Signposts 184 July and August 2016 by Signposts Magazine

Issue No 184

Magazine for the Irfon and Wye Valley Churches July and August 2016

Greening Your Church

Tackling climate change can seem a daunting prospect, but it is an issue we cannot afford to ignore. The Church in Wales in conjunction with ‘Parish Buying’ (a not for profit service established by the Church of England and Church in Wales) encourages all churches and individuals to consider the following actions:

TAKE ONE SIMPLE STEP Switching your electricity account to buy gas and electricity generated from renewable energy is easy. It won’t necessarily cost you more – that will depend on many factors. You will want to get the best deal, but don’t forget that there is a good argument for being prepared to pay a bit more to get electricity that is not damaging God’s creation. If you want help and support in making the switch, you can do this by using Christian Aid’s campaign ‘The Big Switch’ at: www.bigchurchswitch.org.uk/

MAKE SOME SIMPLE AND SENSIBLE INVESTMENTS Make sure your boiler is efficient as many properties have old, inefficient boilers that are very bad for the environment, in terms of carbon dioxide emissions, and are expensive to run. It is really important for boilers to be ‘A-rated’ in terms of efficiency. Investing in an A-rated boiler will normally save money in the medium to long term. If you want help making an informed choice, Parish Buying can help., www.parishbuying.org.uk/. When you are updating a heating system it is also important to ensure you have

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the right controls and flexibility to only heat the part of a building that is actually being used. Conserve Heat - much of the heat in churches and church halls disappears into high roof-spaces or through large single-pane windows. Easy solutions are often hard to come by, and in historic buildings complex issues can arise. As a matter of urgency discuss the options for conserving heat with your retained architect. Keep in mind that building changes will need a faculty, so contact your Diocesan Care of Churches Officer/DAC Secretary for advice. A good first step is to check for obvious draughts and address these (whilst making sure to appropriately ventilate the building to encourage a regular change of air which will avoid moisture). It is well worth commissioning an energy audit to help you assess options. Whilst there will be a charge involved, it will give you a framework for action and an idea of likely costs and benefits. A good starting point is the Carbon Trust at www.carbontrust.com/client-services/wales/ GENERATING YOUR OWN RENEWABLE ENERGY More ambitious parishes will be keen to think about options for generating their own renewable energy, this is an area where you will need specialist advice. An energy audit would be a good way of assessing options and feasibility initially. Discuss the options with your retained architect and your Diocesan Care of Churches Officer/DAC Secretary. They may have experience from elsewhere that they can share. Remember: these projects will need a faculty before they can go ahead. Installations on listed buildings can be challenging so it is worth understanding likely constraints first. There is useful guidance from both CADW and the property department of Representative Body of the Church in Wales.

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Ministry Area Notices .

Launch of Swansea & Brecon Diocesan Branch of

10 July 18.00 Cwtch Café, Builth

21st Century Safeguarding from Slavery to the Digital Age A Diocesan Safeguarding Event Brecon Cathedral on Friday 8th July 2016 Book you place via: diocese.swanbrec@churchinwales.org.uk or 01874 623716

MEN’S BREAKFAST

Royal Welsh Agricultural Show

30 July & 27 August 10.00 Drovers Tea Rooms, Builth

Annual President’s Service

18.00 on 17 July St. Mary’s Builth All Welcome

To learn more contact David on: davidi.anderson@btinternet.com

Remember to come and visit the Churches Tent at D20 during the show and say hello to the Duty Chaplains in their burgundy HI-Vis vests!

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

Saturday 2nd July 2016 Eucharist at 12.00 midday at Brecon Cathedral Preacher and Celebrant - The Ven. Peggy Jackson, Archdeacon of Llandaff For more details see: www.maecymru.org.uk or contact swanseabreconmae@gmail.com

The Licensing of

Father Paul Keown As Priest in Charge of the

Erwood & Painscastle Benefices 28th July 18.30 at Aberedw Church

Followed by refreshments at Aberedw Hall - All are very welcome. Please pray for Fr. Paul and his wife Carolyn as they take up this new role

LLANGASTY RETREAT HOUSE

Drop in Quiet Days Monday 11th July 10-4 Monday 1 st August 10-4

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Pwllgwilym Cottages and B & B

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Tel: 01982 552140 www.pwllgwilym-cottages.co.uk

Weekday Worship

THE FOUNTAIN INN

Across the Ministry Area Christians are gathering every day to pray and support each other – why not join in? From earliest times, Christians gathered at regular hours during each day to respond to God's word with praise on behalf of creation and with intercession for the salvation of the world. Daily services help Christians of our own day take part in this privilege and duty which belongs to all God's people. They may be celebrated in a very simple form, or enriched with a variety of optional prayers. In our own ministry area we offer two types of weekday services – Offices and Eucharists.

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The Daily Offices are ‘services of the word’ which emphasize the exploration of scripture through the reading and reflection on God’s word, within our ministry area they are offered as follows: Morning Prayer 09.00 Mon-Wed & Fri in St. Mary the Virgin, Builth Morning Prayer 09.00 Tue-Fri in St. Cewydd’s, Aberedw Evening Prayer 17.00-18.00 Mon-Fri in St. Cewydd’s, Aberedw (contact Ann Humphries 01982 560446) The Holy Eucharist is the union of word and sacrament and a means by which God’s grace is mediated to the world, within our ministry area it is offered as follows during the week:

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Wednesday 10.00 in All Saints, Newbridge-on-Wye Thursday 10.00 in St. Mary the Virgin, Builth

hhussey@btinternet.com

Builth Ministry Area - Colwyn Services for July & August

develop the ministry of our churches. Please reflect on what God might be calling YOU to do to assist in this exciting time of change and renewal …

Sunday 3rd July Thomas 10.00am Holy Eucharist Llansantffraed 6.00pm Village Service Glascwm Sunday 10th July 9.30am Holy Eucharist 11.15am Holy Eucharist

Pentecost VIII Cregrina Llanelwedd

Sunday 17th July 10.00am Morning Prayer 11.15am Holy Eucharist 11.15am Holy Eucharist

Pentecost IX Llansantffraed Rhulen Glascwm

Pob bendith Father Neil (Ministry Area Leader)

A Very Big Thank You! Thank you to everyone who contributed in any way to the tremendous success of our 11th Tractor Road Run which was organized by Mervyn Price to raise funds for the continued refurbishment and maintenance of Hundred House Hall. The sum of £830 was raised with 57 tractors / landrovers taking part. The members of St. Mary’s Church, Bettws, provided lunch for everyone at Cwmbrith Farm, Cefnllys, Llandrindod and raised £270 for church funds. A forthcoming fund-raising event for Llansantffraed and Bettws Churches and also for the hall will be a concert given by the Builth Wells Male Voice Choir together with items by local youngsters, to be held on Saturday 15th October at 7.30pm in Hundred House Hall. Put the date in your diaries!! Information from Dorothy Price Tel: 01982 570380

Sunday 24th July Pentecost X 9.30am All Age Worship Cregrina 9.30am Holy Eucharist Bettws 10.45am Worship4All Llanelwedd Sunday 31st July Pentecost XI 10.00am Benefice Eucharist 100 House Sunday 7th August Pentecost XII 10.00am Holy Eucharist Llansantffraed 6.00pm Village Service Glascwm Sunday 14th August 9.30am Holy Eucharist 11.15am Holy Eucharist

Pentecost XIII Cregrina Llanelwedd

Sunday 21st August 9.30am Holy Eucharist 10.00am Morning Prayer 11.15am Holy Eucharist 11.15am Holy Eucharist

Pentecost XIV Llanfaredd Llansantffraed Rhulen Glascwm

Savoury and Wine Evening Friday 29th July 2016, at 6pm In aid of St Matthew’s Church Llanelwedd To be held at: the home of Olwen Hackley Plasnewydd Broadway Builth Wells LD2 3DD

Sunday 28th August Pentecost XV 9.30am All Age Worship Cregrina 9.30am Holy Eucharist Bettws 10.45am Worship4All Llanelwedd

Dear Friends

Savouries and Wine and Raffle Prizes Admission by Ticket Only. Tickets cost £5.00. Tickets can be purchased from: Olwen Hackley Tel: 01982 553368 Mary Thomas Tel: 01982 552873

In Ecclesiastes 3 scripture reminds us that; “to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven”. Whilst the season of summer is upon us it is a time to celebrate what we are doing in this benefice! As the family of God in this place you regularly support all kinds of Sunday services, run a messy church, have a regular bible study, lead the ministry area men’s breakfast, support your local church school and offer pastoral support to those in your local communities. All of these positive things are what will inevitably draw a new priest to minister alongside you … however whilst celebrating summer we must also remember that autumn and winter wait around the corner. In order to not stagnate during these periods we must seek to grow and

Bible Study Group Our very interesting look at John's Gospel continues on the following dates: Tuesday 5th July - John chapters 8 - 10 Tuesday 12th July - John chapters 10 - 12 The speakers on the DVD for this book of the Bible make it particularly lively, up-to-date & relevant. We meet at Erw Lon, Cregrina LD1 5SF at 10am. Please feel free to contact Cherry on 01982 570 702 for more information.

Llanelwedd with Llanfaredd, Llansantffraed-in-Elwell, Bettws, Cregrina, Glascwm and Rhulen Pastoral Care and Ministry is currently being coordinated by: Ministry Area Leader: Revd Fr Neil Hook, The Vicarage, 1 North Rd, Builth Wells LD2 3BT, 01982 552355, frhooky@gmail.com Licensed Lay Minister: Mr Eddie Thomas: 01982 552873, edwin.thomas935@btinternet.com 5

Builth Ministry Area - Colwyn Trench Warfare by Eddie Thomas Recently we have been celebrating the ending of two World Wars; WWI began in 1914, 100+ years ago and WWII began in 1939, 70+ years ago. I wonder how people visualize trench warfare. Do they see, like I do myself in particular, WWI troops in the trenches, waiting for the enemy to attack, or prepare to go over ‘The Top’ and cross no-man’s land to attack the enemy? We have seen from old newspaper cuttings, old photographs and old newsreels, via the television. We have heard stories from old soldiers who had been previously interviewed, on both radio and television, about what life was like in the trenches. None, tell a pretty story. Many, including some of the interviewers, became very emotional and many a tear fell, as the true stories of life in the trenches came from those who were there. Life in the trenches has been described as ‘Hell on Earth.’ Just a short summary of what they went through at the time. There was the dust, dirt, smoke, gas, heat, cold, the rain and the mud. The sounds of the weapons, and the cries of the agonies of war. Small arms fire, the machine guns, the big guns, the bombs, the tanks, the screams of the wounded and the dying. The visual sights of war, men shot or bayoneted beside you. Men with limbs, faces and bodies torn apart. Men were sometimes buried alive as the sides of the trenches collapsed through the bombing and shelling. Sometimes they were able to dig them out alive, but not always. These are but a few of the horrors of war. But are all trenches of warfare like this? What about the moat which surrounded a castle or fort? This of course, was a trench filled with water to try to prevent any would be enemy, from reaching the castle walls without great difficulty. It could be done and often was, but at a great cost to life and limb. But there is another kind of trench warfare, which I never thought about I admit, until I happened to read a story about it. There were two neighbours, farmers who had adjacent farms, and they were always very civil and very helpful to each other, but one day they had a most terrible quarrel and refused to speak to each other. A few days after this quarrel, one of the farmers heard a voice inside his head saying to him, ‘Why don’t you dig a trench between you and your neighbour, so that he can no longer tread your land, or you his. This will teach him a lesson not to argue with you.’ Listening to the voice, the next day he set about digging the trench between himself and his neighbour. His neighbour became angrier and angrier as the work on the trench continued to separate the two farms. When it was finished, the second farmer heard a voice inside his head saying to him, ‘Why don’t you get your

own back, by building a fence along the length of the trench, high enough so that you can’t see him and he can’t see you or yours? (Was it the same voice who had spoken to his neighbour previously about digging the trench?) Anyway, the next day, he hired a travelling carpenter to build the fence. He supplied the carpenter with the necessary tools and materials and gave specific instructions where to build the fence, how high it was to be, and to leave no gaps where his neighbour or anyone else could see through. He then went off to market and left the carpenter to carry on with his work. On his return that evening, he went to see how the carpenter was getting on with the fence, to his surprise, he saw not a fence, but a bridge, beautifully carved, firmly spanning the trench from one side to the other. Before he had time to protest, he saw his neighbour, smiling, coming across the bridge with his hand outstretched. ‘After the spiteful way in which I reacted after our quarrel and digging this trench between us, you have offered friendship in the form of this beautiful bridge. Let us shake hands and let bygones be bygones and from now on, we shall not only be neighbours but good friends.’ After they had shook hands and embraced each other, they turned to the carpenter who was some distance away from them, and they called to him and asked if he would like to stay for supper. ‘I would love to,’ he replied, ‘but I must move on. I have many more bridges to build.’ And with that he was gone. I wonder, - who was the carpenter?

Walk With Us - Charity Walk

on Wednesday 27th July at 11am Starting & ending at Hundred House Inn, please join us for an ‘Easy Walk’ or ‘Strenuous Walk’ to raise funds for Hope House Children’s Hospices. If you are unable to do the walk in person, you can Sponsor a Virtual Walk, and a badge with your name will be pinned to a walker £5 Entry Fee or £5 Virtual Walk Sponsorship can be paid online at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/Radnorshire or on the day. Pre-booked post-walk ‘Ploughmans & Pudding’ can be purchased at Hundred House Inn (Tel: 01982 570231) The walks take about 1 hour We look forward to seeing you. For information about the walk, or Virtual Walk T: Jo 01982 570326 T: Linda 01982 570296 E: cherry.tooley@gmail.com

Charity No: 1003859

ROOF & CHIMNEY CARE

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Word processing; virtual assistant (via the internet); audiotyping; 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.

CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE: REPAIRS TO REBUILDS SWEEPING – PAINTING For Friendly Advice & Free Quotations Please Contact Matthew Drew… 07525 437083 ~ 01874 712264

01982 560422 (Aberedw) or 07552 995881

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(Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm)

National Crime Helpline for Churches The Church Buildings Council has set up a national crime helpline for churches to use after a theft is reported. It will trigger an alert to auctions houses, museums and crime prevention agencies to prevent the permanent loss of treasures. Churches should take simple security measures to protect their church contents such as marking metal items with SmartWater. To report the loss of a treasure from your church contact the Church Crime Alert team on 020 7898 1860. Visit ecclesiastical.com/ churchsecurity for more info.

RAINBOW TOTS PRE-SCHOOL Irfon Valley CP School, Garth, Powys office@irfon.powys.sch.uk 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

Worship

Builth Ministry Area – Buallt

03 July (Thomas, Apostle) 10.00 Solemn Choral Eucharist in Builth 18.30 Fundraising Concert in Llanddewi’r-Cwm 10 July (Pentecost VIII) 09.30 Choral Eucharist in Builth 11.00 Matins in Maesmynis 18.00 Café Church at The Cwtch Café, Builth 17 July (Pentecost IX) 09.30 Choral Eucharist in Builth 18.00 RWAS Presidents Service 24 July (Pentecost X) 09.30 Choral Matins at Builth 11.00 Eucharist in Llanynis 31 July (Pentecost XI) 11.00 Benefice Eucharist in Alltmawr 07 August (Transfiguration) 10.00 Family Eucharist in Builth 15.00 Eucharist in Llanddewi’r-Cwm 14 August (Mary, Mother of Our Lord) 09.30 Solemn Sung Eucharist in Builth 11.00 Matins in Maesmynis 18.00 Café Church at The Cwtch Café, Builth 21 August (Pentecost XIV) 09.30 Sung Eucharist in Builth 28 August (Pentecost XV) 09.30 Sung Eucharist at Builth 15.00 Festival Service in Llanynis

From the Vicarage Dear friends,

In their recent pastoral letter to all members of the Church in Wales the Bench of Bishops wrote to those who identify as LGBT+; “We recognise that you have often been persecuted and ostracized by the Church for your sexuality, that you have been mistreated by the Church, and forced into secrecy and dissimulation by the attitudes of prejudice which you have faced. We deplore such hostility, and welcome and affirm the words of the Primates that condemn homophobic prejudice and violence. We too commit ourselves to offering you the same loving service and pastoral care to which all humanity is entitled, and we commit ourselves to acting to provide a safe space within the Church and within our communities in which you can be honest and open, respected and affirmed”. The recent tragedy in Orlando in which members of

this community were specifically targeted has highlighted just how persecuted our LGBT+ brothers and sisters across the world are. Whilst we have fortunately not seen such levels of violence within Wales what we must not be shy from naming is the prejudice which still exists within our churches and communities. Heterosexism (assuming that heterosexuality is the ‘norm’), our lack of knowledge of LGBT+ issues, LGBT+ fear of breaches of confidentiality, expectations of discrimination, social isolation as a result of sexual orientation or gender identity and the ever present levels of homophobia, bi-phobia or transphobia in the community are conspiring to isolate people from our churches. Please join with me to pray regularly for all those struggling with such prejudice as we commit ourselves to a rainbow gospel which welcomes all. If you would like to learn more about these issues then check out facebook.com/ChangingAttitudeCymru Pob bendith Father Neil

Regular Events Please check the parish website and parish social media accounts for updates on whether our regular events are taking place during the summer holidays.

Events in July 02 MAECymru launch Eucharist in Brecon Cathedral – see pg 3 for details 03 Licensing of David White as Licensed Lay Minister at 15.00 in Llangammarch 04 Reserved Communion at Brynhyfryd Residential Home 08 Diocesan Safeguarding Event - see pg 3 for details 08 Fundraising BBQ for Builth in Riverside Centre, Builth 18.00 11 Benefice Council in Maesmynis Hall 7pm. All Welcome 13 Home Group at The Vicarage, Builth Wells 11.00 14 Mothers Union meeting at 3 Glandwr Park, Builth Wells “Victoria Falls” 27 Home Group at 2 Daffodil Wood, Builth Wells 11.00 30 Men’s Breakfast in Drovers Tea Rooms 10.00 – see Ministry Area Page for details

Builth Wells with Llanddewi’r-Cwm & Llangynog with Maesmynis & Llanynis with Alltmawr Revd Fr Neil Hook, The Vicarage, 1 North Rd, Builth Wells LD2 3BT, 01982 552355, frhooky@gmail.com Licensed Lay Minister: Mrs Janet Day, 01982 553623, djd@janetdaydesigns.co.uk 8

Builth Ministry Area – Buallt

Events in August

St. Mary’s Fundraising BBQ

02 Reserved Communion at Brynhyfryd Residential Home 10 Home Group will meet at The Vicarage, Builth Wells 11.00 24 Home Group at 6 Penybryn, Builth 11.00 22 – 26 Diocesan Gateway Youth Camp in Penllergaer, Swansea 27 Men’s Breakfast in Drovers Tea Rooms 10.00 – see Ministry Area Page for details (No MU meeting in August)

We are again running our Annual Fundraising BBQ on July 8th at 18.00 – volunteers are needed please contact the Churchwardens Sue or Doug to offer your help! We also need lots of people to come and eat burgers and enjoy themselves …

Solemn Eucharists During the two month period covered by this issue of Signposts there will be two Solemn Eucharists celebrated in St. Mary the Virgin in Builth – for St. Thomas on Sunday 03rd July and our Patronal Festival for Mary, Mother of Our Lord on 14th August. These services will have additional liturgical elements which may include asperges (holy Water), incense and additional music. If you have any questions please speak to Fthr Neil.

Diocesan Gateway Camp This residential camp runs between 22-27 August and there is a group going from our Ministry Area… it is available to ALL youngsters aged between 11-18 – with fun activities, games, worship, fellowship and all fully catered for only £55 this really is a bargain … to learn more or book a place please speak to Fthr Neil

Fundraising Concert - Llanddewi’r-Cwm On 3rd July at 18.30 St. David’s, Llanddewi’r-Cwm is hosting their Annual Fundraising Variety Concert. With a wide selection of guest artistes this is likely to be the ‘hottest’ ticket around. Tickets are £5 and available from members of the congregation or on the door.

House Group Meetings Our House Group continues to meet throughout the summer at a variety of homes throughout the area. Each House Group meeting reflects on the previous Sundays bible readings and does not need any previous knowledge! These 90 minute sessions are a relaxed and fun way to explore our faith and how we live as Christians. Details of the meetings and venues can be found in the ‘Diary’ section above. For more details see the house Group Coordinator Judith Hurford.

We meet in July to hear Pat Borland talk about ‘Victoria Falls’– we have a break in August before ‘regular service’ restarts in September – if you would like to learn more about the world’s largest Christian organization focused on family life then please contact the Branch Leader Delia Cripps.

Annual Festival Service in Llanynis

Benefice Council Meeting

Mothers Union

Each year the congregation of St. David’s, Llanynis throws open their doors for an Annual Celebration of this special and historic Church – this year the worship service is on Sunday 28th August at 15.00 followed by refreshments at Cefnllysgwynne.

All are welcome at the Benefice meeting at Maesmynis Church Hall on 11th July. Apologies and agenda item to the Benefice Council Secretary Pat Borland patborland@gmail.com by 3rd July please.

D. K. Dixon Plumbing & Heating

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Ben Lloyd & Son

FUNERAL DIRECTORS A family business established in 1858

We now provide personalised pre-paid funeral plans PASADENA, 31 BRECON ROAD, BUILTH WELLS, POWYS LD2 3EB

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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

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)

Builth Ministry Area - Erwood & Painscastle Dear Friends

Weekday Services Morning Prayer at Aberedw 9.00am Tues to Sat. Evening Prayer is said most days. Please call Ann Humphries on 560 446 to confirm time. Please feel welcome to come and join us.

It is my pleasure and privilege to welcome Father Paul and Carolyn to both the Ministry Area and to the Joint Benefices of Erwood and Painscastle. Father Paul was ordained in this Diocese and ministered here as part of our Diocesan family before moving onto ministry across the UK – first in Scotland and latterly in the Church of England. Father Paul returns to us from Rochester Diocese where he has most recently ministered. He rejoins the Diocese and Ministry Area at an exciting time of renewal and refreshment as we move forward with our new vision for the future – a vision which I’m sure that Father Paul will play a significant part in. Please pray for him and his family during this time of transition and help him to ‘settle in’ to his new post. Pob bendith,

Sunday 3rd July Thomas 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanbadarn 10.30am BCP 1662 Mattins Newchurch 11.00am Morning Praise Llandeilo Graban 11.00am Holy Eucharist Gwenddwr Sunday 10th July Pentecost VIII 9.30am Holy Eucharist Aberedw 11.00am Holy Eucharist Llanbedr 11.00am Morning Praise Crickadarn Sunday 17th July Pentecost IX 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llandeilo Graban 11.00am Morning Praise Gwenddwr

Father Neil (Ministry Area leader)

Sunday 24th July Pentecost X 9.00am Holy Eucharist Bryngwyn 9.30am Morning Praise Aberedw 10.30am Service at the graveside of Emmeline Vaughan (Kilvert Pilgrimage) 11.00am Holy Eucharist Crickadarn

St Teilo Church Llandeilo Graban

OPEN DAY

2 July 2016 at 3pm Full Afternoon Tea £5.00

Sunday 31st July Pentecost XI 10.30am Holy Eucharist Llandeilo Graban

Close with Songs of Praise 6pm All church registers will be available to view

Sunday 7th August Pentecost XII 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanbadarn 10.30am BCP 1662 Mattins Newchurch 11.00am Morning Praise Llandeilo Graban 11.00am Holy Eucharist Gwenddwr

2016 KILVERT PILGRIMAGE SUNDAY 24TH JULY

8 ½ Miles over the hills Newchurch - Bryngwyn Llanbedr - Llandewi Fach,

Sunday 14th August Pentecost XIII 9.30am Holy Eucharist Aberedw 11.00am Holy Eucharist Llanbedr 11.00am Morning Praise Crickadarn

09.00

Pre Pilgrimage Eucharist at Bryngwyn Church (then transport to Newchurch, if needed) 10.00 Welcome & refreshments, Newchurch Church* 10.30 Short service and laying of flowers at the graveside of Emmeline Vaughan* 12-1.15 Readings/Music Recital at Bryngwyn Church, then Picnic Lunch (BYO) Soloist: Tim Edwards, Classical Guitar 15.00 Pause for break at Ireland, on Llandbedr Hill 16.00 Tea at Llandbedr Church (provided) 18.00 Evening Service at St David’s Llandewi Fach. Preacher: Revd Fr Paul Keown Transport back to Newchurch

Sunday 21st August Pentecost XIV 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llandeilo Graban 11.00am Morning Praise Gwenddwr 3.00pm Holy Eucharist Llanddewi Fach Sunday 28th August Pentecost XV 9.30am Holy Eucharist Bryngwyn 9.30am Morning Praise Aberedw 11.00am Holy Eucharist Crickadarn Sunday 4th September Pentecost XVI 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanbadarn 10.30am BCP 1662 Mattins Newchurch 11.00am Morning Praise Llandeilo Graban 11.00am Holy Eucharist Gwenddwr

*Please note there will be no service inside Newchurch Church for the 2016 pilgrimage, because of ongoing repair work

ALL WELCOME - Join at any stage More details: 01497 821414 or chambers2444@yahoo.co.uk Or visit www.gladestry.org.uk

Aberedw w Llandeilo Graban w Llanbadarn-y-Garreg w Crickadarn w Gwenddwr & Bryngwyn w Newchurch w Llanbedr Painscastle w Llanddewi Fach Pastoral Care and Ministry is currently being coordinated by: Ministry Area Leader: Revd Fr Neil Hook, The Vicarage, 1 North Rd, Builth Wells LD2 3BT, 01982 552355, frhooky@gmail.com Associate Priest: Revd Carolyn Hall, 01597 829637, carolynhall@hotmail.co.uk Ministry Area Licensed Lay Minister: Mrs Mel Gould, 01597 860172, m.gould@btinternet.com 11

Builth Ministry Area Irfon Valley, Blaenau Irfon and Upper Wye Dear Friends

JOINT FETE

Summer is upon us! How do we know? Well it’s raining as I write this! Also it is the time for fundraising garden parties and soirees. These are wonderful events to allow us to mix with people from our own and other churches as well as people who are not part of our church. They also raise a lot of well needed funds. BUT, yes there is a but, we need to get in there and support these events. They should not be seen as an add on but as an integral part of our work as members of the church. They are an opportunity to reach out if we work to get people there. The summer is a great time for socialising, so when friends and family come to stay bring them to events that are on and introduce them to the church family. The church is not a private club, Jesus did not ask for membership cards, he went out to the people and so must we! So let us fill our diaries and I look forward to meeting you all a great deal in and out of church this summer. Love and blessings

Llangammarch, Llanlleonfel, Llanfechan Churches Sunday 14th August From 2.30pm Garth Village Hall Stalls, Games and Raffle

Songs of Praise Llanafan Church Sunday 21st August 3.00pm Followed by refreshments This will replace the normal service

Eglwys Oen Duw, Beulah Celebrate 150 years of Worship 30th & 31st July Sat & Sun Flower Festival Saturday 7.30pm: Concert of Local Talent Sunday 11.00am Thanksgiving Eucharist All are welcome For info. contact wardens George Johnson 01591 610229 Karen Coslett 01591 620863

Petra Walk and Afternoon Tea

Sunday 17th July From 3pm Tynllwyni, Cefngorwydd by kind permission of Dee & Giles Marshall £5 adults and £2.50 children includes afternoon tea

WANTED Admin Assistant For 4 hours per week based in Newbridge on Wye at present. The successful applicant will be helping our busy vicar with her everyday admin tasks and will be able to work using their own initiative. Working pattern can be flexible to suit the applicant and the vicar. Pay to be confirmed but will be at least the legal minimum wage.

Church Fete St. Cannen's Church Llanganten Sunday 7th August From 3pm

Please send your letter of application/cv to: Mrs Virginia Evans (Benefice Warden) Noddfa Llanwrtyd Wells LD5 4RE Or email virginia27evans@aol.com By Friday 15th July

Cilmery Village Hall - Stalls and Raffle

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; Newbridge-on-Wye, Cwmbach Llechrhyd, Llanafan Fawr & Llanfihangel Brynpabuan Revd Petra Beresford-Webb, 9 Cae Nant, Newbridge-on-Wye, Llandrindod Wells LD1 6LQ, 01597 860842 or 07966 799546, petra.beresfordwebb@yahoo.com Licensed Lay Minister: Mrs Gina Ayling, 01982 551498, ginaayling@talktalk.net Licensed Lay Minister: Mrs Yvonne Parker 12

Builth Ministry Area -

Irfon Valley, Blaenau Irfon and Upper Wye Worship Sunday 3 July Readings: 9:30am EOD Holy Eucharist Habbakkuk 2:1-14 11:00am St James Morning Worship Psalm 31:1-5 11:00am Newbridge Morning Worship Ephesians 2:19-22 11:15am Llanlleonfel Holy Eucharist John 20:24-29 11:15am LB Holy Eucharist No Llanganten Service 3:00pm Llangammarch Licensing of David White Sunday 10 July Combined Benefice Service followed by lunch 11:00am St James Holy Eucharist Deuteronomy 30:9-14, Psalm 25:1-10, Colossians 1:1-14 Luke 10:25-37 Sunday 17 July 9:30am EOD Holy Eucharist Genesis 18:1-10a Guest speaker Rev’d Paul Springate Psalm 15 11:00am St James Morning Worship Colossians 1:15-28 11:00am Newbridge Morning Worship Luke 10:38-42 11:15am Llanganten Holy Communion No Llanafan Service this month Sunday 24 July 9:30am EOD Family Service Genesis 18:20-32 9:30am Llangammarch Morning Worship Psalm 138 9:30am Cwmbach Holy Eucharist Colossians 2:6-15 11:00am St James Holy Eucharist Luke 11:1-13 11:00am Newbridge Holy Eucharist Sunday 31 July 11:00am EOD 150 Anniversary Eucharist and Confirmation Sunday 7 August 9:30am EOD Holy Eucharist Genesis 15:1-6 11:00am St James Morning Worship Psalm 33:12-21 11:00am Newbridge Morning Worship Hebrews 11:1-3,8-16 11:15am Llanlleonfel Holy Eucharist Luke 12:32-40 11:15am LB Holy Eucharist 11:15am Llanganten Morning Worship Sunday 14 August 9:30am EOD Morning Worship Jeremiah 23:23-29 Guest speaker Canon Stuart Bell Psalm 82 9:30am Cwmbach Morning Worship Hebrews 11:29-12:2 9:30am Llangammarch Holy Eucharist Luke 12:49-56 11:00am St James Holy Eucharist 11:15am Llanfechan TBA 6:00pm Newbridge Evensong Sunday 21 August Sunday 28 August 9:30am EOD Holy Eucharist Isaiah 58:9b-14 9:30am EOD Family Service Proverbs 25:6-7 11:00am St James Morning Worship Psalm 103:1-8 9:30am Llangammarch Morning Worship Psalm 112 11:00am Newbridge Morning Worship Heb. 12:18-29 9:30am Cwmbach Holy Eucharist Heb 13:1-8,15,16 11:15am Llanganten Holy Communion Luke 13:10-17 11:00am St James Holy Eucharist Luke 14:1,7-14 3:00pm Llanafan Songs of Praise 11:00am Newbridge Holy Eucharist 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; Newbridge-on-Wye, Cwmbach Llechrhyd, Llanafan Fawr & Llanfihangel Brynpabuan Revd Petra Beresford-Webb, 9 Cae Nant, Newbridge-on-Wye, Llandrindod Wells LD1 6LQ, 01597 860842 or 07966 799546, petra.beresfordwebb@yahoo.com Licensed Lay Minister: Mrs Gina Ayling, 01982 551498, ginaayling@talktalk.net Licensed Lay Minister: Mrs Yvonne Parker 13

FIVE YEARS ON Five years ago last February the bells of St Mary’s church Builth Wells returned to the tower after restoration. Since then the bells have been rung regularly for Weddings, Funerals, Sunday Services, practices nights, Royal Welsh Show, Civic Occasions and even to welcome the walkers who were “Walking for the wounded”. The bells have been rung by basically the same band for all these events and we are now in need of some more people to learn to ring. So what does it involve? Below are some frequently asked questions with their answers. Do I have to be Strong? No the bells turn using bearings, a wheel and a pulley. Once the bell has been ‘pulled off’, little strength is needed. The hardest part is getting the bells to a ringable position. Are the bells heavy? Bells vary in weight. The largest bell at Builth weighs 6½ CWT (about 52 stone). One of the largest ringable bells in the UK is at Liverpool Cathedral and weights just over four tons and yes one person can ring it! Do I have to be Musical? No. Bellringing methods are more logical than musical; providing you can count and keep a reasonable rhythm then it should be no problem. To the right is an example of what we ring. This is call a diagram and we learn the numbers following an individual line. Do I have to go to Church? Bellringing has become a mainly secular activity; although some ringers like to attend church, others do not. However, to carry out our hobby we need to go to where the bells are, and they are nearly always in Churches. If ringers wish to continue with this pastime, then ringing for services is a good way of saying thank you for the use of the bells. Where can I ring bells? There are over 5700 places to ring bells in the world (with four or more ringable bells). With about 5300 of those in England. There are about 160 different places in Wales. In the Mid Wales area there are a few towers such as Builth Wells, Llanbadarn Fawr (Crossgates), Llanfihangel Rhydithon (Dolau), Nantmel. Builth Wells is the only tower that rings regularly amongst these. Going a little further afield there are bells in and around Brecon, Presteigne (newly restored), Knighton and New Radnor (with a new band of ringers). Over the border there are many more! No two places are the same and no two rings of the bells are the same. You have the opportunity to visit some amazing villages, ring in some interesting buildings such as the wooden tower at Pembridge or take the unusual route up Brecon Cathedral tower. Who rings bells? Virtually anyone over the age of about 10 can be taught to ring. In the local area we have ringers ranging from 13/14 to over 80. Practice Nights and days out often end up very sociably in a pub somewhere. Quite often ringers don’t know what careers other have so it is a great leveller. What's in it for me? Ringing is an excellent hobby, which is unique in giving opportunities for not only mild physical exercise, but also mental challenges (there is always something new to aim for and achieve), team working, musical and architectural appreciation, travel opportunities, and all this at little or no cost to you. Bell ringing is good fun! Once you've learned the basic technique you will always be made welcome at towers all over this country and the world What Next? Interested? Then come along to St Mary’s Builth Wells to have a look at 7.45pm on a Thursday Evening or phone David Childs 01982 552477, who can help with other places which may be nearer to your home.

Maelog Trefoil Guild The Trefoil Guild is for anyone who supports the ethos of the Guiding and Scouting movements. The local Guild meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month in the afternoon. Indoor meetings are held at Alexandra Court, Llandrindod at 2.30pm. Outside visits are often arranged in the summer. New members would be very welcome. For further information contact 01982 552054 or email bronwenjenkins27@hotmail.com 14

How to Write Up your Family History (and get it printed!) There’s really no hard and fast rules about how a family history book should be, so try and envisage how you would like your book to look and what you want it to contain. Then formulate a plan. Decide how many generations you are going to be covering; if you are writing about recent ancestors then you will have photos, stories etc. in abundance, and you may have to decide what to leave out. If you are incorporating 5+ generations then your evidence may be more document based, and scarcer. Consider the style of your writing. Do you wish it to be reference type, which people may dip into or an anecdotal style, to be read as a complete work? Whichever you decide; you will have to bring together all your research and use an index to organise it. Next create an outline. Once you have your outline then write a draft copy; remembering that any images to be included should be of a high resolution (600ppi at least), and keep them in a different folder to your text. It’s easier to add images once your text is finished, just put highlighted notes in your text where you wish images to be. Don’t be shy with the number of images you use, they keep the interest of the reader and may illustrate a point better than a hundred words. Then you will need an editor- every publication does. An editor will advise you with shaping of your draft, revise the content and add supplemental information etc. There are then two edit steps to negotiate; 1. Content edit which tweaks clarity and configuration. 2. Copy edit which concentrates on grammar and spelling etc. You are now ready to think about the design of your book. The cover and the inside. Here you need to assess your I.T. skills and decide if you are up to the task of using software such as Photoshop, InDesign, Bridge, Illustrator, and Acrobat, which are normally the tools of the designer. If not then seek help from colleagues, friends and professionals, or do as much as you can and then get assistance. Cover designs should be artful and informative, eye catching, using colour as appropriate; to convey important factors contained in the book, about places, events and people etc. Don’t forget to include an index of contents and an appendix list for items such as family trees. For referencing and citing of sources, the golden rule is to be consistent. Use a referencing software package such as RefMe, which is free! , and will then drop your references in automatically and produce you a bibliography. Then rather excitingly you are ready to publish! You don’t necessarily need a publisher if you aren’t marketing the book commercially. Google “author services in the UK”, as these will be able to help you with printing services and distribution online. They will also help you to ensure all your hard work goes into producing a quality, family history book that will present your research in a professional way that will stand the test of time and be an excellent resource for researchers coming after you. Self-publishing means that you will have control of your project, is low cost, and is great for niche markets. You can also then branch out into digital publishing such as podcasts and print on demand services which is cost effective, and environmentally friendly. Finally; why print? Printing your family history gives future generations of your family the chance to ‘hear your voice’. Your interpretation of events that to them will be history! Sadly this is my last contribution to the Signpost so happy researching and lets go print!… Julie The above article written using material from a course, and interview given by Nancy and Biff Barnes from StoriesToTellBooks.com; America based, I think their advice is good but I feel that there would be editors/publishers closer to home!

Do you need help to live safely and independently in your home as you get older? Care and Repair in Powys provides expertise, advice and practical support to older people who need to undertake repairs, renovations or adaptations to their homes. We do this to help people remain living at home independently, comfortable, safely and securely. We provide a client-focused service to people over the age of 60, or people who are registered disabled, who are homeowners or private sector tenants. Our Caseworker will visit you at your home to discuss your needs and explain how we may be able to help you. We can: Give expert advice on options to adapt or repair your home; Give help on finding sources of funding for the work that needs to be done; Give advice on Welfare Benefits to check you are receiving your full entitlement; Help you find a reliable building contractor for larger jobs; Provide a technical service to oversee the work; Keep you informed on progress and check you are happy with the work done. If you would like further information about the service provided, or if you would like a Caseworker to visit you, please contact us by ringing 01597 824040 or 0300 111 3333, or email us at enquiries@crpowys.co.uk. Further information is also available on the website: www.crpowys.co.uk 15

NEW INN

COSY TOES MOBILE FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER JILL LLOYD DipCFHP, MPSPract

Newbridge-On-Wye 01597860211

üNAIL TRIMMING üCORNS REMOVED üCALLUS REDUCTION üINGROWING TOENAILS üVERRUCA TREATMENT üDIABETICS 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

Evan George MSc. MRICS. MCIAT

Chartered Building Surveyor Architectural Designs & Plans

Doug Prosser Incorporated with Crickhowell Funeral Services

Planning & Building Control Applications for: New Build, Conversions & Extensions, etc.

Weddings, Anniversaries, Funeral Flowers 31 High Street Builth Wells Tel 01982 552 686

Glanrhos, East Street, Rhayader. Tel 01597 811599

georgebuildingconsultancy@btinternet.com

Website: georgebuildingconsultancy.com

Maelgwyn Funeral Home, Kensington, Brecon

Tel 01874 622755

W Cook

The Medical Hall Llanwrtyd Wells

Qualified Piano Tuner covering Mid Wales

Tel: 01982 553623 Mob: 07966594663 tuning@piano-tuning-wales.co.uk www.piano-tuning-wales.co.uk

Eye examinations Contact lenses Spectacle Frames and lenses Low Vision Assessments Eye Health Examination Wales and Low Vision Accredited

For all your farm needs

Garth Road, Builth Wells Tel: 01982 552210

David Day B.A., L.R.A.M., M.P.T.A.

Memorial Masons www.dougprosser-brecon.com

‘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

Piano Tuning

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 (September): Monday 8 August 2016 16