pm Rehearsals 7pm public performance (dress informal) Singers £10 (£5 students), non-singers/audience: free entry Directed by Kington Choral Society’s Roger Langford. Retiring collection proceeds towards KCS Performers fund and “Music for the Brain” (The Alzheimers Society).
Text: 07766 097 600, email: [email protected], or
visit: www.kingtonchoral.org.uk to request a registration form or find out more information.
Diocese of Swansea and Brecon
and Swansea University present
“TheTheTheThe Christian Christian Christian Christian
FaithFaithFaithFaith and Theand Theand Theand The
Financial CrisisFinancial CrisisFinancial CrisisFinancial Crisis”
Thursday, 7th
March
at 19.00
Callaghan Lecture Theatre,
Swansea University
Lord Griffiths of Fforestfach
(Head of the Prime Minister’s
Policy Unit at
No. 10 Downing Street 1985-1990)
Food for Thought Local churches in the Builth Wells area have joined
with the local Community Support to start a lunch
club for the over 60's at the Jubilee Hall at
Llanelwedd, the first meal was held on Friday 9th
November with the team serving up beef casserole and
trifle. With a cost of only £4 for main course, dessert and tea/coffee as
well as a short activity after the lunch, you'd have to look hard to find a
better bargain!
If you are over 60 and live in Builth, Llanelwedd, Cilmery, Aberedw,
Builth Road, Cwmbach and are interested in attending, then please
contact Builth Wells Community Support at 14 High Street, Builth
Wells. Tel 01982 553004 for a membership form, numbers will be
limited so please contact them soon.
Volunteers are still needed to help prepare & serve the meal, set up the
hall, provide transport & organise the after lunch activities, if you can
help then please contact Builth Wells Community Support.
LLANGASTY
RETREAT HOUSE www.llangasty.com
Monday 25th
March
“The Last Supper
Storytelling Day” for Holy Week
Led by Revd Eva McIntyre - A day of quiet reflection
in the tranquil surroundings of Llangasty Retreat
House £25
Drop-In Quiet Days are on Monday 18th March and
Monday 15th April and offer an opportunity to pause for
prayer and personal reflection - come for all or part of the
day. Bring your own lunch. Coffee and tea provided. No
charge, but donations welcome. No need to book.
2nd National Wales
Children & Youthwork
Day Conference 9th March Hope Church Newtown
Seminars * Workshops * Resources
If you are a Christian involved in working with
children, young people and families in Wales this
is a day for YOU! Cost: £15
[email protected] www.wncywc.org.uk
Organised and endorsed by: Scripture Union Wales, YWAM
Wales, Christian Council for the Schools of Wales, Presbyterian
Church Youth & Children’s Service, Urban Saints Wales, The
Welsh Sunday School Council, Trobwynt, Salvation Army South
Wales Division, Christians in Sport, Ignite, EA Wales, EMW,
Baptist Union of Wales
4
The Colwyn Group of Parishes
Dear FriendsDear FriendsDear FriendsDear Friends Firstly, may I say a huge thank-you to all who contributed
to making the Induction Service such an enjoyable and
memorable time. The folks and the flowers in church, the
celebration afterwards – what can I say? Just ‘thank you’
seems so inadequate.
The grandeur of the Service was wonderful. There is a
part of the Service where the Incumbent reads out the
Services in the various churches for the following Sunday.
That got me thinking ‘what is church’? Well, we certainly
have some wonderful examples of church buildings in
Wales! Places where people have worshipped for
centuries. But is that it? Whether it’s because I work
outside the box in my rural role, but I believe very firmly
that the church is the people of God – a welcoming church
family of God, no matter where that may be and no matter
where they gather.
That’s exactly what we are doing at Easter here in
Colwyn. We are welcoming our eight Confirmation
candidates into the family of the church on Easter Sunday
morning at 10.00am in Hundred House Hall. As it is a
fifth Sunday we would be there anyway, but more
importantly we are using the occasion to come together as
a Benefice to welcome an exciting event and to give
thanks to God and Our Risen Lord for those eight folk
who have chosen to make a commitment to follow him in
their lives! To me, that’s what church is all about!!
Liz joins me in wishing you a very happy & blessed Easter.
Vicar RichardVicar RichardVicar RichardVicar Richard
Maundy Thursday Eucharist & Altar Stripping This Service will be at 7pm at Llanelwedd
Good Friday in ColwynGood Friday in ColwynGood Friday in ColwynGood Friday in Colwyn As the schools do not break up until half way through Holy
Week we have moved our Easter Activities to Good Friday
between 10.00 and 12.00noon in Hundred House Hall
where we will be doing the Easter Gardens and crafts. Soup
will be served from 12.30 then we will have our walk to
Franksbridge Chapel for the last hour of devotion. All are
welcome to join us for some or part of the day.
Women’s WorWomen’s WorWomen’s WorWomen’s World Day of Prayerld Day of Prayerld Day of Prayerld Day of Prayer This is on Friday 1
st March at 2.00pm in St Mary’s,
Builth. The Service this year has been designed by the
women of France. This Service is not just for women
– all are welcome.
Messy ChurchMessy ChurchMessy ChurchMessy Church Our next Messy Church event will be on Thurs 21
st March
from 3.30pm. Crafts – Worship – Fellowship & Cooked
Meal all on the theme. What’s not to like about it!!
Services for Services for Services for Services for MarchMarchMarchMarch 2013 2013 2013 2013 3
rd March Lent 3
Llansantffraed 10.00 RK Eucharist
Glascwm 6.00 ET Village Service
10th March Mothering Sunday
Cregrina 9.30 RK Eucharist
Llanelwedd 11.15 RK Eucharist
Mothering Sunday Service
17th March Lent 5
Llanfaredd 9.30 RK Eucharist
Llansantffraed 10.00 MO Morning Prayer
Glascwm 11.15 RK Eucharist
Rhulen 11.15 JO Eucharist
24th
March Palm Sunday Cregrina 9.30 MO Village Service
Bettws 9.30 JO Eucharist
Llanelwedd 10.45 RK/LK/ET Worship4All Family Service Palm Procession with donkey
31st March Easter Sunday
Hundred House Hall 10.00 RK
Family Eucharist & Welcome to the Church Family of
the newly Confirmed. Sunday Club - Refreshments to
follow the Service. Easter Egg Hunt for all!
Llanfaredd 9.30 JO Eucharist
Bettws 11.00 JO Eucharist
Rhulen 11.15 MO Ext. Eucharist
Worship4All Family ServiceWorship4All Family ServiceWorship4All Family ServiceWorship4All Family Service Our March Family Service will be on 24th March at
10.45am at St. Matthew’s Church, Llanelwedd. We
will meet at Jewson’s at 10.15am for our Palm
Sunday Procession with donkey down to church. A
different style service is on offer, with tea/coffee and
cake afterwards. Please come and join us!!
Lent Lunches/CourseLent Lunches/CourseLent Lunches/CourseLent Lunches/Course We will be holding Soup Lunches with Lent Course on
the following dates – all at 12.30pm at The Rectory.
26th
February, 5th
, 12th
& 19th
March
For further information call 01982 551288
‘Marian’‘Marian’‘Marian’‘Marian’ Most of us will know that Revd Marian Morgan has
retired from her post as Acting Area Dean and will shortly
be heading for warmer climes. We in the Colwyn Group
would like to say a huge ‘thank you’ for all she did in that
role. A very happy and peaceful retirement Marian!!
LLANELWEDD WI Meets on the last Wednesday of the month in the Jubilee
Hall at 2.30pm. New members welcome. For more
details contact Barbara Waller on 01982 551930
Llanelwedd with Llanfaredd, Llansantffraed-in-Elwell, Bettws, Cregrina, Glascwm and Rhulen
Revd Richard Kirlew, The Rectory, Llanelwedd LD2 3TY, Tel: 01982 551288, Email: [email protected]
5
Thank you MarianThank you MarianThank you MarianThank you Marian
There is a feeling of sadness widespread throughout both our Deanery, and in
particular the Parishes of Aberedw and Bryngwyn Newchurch, as Marian leaves
us. But those feelings are really a measure of the great esteem in which she is
held by each and every individual over the last few years as Area Dean and
Parish Priest.
However in the midst of our sadness there is a great feeling of acceptance
and a very sincere wish that her new life in Cyprus will bring her joy,
fulfilment and happiness.
I have known Marian many years. Before she was ordained, we both worked in the Public Sector, both in
what were challenging and responsible areas, and were both ordained as “older” candidates – Marian to
the Stipendiary ministry and me to the Non-stipendiary.
She has always there to encourage and support all who have come into contact with her. Her way is not
to call on us from the front or shove us from behind – rather she walked with us all the way. We all owe
her a great debt for her meticulous preparation for all Church liturgies - she made so many days special
for those of us involved.
On behalf of us all in the Erwood & Painscastle Group I thank her for her devotion to the sick and
suffering, to her sense of community and support every type of community involvement - her door was
always open.
Above all we thank her for being our Priest, built on the
person she is, the work that she did, the support that she
gave, the kindness she showed and her dedication and
commitment to her priestly duties.
As Priests, we are indeed privileged. “People invite us
into their lives in a very special way at moments of joy
and sadness, at important parts of their lives. This is not
something we ask for, but we are privileged to be able
to share.
We are all thankful for the opportunities we’ve had to work with Marian, the opportunities to be with her
in our various parishes and various ministries.
Marian, may God bless you in your new ministry and life in Cyprus, you will be constantly in our
thoughts and above all, Prayers.
Reverend Philip Morris
… And a Message from the Acting Area Dean I’d like to share a brief word of thanks to Revd Marian Morgan. Nobody was more pleased than Richard
Kirlew or myself when Marian agreed to be Area Dean after Nigel Hall’s retirement. All of us, I think
have had numerous occasions to bless her ever since.
She has brought to the Deanery and the Erwood and Painscastle Groups her warmth, her love and her
tenderness, but don’t be mistaken there was firmness in those gentle hands. In these and so many and
varied ways Marian has revealed among us the generous heart of God; it has been an immense privilege
to have served alongside her.
I would like to wish her God’s choicest blessings in her new vocation, as I strongly suspect that to call it
retirement would be something of a misnomer: ‘retiring’ I’m convinced it will not be. But blessed,
enjoyable and fulfilling I’m sure and I pray it will be.
Reverend Benedict Griffith
6
Builth Secretarial Services
Word processing; virtual assistant (via the internet); audio-
typing; CVs; black and white photocopying; colour and black & white printing from disk, digital camera or memory card/stick;
scanning photographs, slides and negatives; fax facilities; binding; laminating. We also copy VCR/camcorder tapes to DVD, vinyl/cassette to CD, produce personalised/corporate items such as calendars and frame pictures enlarged from
original photographs. Please phone to discuss your requirements. We may also
collect and deliver.
01982 560422 (Aberedw) or 07552 995881
(Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm)
ROOF & CHIMNEY CARE
~PITCHED & FLAT ROOFS~ ~LEAD & DECORATIVE LEAD
WORK~ ~GUTTERING AND FASCIAS~ ~NEW
ROOFS AND REPAIRS~ ~EVERYTHING FROM SLATES TO TILES~
CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE: REPAIRS TO REBUILDS SWEEPING – PAINTING
For Friendly Advice & Free Quotations Please Contact
Matthew Drew… 07525 437083 ~ 01874 712264
www.roofandchimneycare.co.uk
GETTING ON with the net
a service
for
Are you set up with computer & broadband but
Are you set up with computer & broadband but
still not confident about going online?
Call Marianne on 01591 620547 or email [email protected]
FREE initial session to resolve small problems and discuss potential requirements
www.gettingonwiththenet.co.uk
To Advertise Here
Contact
01591 620 648 [email protected]
RAINBOW TOTSRAINBOW TOTSRAINBOW TOTSRAINBOW TOTS PREPREPREPRE----SCHOOLSCHOOLSCHOOLSCHOOL Irfon Valley CP School
Garth, Powys
Monday, Wednesday and Friday Mornings 8:50am-12:10pm
A lovely in school setting for children aged 2½ to school age.
£10 per session until the term after the child's third birthday, then the sessions are free.
Singing, dancing, running, jumping, laughing and playing with friends.
Come along and have some fun!
Call the school today for a chat on 01591 620281
7
The Builth Wells Group of Parishes
Prayers are said most weekdays in the Chapel of the Holy Name of Jesus in St Mary’s, Builth – see St Mary’s noticeboard for details.
Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday WorshipWorshipWorshipWorship 03
rd March (Lent III)
09.30 Sung Eucharist at St. Mary the Virgin, Builth
15.00 Eucharist & AGM at St. David’s, Llanddewi’r-Cwm
10 March (Lent IV)
09.30 Holy Eucharist at St. Mary the Virgin, Builth
11.00 Matins & AGM at St. David’s, Maesmynis
18.00 CELEBR8 at St. Mary the Virgin, Builth
17 March (Passion Sunday) 09.30 Holy Eucharist at St. Mary the Virgin, Builth
24 March (Palm Sunday) 09.30 Eucharist of the Palms at St. Mary’s, Builth
11.00 Eucharist of the Palms at St. David’s, Maesmynis
18.00 Sung Evensong at St. Mary the Virgin, Builth
31 March (Easter Day) 09.30 Sung Eucharist at St. Mary the Virgin, Builth
11.00 Said Eucharist at St Mauritius, Alltmawr
15.00 Said Eucharist at St. David’s, Llanddewi’r Cwm
ParParParParish Diaryish Diaryish Diaryish Diary Regular Events
• A said Eucharist is celebrated every Thursday at
10.00 in the Chapel of the Holy Name of Jesus in
St Mary’s, Builth Wells
• Handbell Group every Tuesday at 19.00 in St.
Mary’s Minor Hall
• Bellringing every Thursday at St Mary’s Tower at
19.45 – all welcome
• SAINTS ALIVESAINTS ALIVESAINTS ALIVESAINTS ALIVE kids club at Maesmynis Hall 16.00
on March 13 & 27.
• Youth Alpha – Every Friday between 19 January
and 29 March 16.00 in St Mary’s
Other events
• 04 March: Reserved Communion in Brynhyfryd
Residential Home 11.00
• 01 March: Womens World Day of Prayer Service in
St. Mary’s 14.00
• 07 March: Mothers Union in St. Mary’s Minor
Hall 14.30
From the VicarageFrom the VicarageFrom the VicarageFrom the Vicarage As we approach Holy Week and Easter we think
about new beginnings. This last eighteen months have
been a period of new beginnings for the Builth Group
of parishes. The successful transition of the
interregnum and my appointment as Vicar has been
helped and assisted in no small manner by the loving
care and ministry demonstrated by our outgoing Area
Dean, Marian. All of us in the Builth Group wish her
well in her retirement and thank her for her devotion
and care.
Can I also take this opportunity to invite you all to
join us for our extensive Holy Week and Easter
services and in particular to join us at our Easter Eve
Vigil Eucharist when Bishop +John will be
confirming candidates from across the Deanery.
Blessings
Father Neil
Find us in Cyberspace at: www.builthgroup.org.uk
facebook.com/BuilthGroup
twitter.com/BuilthGroup
Holy Week EventsHoly Week EventsHoly Week EventsHoly Week Events
Holy Monday 25 March School Worship in Builth Primary 09.00
Tenebrae Service in St. Mary the Virgin 19.00
Holy Tuesday 26 March Chrism Eucharist at Brecon Cathedral 12.00 Holy Wednesday 27 March School Worship in Builth High School 08.50
Saints Alive!Saints Alive!Saints Alive!Saints Alive! Kids Club Easter Exploration, Maesmynis Hall 16.00
Maundy Thursday 28 March Eucharist with the Reception of Holy Oils in St Mary’s 20.00
Watch before the Blessed Sacrament in St Mary’s 21.00-23.50
Plainsong Compline in St Mary the Virgin 23.50
Good Friday 29 March Walk of Witness 10.00
Stations of the Cross in Christ the King, Builth 12.00
Good Friday Devotions Alpha Chapel 14.00
Confirmation rehearsal in St. Mary the Virgin 16.00
Easter Eve 30 March Reserved Communion in Brynhyfryd Residential Home 11.00
Confirmation and Vigil Eucharist with Bishop +John in St. Mary’s, Builth 19.00
Builth Wells with Llanddewi’r-Cwm & Llangynog with Maesmynis & Llanynis with Alltmawr
Revd Father Neil Hook, The Vicarage, 1 North Road, Builth Wells LD2 3BT, Tel: 01982 552355, Email: [email protected]
8
The Erwood & Painscastle Group of Parishes
Sunday 3rd
March: Lent III
9.30am Morning Prayer Gwenddwr
9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanbadarn-y-Garreg
11.00am Morning Prayer Llandeilo Graban
Wednesday 6th
March
Crickadarn MU Holy Eucharist & Lent Lunch
Sunday 10th
March: Lent IV/ Mothering Sunday
10.30am Group Eucharist Gwenddwr
Sunday 17th
March: Lent V/ Passion Sunday
9.30am Lambing Time Service Llandeilo Graban
11.00am Morning Prayer Gwenddwr
Sunday 24th
March: Lent VI/ Palm Sunday
11.00am Holy Eucharist Aberedw
2.30pm United Service with Moriah Chapel
Llandeilo Graban
Maundy Thursday 28th
March
7.00pm Agape and Eucharist Aberedw
Good Friday 29th
March
2.30pm Devotions before the Cross
Llanbadarn-y-Garreg
2.30pm Devotions before the Cross
Newchurch
Sunday 31st March: Easter Day
8.00am Dawn Eucharist of the Resurrection Aberedw
9.30am Holy Eucharist Crickadarn
11.00am Holy Eucharist Llanbedr
PAINSCASTLE MOTHERS UNION Do join us for our meeting on Tuesday 12
th March at
7.30pm in Painscastle Village Hall.
Speaker: Mark Davies: Fire Safety in the House
For more information call Fran Shaw on 01982 560 480.
�� ��� ���� �� � ��A �� A� ����������
Attend an emergency life support source at Llanyre Church Hall
6pm - 7pm on the following dates:
18th March: Adult CPR
25th March: Recognition of a heart attack and unconscious casualty management
15th April: Choking & wounds and bleeding
22nd April: Paediatric emergency life support
Cost £48
There are only 12 places available so book quickly!
Details: [email protected] or 07429 156487/07429 429472
A-Z Of Churchyard Conservation
"A" is for Ant Mounds
Churchyards have become a refuge for the harmless Yellow
Meadow Ant, Lasius flavus, because it lives in permanent
pasture which has become a rare habitat. The Yellow Ant
builds mounds of earth full of passages and galleries in
which they rear their brood, feeding them on large numbers
of insects. The nests, which can be up to 100 years old, are
like icebergs, as much below the ground as above. They are
often built against a gravestone, facing the sun, and do not
cause any damage.
We would always advocate to leave these nests which add
character and diversity to the churchyard. However should
you want to remove them the nest can be moved. If it is just
the mound that is in the way then cutting it off at ground
level in the winter (not mowing over it in the summer!) will
level the ground but not harm the ants who are all in the soil
below at that time. If you want to move the whole nest this
should be done in summer, in August, after the winged
young males and females have left the nest. It should be
moved into a sunny spot and not destroyed.
Caring for God's Acre, dedicated to the conservation of burial ground
01588 673041 [email protected] www.caringforgodsacre.co.uk
Aberedw w Llandeilo Graban w Llanbadarn-y-Garreg w Crickadarn w Gwenddwr & Bryngwyn
w Newchurch w Llanbedr Painscastle w Llanddewi Fach
For information during the interregnum please contact the Acting Area Dean: Revd Ben Griffith, 2 Highbury Fields, Llanyre, LD1 6NF, Tel: 01597 823321, Email: [email protected]
9
10
The Upper Wye Group of Parishes Dear Friends, I wonder how you regard the
season of Lent. With all of our
reminders in Church about
abstinence, penitence and fasting
not to mention spiritual
mortification; you would be a very
remarkable person indeed, if you
did not respond to the prospect of the beginning of
Lent much as you would the journey to the Dentist for
root-canal fillings!!
And yet, penitence, abstinence and spiritual
mortification notrwithstanding, Lent doesn’t have to
be like that at all; indeed I would go so far as to say
that it shouldn’t be like that at all!!
It seems to me that the best comparison we can find
for our Lenten journey are the “Well woman” and
“Well man” clinics now being offered by so many GP
surgeries. Not having attended either, I assume that
during such a clinic all of the signifiers of our physical
wellbeing are carefully and rigorously tested to
determine quite how physically fit you are. If you
have attained that “interesting” stage in life which
only reveals itself when you discover that the gene
responsible for keeping your waist slim has swapped
places with the one responsible for keeping your hair
thick!! Doubtless there will be advice proffered as to
how to ensure that you are at the positive peak of
physical fitness.
Consider Lent as the spiritual equivalent of one of
those clinics; it’s the time in the year when we’re
encouraged to test the condition of our spiritual bodies
are we suffering from an overindulgence upon
spiritual chocolate at Christmas, or has the winter
weather caused us to wrap up so warmly that God’s
been pushed out?
During these weeks of Lent try doing something
different, something that will help your spiritual body
to be ready for the Ecclesiastical Olympics known as
Passiontide and Easter: you really do want that gold
medal on Easter Day, don’t you?
I’d like to wish you a blessed, productive and happy
Lent so that you can truly rejoice in the wonder that is
the resurrection.
With my love and prayers as always, March Highlights in The Upper Wye Group We are very fortunate that our very talented musicians
Siârion will be performing at TWO services this month.
On Friday 1st they will be contributing to the celebration of
our national patron at Llanyre, I do hope you’ll be there to
join us. On Palm Sunday, Siârion will be with us again for
the moving service of “Tenebrae” This incredibly evocative
service relates Christ’s suffering and his triumph over the
powers of darkness. I you’ve been before, you’ll know
quite what an experience it is and if you haven’t then you’ll
just have to come and find out, won’t you?
On Tuesdays in March we will be continuing our Lent
Course “Growing more like Jesus” all you need is a
bible and a willingness to join in.
Thursdays in Lent include a Eucharist at Llanyre
followed by our Lent Lunch at The Vicarage, at least it’ll
be warmer than the church, honest!!
The Holy Eucharist is also celebrated at All Saints
Church, Newbridge-on-Wye on Wednesdays and some
of these will also be followed by a Lent Lunch.
The choir will also be busy this month, as not only will
they be singing at the Tenebrae Service on Palm Sunday,
they also lead our services of Compline on the other
Sundays in Lent.
The Complines this year will be followed by an address
on the theme: “My Life: My Faith”
On Palm Sunday morning we’ll be in Newbridge for a
joint Eucharist and procession through the village: Have
I got a donkey? Come and find out!
On Maundy Thursday, this year we will be going to
Cwmbach for commemoration of the Last Supper, as in the
past, this will be a bring and share meal with the Eucharist
weaving though it. We end with the stripping of the altars,
recalling the dreadful events which unfolded afterwards.
On Good Friday we will be joining with our friends from
Pentref Chapel for an Act of Witness through Newbridge.
On Easter Eve we invite those who are young in body,
spirit or both to hunt easter eggs in Llanyre churchyard
after which we have a short service in church and a bring
and share lunch: all are welcome.
In the evening we gather at Llanafan Fawr for another of
those incredibly beautiful and moving services as we
await the risen Christ. A fire is kindled, the easter candle
is lit and then in a candlelit church we listen to a solo
rendition of the Exultet, the Easter Song of Praise, before
the bells ring out with the news of the resurrection and
the first Eucharist of Easter.
Last year we celebrated at Llanfihangel Brynpabuan and
walked there from Llanafan, this year we shall reverse
the process and walk from Llanfihangel Brynpabuan to
Llanafan at 7.15pm.
Finally on Easter Day itself there will be celebrations at
Llanyre, Cwmbach and Newbridge.
A very happy, blessed and joyous Easter to you all.
Llanyre, Newbridge-on-Wye, Cwmbach Llechrhyd, Llanfihangel Helygen, Llanafan Fawr & Llanfihangel Brynpabuan
Revd Ben Griffith, 2 Highbury Fields, Llanyre, LD1 6NF, Tel: 01597 823321, Email: [email protected]
Ben
11
The Upper Wye Group of Parishes Services in the Upper Wye Group
Friday 1st March St. David/Dydd Gŵyl Ddewi
7.00pm Holy Eucharist/ Cymun Bendigaid Llanyre
With Siârion performing. Followed by refreshments.
Sunday 3rd
March: Lent III
9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanyre
11.00am Holy Eucharist Llanfihangel Brynpabuan
11.00am Morning Praise Newbridge-on-Wye
3.00pm Holy Eucharist Llanfihangel Helygen
7.00pm Compline & Address Llanafan Fawr
Tuesday 5th
March 7.30pm The Vicarage Lent Course 3:
“Gathering as God’s People”
Thursday 7th
March 10.30am Holy Eucharist followed by Lent Lunch
Llanyre
Sunday 10th
March: Lent IV: Mothering Sunday
9.30am Mothering Sunday Service Llanyre
9.30am Holy Eucharist Cwmbach Llechrhyd
11.00am Family Eucharist Newbridge-on-Wye
7.00pm Compline & Address Llanfihangel Helygen
Tuesday 12th
March
7.30pm The Vicarage Lent Course 4:
“Growing more like Jesus”
Wednesday 13th
March 2.30pm Songs of Praise Caerwnon Park Social Club
Thursday 14th
March 10.30am Holy Eucharist followed by Lent Lunch
Llanyre
Sunday 17th
March: Lent 5/Passion Sunday 9.30am Family Eucharist Llanyre
11.00am Family Eucharist Newbridge-on-Wye
3.00pm Holy Eucharist Llanafan Fawr
7.00pm Compline & Address Newbridge-on-Wye
Tuesday 19th
March
7.30pm The Vicarage Lent Course 5:
“Going out in the power of the Spirit”
Thursday 21st March
10.30am Holy Eucharist followed by Lent Lunch
Llanyre
Sunday 24th
March: Lent VI/Palm Sunday 10.00am Benefice Eucharist & Procession
Newbridge-on-Wye
6.00pm Tenebrae Service Llanyre
Monday 25th
March/Lady Day/in Holy Week 2.30pm Llanyre MU Lady Day/Holy Week Service
Llanyre
Tuesday 26th
March in Holy Week 12.00pm Chrism Eucharist Brecon Cathedral
Maundy Thursday 28th
March 7.00pm Agape & Eucharist & stripping of the Altars
Cwmbach Llechrhyd
Good Friday 29th
March
9.00am Morning Prayer & The Litany
Llanfihangel Helygen
10.30am Act of Witness with Pentref Chapel
Newbridge-on-Wye
2.00pm The Last Hour at The Cross Llanyre
Saturday 30th
March: Easter Eve 10.30am Easter Egg Hunt, Service & Lunch Llanyre
8.00pm Easter Vigil & First Eucharist of Easter
Llanafan Fawr (Vicar walking from
Llanfihangel Brynpabuan at 7.15pm)
Sunday 31st March: Easter Day: He is Risen, Alleluia!
9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanyre
9.30am Holy Communion Cwmbach Llechrhyd
11.00am Holy Eucharist Newbridge-on-Wye
Easter Week: NO midweek services this week!!
Sunday April 7th
Easter II
10.00am Benefice Eucharist Llanfihangel Brynpabuan
Llanyre, Newbridge-on-Wye, Cwmbach Llechrhyd, Llanfihangel Helygen, Llanafan Fawr & Llanfihangel Brynpabuan
Revd Ben Griffith, 2 Highbury Fields, Llanyre, LD1 6NF, Tel: 01597 823321, Email: [email protected]
12
The Parishes of the Irfon Valley & Blaenau Irfon
Lucyann writes… A few years ago, longer than I care to remember
now, during some counselling training, I was very
struck by a personal story the trainer told us. He
and his wife had been missionaries, during their
time in the mission field; their marriage came
under a great deal of strain to the extent that they
were not sure it had a future. After some support
and soul searching, they reached turning point
when they found themselves challenged by the
question ‘Do we believe in the resurrection?’ A
pretty fundamental, yet profoundly challenging
question for a Christian, the one that St. Paul is
very clear is crucial to our claim to faith in Jesus.
Perhaps like me, you are already beginning to
feel anxious, inadequate or defensive, full of
robust scientific reasons why the resurrection did
not happen or if it did, it has a perfectly good
scientific explanation ...well, thankfully for the
counselling trainer, he and his wife were too
distressed by the pending death of their marriage
to become overly involved in a more nuanced
theological debate.
They both agreed that they did believe in the
resurrection and therefore, that meant that the
death of their marriage as it had been was no
longer loaded with fear and despair, instead they
were hopeful, perhaps even relieved to let the
previous destructive patterns of the relationship
die and allow a new way of relating be born in
them and so find themselves experiencing the
power and life resurrection in their marriage.
Well, you might say, that’s all very well; retrieving
a marriage from the brink of divorce is easier than
raising a dead body from the grave. I’m not so sure
and I think that this is exactly what the resurrection
challenges us with in subtle and ordinary ways.
If we have lived with chronic ill health, in an
abusive relationship or seen a family member
struggle with severe mental health, we will be
longing for healing and freedom, for our loved
ones and ourselves, with every fibre of our
being. We are not worried about how it comes:
through science, through religion ... or in some
other way, just that it should come. But when the
hope of healing or liberty presents itself, we may
find ourselves conflicted, plagued with myriad
doubts and aware that our hope is as fragile as a
gossamer thread.
I believe that it’s at this moment that we are being
given the opportunity to remember the
resurrection and call on God to give us the faith,
hope and grace to believe we can experience the
power and reality of it in our lives.
So as we walk again together through Holy Week
and Easter Season may we find ourselves held in
the hope and challenge of the resurrection, and
find reassurance in the prayer of Thomas, ‘Lord, I
believe, help my unbelief’.
RECITALRECITALRECITALRECITAL featuring singers
Richard Frewer and Nicholas Thorne
Sat March 16th at 7pm
Eglwys Oen Duw, Beulah
In aid of Mid Wales Music Fund
and Eglwys Oen Duw
Tickets £5 on the door
Wanted! Luxury items, gift tokens or skills required for an
Auction of promises to take place on Sunday 26th
May at Garth House as part of our Wesley
Festival weekend 23-26th
May 2013.
Celebrating the heritage of Garth, Llanlleonfel
church and the marriage of Charles Wesley to
Sarah Gwynne.
For more details please contact David White on
01982 552251 or [email protected]
St Cadmarch’s, Llangammarch Wells; The Parish Church, Llanlleonfel, Garth; St Afan’s, Llanfechan; St Cannen’s,
Llanganten, Cilmery; St. James’, Llanwrtyd Wells; St. David’s, Llanwrtyd; St David’s Tirabad; Eglwys Oen Duw, Beulah;
Revd Lucyann Ashdown, The Rectory, Llangammarch Wells, Tel: 01591 620 244, Email: [email protected]
13
The Parishes of the Irfon Valley & Blaenau Irfon SERVICES
Friday 1st March St David’s Day
St. David’s day service at 1.30pm in St. David’s
Church, Llanwrtyd
7pm Cawl a Chan evening in Victoria Hall,
Llanwrtyd
Sunday 3rd
March Lent 3
9.30am EOD
11am St. James Morning Prayer
11.15am Llanganten Morning Prayer
11.15am Llanlleonfel
Sunday 10th
March Mothering Sunday
9.30am EOD Congregational
9.30am St. Cadmarch
11am St. James
Saturday 16th
March at 7.30pm
Bingo Evening at Alexandra Hall, Llangammarch
Sunday 17th
March St. Patrick’s day
9.30am EOD
11am St. James
11.15am Llanganten
11.15am Llanlleonfel Morning Prayer
Sunday 24th
March. Palm Sunday
9.30am EOD
11am Joint IV Procession & service, St. Cadmarch’s
11am St. James
HOLY WEEK
Maundy Thursday 28th
March
7.30 Joint Benefice Seder Meal in Alexandra
Hall, Llangammarch
Good Friday 29th
March
10.30 Eglwys Oen Duw Stations of the Cross
followed by hot cross buns
10.30-12 noon Reduced Messy Church in
Alexandra Hall ending with light lunch
2pm St. James Good Friday Liturgy with reserved
sacrament
7pm St. Cadmarch Musical Meditation on the Cross
Holy Saturday 30th
March
7.30pm St. David’s, Tirabad: Easter Vigil
3.00pm 'Into the dark' continuing the journey of
Holy Week, Beulah Chapel, Beulah.
Easter Sunday 31st March
06.30am Sunrise service on Epynt followed by
breakfast in Alexandra Hall, Llangammarch
9.30am EOD
11am Joint Irfon Valley Eucharist at
Llanfechan
11am St. James
Sunday 7th
April Easter 2
9.30 Eglwys Oen Duw
11am St. James Morning Prayer
11.15am Llanganten Morning Prayer
11.15am Llanlleonfel
AMENDMENT - Mothers Union Lady Service at
11am in St. James’ Church, Llanwrtyd will be on
Monday 8th
April, not 25th
March as earlier stated.
St Cadmarch’s, Llangammarch Wells; The Parish Church, Llanlleonfel, Garth; St Afan’s, Llanfechan; St Cannen’s,
Llanganten, Cilmery; St. James’, Llanwrtyd Wells; St. David’s, Llanwrtyd; St David’s Tirabad; Eglwys Oen Duw, Beulah;
Revd Lucyann Ashdown, The Rectory, Llangammarch Wells, Tel: 01591 620 244, Email: [email protected]
Since, then,
you have been raised with Christ,
set your hearts
on things above,
where Christ is,
seated at the
right hand
of God. Colossians 3:1
14
D. K. Dixon
Plumbing & Heating
oil & gas servicing
new installations
bathrooms, lead work
Pencae, Hay Road, Builth Wells
Tel: 01982 551023
Mob: 07813 405039
Parry & Pugh
Jane Pugh
(Daughter of the late Walter Parry)
TEL: 01982 552644 MOB: 07974 315328
FUNERAL DIRECTORS
A family business established in 1858
PASADENA, 31 BRECON ROAD, BUILTH WELLS, POWYS LD2 3EB
To Advertise
Here Contact
01591 620 648 [email protected]
Eat within the Old World Charm of the
COSY CORNERCOSY CORNERCOSY CORNERCOSY CORNER
TEA ROOMSTEA ROOMSTEA ROOMSTEA ROOMS Specialising in Home-cooked food
55 High Street, Builth Wells
Tel: 01982 553585
Dale Williams Painting & decorating,
Highest quality
Of papers hung,
Tiling, coving, artexing,
General building
maintenance
Tel: 01874 712206
Mob: 07800 541955
Over 15 years experience,
Fully insured
H. VAUGHAN VAUGHAN & Co
SOLICITORS
COMMISSIONERS FOR OATHS
Established since the 19th century
We offer a full & friendly legal service
_________________________________
SOLE PRINCIPAL: DAVID T. LLOYD
CONSULTANT: CONAL M. DUNN
MANCHESTER HOUSE
HIGH STREET, BUILTH WELLS
TEL: 01982 552331 & 553571
FAX: 01982 552860
Ben Lloyd & Son
______________________________________________________
Memorial Craftsmen
est. 1886 Churchyard memorials
commemorative plaques additional
inscriptions
and renovations Bridge Street, Rhayader Tel. 01597 810320 & 811183
Mob. 07767 220163
THOROUGHLY DRY
SEASONED HARDWOOD
LOGS ASH, OAK, BIRCH & ALDER
From Cefnllysgwynne Estate, Builth Wells
DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR
Cut and split into easily handled sizes.
Packed in bags weighing an average of 8 kilos net
Price: £3.00 per bag (negotiable for
Bulk/regular orders) ORDERS/ENQUIRIES:
Tel: 01982 551624
ELECTRICIAN David Stone Electrics
Free, no obligation quotes for all your household & domestic needs.
07771 767246 [email protected]
01982 570403
NICEIC Registered Insured & all work fully guaranteed
BUILTH WELLS
GARAGES main dealer in Mid Wales for
MOT Test Centre
Car Jet Wash
Llanelwedd 01982 553861 or 552236
www.mccartneys.co.uk
AUCTIONEERS – VALUERS LAND AND ESTATE AGENTS CHARTERED SURVEYORS FINE ART AUCTIONEERS
46 High Street, Builth Wells, Powys, LD2 3AB
Tel: 01982 552259 e-mail: [email protected]
R.W. Evans & Son Ltd
Monumental Mason
Memorials & Commemorative
plaques, additional inscriptions
and renovations
highest quality at low prices, family
firm established 100 yrs
Unit 8B,
Brecon Enterprise Park, Brecon
Tel: 01874 625308 (day)
01874 624913 (eve)
15
‘Nearer to God in a Garden’ – March Daffodils The daffodils and leeks growing in our garden in March remind us of our Patron
Saint, St David, whose feast day is 1st March.
Legend has it that St David advised Welsh warriors to wear local growing leeks in
their caps to distinguish themselves from the enemy. The green and white of the
leek can be seen on the Welsh flag.
It is thought that the daffodil was adopted later as an emblem because the name
was the same in Welsh. Not quite! As ‘leek’ is ‘cenhinen’ in Welsh and ‘daffodil’
is ‘cenhinen Bedr’.
Have you ever wondered what the difference between a daffodil and a narcissus is?
The Latin name of both is Narcissus but the common name ‘daffodil’ is for those
varieties where the trumpet is as long or longer than the petals.
The daffodil is sometimes referred to as the Lent Lily. The word Lent or Lenten originally referred to the
lengthening of the days in Spring but is now thought of as the time before Easter when we think of Christ’s time in
the wilderness.
Linda Lewis
The second in a series of articles about the Church in Wales official positions relating to some of the biggest issues
facing Christians today…
2. WHAT WE BELIEVE ABOUT...
FAMILIES & RELATIONSHIPS The Scriptures show us how God reveals himself in and
through all kinds of human relationships – those between
friends, husbands and wives, sisters and brothers, parents
and children. We are helped by him to love and care for one
another, and we learn more about him through those
experiences. When relationships fail, and we are hurt, we can
find him in giving and receiving forgiveness and the hope of
a fresh start.
Parents and children God loves us unconditionally, as a mother or father loves
his or her own children. Parents are specially placed to
help their children grow in the love of God, and the
church tries to support them in all sorts of ways- through
parent and toddler groups, Sunday schools, Mothers’
Union etc.
We also invite people to bring their children to be baptised or christened – to be made members of the family
of Christ.
Marriage
God not only loves us, but he promises he will always love us. Marriage is meant to be a reflection of that and is
based on promises between a man and a woman - of lifelong commitment in love and faithfulness.
Whilst passionately believing in this kind of relationship the Church in Wales also realises that marriages do break
down and does offer the possibility of a second marriage in church under certain circumstances and at the
discretion of the parish priest.
Same-sex relationships All human beings are created in God's image, irrespective of their sexuality.
The Church in Wales recognises that people of integrity inside and outside it hold a wide range of views on the
subject of homosexual practice.
Some would examine the Scriptures and the traditional teaching of the Church and conclude that homosexual
practice is to be rejected. For them heterosexual marriage or celibacy are the only true choices for Christians.
Others would interpret scripture and tradition differently, and see committed same-sex relationships as mutually
supportive, loving and creative.
16
NEW INN
Newbridge-On-Wye
01597860211
NOT JUST A PUB BED & BREAKFAST/BUNK HOUSE
LARGE SEPARATE FUNCTION ROOM Wedding Receptions � Christenings � Funeral Teas � Private Parties
RESTURANT
Sizzling Steak Menu � Gluten Free Menu Available � Real Ales
BUTCHER SHOP Selling Our Own Free Range Pork � Local Beef � Local Lamb �
Hand Made Sausages, Pies & Dry Cured Bacon
COSY TOES
MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER JILL LLOYD DipCFHP, MPSPract
����NAIL TRIMMING ����CORNS REMOVED
����CALLUS REDUCTION ����INGROWING TOENAILS ����VERRUCA TREATMENT ����DIABETICS TREATED
FOR A FRIENDLY PERSONAL SERVICE CALL JILL ON
MOB: 07718150571 EVENINGSS 01591 620355
The Flower Shop
Siop Flodau
Weddings,
Anniversaries,
Funeral Flowers
31 High Street
Builth Wells
Tel 01982 52 686
To Advertise
Here Contact
01591 620 648 [email protected]
Doug Prosser
Incorporated with Crickhowell
Funeral Services
Maelgwyn
Funeral Home,
Kensington, Brecon
Memorial Masons Tel 01874 622755
www.dougprosser-brecon.com
Piano Tuning
David Day B.A.,L.R.A.M.
Qualified Piano Tuner covering Mid Wales
Tel: 01982 553623 Mob: 07966594663
email: [email protected] www.piano-tuning-wales.co.uk
For all your farm needs
‘He causeth the grass to grow for
the cattle, and the herbs for the service
of man: that he may bring forth food
out of the earth.” Psalms CIV
W Cook The Medical Hall Llanwrtyd Wells
Drug Store, Stationery & Toys, Gifts, Cosmetics,
Greetings Cards, Batteries & Torches,
Tel: 01591 610 207
GILES
MARSHALL
OPTOMETRIST
High Street,
Builth Wells
Tel. 01982 552801
Middleton Street,
Llandrindod Wells
Tel. 01597 823400
Garth Road, Builth Wells Tel: 01982
552210
All contributions (news items and ideas for future issues) are very welcome and should be sent to: Abigail Hook, The Vicarage, 1 North Road, Builth Wells LD2 3BT
Tel: 01982 552 355 E-mail: [email protected] For Advertising Queries please Richard Hussey Tel: 01591 620 648 E-mail: [email protected]
‘Signposts’ is printed by Powerprint, Llandrindod
Deadline for next issue: Monday 11th March 2013