Signposts 188 December 2016 and January 2017 by Signposts Magazine

Issue No 188

Magazine for the Irfon and Wye Valley Churches December 2016 & January 2017

Emmanuel - Our Own Story

by Rev Fr Paul Keown

Advent and the Christmas Season are here. How wonderful! We have waited all year to immerse ourselves in the story of how the world is offered the encounter with the face of God and history was changed forever. Enjoy the story as you enjoy the season with family, friends and community. Early in my ministry a cynical priest said to me, “You’ll not make any Christians at Christmas!” Apart from the strange notion of ‘making’ Christians, the negativity of the comment saddened me. Of course, Christmas is not an escape away from worldly troubles and into a fantasy fairy tale but it is the first step into the adventurous world of heaven’s mystery that offers permanent and everlasting joys! At this special time of the year, we celebrate with the angels that God and heaven overflowed with love and showered the earth with signs and wonders in preparation for the great climax of the birth of the Holy Child in Bethlehem. Allow the story to fill your hearts. Revel in the images of the Angels appearing to the Shepherds and the Magi being led by the star for many months through the heat, cold and dust to pay homage to the physical radiance of God present in the babe who will change the world. Think of Mary’s wonderful and gracious acquiescence to God’s will as the Angel told her that she was his chosen one. See Mary rushing in excitement to Elizabeth where John the Baptist responded by leaping with joy within his mother’s womb. Remember Joseph’s loyalty and the visitation of angels in his dreams to tell him how to ensure the safety of the baby Jesus. The very spirit of the world was responding to heaven’s call by lifting people’s hearts in preparation for the birth of our Lord. This is the story of God and, as such, is not only fact

but is an epic of great mythical truth. Christmas is the beginning of the beautiful truth that is the myth of Emmanuel - God with us. The real essence and beauty of the Incarnation of Our Lord is that it is our story; a complete gift to us. Through the incarnation we become the body of Christ. The Divine Babe is born to die, to know human suffering and after his Ascension he sends us God’s Holy Spirit so he may live within us. Because of this, as we embark on our life with Christ, we, like Jesus, also may hear the Father’s voice saying to us, “You are my beloved child, with you I am well pleased.” Heaven and earth are now inseparable and we stand at the point where they meet, carrying our humanity through this veil of tears. We are the Babe in the manger; always being born anew, often helpless but always divine. Carry the image of the new- born baby, radiant with light as he throws his golden beams into the stable, a divine light that reflects on his parents, the shepherds, the wise men and shines beyond into the world. The birth is the light! It is our light – feel it shine on you, feel how you may carry the light into the world. In this light, all our earthly troubles may then be seen as the shadow of a restless world that is searching for a new life of increased love, unity and fellowship. Embrace the new birth and all the fear and danger will be balanced by an increased peace and goodwill to all people. Think on this and you will always be carrying a prayer for those you love and those for whom Christmas may be one of pain and sorrow. This Christmas, there will be many children of God born to homeless families in stables, caves, hovels and makeshift shelters; through them the Christ-child is born again to redeem the suffering of his created world until we share his burden, realise our own divinity and turn our world to paradise once more.

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Headcases

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Ministry Area Notices .

Gyda phob dymuniad da am Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda With every good wish for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Builth Ministry Area

Anniversary of the Ordination of Women to the Priesthood

A Eucharist Service to mark the 20th Anniversary. At the Cathedral Church of Saint John the Evangelist, Brecon. Saturday 7th January 2016 at 11am ALL WELCOME BUILTH MINISTRY AREA

A Thousand Years of Christmas

MEN’S BREAKFAST

10th Dec & 28th Jan 10.00 Drovers Tea Rooms, Builth

Saturday 17th December 19.30 Theatr Brycheiniog, Brecon With

Archbishop Rowan Williams, Sally Bradshaw soprano and Mark Etherington piano To learn more contact David on: davidi.anderson@btinternet.com

An enchanting evening of seasonal song and verses www.brycheiniog.co.uk

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

Christmas Messy Church 15.30 – 17.30 Friday 9th December Llanelwedd Hall Children with accompanying adults welcome

LLANGASTY RETREAT HOUSE Advent Quiet Day Tuesday 6th Dec An opportunity to pause for reflection in that race towards Christmas which Advent seems to have become. Led by Rev. Colin Sutton Coffee from 10am, commence 10:30, conclude by 3:30pm Cost £25 each day, to include lunch

01874 658250 enquiries@llangasty.com www.llangasty.com

Admission to Holy Communion From last month the Church in Wales has, after the decision at the Governing Body, changed its doctrine, teaching and practice on the reception of Holy Communion. From now on, everyone of any age who is baptised in the name of the Holy Trinity will be able to receive.

Builth Ministry Area - Colwyn Dear Friends

Services for December 4th December 10.00 Llansantffraed 18.00 Glascwm

Eucharist Baptism

11th December 09.30 Cregrina 11.15 Llanelwedd 11.15 Rhulen

Eucharist Worship4All Eucharist

18th December 09.30 Llanfaredd 10.00 Llansantffraed 11.15 Glascwm 19.00 Rhulen

Eucharist Matins Eucharist Carols

24th December 16.00 Glascwm 23.30 Llanelwedd

Christmas Eve Crib Service Midnight Mass

25th December 08.00 Rhulen 09.30 Bettws 09.30 Cregrina 09.30 Llanfaredd 11.00 Llansantffraed 11.15 Glascwm

Christmas Day Eucharist Eucharist Eucharist Eucharist Eucharist Eucharist

John and I are looking forward to joining you in the New Year and shall be exploring the Colwyn Benefice over the next two or three months to get to know our way around. During our travels over this time, we hope to meet as many of you as we can. I was born and spent my early years on a farm, says Linda, in the village of Great Stukeley near Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, where my grandfather was the farm manager. I later moved and lived in a number of small villages around and about Huntingdon. I have had a range of jobs leading up to my becoming a State Registered Biomedical Scientist in Pathology. Within the Church of England, I held different lay positions and then underwent training as a Reader which I finished the day before moving to Knighton in 2011. I started training for the Priesthood in 2013 and came to the Colwyn Benefice for nine months during 2014. I was ordained Priest in June 2016 and am due to complete my college training in July 2017. John was born in Enfield Middlesex, later moving to Huntingdon – so he’s a townie! However, he studied agriculture at Wye College in Kent and agricultural Economics at Newcastle before being appointed as an Economist at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF) and later Defra. Over the years he was responsible for managing the Farm Business Survey and providing economic advice on Farm Business Economics, Common Agricultural Policy Reform, Animal Health, Plant Health, the Food Industry and International Trade Agreements. So that’s a little about us. We are now looking forward to getting to know more about you.

29th December 15.00 Lessons & Carols in Hundred House Hall

Services for January 1st January 10.00 Llansantffraed 18.00 Glascwm

Eucharist Village Service

8th January 09.30 Cregrina 11.15 Llanelwedd 11.15 Rhulen

Eucharist Worship4All Eucharist

15th January 09.30 Llanfaredd 10.00 Llansantffraed 11.15 Glascwm

Eucharist Matins Eucharist

22nd January 09.30 Cregrina 09.30 Bettws 11.15 Llanelwedd

Village Service Eucharist Eucharist

Reverend Linda, and John Watson

Messy Church

Christmas Messy Church is on Friday 9th December at Jubilee Hall, Llanelwedd starting at 3.30, finishing at 5.30pm. Children will be making Christmas presents for their friends & family, watching a colourful depiction of the Christmas story, and eating a scrumptious Christmas tea. A very warm welcome to ALL children aged 11 and under. Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult. For further information, please contact Cherry on 01982 570702

29th January 10.00 Hundred House Benefice Eucharist

Llanelwedd with Llanfaredd, Llansantffraed-in-Elwell, Bettws, Cregrina, Glascwm and Rhulen Pastoral Care and Ministry is currently being coordinated by: Ministry Area Leader: Revd Fthr 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 4

Builth Ministry Area - Colwyn Bible Study

Llansantffraed & Bettws

Our study of Ephesians continues in December & January. We really would love you to join us. The discussions on this DVD take place overlooking Malibu beach, thereby adding warmth to winter in Radnorshire! We meet at 10am on Tuesday 13th December for Ephesians chapters 4 and 5 and at 10am on Tuesday 10th January for Ephesians chapters 5 and 6. On Tuesday 24th January at 10am we will be starting a different book of the Bible. At these meetings we watch a 15-minute DVD that explains the relevance today of the Bible verses. We then have a chat and a time of prayer. If you don't have to rush off, we have tea, coffee & biscuits at about 11am. We meet at Erw Lon, Cregrina LD1 5SF. Please phone Cherry on 01982 570702 if you need any more information.

Christmas Coffee Evening Hundred House Hall Friday 9th December 7pm FATHER CHRISTMAS Games, stalls, raffle £1 to include coffee and mince pie children free

A Service of Readings & Carols for Christmas

Thank you A very big thank you to all who helped in any way towards the success of the concert held recently in Hundred House Hall, organised by Dorothy Price and members of the hall fund-raising committee. The fantastic sum of £1,052 was raised and divided between Llansantffraed in Elwel Church, Bettws Church and the hall maintenance fund. Everyone enjoyed a lovely evening of music and dance given by the Builth Male Voice Choir, dancers from the Edw Valley Young Farmers Club, young soloists Holly Richards and Ffion Price, saxophonist and pianist Ellie Hulin-Taylor and, last but not least, children from Franksbridge Primary School. Thank you all very much for everything you did to make the evening so enjoyable.

St David’s Church, Rhulen Sunday 18th December at 7pm COLWYN BENEFICE

Nine Lessons and Carols To Celebrate Christmas Please come to our Carol Service at 3pm on Thursday 29th December at Hundred House Hall

A Warm Welcome

At our Benefice Eucharist on 29th January at 10.00 in Hundred House Hall we are privileged to welcome the Archdeacon of Brecon the Ven. Alan Jevons who will be formally welcoming Rev. Linda Watson and her husband John into both our Benefice and Ministry Area – the service will be followed by the opportunity for fellowship. Please come and join us to welcome Revd Linda and John as they start to walk alongside us in this exciting new chapter in our shared pilgrimage.

All are welcome

Join us for mince pies and refreshments afterwards and meet Revd Linda Watson, new priest for the Colwyn Benefice

Builth Ministry Area – Buallt

Worship for December

From the Vicarage Dear friends,

04 December (Advent II) 10.00 Family Eucharist in Builth 15.00 Eucharist in Llanddewi’r-Cwm 18.00 Solemn Choral Evensong in Builth

The feast of the ‘Most Holy Name of Jesus’ has been celebrated in the Church on the first of January since the end of the fifteenth century. The celebration is held because on that day, as Luke’s gospel reminds us, ‘at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb’. Reverence for the Holy Name is emphasized by Saint Paul in Philippians where he states ‘that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that are in heaven, on earth, and under the earth’. How right it is then that we begin every new secular year by proclaiming the name of Jesus! Doubly so because within our Benefice we are fortunate to have a (very rare for mid-Wales) dedication to the Most Holy Name to which the side chapel in St. Mary’s the Virgin, Builth is consecrated. On 1st January we will be holding our Eucharist in that chapel and reminding ourselves of our shared commissioning in his name please join us if you can. Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda

11 December (Advent III) 09.30 Choral Eucharist in Builth 15.00 Pop-Up Nativity in Maesmynis 18 December (Advent IV) 09.30 Choral Eucharist in Builth 15.00 Carols in Alltmawr 19.00 Faith’n’Flix in Builth 24 December (Christmas Eve) 11.00 Christmas Reserved Eucharist at Brynhyfryd Home 17.00 Kids Crib Service at Builth 19.00 YFC Carols & Communion in Llanddewi’r-Cwm 23.00 Midnight Mass in Builth 25 December (Christmas Day) 11.00 Christmas Reserved Eucharist in Maesmynis 11.00 Christmas Eucharist in Alltmawr

Worship for January

Father Neil

01 January (Most Holy Name of Jesus) 10.00 Family Eucharist in Builth 15.00 Eucharist in Llanddewi’r-Cwm

Events in December 01 Reserved Communion at Brynhyfryd 11.00 01 Mothers Union Meeting at Glandwr Park 05 FREE Llangasty Quiet Day 09.30 – 16.00 see Janet or Fr. Neil for details 08 Mothers Union ‘16 Days’ Eucharist in St. Mary’s, Builth at 10.00 10 Men’s Breakfast in Drovers Tea Rooms 10.00 – see Ministry Area Page for details 10 Annual Llewellyn Service in Llanynis 11.15 14 Home Group at Glandwr Parc 11.00 15 Healing Service in St. Mary’s, Builth 10.00 15 High School Carol Service in St. Mary’s, Builth 18 Carols in St. Mauritius, Alltmawr 15.00 19 Community Carols in St. Mary’s, Builth

08 January (Epiphany Sunday) 09.30 Choral Matins in Builth 11.00 Eucharist in Maesmynis 18.00 Café Church at The Cwtch Café, Builth 15 January (Epiphany II) 10.00 Choral Eucharist in Builth 19.00 Faith’n’Flix in Builth 22 January (Christian Unity Sunday) 10.30 Covenant Communion in Wesley Chapel 11.00 Matins in Maesmynis 18.00 in Builth 29 January (Epiphany IV) 11.00 Benefice Eucharist in Alltmawr (with guest preacher– Pred Owen Griffiths)

Events in January 05 Mothers Union Luncheon at Builth Golf Club 12.00 07 Anniversary Eucharist to celebrate 20yrs of Women’s Ordination in Brecon Cathedral 11.00 10 Cytun Committee Meeting at Wesley Chapel 19.00 11 Home Group at the Vicarage 11.00 16 Benefice Council meeting, Maesmynis Hall 19.00 19 Healing Service in St. Mary’s, Builth 10.00 25 Home Group at Daffodil Wood 11.00 27 Holocaust Memorial Day Service, St. Mary’s 09.00 28 Men’s Breakfast in Drovers Tea Rooms 10.00 – see Ministry Area Page for details.

16 Days of Action 8th December To mark the international campaign ‘16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence’, which calls for an end to all forms of violence against women and girls – Builth Mothers Union is hosting a ‘16 DAYS’ Eucharist at 10.00 Thursday 8th December 2016 in St. Mary’s, Builth. To find out how you can make a difference visit: www.mothersunion.org

Builth Wells with Llanddewi’r-Cwm & Llangynog with Maesmynis & Llanynis with Alltmawr Revd Fthr 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 6

Builth Ministry Area – Buallt

Regular Events

Annual Llewellyn Memorial Service

There is a Daily Prayer Service every weekday at 09.00 in the Chapel of the Holy Name in St. Mary the Virgin, Builth Wells. Thursday begins with the Rosary for Renewal at 09.00, followed by the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament at 09.30 and Midweek Eucharist at 10.00 – all welcome.

Wednesday: Choir Practice 16.00 to 17.15 - St Mary’s Thursday: Bell-Ringers 19.45 - St. Mary’s Tower Friday: Choir Practice 18.00 to 19.00 - St. Mary’s Faith & Flicks Youth Group: every 3rd Sunday of the month 18.00 at the vicarage

An annual tri-lingual service in Welsh / English / Latin in St. David’s, Llanynis on Saturday 10th December 2016 at 11.15 as part of a weekend of celebrations. For more details see www.gurfal.com

Christian Aid Guest Preacher

Ministry Area Healing Eucharists

Thanks to all who supported our Christian Aid Harvest Appeal this year we achieved our £490 goal to pay for the construction of a small dam in Kenya which could support for an entire community. We are pleased to welcome Pred Owen Griffiths from Christian Aid Wales as our guest preacher on Sunday 29th January who will be sharing with us the changes that our giving has made in the lives of so many.

These take place in the Chapel of the Holy Name of Jesus in St. Mary’s, Builth on Thursday 15th December and Thursday 19th January. The Service features the laying on of hands and anointing with oil for all those in need of healing. To explore what the Church in Wales teaches about healing visit: www.churchinwales.org.uk/faith/healing/

Holocaust Memorial Day

Christmas Carol Services

On the 27th January we are marking Holocaust Memorial Day with a service at 09.00 in St. Mary’s, Builth including material created jointly by the Council of Christians & Jews and Churches Together in Britain & Ireland on this year’s theme; ‘How Can Life Go on?’ - this weaves together prayers for those targeted in recent genocides including - the Jewish Holocaust, Cambodia, Bosnia, Rwanda, and Darfur. To learn more visit: http://hmd.org.uk/

in December 2016

11th Pop-Up Nativity in St. David’s, Maesmynis 15.00 15th High School Carols in St. Mary’s, Builth 19.00 18th Carols in St. Mauritius, Alltmawr 15.00 19th Community Carols in St. Mary’s, Builth 19.00 24th YFC Carols in St. David’s, Llanddewi’r-Cwm 19.00

A 90th Birthday Quarter Peal

On Saturday 12th November 2016 Builth bellringers rang the quarter peal 1320 Norfolk Surprise Minor in 41 minutes as a 90th birthday tribute to Anne Jones the church Organist. 1 Paul Johnson 4 Hal Drysdale 2 Alwyn Lewis 5 Tim Hollinghurst 3 David A Childs 6 Lynn Scales Conducted by: Lynn Scales

Christian Unity Sunday - 22nd January There will be no Eucharists in the Benefice instead we join in a United Ecumenical Communion service for the United Week of Prayer for Christian Unity at 10.00 in Wesley Chapel, Builth. The theme of this years service is ‘Crossing Barriers’ – to find out more visit: https://ctbi.org.uk/

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Weekday Worship Builth Ministry Area offers regular opportunities for Christians to gather in worship: Daily Prayer Morning Prayer 09.00 every weekday in St. Mary the Virgin, Builth Evening Prayer 18.00 Tuesday, Thursday, Friday in St. Cewydd’s, Aberedw Holy Eucharist Wednesday at 18.30 in St. Cewydd’s, Aberedw

R. W. Evans & Son Ltd Monumental Mason Memorials & Commemorative plaques, additional inscriptions and renovations

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A CALL TO ACTION Save Faith in Families! by Sharon Atkins, part of the Diocesan Faith in Families Team The Swansea and Brecon Diocesan Board for Social Responsibility (known as Faith in Families) works in disadvantaged areas across our diocese, and provides child and family support services, Outreach services and more recently at the new St Johns Centre in Brecon, older people and health and wellbeing services. Faith in Families is succeeding in many ways and making a real difference to members of the communities that we Every Church can make a real difference serve. We are improving the communities around us, both in a functional and emotional way. We have waiting lists for our services and continue to make people feel that they can do things that they have never done before. However, we have recently had the news that a significant part of our funding is potentially being cut at the end of the financial year by Welsh Government, putting our Bonymaen, Clase and Penplas Family Centres at a real risk of closure. This comes at a time when we received news only a few weeks ago, that our Capital Builds project to develop St Teilo’s Church in Portmead into a Church / Family Centre was finally approved and the first spades have been dug into the ground. With funding being cut so dramatically, we may well be in a position of having a wonderful purpose built premises, with our services being unable to run. Our service users are at a real risk of losing out on the much-needed help and support that we provide: “The Project is a lifeline for the community - I know there is always someone there to help me” - Parent “We all love attending, helps us meet new people, would really miss it if was not there and the children would have nowhere to go” - Parent “All my concerns or issues I have experienced, I have relied on Faith in Families team to talk to. I have never been judged and have always felt supported.” - Parent All of our parishes in Swansea and Brecon can help us in our efforts to keep our Family Centres open. Even by helping in a small way, it can make such a big difference. There is a public consultation being undertaken by the Welsh Government about the impact of withdrawing the Communities First programme. To make your voice heard please go to: www.gov.wales/talkcommunities Please continue to support our work, whether this is ensuring that you order your Christingle supplies and envelopes, have collection boxes in place, have a cake sale, or a coffee morning. Together we can work to improve the lives of children and families living with disadvantage in our Diocese, giving them the hope, skills, confidence and self-belief that they need to reach their full potential which will not only impact on their lives and those of their families, but generate a pride in the communities that they live in, thus enabling us to deliver social responsibility as an integral part of the church’s mission. 9

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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)

Clean Home Company (Local business Est 2007) Carpet Cleaning Spring Cleaning Gutter Cleaning Patio Cleaning Also grass & hedge cutting and other handy man jobs.

Contact Rupert Lewis on 01597 825925 or 07930513585 (Can provide local references if required)

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 10

Builth Ministry Area - Erwood & Painscastle Dear All

The scene is already set for the fulfilment of the Passion some thirty years later. It is worth remembering that the story of the Incarnation is a complete and whole event in the history of our world - from our Saviour’s birth until his death and resurrection. The story of Jesus combines joy with sorrow and demonstrates that within our eternal journey, earthly suffering may equal heavenly bliss.

The Feast of the Epiphany on the 8 January emphasis that Jesus and all that his Incarnation brings is God’s gift to us. The Magi bring gifts that are elemental symbols of the earth presented to Our Lord to complement his divinity as he comes to live among us and through whom we are given a glimpse of eternity. Gold is a symbol of the richness of the earth - for him who shall rule our world. Frankincense and Myrrh are both strong healing plants. The former when used as incense has the quality of enhancing the depth and purity of prayer. This shows that our Lord’s strength is through being the most divine and pure of all men, like incense he will carry our prayers to heaven. The salve of Myrrh has the quality to banish decay and infection, thus symbolically this gift will preserve the babe in body and soul. The Magi have interpreted from the stars that the Christ will die but will live forever, thus they match their gifts accordingly.

The Blessings of the Christ child be with you and those you love this Christmas and always. Father Paul. XX

Painscastle Mother’s Union

6th December - Christmas Dinner 10th January - No Meeting You are very welcome to join us for our meetings, held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at Painscastle Village Hall at 7.30pm. For more information, please contact Fran Shaw on 01982 560480.

St Cewydd’s Aberedw – Weekly Services Evening Prayer is at 6.00pm Tuesday to Fridays – excepting Wednesday, when there is a midweek Eucharist at 6.30pm.

Services for December th

Sunday 4 December 9.30am Eucharist 10.30am Mattins 11.00am Morning Prayer 11.00am Eucharist Friday 9th December 7.00pm Carol Service Sunday 11th December 9.30am Eucharist 11.00am Eucharist 6.00pm Crib Christingle Sunday 18th December 9.30am Eucharist 11.00am Eucharist 3.00pm Eucharist 6.00pm Carol Service 6.00pm Carol Service

Services for January

Sunday 1st January 9.30am Eucharist 10.30am Mattins 11.00am Morning Prayer 11.00am Eucharist Sunday 8th January 9.30am Eucharist 11.00am Eucharist 11.00 Morning Prayer Sunday 15th January 9.30am Eucharist 11.00am Morning Prayer 11.00am Eucharist 3.00pm Eucharist Sunday 22nd January 9.30am Eucharist 9.30am Morning Prayer 11.00am Eucharist Sunday 29th January 9.30am Eucharist 11.00am Eucharist Sunday 5th February 9.30am Eucharist 10.30am Mattins 11.00am Morning Praise 11.00 Eucharist

2 Sunday of Advent Llanbadarn Newchurch Llandeilo Graban Gwenddwr Aberedw 3rd Sunday of Advent Crickadarn Aberedw Llanbedr 4th Sunday before Advent Llandeilo Graban Newchurch Llandewi Fach Crickadarn Bryngwyn

Saturday 24th December Christmas Eve 6.00pm Crib Christingle Eucharist Aberedw 11.30pm Midnight Mass Llanbedr Sunday 25th December Nativity of Our Lord 9.30 Eucharist Gwenddwr 11.00 Eucharist Llandeilo Graban

Llanbadarn Newchurch Llandeilo Graban Gwenddwr Epiphany of Our Lord Crickadarn Llanbedr Aberedw 2nd Sunday of Epiphany Llandeilo Graban Gwenddwr Newchurch Llandewi Fach 3rd Sunday of Epiphany Bryngwyn Crickadarn Aberedw 4th Sunday of Epiphany Aberedw Newchurch Candlemas Llanbadarn Newchurch Llandeilo Graban Gwenddwr

Aberedw w Llandeilo Graban w Llanbadarn-y-Garreg w Crickadarn w Gwenddwr & Bryngwyn w Newchurch w Llanbedr Painscastle w Llanddewi Fach Revd Fr Paul Keown, Trefechan, Edw Crescent, Aberedw, Builth Wells LD2 3UH, 01982 560653, frpaulkeown@mac.com 11

Irfon and Wye Ministry Area Irfon Valley, Blaenau Irfon and Upper Wye Dear Friends Here we are galloping towards Christmas and a new year. As our reflections continue through advent maybe we could as ourselves a question, what have we actually needed this year rather than wanted or just had because we do? Christmas can be a time of great joy but also excess. As so many people are struggling throughout the world in poverty, fear and darkness, what can we give to help? Perhaps a little more to the foodbank, a donation to Christian Aid or other charities or a prayer to as God to help them through the darkness into the light. The light that is the real reason that we celebrate Jesus Christ. Going into a new year is another time of reflection as we mull over the events of the last year. 2016 seems to have been a time when we lost so many people to God’s heavenly care as well as a time of parting of countries. Let us pray that 2017 may be a year of mending and new birth, a time of joy and of light. To help this happen let us pull together and reach out across the divide to become one in God’s love. Let us see each other as God sees us, equal and loved. Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda! Love and blessings

Petra

Carols & Afternoon Tea

Services for December and January Saturday 3 December 5.00pm Christmas Tree Festival St James Sunday 4 December Advent II Isaiah 11:1-10 9.30am Holy Eucharist EOD Psalm 72:1-7[18,19] 11.00am Morning Worship St James Romans 15: 4-13 11.00am Morning Worship Newbridge Matthew 3:1-12 11.15am Holy Eucharist LB 11.15am Holy Eucharist Llanlleonfel 11.15am Advent Morning Worship Llanganten Thursday 8 December 6.00pm Ysgol Dolafon Christingle Sunday 11 December Advent III Isaiah 35:1-10 9.30am Morning Worship EOD Magnificat Luke 1:47-55 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llangammarch James 5:7-10 9.30am Morning Worship Cwmbach Matthew 11:2-11 11.00am Holy Eucharist St James 6.00pm Evensong Newbridge Sunday 18 December Advent IV Isaiah 7:10-16 9.30am Holy Eucharist EOD Psalm 80:1-7, [17-19] 11.00am 9 Lessons and Carols Llanwrtyd Romans 1:1-7 11.00am Morning Worship Newbridge Matthew 1:18-25 11.15am Holy Eucharist Llanganten 3.00pm Carol Service Llanafan Wednesday 21 December 6.00pm Candlelit Service St David’s OPC Saturday 24 December 11.30pm Midnight Mass Llangammarch Isaiah 52:7-10 9.30pm Midnight Mass St James Psalm 98 11.30pm Midnight Mass Cwmbach Hebrews 1:1-4,[5-12] 7.00pm Christmas Carols at the Prince, Cilmery John 1:1-14 Sunday 25 December 9.30am Holy Eucharist Newbridge Isaiah 62:6-12 9.30am Holy Eucharist Llanfechan Psalm 97 9.30am Holy Eucharist EOD Titus 3:4-7, Luke 2:1-20

The Church of Saint Michael, Llanfihangel Brynpabuan Church

CONCERT with Mid Powys Youth Choir Sunday 11th December at 3pm

Sunday 11th December 2016 from 4pm in Garth Hall £4 entry. Raffle and 200 Club Draw

Come and Join us £5.00 admission

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

Irfon and Wye Ministry Area Irfon Valley, Blaenau Irfon and Upper Wye Services for January Sunday 1 January 11.00am Garth Hall Reflective Service Numbers 6:22-27, Psalm 8, Galatians 4:4-7, Luke 2:15-21 Monday 2 January 3.00pm Brynpabuan

Carol Service

Sunday 8 January 9.30am Cwmbach 9.30am Llangammarch 9.30am EOD 11.00am St James 3.00pm Llanafan 6.00pm Newbridge

Morning Prayer Isaiah 42:1-9 Holy Eucharist Psalm 29 Morning Prayer Acts 10:34-43 Holy Eucharist Matthew 3:13-17 Holy Communion Evensong

Sunday 15 January 9.30am EOD 11.00am St James 11.00am Newbridge 11.15am Llanganten 3.00pm Llanafan

Holy Eucharist Morning Worship Morning Worship Holy Communion Holy Communion

Sunday 22 January 9.30am EOD 9.30am Llangammarch 9.30am Cwmbach 11.00am St James 11.00am Newbridge

Family Service Isaiah 9:1-4 Morning Worship Psalm 27:1-9 Holy Eucharist 1 Cor. 1:10-18 Holy Eucharist Matthew 4:12-23 Holy Eucharist

Isaiah 49:1-7 Psalm 40:1-11 1 Cor. 1:1-9 John 1:29-42

Tuesday January 10th 2017 at 7.00pm in Garth Hall there is a joint PCC Meeting for all the Churches in the three benefices. Apologies to the secretary in advance please.

Sunday 29 January 11.00am Llanafan Benefice Communion 1 Kings 17:8-16, Psalm 36:5-10, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, John 2:1-11

Christmas Candlelit Service Wednesday 21st December at 6pm in Saint Davids Old Parish Church, Llanwrtyd – join us for an atmospheric service in an atmospheric place!

Join Ysgol Dolafon as they celebrate the coming of Jesus as the Light of the World with their Christingle service on Thursday 8th December at Saint James’, Llanwrtyd. All Welcome

D. K. Dixon Plumbing & Heating

Parry & Pugh Jane Pugh (Daughter of the late Walter Parry)

TEL: 01982 552644 MOB: 07974 315328 oil & gas servicing new installations bathrooms, lead work Pencae, Hay Road, Builth Wells Tel: 01982 551023 Mob: 07813 405039

Local & International homemade dishes Catering for Gluten Free & Vegan diets 55 High Street, Builth Wells

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

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: Â£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

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

Hay Meadow Burials A natural green burial site in rural Mid Wales A place to rest in peace Hay Meadow Burials is a unique green burial ground set in the hills of rural mid Wales. A secluded, quiet, peaceful place off a country lane away from any disturbance. Green burials are an Eco-friendly alternative to traditional burials or cremations. If you have any questions, please contact us.

14 High St, Builth, Powys LD2 3DN

Tel: 01982 553004 email: info@builthcs.co.uk www.builthcs.co.uk Registered Charity 1150452 Company limited by Guarantee 827866

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Busnant Farm, Glascwm, Llandrindod Wells, Powys LD1 5SE Tel 01982 570701 info@haymeadowburials.co.uk www.haymeadowburials.co.uk

for our Community Car scheme & Charity Shop, also Befrienders & Directors for our Board of Management. Please contact our office for more information and an application form

All fired up? Our Church Insurers Ecclesiastical Insurance has sent out a guidance note: Should your main church heating system fail during the winter months, we recommend that electric convector or fan-assisted heaters with thermostatic cut-outs (that operate in the event of over-heating) are used as a temporary measure. Liquid petroleum gas (LPG) heaters give off lots of water vapour which can have an adverse effect on the building, and can lead to the onset of rot in woodwork. If they are used, cylinders should be kept to a minimum and preferably changed in the open air in a well-ventilated area away from any source of ignition. Electric radiant heaters and paraffin/oil fired heaters should never be used, even as a temporary measure. Portable heaters should be sited well clear of woodwork or other combustible materials, and where possible, protected against the possibility of being knocked over or moved accidentally by the fitting of guards. Temporary heaters should not be left unattended for long periods or used when the building is unoccupied, and should never be moved once they have been switched on. For more information about heating in churches, please visit www.ecclesiastical.com/churchmatters

JOURNEYING There is something deeply spiritual about the beauty of creation, a spiritual dimension that sometimes you don't get in a church... For nearly thirty years not-for-profit Journeying has been leading people through beautiful, often remote places in the British Isles and more recently along the Camino of Northern Spain, to experience what the Celts called ‘The Big Book of Creation’. For in the wideness and wildness of the natural world God speaks in great and powerful ways... And as a group travelling together, sharing the joys and challenges of the journey so we also become more aware of God in each other and in ourselves. We are to all intent and purpose a small community; travelling, eating, laughing, reflecting, praying together ... so do Church, but also do Journeying! Journeying is ecumenical and as a Christian group and perhaps because of it, we welcome people of all faiths and none on our holidays. With the exception of some of our island holidays we offer a walk each day. The pace is always relaxed, with plenty of time to look at the view and soak up the atmosphere. The days, however, are not crowded with activity and there is space and time for reflection, either on your own or with others. 2017 brings in a programme of exciting holidays: Location St Davids, Pembrokeshire Bardsey Island Retreat Lundy Island Whitby Northern Spain

Title In the footsteps of David &Patrick RS Thomas and more... … a magical place In the footsteps of St Hilda Camino… the last 100km

Dates 23 – 27 May 23 June – 1 July 24 – 30 July 21 – 25 August 8 – 15 September

... and Y Journey, the youth wing of Journeying will be travelling to the English Lake District during the summer half-term… What Journeying offers is probably unique. If you would like further details about the organisation and our 2017 programme including photographs, do visit our website (www.journeying.co.uk) or get in touch by any of the other means noted below. 18 Holyland Road, Pembroke, Pembrokeshire. SA71 4BL info@journeying.co.uk www.journeying.co.uk01646 279478 JOURNEYING is a non-profit-seeking company limited by guarantee. Registered company number 6919850 Registered Address: 45 Devonshire Road, Southampton. Hampshire. SO15

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

Evan George

Your Advert HERE!

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. Glanrhos, East Street, Rhayader. Tel 01597 811599

georgebuildingconsultancy@btinternet.com

Website: georgebuildingconsultancy.com

Tel: 01591 620 648 E-mail: hhussey@btinternet.com

Maelgwyn Funeral Home, Kensington, Brecon

Tel 01874 622755 www.dougprosser-brecon.com

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

W Cook

‘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 (February): Monday 9 January 2017 16