Issue No 172
Magazine for the Irfon and Wye Valley Churches May 2015
Juli[n of Norwi]h - [n Intro^u]tion Julian of Norwich, the fourteenth century English female mystic and recluse was born in 1342 in Norwich, possibly of noble parentage as she is sometimes referred to as ‘Lady Julian’. She lived in the reign of Edward III during which time the hundred years war was still raging between England and France. Large areas of the continent were also stricken with the bubonic plague at that time. Julian of Norwich was very religious and had been touched much by death and sorrow. She may have been educated at Carrow, a Benedictine convent for women. She asked God for three gifts; ‘the first, to recall the passion of Christ, the second, to endure a physical sickness at age thirty, the third to receive three wounds as a gift from God’. These wounds are explained as a wound of contrition (complete remorse for sin), the wound of natural compassion (what God really has to offer) and a wound of full hearted longing for God. If we reflect now on the first gift she asked for ‘to recall the passion of Christ’ She thought she had already known something of the Passion of Christ but she still desired and asked God to let her know what it would have been like to be with Mary Magdalene and others so that she could have witnessed and suffered with him. This was her prayer. Next she asked for a severe illness to the point of needing the ‘last rites’. This illness struck her when she was aged thirty years and six months. It was on 8th May 1373, her mother and curate with her that the ‘showings’ commenced. She experienced seven days of sickness. When she was near death the priest put a crucifix in front of her, now paralysed from the waist down she focused on the figure on the cross and instead of breathing her last she suddenly began to feel well - her health was recovering. This is the point at which she began to see in a visionary way. She was in the moment of her second request, that of illness, when the first vision of Christ with a crown of
thorns and the passion of Christ was revealed to the point of understanding the whole trinity. The showings lasted a day and a half and she subsequently documented them in a short version which has twenty five chapters and later in 1393 longer more detailed account referred to as ‘the long text’ which has eighty-six chapters. She received sixteen showings altogether. She is most famous for her book ‘The Revelations of Divine Love’. The book contains the longer texts, for which she is most famous. She wrote in English and not Latin and the book was possibly the first known book written by a woman in English. After the ‘showings’ she retired to live in an anchorhold, or cell beside a church called St Julian and St Edward in Conisford Norwich. Her days would have been spent in prayer. Her cell was an integral part of the church. It has a slit at one end to allow participation in the Eucharist and a grid at the other for counselling. She was supported by alms. Her writings are filled with hope and trust in God's goodness. There is a Shrine for Julian of Norwich in Norfolk for pilgrims. At last year’s annual Julian Festival the former Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams commented about some of Julian’s encounters in the ‘showings’. In the ‘Revelation of Divine Love’ chapters 21 and 22 where Jesus asked Julian if she can be satisfied with him in the way they interact in his loving, and Jesus’ friendship towards her. This is unlike any other form of theology in that we are guided to ask God for the gift of loving our neighbours, praising his name and putting him before all else in our lives. For more information visit www.juliancentre.org By Janet Day
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Deanery Notices .
Joint Deaneries of Builth and Maelienydd
ASCENSION DAY EUCHARIST
10th MAY ‘JESUS APPEARS’ *Music* *Praise* *Witness* *Fellowship*
ALL AGE WORSHIP 18.00 ST. MARY’S CHURCH BUILTH WELLS
Diocesan Open Meeting
in Llanyre Church at 19.00 Guest Preacher: Rev. Mark Beaton, Vicar of New Radnor and Diocesan Mothers Union Chaplain
Thursday 30th April 19.00 Holy Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells
Same Gender Relationships
GATHERING ● GROWING ● GOING
VISION EVENT Friday 5th June 2015
Christian Aid Youth Group Builth High School Wednesday Lunchtimes in C3 Contact: Ms Jones or Fr Neil
Strictly Men Revd. Mark Rudall, an Anglican priest, will lead a day for men seeking a biblical perspective on their daily lives, touching on issues that affect us all. Mark was previously the Director of Communications for the Diocese of Guildford and Winchester. St. David’s Church Hall, Penllergaer SA4 9AQ 10am – 3pm £10 per person – concessions available Booking required. Please email: vision.swanbrec@churchinwales.org.uk for a form
Diocesan Vision Prayer Father, we hold before you our family in the Diocese of Swansea and Brecon and we open our hearts and minds to your Spirit: Bless us as we gather in your name; Guide us as we grow into the likeness of your Son; Lead us by your Spirit to go out and make disciples of others. God of our journeying, be our way and our truth and our life; our beginning and our end. We pray through Jesus our Lord. Amen. 3
LLANGASTY RETREAT HOUSE
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A Statement from the Bishops of the Church in Wales
Make Your Mark Mark on May 7 Christians want to make the world a better place. That’s why churches have always been involved in caring for those most in need, both at home and abroad. Because the prophets of the Old Testament and Jesus himself called for good news and social justice for all people, churches are involved, every day, in running food-banks, credit unions, family centres, shelters for the homeless, and projects to support young parents. Wanting to make the world a better place also means caring about how our society is organised. By voting and being active in politics we exercise our power to change society. Our right to vote is not something we should take for granted. It was a hard-won right, and one which millions of people in the world still don’t enjoy. Be prepared: • Find out who promises to improve not just your life but the lives of those who are in greatest need. • Try to work out who you believe can best work for what is good and fair. • If you can, engage with candidates or party members. Talk to them when they call at the door. Read their pamphlets and manifestos, and organise or attend hustings run by our churches or other groups. • Don’t be disillusioned. Remember that while some politicians have brought the game into disrepute by abusing their privileged positions, most of those who stand for election genuinely want to make a difference for the better. We believe that an election is the opportunity to make a mark, not just on a ballot paper but one which can shape our future. It’s an opportunity too important A request has been received from Government for bells to neglect, however you choose to vote in the end. to be rung to mark the 70th Anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE Day). If possible, the desire is for bells to be rung at 11 am on Saturday 9th May or alternatively at other convenient time over the weekend Friday to Sunday 8th-10th May. Although there are other demands for special ringing coming up we hope that this can be given due support. The Church of England has also been approached by Government so church authorities should be aware of the reason for additional ringing.
Ringing for VE Day
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The Colwyn Group of Parishes Dear Friends,
Services for May 2015
Each of us has a role, or maybe several roles, to play in our church– from setting out chairs at our Village Hall services to preaching; from leading messy church to cleaning; from taking minutes at meetings to serving cups of tea; from organising fund raisers to visiting those in need; from financial giving to wise spending; from leading services to praying for others; from grass cutting to polishing brass The list is endless but we’re all vital parts of the one Body with equally vital roles to play. At the end of this month we will celebrate Pentecost, where we remember the outpouring of God’s Spirit on all people to make the experience of God’s presence real and empower us in God’s service. As we prepare for this celebration of the Church’s birth, let’s offer ourselves anew to serving Christ in our church, and pray for the Holy Spirit to both equip us for that service and reveal to us where he wants us to play our part. Don’t merely be a spectator; your church needs you!
Sun 26th April EASTER IV (St. Mark) 9.15 Holy Eucharist Bettws 9.30 Village Service Cregrina 10.45 Worship 4 All Llanelwedd Sun 3rd May EASTER V 10.00 Holy Eucharist 100 House Hall 18.00 Village Service Glascwm
PJM MG ET JO ET
Sun 10th May EASTER VI 11.00 Rogation Service Helyg Farm (see box) JO 11.15 Holy Eucharist Llanelwedd PJM Thu 14th May ASCENSION 7.00 Joint Deaneries (Builth and Maelienydd) Eucharist at Llanyre Church BG
With every blessing Pip/Phil
What is Rogation? Rogation Days are an ancient custom which has been being observed since the 5th century. Rogation - to ask, as in “interrogate” - we ask God’s blessing of the harvest, of the earth and sea. We remind ourselves that we are the stewards of Creation, neither the authors nor the owners of it. Originally an agricultural observance, it has been broadened and made more inclusive - the crops, the catch of the sea, the fruits of our labours in all their aspects. An ancient custom was “beating the bounds”, with a procession walking out the boundary lines of the village and marking the bounds with stakes. Sticks of willow and birch were used to strike the stakes; hence, “beating the bounds”. Subsequently the custom became incorporated into Rogation Days celebration, particularly in England, in which the parishes are clearly defined. Rogation Days are to honour God for His creation, and to pray for the land and sea and the gifts of labour, and for the needs of all. St. Francis, in his “Canticle of Brother Sun”, wrote: “May thou be praised, my Lord, for our sister, mother earth, who sustains and governs and produces fruits with coloured flowers and green plants.”
Sun 17th May EASTER VII 9.30 Holy Eucharist Llanfaredd 10.00 Morning Prayer Llansantffraed 11.15 Holy Eucharist Rhulen
JO MJ JO
Sun 24th May PENTECOST 9.15 Holy Eucharist Bettws 9.30 Village Service Cregrina 10.45 Worship 4 All Llanelwedd
JO DD ET
Sun 31st May TRINITY 10.00 Holy Eucharist 100 House Hall
MS
7th
Sun June TRINITY I 10.00 Holy Eucharist 100 House Hall 6.00 Village Service Glascwm
PJM BG
ROGATION SERVICE 11.00am Sunday 10th May Helyg Farm, Glascwm LD1 5SE By kind permission of Irwin and Serena Jones Led by Bishop John Oliver Communion and Blessing of Livestock Refreshments afterwards
Llanelwedd with Llanfaredd, Llansantffraed-in-Elwell, Bettws, Cregrina, Glascwm and Rhulen
For information during the interregnum please contact the Acting Area Dean: Revd Ben Griffith, The Rectory, Aberedw, Builth Wells LD2 3UH, Tel: 01982 560615, Email: benedictgriffith@sky.com 5
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The Builth Wells Group of Parishes Worship
GRASSCUTTERS MEAL
03 May (Easter V) 09.30 Sung Eucharist at Builth 15.00 Eucharist in Llanddewi’r -Cwm
On the 19th May at 19.00 we are pleased to invite all who voluntarily cut the grass at our churchyards to join us for a meal as a way of us saying thank you for your hard work and continuing efforts throughout the year. This year because of the closure of the church hall we are meeting in Wesley Chapel, Builth.
10 May (Rogation Sunday) 09.30 Choral Eucharist at Builth 11.00 Said Matins at Maesmynis 18.00 at Builth
GATEWAY CAMP
14 May (Ascension Day) 19.00Joint Deaneries Ascension Eucharist, Llanyre
On the first weekend of May the youth of the parish are going away on the Diocesan Gateway Camp to the Silvercross Centre, Swansea. Please pray for our young people and their explorations of the faith that will take place on that weekend.
17 May (Ascension Sunday) 09.30 Choral Eucharist at Builth 24 May (Pentecost) 09.30 Choral Eucharist at Builth 11.00 Said Eucharist at Llanynis 18.00 Solemn BCP 1662 Evensong at Builth
Regular Events There is a Daily Prayer Service every weekday at 09.00 (Eucharist 10.00 Thursdays) in the Chapel of the Holy Name in St. Mary the Virgin, Builth Wells. Tuesday: Handbells 19.00 - Linda’s House Wednesday: The Collective Youth Group, Lunchtime at Builth Wells High School in C3 Wednesday: SAINTS ALIVE! Kids Club NEW VENUE! 16.00 fortnightly term time - at the Cwtch Café, Builth High Street Thursday: Bell-Ringers 19.45 - St. Mary’s Tower Friday: Choir Practice term time 18.00 - St. Mary’s
31 May (Trinity Sunday) 10.30 Benefice Eucharist at Alltmawr
From the Vicarage Dear friends, For forty days after His Resurrection, Jesus remained on earth. Filled with the glory and honour of His divinity, He appeared to His disciples at various times and places. By eating and drinking with his followers and talking with them about the Kingdom of God, Jesus assured them that He was truly alive in His risen and glorified Body. The time span of forty days is used symbolically in the bible and by the Church to indicate that an appropriate amount of time has passed for ‘completeness’ (Noah’s flood lasted forty days, Christ prayed in the wilderness for forty days and we fast in Advent and Lent for forty days to prepare for Christmas & Easter). Ascension falls on the fortieth day after the Resurrection. On this day, Jesus appeared to His Disciples and gave them His last commandment - to preach the Kingdom of God and the repentance and forgiveness of sins in His name to all. We stand in that heritage and we share that challenge … let us preach the kingdom of God in all we say and do. Please join us with Maelienydd Deanery as we celebrate the Ascension at Llanyre on Thursday 14th May at 19.00 Pob bendith Father
Events in May 30 April Eucharist for the Vigil of Phillip & James in St. Mary’s, Builth 10.00 01-04 Diocesan Gateway Youth Weekend 04 Reserved Communion 11.00 in Brynhyfryd 07 Eucharist for the Work of the Shrine of OLW in St. Mary’s, Builth 10.00 07 Mothers Union 125th Anniversary, St Mary’s 09 Spring Fair in St. Mary’s, Builth 10.00 09 Rivers/Price Wedding, Llanddewi’r-Cwm 16.00 14 Joint Deaneries Ascension Eucharist, Llanyre 19.00 15 Parish Christian Aid Street Collection 13.00-14.30 16 Christian Aid Coffee Morning Wesley Chapel, 10.00 19 Parish Grasscutters Dinner, Wesley Chapel 19.00 Saturday 9th May 2015
10.00 – 12.00
St. Mary’s Church
Spring Fair Fairtrade Refreshments * Produce & Plants Homemade Cakes & Preserves * Raffle Books & Periodicals * … and Much More Entrance £1 (Including Refreshments) Tickets from Church Members
Neil
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: frhooky@gmail.com 7
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The Erwood & Painscastle Group of Parishes Services
Friday 22nd May
rd
Sunday, 3 May Easter V 9.00am Holy Eucharist Newchurch 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanbadarn y Garreg No Mattins at Newchurch today 11.00am Holy Eucharist Gwenddwr 11.00am Morning Prayer Llandeilo Graban Sunday, 10th May Rogation Sunday 10.00am Holy Eucharist & Rogation WalkNewchurch 11.00am Morning Prayer Crickadarn 2.00pm Rogation Walk Gwenddwr 3.30pm Rogation Service & Dedication of memorial to Winston Jones Thursday, 15th May 7.30am Holy Eucharist 7.00pm Deanery Eucharist
3.45 pm Painscastle All welcome
Ascension Day Aberedw Cregrina
CONCERT
Sunday, 17th MayEaster VI/ Sunday after Ascension 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llandeilo Graban 11.00am Holy Eucharist Llanbedr 3.00pm Holy Eucharist Llandewi Fach Friday, 22nd May 3.45pm MESSY CHURCH Sunday, 24th May 9.00am Holy Eucharist 9.30am Morning Praise 11.00am Holy Eucharist
St Teilo Church Llandeilo Graban 9th May 2015 @ 7PM At the church
Painscastle
With Talgarth Village Choir
Pentecost/Whitsun Bryngwyn Aberedw Crickadarn
Tickets ÂŁ5.00 available from church members
Sunday, 31st May Trinity Sunday 9.30am Erwood Group Eucharist Aberedw 11.00am Painscastle Group Eucharist Llanbedr
Joint Deaneries of Builth and Maelienydd
Ascension Day Eucharist Llanyre Church on Thursday 14th May 7.00pm Guest Preacher: Rev. Mark Beaton, Vicar of New Radnor and Diocesan Mothers Union Chaplain
Aberedw w Llandeilo Graban w Llanbadarn-y-Garreg w Crickadarn w Gwenddwr & Bryngwyn w Newchurch w Llanbedr Painscastle w Llanddewi Fach Revd Ben Griffith, The Rectory, Aberedw, Builth Wells LD2 3UH, Tel: 01982 560615, Email: benedictgriffith@sky.com 9
Church Music A series about the music written specifically to enhance worship and Christian life. Written by David White.
Magnificat Magnificat – My soul doth magnify the Lord – is perhaps one of the oldest Christian hymns or canticles since it was the song that Mary sang, according to St Luke, on her visit to her cousin, Elizabeth, to share with her the news of her pregnancy. It is a song of loving praise and quickly became central to the daily round of worship in the Christian Church. By the Middle Ages it was sung at Vespers every day. It is significant that Archbishop Cranmer in carefully moving towards new English services should incorporate the Magnificat in his Vesper Service – Evening Prayer - coupling it with the Nunc Dimittis taken from Compline. He was thus able to maintain a thread of continuity with tradition. In Cranmer’s reordering of the English rite however, the Magnificat has become especially associated with Choral Evensong. Cranmer was uncertain how to order and direct the use of elaborate music in his new regime of services and left things somewhat open, thinking that the new cathedrals and colleges would develop their own way of celebrating. Consequently the singing of Mattins and Evensong became a somewhat exclusive affair, sung in the choirs of cathedrals – really a small, almost a private room, within the larger building, and college chapels and performed by choir and clergy.
The Magnificat however is a text which has inspired many composers to write both for the rite and also for the concert hall. Important words and images occur like “ all generations shall call me blessed” (an excuse to bring the choir in a lavish and complicated crowd effect) “for he that is mighty” and “He hath showed strength” ( opportunities for stirring phrases) “ and holy is his name” (a quiet devotional passage) “he hath put down the mighty “ (down comes the tune) and “hath exalted the humble” (a gentle ascent) “as it was in the beginning” (a chance to repeat some music from the start of the piece) all wonderful opportunities for composers to show their mettle. In more recent times poets have refashioned the Magnificat text so that all may sing Mary’s song. One thinks in particular of Bishop Dudley Smith’s incomparable “Tell out my soul”, coupled to a broad swinging tune, ‘Woodlands’, which takes the opening words of each verse ‘tell out’ as an excuse to encourage a goodly sing. Others have taken a similar route Christopher Idle’s ‘My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord’ is joined to a delightful folk like tune by Norman Warren and between them and others the Magnificat comes into use in the Parish Church. DBW
2015 KILVERT PILGRIMAGE SUNDAY 26TH JULY 8 ½ Miles over the hills Newchurch - Bryngwyn - Llanbedr - Llandewi Fach
9am 09.30 10am 10.40 12.00 1.00 4.00 6-7
Pre-Pilgrimage Eucharist at Bryngwyn Welcome and Refreshments at Newchurch Morning Service at Newchurch Laying of flowers at Emmeline’s Grave Readings/Music Recital at Bryngwyn Church, Picnic Lunch (bring your own) Tea at Llandbedr Church (provided) Evening Service at St David’s Llandewi Fach Transport back to Newchurch
ALL WELCOME Please feel free to join us at any stage More details: 01497 821414 or chambers2444@yahoo.co.uk Or visit www.gladestry.org.uk 10
The Upper Wye Group of Parishes Dear Friends…
Services for the Group Sunday 3rd May Easter V 11.00 Newbridge on Wye Morning Prayer 11.00 Llanfihangel Brynpabuan Holy Eucharist
I have so much to be grateful for at present. Lent and Holy Week proved to be a very special time for so many of us. The Lent group was so successful and I am pleased that we are going to aim for a study/discussion group that will meet on a monthly basis to start with. If you are interested please let me know and I will ensure that you are aware of the dates when they are sorted. Palm Sunday, although miserable weather wise was very well attended and the visit from Bishop John and the two donkeys brightened everyone’s day. Holy week was busy but very moving, uplifting and powerful in so many ways. The Easter Pilgrimage was attended by many more than I anticipated and enabled each church to concentrate on their own part. I have so many thank yous to extend to so many people from all of the churches and Pentref chapel. Messy Church was held at St James’ Llanwrtyd. We have now amalgamated with Blaenau Irfon and Irfon Valley and two Messy Church sessions per year will be held in each of the areas. Upper Wye is hosting Pentecost Messy Church on 24th May. I do hope to see a good turnout of helpers and families from Upper Wye. This Easter we have set foot on a road leading to us all working together to study and implement God’s Word as we reach out to others. This has been a positive and uplifting experience and I pray that it continues to grow. Love and prayers
Sunday 10th May Easter VI Rogation Sunday 9.30 Cwmbach Holy Eucharist 11.00 Newbridge on Wye Holy Eucharist Wednesday 13th May 2.30 Caerwnon Park Social Club Songs of Praise Thursday 14th May Ascension Day 19.00 Llanyre Joint Deaneries Ascension Eucharist Sunday 17th May Easter VII 11.00 Newbridge on Wye 3.00pm Llanafan Fawr
Holy Eucharist Holy Eucharist
Sunday 24th May The Day of Pentecost 9.30 Cwmbach Morning Prayer 11.00 Newbridge on Wye Holy Eucharist Sunday 31st May Trinity Sunday 10.30 St David’s Llanwrtyd Benefice Eucharist Please join us for our regular said
Holy Eucharist Service every Wednesday at 10.00am All Saints Church, Newbridge on Wye Coffee Afterwards All are Welcome
JOIN US FOR
Petra
Sunday 24th May Newbridge on Wye For more information contact Revd Petra Newbridge-on-Wye, Cwmbach Llechrhyd, Llanafan Fawr & Llanfihangel Brynpabuan Revd Petra Beresford-Webb, 9 Cae Nant, Newbridge-on-Wye, Llandrindod Wells LD1 6LQ, Tel: 01597 860842 or 07966 799546, Email: petra.beresfordwebb@yahoo.com 11
The Parish Records: The Parish Chest its contents Part 2 Last instalment I mentioned briefly that the parish chest, although not a new idea was chiefly instigated by Thomas Cromwell, and that the responsibility for the keeping of the parish chest documents fell to the clergy and appointed officers of the parish. These parish officers were people placed in office by the parish priest and the parishioners; such as: • The church wardens, primarily responsible for the upkeep of the Church, supervision of church funds, procuring materials needed for worship and presenting lawbreakers to the Archdeacons court. • The sexton, responsible for digging graves (for which he received a fee from the family of the deceased), and for the upkeep of the graveyard. • The parish clerk who after the reformation became responsible for keeping the parish records. • The constable, which was a civil role, kept the peace, attended court, found employment for the poor, supervised the public houses, and served warrants. • The overseer of the poor (a post that came into being in 1572), was essentially the person who was responsible for the poor of the parish and any drifters. • Surveyor or way warden, was responsible as in today for the upkeep of the highways and byways. Two of the most informative documents to be found in the chest are bastardy bonds and settlement certificates and examinations (interviews). These hold so much information - if you can find either of these documents you may have hit the jackpot! For example in recent research I found a settlement certificate interview which extended my search back another 35 years and covered in total 60 years of one family’s history. Admittedly I had to search in baptismal, marriage and death records but the settlement interview had given me the names and dates to start from. Bastardy Bonds were generated when the father of an illegitimate child was named by the mother and he was forced into agreeing to take financial responsibility of the child, (so the parish didn’t have to). Prior to bonds becoming widely used parents of an illegitimate child could be sent to gaol under an Act passed in 1575/6. However by 1609/10 the mother of more than one illegitimate child could be singled out for imprisonment if she could not give security to vouch for her improved moral behaviour in the future, or she could have her poor relief stopped! However by 1697 the moral dilemma gave way to a financial one; a birth parish was held responsible for the upkeep of an illegitimate child wherever the parents came from. The pressure was so great to find financial remuneration for the child that in 1732/3 any unmarried motherto-be had to declare her situation and name the father, if possible. He could then be imprisoned if he failed to ensure that payment was forthcoming for the child. This did change in 1743, when the mother’s parish was deemed to be responsible for the child unless the parents could be cajoled (or bribed!) into marrying! If they could be persuaded to marry, responsibility would switch back to the fathers parish. The bastardy bond and the interview conducted with the mother-to- be may still exist and so give the names of those involved in the records of the quarter sessions. Settlement records set out the guidelines relating to a person’s legal place of settlement. The Act of Settlement and Removal of 1662 set out rules stating that people were to remain in their parish of birth or settlement. People could move parish if they could rent a property to the value of £10 per annum, as this was thought to show that they would not be a burden on the poor relief. If they could not satisfy this condition then they would be ejected from the parish, using a "removal order" instructing the constable to send the family back to their parish of settlement. From 1685 to 1691 the rules changed considerably. In 1685 you could gain settlement if you could prove you had been living in a parish for 40 days, but to stop people ‘hiding out’, the forty days tally only began once you had made yourself known to the churchwarden. By 1691 you could also gain settlement rights by paying for them, by being an apprentice, being unmarried or by being a servant within the parish to someone already with settlement rights. Settlement certificates were issued from 1697, and were issued by the original parish. They stated that if the family fell on hard times the original parish would accept them back so they wouldn’t be a burden on their new parish. These certificates where they survive hold valuable information about one whole family giving information of where they came from, and providing invaluable links for families to their place of origin for example, which may be many miles off and thus create a potential brick wall in your research. Happy researching. Julie
Martin 12
The Parishes of the Irfon Valley & Blaenau Irfon EOD Special Summer Series
Worship and Events
This summer, we begin a series of special services led by inspiring ministers and offering fascinating insight into mission and ministry.
Sunday, 26th April 9.30am Family Service 9.30am Holy Eucharist 11.00am Holy Eucharist 11.00am Holy Eucharist
Easter IV Eglwys Oen Duw YP Llangammarch CH/NH St James PBW Newbridge-on-Wye MS
Sunday, 3rd May 9.30am Holy Eucharist 11.00am Morning Prayer 11.15am Holy Eucharist 11.15am Morning Prayer
Easter V Eglwys Oen Duw MS St James Worship Team Llanlleonfel MS Llanganten MG
The first is a Holy Eucharist led by Reverend Paul Springate. Now retired from formal ministry, Paul started his working life in industry, working for textile manufacturers where he was trained in the four areas of manufacture, finance, sales and administration, giving him a rounded understanding of life in general! He worked in the sales area for 13 years before, and with the help of his local curate, he became a Christian. Involved in the local church he was starting to be used in service: leading, preaching and administration which lead to a call to ordained ministry.
Sunday, 10th May Easter VI 9.30am Congregational Service Eglwys Oen Duw 9.30am Holy Eucharist Cwmbach MS 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llangammarch PBW 11.00am Holy Eucharist St. James CH/NH
Ordained in 1983 he served his curacy in Plymouth, for 4 years; was a team Vicar in Leicestershire for 10 years before becoming the Warden at the Harnhill Centre of Christian Healing, which he led most ably with his wife Bryony for 17 years before retiring.
Thursday, 14th May
Ascension Day
7.00pm Joint Deaneries Ascension Eucharist Builth and Maelienydd Deaneries, Llanyre Sunday, 17th May Easter VII 9.30am Holy Eucharist Eglwys Oen Duw Led by Revd Paul Springate (see biography) 11.00am Holy Eucharist St. James MS 11.15am Holy Eucharist Llanganten CH/NH
He now continues to lead church weekends, teach courses on healing and ministers in the local churches.
Further services in the series are:
Sunday, 24th May 9.30am Family Service 9.30am Holy Eucharist 11.00am Holy Eucharist
st
21 June Martin Cavender of ReSource 19th July Andrew Geuter formerly of Open Air Mission
Pentecost Eglwys Oen Duw YP Llangammarch MS St. James CH/NH
Sunday, 31st May Trinity Sunday (5th Sunday) 10.30am Benefice Eucharist St. David, Llanwrtyd Ministry Area PBW
More will follow later in the year. Please join us at Eglwys Oen Duw for our service on 17th May.
Sunday, 7th June 9.30am Holy Eucharist 11.00am Morning Prayer 11.15am Holy Eucharist 11.00am Holy Eucharist 11.15am Morning Prayer
Llanlleonfel and Llanfechan
Pentecost II/Trinity I Eglwys Oen Duw MS St. James MG Llanlleonfel PBW Llanfihangel Brynpabuan LlangantenWorship Team
FETE At Garth House Sunday 24th May at 2.00pm All sorts of stalls and entertainment 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;
For information during the interregnum please contact the Acting Area Dean: Revd Ben Griffith, The Rectory, Aberedw, Builth Wells LD2 3UH, Tel: 01982 560615, Email: benedictgriffith@sky.com 13
D. K. Dixon Plumbing & Heating
Parry & Pugh Jane Pugh (Daughter of the late Walter Parry)
TEL: 01982 552644 MOB: 07974 315328
FUNERAL DIRECTORS oil & gas servicing new installations bathrooms, lead work Pencae, Hay Road, Builth Wells Tel: 01982 551023 Mob: 07813 405039
Eat within the Old World Charm of the
COSY CORNER TEA ROOMS Specialising in Home-cooked food
55 High Street, Builth Wells Tel: 01982 553585
Ben Lloyd & Son
A family business established in 1858
We now provide personalised pre-paid funeral plans PASADENA, 31 BRECON ROAD, BUILTH WELLS, POWYS LD2 3EB
Dale Williams
H. VAUGHAN VAUGHAN & Co
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
SOLICITORS
THOROUGHLY DRY SEASONED HARDWOOD LOGS ASH, OAK, BIRCH & ALDER
From Cefnllysgwynne Estate, Builth Wells ______________________________________________________
Memorial Craftsmen
DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR
Est. 1886
Cut and split into easily handled sizes. Packed in bags weighing an average of 8 kilos net Price: £3.50 per bag (negotiable for Bulk/regular orders) ORDERS/ENQUIRIES: Tel: 01982 551624
Churchyard memorials commemorative plaques additional inscriptions and renovations Bridge Street, Rhayader Tel: 01597 810320 & 811183 Mob: 07767 220163
BUILTH WELLS GARAGES main dealer in Mid Wales for
MOT Test Centre Car Jet Wash
Llanelwedd 01982 553861 or 552236
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
ELECTRICIAN David Stone Electrics Free, no obligation quotes for all your household & domestic needs. 07771 767246 davidpstone@btinternet.com 01982 570403 NICEIC Registered Insured & all work fully guaranteed
R. W. Evans & Son Ltd 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: builth@mccartneys.co.uk
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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)
‘Nearer to God in a Garden’ - May HAWTHORN The Latin name for Hawthorn is Crataegus from the Greek Krataigos, a flowering thorn. The Hawthorn has white or pink flowers in May hence the name May Blossom. The Haws are the red or orange berries much loved by birds and small mammals. It is a small hedging shrub but left to grow it will make a good specimen tree especially Crataegus ‘Paul's Scarlet’. The word Haw comes from the old English meaning enclosure or hedge.
THE GLASTONBURY THORN - Crataegus monogyna 'Biflora' Joseph of Arimathea was a wealthy Jewish man who buried the body of Jesus after the Crucifixion. According to legend, he travelled to Glastonbury and on striking his holy staff on the earth caused the famous tree (pictured) to sprout. Descendents of the tree remain in the churchyard of St John's Church today. In a mild winter it will flower at Christmas and Easter. Blossom from the plant is used to decorate the Christmas breakfast table of the Queen each year. There are many legends about Joseph, including one that he visited Britain with the young Jesus. William Blake based a poem on the legend and Sir Hubert Parry set it to music as 'Jerusalem': And did those feet in ancient time Walk upon England's mountains green? And was the holy Lamb of God On England's pleasant pastures seen?
Linda Lewis
A-Z
THE FOUNTAIN INN Builth Wells
Of Churchyard Conservation
“V” is for Valerian
(01982 553888)
Warm & Friendly Pub with open Fire Separate Café area
Red valerian is a lovely long flowering cottage garden plant, originally from the Mediterranean, which now grows wild in many places, on walls and old buildings, on sea-cliffs and railway banks and on waste ground. The flowers are a source of nectar for bees and also many butterflies and moths, including the hummingbird hawk-moth. Having a woody rootstock means that it has a slight ability to damage walls constructed of small bricks or stonework. This tendency should be considered against the conservation value and attractive appearance of the plant. Consider keeping it in places which are very visible and easily accessible for re-pointing. Valerian is well known for its sedative qualities and its ability to relax the central nervous system and the smooth muscle groups. It has been used as a sleeping aid for hundreds of years especially when there is difficulty in falling to sleep due to nervousness.
Separate Function / Restaurant Room Home-cooked food served daily from 9am Choice of Real Ales, Ciders, Draught Beers and Lagers We specialise in Outside Bars for all occasions
Caring for God’s Acre, the conservation charity for churchyards and burial grounds, 01588 673041, www.caringforgodsacre.org.uk 15
NEW INN
COSY TOES MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER JILL LLOYD DipCFHP, MPSPract
Newbridge-On-Wye 01597860211
NAIL TRIMMING CORNS REMOVED CALLUS REDUCTION INGROWING TOENAILS VERRUCA TREATMENT DIABETICS TREATED
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
FOR A FRIENDLY PERSONAL SERVICE CALL JILL ON MOB: 07718150571 EVENINGSS 01591 620355
BUTCHER SHOP Selling Our Own Free Range Pork Local Beef Local Lamb Hand Made Sausages, Pies & Dry Cured Bacon
The Flower Shop Siop Flodau
Weddings, Anniversaries, Funeral Flowers 31 High Street Builth Wells Tel 01982 552 686
Grave Attendant I will look after the graves of your loved ones. Stone cleaning, grass and leaves clearing, flowers laid for Birthdays and Anniversaries. Planting out, pots emptied and cleaned. Prices from £9
Contact Alison on: 07931 778 839 or email: IDOODOO2@aol.com
Doug Prosser Incorporated with Crickhowell Funeral Services
Maelgwyn Funeral Home, Kensington, Brecon
Piano Tuning David Day B.A., L.R.A.M., M.P.T.A.
Qualified Piano Tuner covering Mid Wales
Memorial Masons Tel 01874 622755 www.dougprosser-brecon.com
Tel: 01982 553623 Mob: 07966594663 tuning@piano-tuning-wales.co.uk www.piano-tuning-wales.co.uk
W Cook The Medical Hall Llanwrtyd Wells
Eye Health Examination Wales and Low Vision Accredited
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 Garth Road, Builth Wells Tel: 01982 552210
Eye examinations Contact lenses Spectacle Frames and lenses Low Vision Assessments
Drug Store, Stationery & Toys, Gifts, Cosmetics, Greetings Cards, Batteries & Torches,
Tel: 01591 610 207
Cavendish House, Middleton St, Llandrindod Wells 01597 823400 23 High St, Builth Wells 01982 552801 www.sgmarshall.co.uk
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: abihook@gmail.com Web: http://www.builthgroup.org.uk/signposts.htm For Advertising Queries please contact Richard Hussey Tel: 01591 620 648 E-mail: hhussey@btinternet.com is printed by Powerprint, Llandrindod th
Deadline for next issue (June): Monday 11 May 2015 16