Trinity Magazine Nov Dec 12

The magazine of Holy Trinity Parish Church Sutton Coldfield Nov-Dec 2012

Showing the Flag …

… and wearing the tee-shirt

Read about Mike Somers’ experiences at the Olympics on page 8

TRINITY November—December 2012

I

have come to the conclusion that computers are not my best friend but rather a help when they work and a lump of metal and plastic when they do not. They are at their best when delving for information on the internet when they can save hours trawling through encyclopaedia and reference books and recently gave me the solution to a puzzle.

A phrase that I heard some time ago, ‘Went the day well?’, came to me and would not go away. A quick enquiry on Google provided the answer that it was the first line of an epitaph for those who died in the Great War not knowing whether they had helped to preserve freedom for future generations. A second epitaph is much more familiar as we celebrate Armistice Day. Both were written in 1918 by a Greek Scholar, John Maxwell Edmonds, and are printed on page 23.

As I write Remembrance Sunday draws close and it is timely to stop and think of the sacrifice made by so many over the years in the name of freedom. It is good to think that major events in London which take place at the Albert Hall and the Cenotaph, together with local ceremonies of remembrance, seem to be attracting greater support as the years roll by.

May I, on behalf of the editors, wish you a joyous time this Christmas.

ROGER

Index: Rector’s Remarks ..................2 Answers ............................. 21 Choir Book ......................... 11 Diary Dates ........................ 21 Did you know? .................... 15 Epitaphs ............................. 23 Fuel Shortage .......................9 Hamish Simpson ................. 16 Iona Spirituality .................. 24 James Bourne .......................4 Joy ..................................... 23 London 2012 ........................7 Mike Box ..............................5 Through a Glass Darkly .........3 PCC Report ......................... 19 Registers ............................ 22 Stained Glass ...................... 20 Teenager ............................ 11 Through a Glass Darkly .........3 Youth Matters .......................8 Editors: Stella 329 2101 s_thebridge@yahoo.com Roger 308 1185 roger.smallwood@btinternet.com Louise 240 6366 louisejharden@hotmail.com

Rector’s Remarks Looking towards Christmas

O

ne of the busiest times of the church year is fast approaching. At the start of November we have a service to remember those who have died in the last year or so; and then a week later there's the Remembrance Day Service when people from across Sutton will gather to remember the sacrifices made in times of war.

Then we get a couple of weeks of 'ordinary' life, which is just as well so that we can take a breather in readiness for December ... ...which brings Advent and the build up to Christmas. First is the annual Toy Service when people bring toys which we will pass on to children in need elsewhere in the area. Then comes the Christingle Service - we make and light christingles as we think of the coming Light of the World. Next there's the annual Service of Lessons and Carols - we hear the Christmas story in readings, whilst the choir lead us in music - all in a candlelit church.

And then we're at Christmas itself. On Christmas Eve there's an afternoon Crib Service for children (& their families!). Later that night there is 'Midnight Mass', and on Christmas Day morning our Christmas Communion Service.

That's quite a lot! But then there are a lot of us at Holy Trinity to share the load.

November and December are a time of year when the church moves from sombre reflection to celebration and joy. And, really, that encapsulates the Christian faith. From death springs new life.

JOHN Sun 4th Nov

5.30pm

Sun 11th Nov

10.45am

Remembrance Service

Sun 9th Dec

10.00am

Toy Service

Sun 16th Dec

4.00pm

Christingle Service

Sun 23rd Dec

6.30pm

Candlelit Carols

Mon 24th Dec

3.30pm

Crib Service

Tue 25th Dec

4

Commemoration of the Departed

11.30pm

'Midnight Mass'

10.00am

Christmas Morning Communion

Through a Glass Darkly – The Waiting Game

T

he themes of repentence and forgiveness continue from last month into the first weeks of Advent as befits a penitential season but the main topic is that of waiting, of course, since Advent means ‘The Coming’.

Waiting is a favourite topic of mine. I believe it to be an enriching experience in many cases. It gives us the opportunity to prepare and to be ready, which Jesus bids us do. Think of the waiting for a wedding, for a baby, for exam. results. Waiting for something can involve a lot of preparation in a practical sense but being ready can also be about changing our attitudes, preparing our response and maybe even facing the possibility of making sacrifices.

The people of Holy Trinity have been waiting for a quarter of a century for what in the early days was known as Phase 2 of its building programme. Phase 1 was the provision of the Trinity Centre as a modern, practical and marketable Church Centre and, as most of you will know, that was opened sixteen years ago. Phase 2 is the re-ordering of the church building itself to reflect and facilitate the work that the church felt called upon to do in this community in the modern world.

About ten years ago a vision of what was needed was born out of the deliberations of the whole congregation. Since then we have been waiting whilst architects drew up plans for the re-ordering and consultation took place within the community and the congregation and then with specialist bodies and planning authorities. We are getting closer and closer but we are still waiting and even when we have the authority to go head the waiting will not be over. But if we believe in the vision now is the time to make ourselves ready, to ask ourselves what we can do to help bring it about so that when people come to us with requests for help we shall be prepared, we shall know what our answer is, we may even have begun to make practical arrangements to carry it out..

In the meantime we are waiting for Christmas. May we wait in patience and reverence and may Christmas, when it comes, be a happy one for us all.

JEAN SCHNEIDER

5

James Bourne

T

he Inaugural Meeting of the James Bourne Society was recently held at the Trinity Centre when Henry Sant, pastor of the Strict Baptist Churches at Hedge End, Southampton and the Salem Chapel Portsmouth, gave a lecture on the life and work of James Bourne who was born in 1773.

James Bourne was born in Lincolnshire and had a chequered childhood as his mother died when he was only 18 months’ old. His father remarried and died when James was 15. James tried various occupations before settling down as an artist and drawing master, teaching in many families throughout the land. His water colours were exhibited at the Royal Academy and some of his works may be found in the British Museum, the Victoria & Albert Museum and the Tate Gallery, others being in private hands. He was an associate of Turner and Girtin.

But after experiencing a real conversion to Christ, it was religion that would become his passion and eventually he began preaching. This he developed from Bible Readings given to friends and families in his own home in London, where he served as a deacon in an Independent Church. This was followed by ministries in Hertford and Shropshire. One of his friends was the Revd Watkin Maddy, onetime fellow of St. John’s College, Cambridge, but who seceded from the Church of England, He then worked as a private tutor in London, and lodged with Bourne and his family. Bourne’s works (particularly his letters) and preachings influenced many High Calvinists of the day.

In 1845 Bourne came to Sutton Coldfield, and at first started preaching at his lodgings. A local solicitor, E C Willoughby, who had only recently died, had desired Bourne to come, and his widow allowed him to preach at her home. His fame spread and in the late 1840s the Independent Chapel was built at Maney Hill where he was pastor until his death, aged 81, in 1854. Nothing remains of the chapel, but James Bourne was buried, together with Watkin Maddy, in Holy Trinity churchyard where their gravestones may be seen on the boundary adjoining the old rectory. It was Maddy who had a house built for the Bournes next to the chapel. A painting by James Bourne of The Entrance to Sutton Coldfield from the Cup Inn (c. 1847) shows the line of the present Parade, Mill Street with Holy Trinity in the background.

ROGER SMALLWOOD

6

Michael Harvey Box – A Tribute 29th July 1927 – 18th September 2012 On 9th October there was a Thanksgiving Service for Mike Box, a valued member of our Congregation. Mike made a great contribution to the life of our Church; he had been a Sidesman, a PCC member, and always supported his wife Margaret with the Church Fellowship.

Mike was also a scholar, explorer and engineer; but he was never one to talk about his many achievements; he was a quiet, modest man.

Mike was born in Somerset coming to Sutton Coldfield in 1935. He went to Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School and in 1944 aged only 17 he went to Birmingham University to read Civil Engineering.

In 1951 Mike became an intrepid explorer joining the Birmingham University Spitzbergen Expedition; it was an interesting experience, the Arctic was cold, wet and dangerous. However, even in those conditions he still managed to win the best beard of the Expedition competition.

Mike spent his working life at the local water Board, eventually becoming Chief Engineer of the Tame Division; he was part of the team that designed the Minworth Sewage works. As Mike said he really was in sewage all his life.

Mike had a keen appreciation of the world; he was fascinated by mountains, he enjoyed hill walking, and holidays in the magnificence of the Lake District and Scotland. His hobbies were wide-ranging, stamp collecting, reading, gardening, bird watching and music.

Above all he will be remembered for his being one half of a long happy marriage, where Mike was there was also Margaret. They met in 1945 and were married in 1952 at Saint Michael’s, Boldmere. Mike and Margaret celebrated 60 years of marriage this year, a wonderful loving partnership.

Mike will be remembered by us all for what he was, calm, kind, gentle, caring, generous; we thank God for Michael’s life and for all that we shared with him.

PAUL DUCKERS

7

6

LONDON 2012 – I helped make it happen!!

Why? I have always been an Olympic fanatic-staying up all night to watch previous Olympics which has nearly led to divorce! My dad (who was a fencing coach) went to the Moscow Olympics 32 years ago and this also left its mark.

There was no way that I was going to miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to be a Games Maker!

What? I applied and was interviewed about a year before. When they assigned me to Workforce Operations I thought my job would be cleaning loos!! However, the role was to ensure the paid staff and volunteers (but not the contractors like security, catering and cleaning) were scheduled, checked -in, had their necessary information and meal vouchers etc. In addition I had to operate a Workforce Help Desk and deal with any problems as well keeping the workforce motivated with newsletters, quizzes and lots of chocolates. Giving out rewards was the most pleasant duty and there were few problems to deal with as the majority of the workforce was willing, helpful and happy with smiling faces!

How? As Team Leader I was more of a Sergeant Wilson in Dad’s Army with the occasional Corporal Jones=don’t panic when the computer system went down! My team included a volunteer from Sochi in Russia as they are holding the Winter Olympics in 2014, and we also had a visit from a party from Rio in Brazil who were seeing how thing were done.

Where? The wonderful Aquatics Centre was my location which featured 5 sports: Swimming, Diving, Synchronised swimming and the swimming element of Modern Pentathlon as well as a separate Water Polo arena. We had something going on everyday of the Olympics with a total workforce of 3,827 paid and volunteer staff.

When? My Olympics shifts were on 14 out of 18 days but I had previously spent a week at the Olympic Park for the Swimming test event as well as 5 other trips to London for training, uniform etc.

Worst aspect? This was definitely the early shifts when I had to get up at 4am and drive from Esher-were I was staying with distant relatives-to the nearest tube station to reach the Aquatics Centre for a 6am start-urgh!!

Best aspect? Being able to see 10 different Olympic sports LIVE both in the Olympic Park and outside (although I watched less on the TV than in previous Olympics!). Also those occasions being next to VIP’s and famous athletes such as Kate and William, Tom Daley and Rebecca Adlington -great!!

What will I remember most? How well organised everything was (except for G4S). My most abiding thought is how there was so much enthusiasm and enjoyment around and I was so glad to see that the moaners and doommongers proved wrong! London 2012 excelled! So much for the British reserve! Let’s keep up the Olympic spirit!

Would I do it again? Certainly - See you in Rio in 2016?

MIKE SOMERS Team Leader-Workforce Operations-The Aquatics Centre-London 2012 Olympic Games

7

Youth Matters I know we are taught that God created everything and that he said everything was good but I must admit I find myself wondering about mildew. When (if?!) I get to heaven, I might just be asking God just why he created mildew and what good it does. I have to report that I, myself, have had a rather unhappy and protracted encounter with mildew and I still think it is lurking about in my home. I am afraid my opinion of it is that it is the work of the devil!

During the summer I discovered that the mildew I had had before had come back and had come back with a vengeance. So, along with my usual hours of work, I had an interesting summer stripping store rooms and cupboards bare, washing shelving units in baths of bleach, taking up tiles, painting, sorting through and washing just about all the contents of said rooms/cupboards and also throwing an awful lot of stuff away that was not washable. For weeks my flat was in a total state of chaos and I felt very demoralised at the mess, waste of things and also the cost. I was not a happy camper. And what is more, not only have I still not finished sorting stuff, I have now discovered that there is mildew in my other walk-in cupboard. When will it end? I remember saying to my Dad at some point that I could truly understand why some people get so fed up of their circumstances in life that they just pack a suitcase, get on a train and disappear.

Also over the summer a lot of other things happened. A family on holiday in France got shot and the only survivors are little children who now have to live with those horrible memories and scars. Soldiers were killed in Afghanistan. A couple were buried alive in a landslide caused by floods. A cat was put in a microwave oven by an 11 year old boy. And there were many other items in the news telling of dreadful traumas happening to people. So, in the scheme of things my mildew problem, though unpleasant, is really not very significant.

But isn’t that so often what we do? We get so worked up about things which, when laid alongside some of the terrible things that other people have to suffer, are very small. The same can happen all too easily with church matters too. We can get very hung up over issues such as microphones not working or whether someone has forgotten to do something in a service or where the prayers have been led from. We would do well to remember what church is really about and keep things in perspective.

SUSIE WALKER

8

An answer to the impending fuel shortage? have been given a book by the Hollows: ‘No Oil in the Lamp’. The Iterest. authors are Messrs Mellen and Hollow. So I have declared my inI intend to read this book but a skim through has convinced me that it is worth reading and is of importance. (I think Doctor Johnson said that you have not to eat a whole pie to recommend it and it is not necessary to read a whole book.)

Each chapter begins with an appropriate quotation and I will try to give a taste of that.

The fool doth think that he is wise; but the wise man knows himself to be a fool: since natural resources are finite, increased consumption [of fossil fuels] must inevitably lead to depletion and scarcity. [Paul Ehrlich] I'd put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope I don't have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that! [Thomas Edison, 1931] Because we are now running out of gas and oil, we must prepare quickly for a third change, to strict conservation and to the use of coal and permanent renewable energy sources, like solar power. [US President Jimmy Carter 1977] I see in the near future a crisis approaching that unnerves me and causes me to tremble for the safety of my country…

Corporations have been enthroned, an era of corruption in high places will follow, and the money-power of the country will endeavour to prolong its reign by working upon the prejudices of the people until the wealth is aggregated in a few hands. [Abraham Lincoln, 1864] Have you forgotten the foolish virgins? [Matthew 25 I-v] And another book I got as a birthday present (You didn't know about my 90th Birthday?) was John Major's My Old Man. I will tell you about that in my next letter.

And I have finished a couple of others I may resurrect. It's pity I am such a slow reader. Any attempts to speed reading up - there are books about increasing speed of reading but they haven't been any help to me. (Come to think about it: and I may turn back to seeking out methods - tried methods - of increasing speed…)

(I have read enough of Messrs Mellen and Hollow to be sure that it would interest any thoughtful reader...)

DERRRIG FERGUSON

9

urine

If You would like to Advertise in this space Please contact our Parish Administrator for details Email: admin@htsc.org.uk Tel: 0121 321 1144 Fax: 0121 321 1199 12

Choirbook for the Queen

D

uring the wonderful celebrations of Her Majesty The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee a project to celebrate her sixty years as Queen has been quietly unfolding in Cathedrals, Churches and Chapels across the Country. www.choirbookforthequeen.org.uk contains 44 anthems written in the last decade. 11 anthems were specially commissioned from leading British composers and are being premiered across the country. Many have been heard on BBC Radio 3’s Choral Evensong. T he final anthem to be premiered (BBC Radio 3 Choral Evensong on 5th December 2012 from Westminster Abbey) is called ‘Advent Calendar’. It is composed by Sir Peter Maxwell Davies and based on a poem by Rowan Williams, who steps down as Archbishop of Canterbury in the New Year. Universally acknowledged as one of the foremost composers of our time, Sir Peter Maxwell Davies has made a significant contribution to musical history through his wide-ranging and prolific output. He lives in the Orkney Islands where he writes most of his music. Maxwell Davies’ huge output of work includes operas, two ballets, music-theatre works, eight symphonies and numerous concerti, light orchestral works and largescale works for chorus. Maxwell Davies has guest-conducted international orchestras at the highest level and retains close links with the St. Magnus Festival, which he founded in 1977. He was knighted in 1987 and appointed Master of The Queen's Music in 2004. __________________________________________

Teenager

A

teenage boy had just passed his driving test and inquired of his father as to when they could discuss his use of the car. His father said he'd make a deal with his son, "You bring your grades up from a C to a B average, study your Bible a little, and get your hair cut. Then we'll talk about the car."

The boy thought about that for a moment, decided he'd settle for the offer, and they agreed on it. After about six weeks his father said, "Son, you've brought your grades up and I've observed that you have been studying your Bible, but I'm disappointed you haven't had your hair cut." The boy said, "You know, Dad, I've been thinking about that, and I've noticed in my studies of the Bible that Samson had long hair, John the Baptist had long hair, Moses had long hair, and there's even strong evidence that Jesus had long hair."

After a pause, Dad replied, "Did you also notice they all walked everywhere they went?"

13

THE SUTTON COLDFIELD AREA FOR OVER 26 YEARS

14

GROUPS and ACTIVITIES A midweek gathering for friendship and speakers 1stTuesday of the month at 2.30pm

Church Fellowship

Contact: Chris Das (355 5280)

Choir meets to practise on Fridays Junior Choir at 6.30pm; Adult Choir at 7.15pm

Church music

Contact: Stella Thebridge (329 2101)

Groups meet at various times for guidance in contemplative and meditative prayer

Prayer and meditation

Contact: Colin & Sue Ingley (313 0249) Church Flowers

New arrangers are always welcome Contact: Jane Steeley (354 2359)

Meet to practise: Wednesdays at 7.30pm

Bellringers

Contact: Christine Mills (07815016064)/Paul McEvilly (353 3942) Church cleaning

Alternate Fridays at 9.30am Contact: Andrea Morrell (354 3637)

HT Film Club

Meet 1st Monday of the month at 7.00pm

FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE Creche (0-Under 4)During the 10.00am service each Sunday morning service a soft

play area is available at the back of church (Children under parents supervision).

Contact Andrea Morrell on 0121 354 3637 Sparklers (4-7yrs) This group meets every Sunday morning during the 10.00am Service. Contact– Abi Dodds or Nicola Revell—0121 355 7497 Rockets (8yrs & above) This group meets on the 1st, 3rd & 5th Sunday mornings of the month during the 10.00am service. Contact - Susie Walker or Becky Stephens on 0121 241 3144 Open House A time for younger children to play, and parents or carers

to meet. Wednesdays during term-time: 9.30am-11.30am - Margaret LeBrocq Uniformed groups

0121 378 1707

Brownies (girls 7-10) Mondays 6.00pm - 7.15pm - Marion Bagley 0121 240 8650 Brownies (girls 7-10) Tuesdays 6.15pm - 7.30pm - New Leader Required! Contact Marion Bagley if you can help) Guides (girls 10+) Mondays 7.30pm - 9.00pm - Michelle Beams 0121 240 8434 Beavers (boys/girls 6-8) Wednesdays 5.45pm - 6.45pm - David Thebridge 0121 329 2101 Cub Scouts (boys/girls 8-101/2) Wednesdays 7.00pm - 8.30pm - Jess Underhill 07947 280072 1 Scouts (boys/girls 10 /2 - 14) Thursdays 7.30pm - 9.15pm - David Thebridge 0121 329 2101

Cluster Youth CYG and JCYG

See middle pages for details

13

Monthly Pattern of Services

WORSHIP and DIARY DATES

Sundays 8.00am

Holy Communion

traditional language every week except 2nd & 4th Sundays when Holy Communion is celebrated in contemporary language 10.00 am

5.30 pm

Parish Communion in contemporary language - every week except 2nd Sunday when there is Parish Worship (often with Baptism) Evening Worship in a variety of styles.

2nd Sunday is Holy Communion in contemporary language

Thursdays 10.30am

Holy Communion, traditional language

Prayer for wholeness and healing 10.00am 5.30pm

during Parish Communion, 4th Sunday during Holy Communion, 2nd Sunday

There is also a meeting at 2.30pm on 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month to offer prayer for those who have requested it. Further details from Pauline

Manfield (378 2727) Holy Communion at Home 11.30am

following Parish Communion, 1st Sunday

To arrange a home communion visit, please contact Paul & Pat Duckers (378 1835) or Janet Johnston (354 2187) Any one-off changes to this pattern will be noted on the facing page and also on our website: www.htsc.org.uk and our Facebook Page.

Remember to visit us online!

Trinity Lights If you'd like further information please contact Becky Stephens beckystephens17@gmail.com or Marette John marette@virginmedia.com.

S for NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2012 Special Services & Events Saturday 3rd November

•

7.30pm Sutton Coldfield Chamber Choir Concert in church. Tickets £5.00 in aid of Birmingham Crisis Centre.

Sunday 4th November

•

5.30pm Service to Commemorate the Departed followed by refreshments in the Trinity Centre

Sunday 11th November

•

10.45am Remembrance Day Service

Sunday 18th November

•

From 8.30am—’Big Breakfast’ in the Trinity Centre. Tickets £5 in aid of Birmingham Crisis Centre

Saturday 1st December

•

‘Joy to the World’ Advent Day for our Youth at St. Peter’s. More details in notices

Sunday 2nd December

•

6.30pm Advent Carols

Sunday 9th December

•

10.00am ‘Toy Service’ - an All-Age and Parade Service

Sunday 16th December Holy Trinity On-line Find out more about Holy Trinity, and what kind of things go on here at our website: www.htsc.org.uk follow us at www.facebook.com/HolyTrinityChurchSC and keep up with all the news from Holy Trinity & ‘RevJ’ by following us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/HolyTrin (or if you

Cluster Youth Group (CYG) for Secondary School Age Meets 1st & 3rd Sundays from 7.30pm-9.00pm at various venues.

Junior Cluster Youth Group (JCYG) for School Years 5-7 Meets each Friday during term time from 7.00pm-8.30pm in Trinity Centre Holy Trinity Church Fellowship Meets in the Trinity Centre 1st Tuesday of the month at 2.30pm Next Meetings on:

GROUPS and ACTIVITIES Church Fellowship

A midweek gathering for friendship and speakers 1stTuesday of the month at 2.30pm

Church music

Choir meets to practise on Fridays Junior Choir at 6.30pm; Adult Choir at 7.15pm

Contact: Chris Das (355 5280)

Contact: Stella Thebridge (329 2101)

Groups meet at various times for guidance in contemplative and meditative prayer

Prayer and meditation

Contact: Colin & Sue Ingley (313 0249) Church Flowers

New arrangers are always welcome Contact: Jane Steeley (354 2359)

Bellringers

Meet to practise: Wednesdays at 7.30pm

Church cleaning

Alternate Fridays at 9.30am

Contact: Christine Mills (07815016064)/Paul McEvilly (353 3942) Contact: Andrea Morrell (354 3637) HT Film Club

Meet 1st Monday of the month at 7.00pm

FOR CHILDREN & YOUNG PEOPLE Creche (0-Under 4)During the 10.00am service each Sunday morning service a soft

play area is available at the back of church (Children under parents supervision).

Contact Andrea Morrell on 0121 354 3637 Sparklers (4-7yrs) This group meets every Sunday morning during the 10.00am Service. Contact– Abi Dodds or Nicola Revell—0121 355 7497 Rockets (8yrs & above) This group meets on the 1st, 3rd & 5th Sunday mornings of the month during the 10.00am service. Contact - Susie Walker or Becky Stephens on 0121 241 3144 Open House A time for younger children to play, and parents or carers

to meet. Wednesdays during term-time: 9.30am-11.30am - Margaret LeBrocq Uniformed groups

0121 378 1707

Brownies (girls 7-10) Mondays 6.00pm - 7.15pm - Marion Bagley 0121 240 8650 Brownies (girls 7-10) Tuesdays 6.15pm - 7.30pm - New Leader Required! Contact Marion Bagley if you can help) Mondays 7.30pm - 9.00pm Guides (girls 10+) - Michelle Beams 0121 240 8434 Beavers (boys/girls 6-8) Wednesdays 5.45pm - 6.45pm - David Thebridge 0121 329 2101 Wednesdays 7.00pm - 8.30pm Cub Scouts (boys/girls 8-101/2) - Jess Underhill 07947 280072 Scouts (boys/girls 101/2 - 14) Thursdays 7.30pm - 9.15pm - David Thebridge 0121 329 2101

Cluster Youth CYG and JCYG

See middle pages for details

20

Did you know? n 2012, December has 5 Fridays, 5 Saturdays, and 5 Sundays. This I apparently happens once every 823 years If you are left handed, you will tend to chew your food on the left side of your mouth and vice versa To make half a kilo of honey, bees must collect nectar from over 2 million individual flowers Tourists visiting Iceland should know that tipping at a restaurant is considered an insult Albert Einstein was offered the presidency of Israel in 1952, but he declined The Mona Lisa has no eyebrows. In the Renaissance era, it was fashionable to shave them off Because of the speed at which Earth moves around the Sun, it is impossible for a solar eclipse to last more than 7 minutes and 58 seconds The night of January 20 is "Saint Agnes's Eve", which is regarded as a time when a young woman dreams of her future husband Google is actually the common name for a number with a million zeros It takes glass one million years to decompose, which means it never wears out and can be recycled an infinite amount of times!

Gold is the only metal that doesn't rust, even if it's buried in the ground for thousands of years Your tongue is the only muscle in your body that is attached at only one end If you stop getting thirsty, you need to drink more water. When a human body is dehydrated, its thirst mechanism shuts off Zero is the only number that cannot be represented by Roman numerals Kites were used in the American Civil War to deliver letters and newspapers The song ‘Auld Lang Syne’, is sung at the stroke of midnight in almost every English-speaking country in the world to bring in the new year Drinking water after eating reduces the acid in your mouth by 61%

21

Biography of an Illustrator of Buildings

W

hen my family moved from Largs to Sutton I was four. Earliest memories relate to our home in Barnard Road surrounded by farmland and wooded fields, Tiger Moths from St George's Barracks overhead and amphibious tanks from Castle Bromwich lining-up outside our house for practice on James's Pool, created a paradise for growing-up. Building dens on, under and over ground, playing with Meccano and model-making provided a grounding in construction and dexterity. Awareness of our mother's widowed status came gradually.

Ernest was a victim in a bombing raid over Germany. Knowledge and love of my father and of Largs came from photographs and Easter holidays, via the night sleeper from New Street Station, to visit our Grandparents. Schooling was not so great. Vain efforts to help me learn to read dominated those early days. It was not until I failed the 11+ and went to Boldmere Secondary that, with stern guidance from a caring master, I read, from cover to cover my first adult book. He made it possible for me to enter Bishop Vesey's as a late developer.

During all this time an emerging talent for drawing was always subordinated by the need to aim for a proper education, with a ‘proper job’ as the goal. With the best of intensions I was articled to a firm of accountants in Birmingham. Nothing could have been more inappropriate. I might just as well have been sent to jail! Assertion at last enabled me to opt-out and apply to the Birmingham School of Architecture, where I spent 5 rewarding years. It was there that among the building disciplines, a talent for drawing was recognized, encouraged and enhanced by an understanding of colours, light and perspective. It also provided a 'Proper Jobs’ qualification with an artistic element.

As assistant architect in various building and architects’ firms, the next 25 years encountered marriage, visits to the Middle East, South America and Europe, as well as a preference for the elegance of older buildings and an interest in detail. I still sketched as time permitted.

The slump in 1984 caused a massive shrinkage of the building industry. With a young family, redundancy was a frightening experience, but it gave me an opportunity to set-up a 6 months’ trial period as a self-employed illustrator of buildings. The trial period extended to another 25 years, and eventually to retirement in 2009. I am an artist only in the broadest sense. My field of work is illustration which re-

22

lies on accurate representation of a subject rather than on imagination or improvised interpretation.

From a hesitant start, use of a natural talent has provided an adequate income and considerable satisfaction. An accumulation of recreational sketches and drawings is now archived in my PC. Much of the content is building-related and some of the early sketches show buildings long demolished. Some have merit and need a home. To this end and to supplement my pension, over the next few years I am hoping to exhibit and sell originals and prints. The mind is a wondrous, perverse organ, although I eventually learned to read I have used the dictionary 15 times in writing this summary.

HAMISH SIMPSON Hamish has produced many drawings of local places of interest and has kindly allowed the Trinity Centre to use some of his drawings for their Christmas cards.

Prints made to order in sizes A2, A3 and A4.

Contact Hamish Simpson 140 Thornhill Road, Streetly, Sutton Coldfield. B74 2ED. 0121 353 4766.

hamish.simpson051@btinternet.com

23

24

Margaret’s memories from the September 2012 PCC Meeting ♦ The draft budget for 2013 was presented. Despite efforts to hold

down costs, it was noted that it would take an increase in giving of 9% to show break-even for the year. However, the PCC are recommending that we increase our giving by a more achievable 2%. ♦ The number of families seeking baptism for their children is rising to

the extent that the six baptism services in the year that we have at 10am are unable to cope. Therefore, as need arises, baptism services may be held on a Sunday afternoon - these will replace the evening service, to encourage congregation members to attend. ♦ A team of pastoral visitors has been set up to visit members of the

congregation under the guidance of the Pastoral Committee. ♦ Arrangements were made for the Reflection Day (held on Sept 29th).

We will hear more about the result of this in future weeks. ♦ A report was received from the Deanery Synod meeting where pro-

posed changes in the calculation of the Common Fund had been outlined. ♦ There is still no news of an appointment to the position of Diocesan

Chancellor. So re-ordering plans are still awaiting approval. ♦ Reports were received from all the committees, working groups and

inter-church committees. ♦ Plans for various services & social events were noted. Details can

be found elsewhere in this publication, on the website, on Facebook or in the weekly notices.

MARGARET LE BROCQ

PCC Secretary 25

Stained Glass

W

ith a long and interesting history, stained glass dates back to Roman times when it was used in palaces and villas during the first century AD. It is likely that various colours were discovered by accident during the melting process of silica when other elements such as oxides were present.

It was in the 9th and 10th centuries that decorative stained glass began to be used in churches when scenes depicted bible stories that could be understood by the congregation, most of whom were unable to read or write. The early days saw the figures made with red and blue glass, other colours were developed in the 12th century when so many fine cathedrals and churches were built.

Gothic architecture represented the pinnacle of the development of religious buildings whose craftsmanship has, arguably, never been surpassed. As many colours were too dark to allow sufficient light through the medieval glaziers perfected a system of flashing a thin layer of coloured glass on to a piece of clear glass. The individual panes were joined by lead strips – a method used to the present-day.

Figure windows, illustrating Old Testament figures such as Adam, Noah, Soloman, David etc., were placed high up in the walls.

The late 13th century saw the decline of figured windows and the introduction of patterns in more transparent glazings. This was followed by a return to figured windows, usual of single saints rather than groups. Windows designed during the Italian Renaissance replaced religious symbolism with clear glass the better to illuminate internal wall frescos. Secular scenes were reintroduced in cathedrals and churches, particularly the former when pictures overflowed from one mullion to the next presenting a large frame inside which are large, historical, scenes. At this time colours were painted on to clear glass before being cut to be used in the ‘jigsaw’ that made up the scene. Faces and other detail were painted on by hand before baking at high temperature.

26

The Reformation saw the destruction of windows on a massive scale when stained glass was replaced with clear or enamel-painted glass with non-religious subjects and heraldic panels. Many stained glass factories were lost during this period when the new Protestants were not in favour of historic art forms. Much stained glass from the Middle Ages was destroyed and very little remains today.

The early part of the 19th century saw a huge revival of stained glass and artists of the day re-learned the techniques that had been used for centuries. Church architecture entered a new phase and the Victorians had a liking for modern design together with a sense of the craftsmanship of the past. Pugin was the most celebrated architect of his day and he re-established the Gothic style in his designs for churches and stained glass windows. Much of the stained glass in Holy Trinity dates from the late 19th century.

ROGER SMALLWOOD

Dates for your Diary Tuesday 6th November at 2:30 pm in the Trinity Centre. An interesting talk to the Fellowship Group by husband and wife duo Pauline and Alan Ridpath who are to share their Christian Faith in words and music. All welcome.

Sunday 18th November from 8:30 am in the Trinity Centre. A Big Breakfast cooked by the Social Committee to raise funds for this year’s charity The Birmingham Crisis Centre. Tickets £5 (children half -price)

Answers to last edition’s crossword Across 2 Rectory Park 5 Organ 6 John Harman 7 Blaise 8 East window 11 Worcester 12 Font

Down 1 James Langstaff 3 Choir vestry 4 Clock 9 William 10 JCYG

27

From the Registers ...

Baptisms 9th September - Sebastian Edward Flynn & Gabriel William Flynn Molly Turner Harry Lucas 14th October - Leila Sofia Swannell

We welcome these children into new life with God, as part of our church family

Marriages 25th August - James Sparrow & Sally Tomkinson 2nd September - Christopher Wood & Eleanor Spalding 9th September - Chris Spilsbury & Gemma O'Rourk

We wish them every blessing in their future together

Funerals 16th August - Heather Patricia Bright 31st August - George William Beddard 3rd September - Rosie May Greenhill 24th September - Don (Donald John) Smith 27th September - Lynda Kathleen Vickers 5th October - Jean Christine Tonks 9th October - Mike (Michael Harvey) Box 16th October—Hazel Timmis

We remember all who have died and ask for God’s comfort to sustain all who are bereaved 22

Two Epitaphs

Went the day well?

We died and never knew.

But, well or ill, Freedom, we died for you.

Went the day well?

When you go home, Tell them of us and say, "For your tomorrows, These gave their todays".

JOHN MAXWELL EDMONDS

These wonderful lines, written on behalf of those who died fighting for their country, essentially mean: 'We fought for your freedom but died without knowing if our sacrifice was successful. Was it?'

They are as relevant today as they were when they were first published in 1918.

Advance notice..............

Saturday 1st December Advent Day, our annual activity day for children which starts the countdown to Christmas, is getting near! This year, the day will be based on the senses. Lots of helpers will be needed. Please keep the date free and let Susie know if you can be there. (susiepwalker@yahoo.co.uk or 07949 557015)

23

Your Garden Here are some ideas for your garden for daily living: Plant 3 rows of peas. Peace of mind, peace of heart, peace of soul.

Plant 4 rows of squash. Squash gossip, squash indifference, squash grumbling, squash selfishness.

Plant 4 rows of lettuce. Lettuce be faithful, lettuce be kind, lettuce be patient, lettuce really love one another.

No garden should be without turnips. Turnip for meetings, turnip for service, turnip to help one another.

And we must have some thyme. Thyme for one another, thyme for family, thyme for friends.

Water freely with patience and cultivate with love. There is so much fruit in your garden because you reap what you sow.

Contributed by Louise Manning

ANON

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

TRINITY Dates for 2013 Cover Date

Copy Date

Editor

Publication Date

January/February

25-Nov-12

Stella

9-Dec-12

March/April

3rd February

Louise

17th February

May/June

7th April

Roger

21st April

July/August

2nd June

Stella

16th June

September/October

4th August

Louise

18th August

November/December

6th October

Roger

17th October

Please submit your contribution to Stella Thebridge for the next issue by Sunday 25th November email and photos: s_thebridge@yahoo.com written text: Please leave in the “Magazine� pigeon-hole in church or in the Trinity Centre office

24

Cutting the cake ‌ Many congratulations to Derrig Ferguson, a long-standing contributor to Trinity, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday and is here shown cutting his birthday cake with wife Jill and daughter Kate.

More Celebrations Pat & Paul Duckers and Carole & Ray Hancox recently

celebrated

their

45th wedding anniversaries.

Paul & Ray also

celebrated reaching three score years and ‌

More Cake!

Autumn at Little Bracebridge