The magazine of the Clyne Trinity Ministry Area, covering the Parishes of Killay, Sketty & Tycoch
December 2019
50p
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Dear Friends If you are a rugby fan then you would have seen a glimpse of how Japan has such a different culture to our own through the coverage of the World Cup. When I was Vicar of St Luke’s in Cwmbwrla 20 years ago, I was told an amazing story about Christmas in Japan. It was about a parishioner’s son who was working there. Being a Christian he always celebrated Christmas but the majority of Japanese do not. They are, in the main, Shinto or Buddhist and so know next to nothing about Christmas other than from trips abroad or Hollywood films. One of the large Tokyo department stores, however, decided to make a thing of Christmas. They obviously had some idea about Christmas so they set about putting a Christmas display in the window. Now you may have expected a nativity scene at best or some sort of Father Christmas, reindeer & elves type theme. Unfortunately, they did not get it quite right. They sort of combined the two and they ended up with the centre of the display consisting of:a life size Father Christmas on a cross red suit, beard – the lot. Somehow Christmas and in particular Father Christmas and the events of Good Friday had got fused together in the mind of some poor Japanese window dresser. Of course, we can forgive a mistake such as this from a nation who have no Christian heritage. Unfortunately, modern Britain is not far behind. To know the real unconfused Advent and Christmas we need to experience them and not just look from afar. Over the Advent and Christmas seasons all of our churches across the Ministry area will be holding services, all designed to make sure we don’t get everything mixed up. Both Phil and I would love to welcome you to our services over the festive period. Every blessing Vicar Robert Page 3
Parish News Killay We pray for those who are ill at home, in hospitals or nursing homes. Our thoughts and prayers are also with those who lovingly care tor them day by day. Phyllis Harris, Emlyn Bawden, Joan Dobbs, Eunice Miron, Fr. Roy Blewett, Margaret Harris, Barbara Jones, Enid Sawday (Lime Grove), Phyllis Davies (Glasfryn Nursing Home), Dr. Ann Ryan, Eddie Rowe, Jane Riseborough and Madge Ellis. Rev. Robert Blackmore B.A. Mth “If you love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father and he shall give you another comforter, that he may abide with you forever”. We were all sad to hear of the sudden death of Rev. Blackmore — particularly his Thursday morning family. He and Susan were faithful and regular communicants and Thursday's will not be the same without his presence. We send our sympathy, love and prayers to Ruth and her family and Frances and her family. Rev. Blackmore's coffin was brought into St. Hilary Church on Tuesday 5 November and Canon Phillip Gwynn, conducted a brief service of meaningful prayer with Susan and their daughters Ruth and Frances present. Rev. Blackmore's coffin was placed with the head of the coffin facing the congregation—as befitting a Priest - and Susan and Ruth and Frances placed Rev. Blackmore's stole — given to him at the time of his ordination in 1963— and also the chalice on his coffin. Rev. Blackmore had served all his Ministry at the Diocese of Llandaff. After the service all three adorned the church with flowers. Canon Phillip Gwynn, MA and Fr. John Anthony officiated at the funeral service on Wednesday — Canon Phillip was pleased to see such a good attendance of the Thursday morning church family. The music on entry into St Hilary's Church was “Lord my Heart I Gladly Grant Thee” (St.Matthew's Passion) J.S.Bach. First hymn was Kingsford English traditional melody “I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say”. Ruth read from 1 Corinthians using her father's Common Prayer book. Frances read “Our Last Awakening” by John Donne, Dean of St. Paul's. Page 4
After prayers by Canon Phillip Gwynn and Fr. John Anthony, the music for reflection was “If Ye Love Me” by Thomas Tallis performed by Tallis Scholars. Before the final prayers and blesssing the congregation sang J.Haydn's “Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken”. As Rev. Blackmore's coffin left the Church we listened to J.S.Bach's Prelude in F. The Choir of New College, Oxford sang “Ave Verum Corpus” by William Byrd for Rev. Blackmore's entry into the Crematorium and they also sang it again after his Commendation and Committal. Mr. Christopher Samuel played the organ throughout the ceremony. “What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from”. T.S.Eliot Little Gidding from the Four Quartets We send congratulations to Ken James on his 90th Birthday — 24 November. After Morning Service we all retired to the Parish Centre for not any birthday cakes but Marks and Spencer birthday cakes!! Joyce and Ken have, over many decades, welcomed us to their home, particularly for such evenings as Alpha meetings always superb hostessing and delightful conversation. Also, for many decades, Ken has served our Parish in a highly efficient, dignified way, quietly doing vital Parish work, without expecting reward or favour; always courteous in manner, especially with his answers to our many “financial” questions. Ken is an example of a true, Christian gentleman — who has lived a Christian family life, and always ready to help countless people outside the church. (His cars have been a taxi service for many years). Enjoy your birthday Ken and may God grant you good health to enjoy many more Happy Birthdays. From Jane Riseborough: A huge thank you for all your prayers, cards, gifts and visits whilst I recover from a disastrous fall. It is slow progress but I will be delighted to welcome anyone who has the time to call and visit me at home. Eternally grateful Jane Rev. Roy Blewett is now at: Newton Grange, Southward Lane, Newton, Mumbles and would welcome visitors from both churches. Mrs. Phyllis Davies with celebrate her 99th birthday during this coming week. All our love and prayers Phyllis: Ken James says a big thank you for all the cards and kind wishes on his 90th birthday. Page 5
Killay & Tycoch – some changes to usual service times in December Sunday 22nd – there will be no morning service at St.Martin’s, due to the evening candle-lit carol service later that day. Sunday 22nd – the usual 11am Lay-led service at St.Hilary’s will be replaced with Holy Communion. Sunday 29th – as this is a 5th Sunday, following current custom and practise, there will be one joint service at 10.30am and it is the turn of All Souls Church to host this time. Please note that there will be no other services in Killay or Tycoch that morning. Cleaning Duties at St Hilary’s There are two issues regarding cleaning. Firstly, we need more volunteers to lend a hand at cleaning the church. Sadly the current rota has several gaps. The church needs regular cleaning, with such a large congregation, surely more people could run (or walk, of course), behind a vacuum cleaner? We are now reaching a desperate situation, please contact the Wardens to put your name on the rota. The second issues is that the cleaner who looks after the Parish Centre has moved to London, and is no longer available to carry out his duties. We have a temporary fix in place. However, if anyone knows of someone who might be interested in a few hours cleaning, regularly each week, please contact the Wardens. Taize returns to St Martin’s If you would like to relax in a peaceful environment, in a small setting bedecked with candles, some led reflections and the evocative sound of one lone instrument leading repetitive chanting – why not come along to St.Martin’s Church in Fairwood Road, Dunvant on Tuesday 3rd December at 7pm. Taize worship is the ideal antidote to running around preparing for Christmas. Advent is a time to prepare ourselves spiritually for the rigours of the season ahead, I urge you to make use of this opportunity to be still – with God. Yes, it’s that time of year again The Cards for Good Causes, multiple charity Christmas card pop-up stall is now open for business in St.Mary’s Church in the City Centre between 9.30am – 3pm. They also have an online facility to order your cards from your favourite charities. Car Parking at St Hilary’s Church Due to unhelpful positioning of vehicles within what is a small car park, the Parochial Church Council has been forced into taking certain actions. Designated car parking bays have been re-painted, with a small number of additional spaces Page 6
created. A No Parking area has been laid out in order to allow access to emergency vehicles when required. We ask that you only park in designated parking bays please and, when these are all full, that you kindly park on the highway. Those who prefer to get away quickly after the conclusion of the service, please kindly park on the road outside. The PCC would like to ask for your help in making car parking safer for all who use the church site. All Souls Christmas Fundraising All Souls are putting Christmas into fundraising. Mince Pies, Christmas Cake and Table Centres all available to order. Pam, Alayne, Celia and Hazel will be taking orders, get your orders in quick as resources are limited (we are only human!). We also have a small selection of Christmas cards for sale, including an All Souls exclusive! Please support these efforts to help raise much needed funds for All Souls Church. Contact Alayne Jenkins with orders on Tel: (01792) 423936 or e.mail: alayne.jenkins56@gmail.com. 2020 Rotas (St Hilary’s) I have taken over the Rotas for next year and am compiling a list of people to be included in the following capacities: Readers, Sidespersons, Taking the Elements to the Altar & Coffee. If anyone else would like to be considered for any of these activities (or you no longer wish to be on the current list), please see me as soon as possible. Geraldine Rees
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Parish of Killay annual subscription £6 for this magazine is due in December; this covers the cost of the magazines delivered to you for this past year, ending December 2019.
The "100" club November draw was made at St Hilary’s on Sunday 24th Drawn by Ken James on his 90th Birthday - and the winners are..... First prize of £35 Lucy George (All Souls) No 19 Second prize £15 Sylvia & Mike Powell (St Hilary’s) No 72 If you would like to join the draw, please discuss with the Wardens. St Martin’s Church is available for hire. It can accommodate about 35 people. If you are interested, please contact Church Wardens.
St Hilary’s Church Hall – Parish Centre Two large rooms with refreshment and disabled facilities available for hire ….. parties, anniversaries, meetings etc.
Phone 07562377157 Page 8
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Parish News Sketty
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s we move into the season of Advent, many unfamiliar faces will come into our church to attend carol services, a Christingle service or a nativity play and, hopefully we will offer them all a warm welcome. For many the start of the Church’s year is their favourite time of year but for others it can be a season they dread. We therefore think of all those who may find this month difficult, whether because of ill health or bereavement. We pray for those recovering from surgery and wish them well and a return to good health. As a church, we have once again been supportive of the Operation Christmas Child or Shoebox appeal despite the fact that, for the first time in many, many years, there has been no warehouse in Swansea to help sort the boxes for despatch. The boxes collected are now on their way to Liberia. The Housegroups’ Christmas lunch will be held at Nicholaston House on 1st December, time 12.45 for 1.15pm.
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The deadline for articles for January 2020 magazine is Thursday 26 December 2019 Page 12
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Parish News Tycoch
hristmas is coming, the goose is getting fat. Here we are again heading into another season of Advent, time for preparation. Friday December 13th we will hold our annual Christingle Service at 6pm and as has been the case for many years now, the Girl Guides will be preparing the Christingles, thank you girls. Sunday December 22nd the Canon and I invite you to join us for Sherry and Mince pies after the morning service, I hope as many as possible will join us. Christmas Eve 4pm will be the traditional Christmas Crib Service where the children are invited to dress as Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds and kings or just be themselves. Then we find out where Father Christmas is on his journey around the world. Christmas Eve 6pm – 1st Mass of Christmas with favourite Carols. The Churches Season of Christmas begins. Sunday 29th December Joint Service 10.30am Tycoch & Killay at All Souls. News about our friends; Carol Evans is making good progress and has rejoined the Wednesday morning service, she is looking much better. Ann Ryan is still battling away in Morriston hospital to regain her speech and movement in her right arm. She is able to understand what Mike and the family are saying to her and is beginning to string sentences together, progress is slow but there are improvements. Keep up the good work Ann, we all send our best wishes and prayers. So all that is left to be said is Merry Christmas to you all when the great day comes -33 days and counting from writing this article. Sian Gwynn
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Christmas
Stars Photograph by Canon Peter Brooks
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winkle, twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are…? Over the centuries, that is the question many have asked themselves when they think about the star that led the wise men to the Christ child. Whatever it was, the star of Bethlehem was particularly large and newly discovered and it certainly stood out from the others, attracting the attention of the magi, (those who studied the stars, among whom were our ‘kings’), and made them want to find out more about it. To these men, the rising of such a star meant either someone very special had been born or that a great event in history was about to take place. In this case they were correct on both counts. For them it seems their immediate task was to go out and to search for this person. From the time the star arose, to their finding of Jesus, has been estimated as taking about two years. This idea is reinforced when the jealous Herod ordered the slaughter of baby boys aged two years and under. Even today a large and new star causes interest and there is a search by astrologers and astronomers to find out as much as they can about it. There are ‘other’ kinds of stars about which, for a few moments I’d like us to share some thoughts. The stars I am thinking about in particular are those of stage and screen. Page 14
Like the stars in the sky, among other things they attract people to them to find out more about them, they inspire others to follow them, they affect the life- styles of those people who want to be just like them and they cause divisions in families. Their influence can be used for good or for evil. Paul, in The Letter to the Philippians, while speaking to the new Christians about the other people in the area, says in Ch. 2, V: 15b – 16a, (Good News Bible), ‘You must shine among them like stars lighting up the sky, as you offer them the message of life.’ The same applies to us in the darkness in the world today. We too, are expected to stand out from the crowd and not to be afraid of being Christians. We ought to be clearly ‘shining’, or, ‘glowing’ with the ‘Love of Christ’, in what we are, in what we say and in what we do! Such should be these ‘Outstanding qualities’ that people will want to know why. Then if they ask us for an explanation, we can use this as an opportunity to lead them to Christ Himself. How will we lead others to the Christ-child this Christmas 2019? Do we shine with the love we have for Jesus and from His spirit burning within us? Do we inspire others to follow us and to learn from us? Are we role models? Are we able to lead people on a journey in their lives which will help them to find Jesus for themselves? What sort of guides are we? Do we know where we are going and do people feel they want to trust us? Last of all, what will the journey be like for those who want to find Jesus? We may lead them to change direction in their lives. The new way we ask them to follow may be fraught with difficulties which include opposition to their life- styles, mockery of their beliefs, divisions in families and in some places in our word we lead them to the dangers of persecution. Yet to what do we want to lead them is very special? We want to lead them to the Christ-child and to share the wonder of His birth and life with them. We want them to be full of joy, to know that His birth brings reconciliation to the Father and ultimately the promise of eternal life and therefore an end to fear of the future. We want to lead them to a life filled with faith and hope and love that reaches out to everyone else. If we shine in this way as stars for Jesus today, who are we going to lead to Jesus this Christmas 2019? Christmas blessings, Sr. Marian. Page 15
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Diary of regular meetings Killay (Meet in the Parish Centre St Hilary’s Church unless otherwise stated) Music Society 7.30pm on 2nd Monday Mothers’ Union 2.00pm on 1st & 3rd Tuesdays Brownies 6.00pm every Tuesday Ladies Guild 7.30pm every Wednesday Luncheon Club 11.00am-2.00pm every Wednesday Bowls 7.00pm - 10pm every Friday Simeon Fellowship 7.15pm lastTuesday of the month at Dunvant RFC Playgroup 1pm - 2.30pm every Friday (term-time)
Sketty Prayer Group TOTS Mothers’ Union Sharing Together Lunch Club
1.30pm 10.00am 9.40am 2.15pm 12.30pm 12.30pm
Tycoch Thursday Coffee and Catch up: every 2nd Thursday Sing along with Sarah: 9.30 - 10.30am Rainbows: 5.15pm (Term-time only) Guides: 6.30pm (Term-time only)
Monday (term time) Tuesday (Parish Centre in term time) Thursday (Holy Trinity in term time) 1st and 3rd Tuesdays Wednesday (term time) Friday
Saturday Lets Play Dance: 10.00am to 1.00pm Church Hall users Karate: Monday 5pm and Wednesday 5pm and Friday 5.30pm Zumba: Monday 6.30pm
Our Vision: A family, rooted in Christ, committed to transforming lives by: Gathering as God’s people – Growing more like Jesus – Going out in the power of the Spirit. Page 17
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50 years ago – Killay Parish Magazine Welcome to the Rev. Michael Walters We commend to your prayers David Michael Trenham Walters who is to be ordained Deacon in Brecon Cathedral on Saturday, 20th December, at 9.30am. He will be licensed by the Bishop to serve in this parish and will begin his ministry here on Sunday, 21st December. We look forward very much to his coming to live and work amongst us and I know he will be given a warm welcome and every encouragement in his ministry. Christmas Bazaar The Christmas bazaar was held on Saturday, 29th November, and in spite of the severe wintry conditions there was a very good attendance. The bazaar was officially opened by Mrs.T.H. Chandler, Upper Killay, wife of the deputy headmaster of Olchfa School. She was welcomed and introduced by the Vicar and a vote of thanks was given both to Mrs. Chandler and to all who helped to make the afternoon a success by Mr. W.A. Sparks, people’s warden. The proceeds amounted to the splendid total of £260. During the afternoon the draw was made for the competition and the following received the prizes: Mr.B.Thomas, 31, Cyncoed Close (bottle of whisky); W.J.Evans, 39, Dolycoed (groceries); Mr.S.Page, 535, Gower Road (cushion); N.M.Davies, Llwynhendy (writing case); Mrs.Stones, 44, Gabalfa Road, Sketty (cigarettes); Mrs.D. Richards, Pwll Du Lane, Bishopston (chicken); Mrs. Davies, 44a, Wimmerfield Avenue (cigarettes); Mrs. Trew, 33, Wimmerfield Drive (chocolates); Mrs. Bawden, 21, Howells Road (barbecue grill); Sarah Francis, 591, Gower Road (iced cake); Mrs. Griffiths, 35, Wimmerfield Drive (bottle of champagne); Mrs. Iles, 36, Goetre Fawr Road (voucher for £3). From the Registers Holy Baptism: 23rd November – Steven Allan Sansum, 81 Ashgrove; Gavin Michael Oak, 18 Curry Close; Stuart Vincent, 1 Heaseland Place; Melanie Teresa Harris, 40 Goetre Fach Road. 30th November – Andrew Charles Llewellyn Laws, 38 Hendrefoilan Avenue; Robert Wynne Davies, 247 Dunvant Road. Burials: 27th November – Ann Selina Williams, 139 Dunvant Road. (Burial of ashes). Rota of servers 21st December: Gareth Fursland; 25th: Robert Vice; 28th: Gerwyn Nutt; 4th January: Gareth Fursland; 11th: Robert Vice; 18th: Gerwyn Nutt. In looking through this Christmas edition of the magazine, it was interesting that there was no letter from the Vicar – Canon Phillip Page 19
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Mothers’ Union Killay
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he speaker on 5th November was Mr Andrew Jones, who is passionate about cycling and raising money for charity, which he has successfully combined. Andrew has done four bike rides with a group of 30 or so others to the Somme battlefields in France and Belgium to raise money for SSAFA, a charity which helps families of those serving in the armed forces. He gave a resumé with maps on the screen of how the First World War came about. On June 28th 1914, a Serbian student, Gavrillo Prinpip, shot the Archduke Ferdinand at Sarajevo, causing Austria to attack Serbia. Russia sided with France and Germany with Austria, causing war to be declared on France. The invasion of Belgium caused Britain to become involved and by 4th August Britain was at war. Only 1 family in 6 in Britain had no one involved. Some of the fiercest battles were around the River Somme in Northern France, with Britain and France making repeated attacks on German positions for possession of Verdun. 20,000 men were killed in the first hour of battle. Andrew told of the ‘Pals’ battalions, men from British towns or villages who joined to go to war together. There were photos of the 14 cycling battalions for coastal defences; they were men with bad teeth not allowed to enlist as ordinary soldiers. In March 2016, another ride was joined by Helen Skelton, a BBC personality, which provided good publicity and boosted funds.
The rides have also been joined by a retired cleric enabling services to be held at the memorials. The fighting against the Germans was fierce; at Vimy Ridge 25,000 shells per hour were fired. Horses sent from Britain which were killed, numbered more than a million. America joined the war in 1917 and, finally, with the surrender of Germany, came the Treaty of Versailles. With the group, Andrew has cycled to visit all the memorials on the Somme. At Passchendaele, Flanders, half a million men died, mostly Welsh battalions. The memorial to Welsh soldiers is Memetz Wood. Andrew walked through the woods there in silence – there are no birds or animals. In recent years, a rifle from the war was found propped against a tree after 100 years. There is only one American memorial and one to Canadians at Vimy Ridge. Only 3 Germans have graves on the Somme. Only 3 soldiers were awarded the Victoria Cross and Bar. The town of Ypres in Belgium was repeatedly attacked by the Germans in 3 battles. Now, at the Menim Gate memorial, the last post is sounded every evening. The rides, so far, have raised over £40,000 and more are planned. Andrew feels strongly that every school child should visit the battlefields to learn of the terrible suffering and loss of life. Barbara Roberts thanked Andrew for a brilliant presentation, stating that she had
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experienced the kindness of SSAFA members as a serviceman’s wife with her family in Cyprus.
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n November 19th, speaker Viv Davies reminisced about Christmas past and present. Viv was brought up in Swansea and remembers war time Christmases, the house looking like Santa’s Grotto with home made decorations everywhere. On the big day, a toy, an Annual and a stocking, hopefully filled with an orange, nuts and sweets. The day was spent at home playing with the presents, a chicken for Christmas lunch and hearing the King speak on the wireless. So different to modern Christmases – electronic toys, food from all over the world and constant TV repeats. One vivid memory is attending ‘Faith and Light’ at St Teilo’s Church, Portmead, being taken by coach to London to join carol singing in Trafalgar Square – such an exciting day. We heard a poem “This Christmas” before Viv turned to supermarket advertising. She feels Christmas starts too early in the shops, when she is barely back from her summer holidays. Many countries celebrate later, prior to Christmas with lanterns, lamps, candles and even bonfires in Mexico and surfing in Australia. Not every Santa’s sleigh has reindeers - in Sweden Santa has mountain goats. Nativity plays and carols are all traditional events at Christmas and Viv’s favourite on TV is Carols from Kings College. A special carol, for her, is Silent Night, written in 1818 by Joseph Morh with music by Gruber. Christmas trees first
appeared in 1841, introduced by Prince Albert; cards followed in 1843 – quite expensive at one shilling each. We heard a poem ‘Christmas’ by John Betjemen and Viv told some stories of Christmas mishaps in her kitchen. Not every country has poultry on the big day. Some have roasted pigs, pies, fish or BBQs, even roast bull’s heart. Christmas shopping is not a problem for her; the family are happy to receive vouchers or money as presents. Viv read a poem by GK Chesterton, ‘Christmas Carol’, about the Christ child. It has a lovely ending, “Flowers looked up to him and the stars looked down”. Finally, she remembered the Salvation Army band touring the streets of Killay and being the ‘Tatty Fairy’ in a show devised by Randall Nutt, late husband of our Betty Nutt, a much valued M.U. member. The final poem by Pam Ayres was appropriately entitled “Eat, drink and be sick”! Daphne Evans thanked Viv for her talk, saying how much she enjoyed Christmas day in hospital when she was nursing, especially on the children’s ward, and having ‘barbies’ when living in Australia.
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he Mothers’ Union Christmas Lunch will be held on Tuesday, December 3rd at the Black Boy, Killay. 12:30 for 1:00pm. There will be a raffle and ‘Lucky Dip’. We next meet again on Tuesday, January 21st, 2020 for a Eucharist in church and then in the Parish Centre.
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Music Society Killay
n our November meeting we were very pleased to welcome back Mrs Delyth Holland with the Hemiola Singers, friends and accompanist Glen. The first group of songs presented by the choir were “Pastime with Good Company” and “Helas Madame” both composed by Henry the Eighth with soloists Jan Peebles on the drum and Judith Phillips on recorder. Then a madrigal “Fair Phyllis I saw sitting all alone” composed by John Farmer in the reign of Elizabeth the First. Next came Llywelyn Gannon on recorder. He is a Year 5 pupil in Ysgol Gellionnen. This talented young man played the “Allegro from the Sonata in G” by James Hook and a Scherzo by Dmitry Kabalevsky. This was followed by Yarden Armoni Freedman, also on the recorder, an Olchfa pupil aged 13, playing a lively piece called “Fish and Chips” by Alan Bullard. The choir then took the stage singing “Sweet and Low”, words by Tennyson and music by Sir J. Barnby followed by “Swansea Town” arranged by Holst. Then Carwyn Lloyd aged 13 from Ysgol Maes-y-Gwendraeth, Cefneithin showed his considerable talent on the guitar with “Sounds of Bells” by Pernambuco. Then followed Daniel Williams on the recorder, a 6th form pupil in Gwyr who happens to have a pilot’s licence! He was accompanied by Alun and played the “Largo and Furioso” from the Fitzwilliam Sonata in D minor by Handel. The Hemiola’s next group of songs were “Linden Lea” by Ralph Vaughan Williams, “English Country Garden” arranged by Percy Grainger and the wonderful Ivor Novello classic “We’ll Gather Lilacs” which was an appropriate tribute to this Remembrance Day. Of course we couldn’t resist joining in! A superb ensemble piece followed with all the instrumentalists playing together for the “Bourrees 8 and 9” by Michael Praetorius. Finally the choir sang “O who will o’er the downs so free” by Robert Lucas Pearsall, followed by “Some Enchanted Evening” by Rogers and Hammerstein and “Mairi’s Wedding” arranged by Bob Chilcott. Naturally this gave us another opportunity to exercise our vocal chords! This was such a joyfully entertaining evening with excellent singers and instrumentalists, all having been taught by Delyth Holland. They were sincerely thanked by the Chairman and heartily applauded by an appreciative audience. A group photo followed taken by our ‘in-house’ photographer Mrs. Eileen Wilson! Page 24
The next Society meeting will be on December 9th when we will be holding an early Hogmanay in the company of the St. Andrew’s Country Dance Society with festive refreshments! Please join us if you can. Members free, visitors £2. Babs Roberts
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Ladies Guild Killay The White Rajahs ur first speaker this month was Paul Richards, who told us the fascinating story of the British Brooke family, who ruled Sarawak from 1841 until 1946. Sarawak had been ruled by the Sultan of Brunei, but the indigenous people had been mistreated, resulting in piracy and insurgency. When James Brooke arrived in Brunei, he was able to intervene and calm the situation and the people agreed to stop the conflict if they could negotiate with him. As a reward, Brooke was granted the province of Kuching which received independent kingdom status and he became the Rajah. Brooke and his heirs were granted total sovereignty of Sarawak for perpetuity. James Brooke transformed what had been a lawless state and a primitive society, where head hunting was an indicator of bravery. He invested his own money in the country and established peace although the British Government did not recognise his position. His nephew, Charles Johnson Brooke became Rajah in 1868 and ruled until 1917. Although he was a strict Rajah, he believed that the indigenous people should be protected and was totally approachable by any citizen. During his reign he developed the infrastructure of the country. He built the Astana Palace at Kuching as a wedding gift to his wife and lived there until his death in 1917. Charles Vyner Brooke inherited his title and ruled until 1946. His wife Ranee Sylvia was considered to be outrageous and mixed with poets and politicians, their three daughters became the somewhat notorious celebrities of the day. After the Second World War and the Japanese occupation of Sarawak and Borneo, Rajah Vyner ceded his life interest in Sarawak to the Colonial Office. Sarawak was annexed to the United Kingdom in July 1946. All three of the White Rajahs are buried at St. Leonard’s Church , Sheepstor on Dartmoor.
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ur speaker on 6th November was Barbara Roberts, a Ladies Guild member, who came to tell us about her weekends at Longleat Safari park in 2017 and 2018 enjoying the “Lights of Longleat” The 2017 theme was “Nursery Rhymes and Fairy Tales”. Throughout the park there were beautiful, spectacularly lit tableaux depicting scenes from Rapunzle, Cinderella, The Snow Queen and many others and a Galleon on the lake, a Gingerbread house and a fire breathing dragon. Page 27
The theme the next year was “Children around the World”, it told the story of the places visited by three children children and a dog. In Egypt they saw the Pyramids, the Sphinx and camels, in Africa camels, tigers and elephants. The North Pole, the moon and other places were also visited and each one was highlighted by the stunning light displays. A 2000 year old Chinese method of covering frames with silk was used to construct each figure and a light placed inside. Roughly 300,000 metres of silk was needed for the display each year.
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ur annual shopping trip this year, on 13th November, was a visit to Cardiff and the ever expanding St. David's shopping centre where most members remained indoors due to the wet weather. All members returning to our coach, driven by the lovely Hannah, said they had enjoyed the day but two members had REALLY enjoyed themselves with coffee mid morning, a three course lunch in Debenhams and afternoon tea before returning to the bus (how do they stay so slim?)
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here was no meeting in the hall the following week as many members visited the Grand Theatre to see the Abbey Players production of “ Jesus Christ Super Star” There were mixed reactions from those who saw the show, some finding it very loud. However most agreed the production was very good and some individual performances excellent. 27th November 4th December 11h December
Griff Harries Local Composers Christmas Lunch King Arthur Hotel Annual Carol Service together with Mothers Union, OPEN TO ALL, Followed by Parish Christmas Raffle draw in the Parish Centre.
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News fr
om Pen y Fro Primary School
Our School Grounds Week was held in the Summer Term. Children, staff and parents were involved in different projects in our school grounds. Our Eco Committee held a visit for local councillors on 10th June to share their concerns about single use plastic bottles supplied to schools. Our athletics team attended a competition on 11th June. They took part in different track and field events. Our annual Teddy Bears’ Picnics for Reception, Nursery and pre-school children was on 12th June. Despite the weather, all the children thoroughly enjoyed the event. On 14th June we held our Eco Day. Year 6 combined this with fundraising for the World Wildlife Fund. All children were involved in activities and workshops run by staff and parents. It was a very, very successful day and we raised £400 for WWF. Nursery and Reception Sports Day was held on 4th July and Yr 1 to 6 Sports Day was held on 21st June. All pupils participated enthusiastically and they were fine, sunny and very enjoyable days. The winning team was the Green House. Our end of term concert “Ocean Commotion” was on 26th and 27th June. We are extremely proud of everyone who participated so enthusiastically in the fantastic
performances! Our school choir worked on a project with the Welsh National Opera and Swansea University. The choir visited Swansea University on 28th June to perform, alongside other primary schools and the Welsh National Opera Orchestra. Our school trip to Port Eynon for Reception to Year 6 was on 11th July and a Nursery trip to Caswell was on 16th July. Everyone had a fantastic time! After school on 18th July, a “Leavers’ Party ”was held for all Year 6 pupils and their families. We broke up on Friday 19th July. The Year 6 residential visit to Carreg took place from 23rd to 27th September. It was a very successful outdoor and adventurous trip that was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone. Our Harvest Festival was on 4th October. It was led by our Reception class. We brought food donations for our Harvest Table and these donations were then given to Matthew’s House, a café that supports the homeless and other people in need in Swansea. Everyone has settled very well into their new classes and we are all looking forward to our Christmas festivities and a successful and exciting year! Luna Kruta and Kyan Evans (Pen y fro Primary Year 6 School Council members)
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Sketty Cytun rises like a phoenix
M
any will recall that Churches Together in Sketty (Cytun) used to meet from time to time, this group decided to have a break approx five years ago. Recently, a group of representatives from the various churches and chapels in the area met, with a view to resurrect this group. With this in mind, all are welcome to a Carols and Mince Pies social event on Thursday 12th December at 7.30pm in Sketty Parish Centre – after you have cast your vote of course! Please come along to this very informal gathering, to explore what we might, as Christians, do together in Sketty.
l
wish to thank the Church members, friends and neighbours who supported me, by buying my apples, during the Summer. It was not as good as the previous year. I only made £35. Margaret Thomas
Last Month’s answers: Word Pairs: ANTHEM BOTTLE HOLLOW MATTER SHOWER TEASER Page 31
BANTER FABRIC KINDLE BORROW SOLACE WINDOW
St James the Least of All The Rev Dr Gary Bowness continues his letters from ‘Uncle Eustace’… On the best ways for a vicar to disrupt Christmas The Rectory, St James the Least
My dear Nephew Darren I am sorry I was not alive during that wonderful four-year period when Oliver Cromwell abolished Christmas. Just think! No Christmas parties, no carol services, no cards to send and no frantic last-minute shopping. That man was a hero. Planning for Christmas at St James’ normally starts on 2nd January. By Easter, the flowers for church have been colour coordinated, the seating plans and table decorations for the Christmas party have been allocated (with nominated reserves in case someone should inconveniently die in the intervening eight months). Long before Summer is over, the tree lights have been tested, music for the 9 Lessons and Carols Service has been chosen and the service sheets printed. Way before the dark nights set in, car parking attendants will have been found, those who are to light all the candles will have been rehearsed to perfection and the brass lectern has had its annual polish. We do not do spontaneity at St James the Least of All. If ever there was a service when time for something unexpected was allowed, its place would be announced in the order of service, how long it would happen unexpectedly would have been decided by a committee and who was to be spontaneous would have been allocated on a rota. The one person none of these well-meaning, efficient, committed organisers can control is the Rector. You could call it a staff perk. Carols will (accidentally, of course) be announced in the wrong order; if verse 3 was to be omitted, I announce it will be verse 4. This keeps the organist on his toes while the choir hovers on the point of a collective nervous breakdown. At the Christmas supper, my introductory welcome speech and extensive grace make those in the kitchen wonder if the vegetables being boiled should better be served as thick soup. I offer the helpful suggestion that the tree, having been installed and decorated in the chancel, may perhaps look better in the sanctuary and I turn all the heating off throughout the season, explaining that it will help the flowers to last. All Services will start five minutes early (was my watch rather fast?) so I can look disapprovingly at those still coming in while we are singing the first carol and making it clear that I think they had spent too long in the pub next door. And so we all reach Christmas morning, with 12 months of planning having gone yet again slightly awry, with parishioners exhausted and I exhilarated at the chaos that has been created with such ease. Mr Cromwell, your spirit lives on. Your loving uncle, Eustace Page 32
December Rotas St Hilary’s Church, Killay Readers 1st 1st Sheila Betts 2nd Angela Reed 8th 1st Chris Allen 2nd Lisa Powell 15th 1st Nigel Fletcher 2nd Eileen Fletcher 22nd 1st Ann Llewelynr 2nd Sandra Banks 24th 1st Alan Pickard 2nd Mike Powell 29th Joint Service at All Souls 5th Jan
1st 2nd
Val Beynon Eileen Nielsen
Offertory Procession 1st Sally Bowen, Carol Conway 8th Julie Cole, Ann Llewelyn 15th Roger & Geraldine Rees 22nd Nansi Evans, Barbara Roberts 24th Pam & Murray Davies 29th Joint Service at All Souls 5th Jan Glenys & Lyndon Hall Altar Flowers 1st ADVENT 8th ADVENT 15th ADVENT 22nd ADVENT Mothers’ Union 25th Christmas Day 29th Joint Service at All Souls Sidespersons December Lyndon & Glenys Hall, Sylvia Powell
Sponsor for Bread & Wine Julie Cole Church Cleaning Eileen Nielsen Coffee 1st Beryl Harris 8th Eileen Fletcher & Enid 15th Christine Williams 22nd Sylvia Powell 29th Joint Service at All Souls 5th Jan Pat Stratton Sidespersons January 2020 Beryl Harris, Roy Chapman, Gwynneth Prestwood, Alan Clewett
St Martin’s Church, Dunvant Readers 1st Eileen Harris 8th Elaine Redmond 15th Lynne Lewis 25th Margaret Draisey 29th Joint Service at All Souls Sidesperson 1st Elaine Graves 8th Sue Dimblebee 15th Gareth Dimblebee 25th Roger Draisey 29th Joint Service at All Souls Altar Flowers Advent Bread & Wine Eileen Harris Holy Dusters Eileen Harris Page 33
St Paul’s Church, Sketty Leader 1st 8.00am 10.00am 11.15am
Vicar Café Church Vicar
Music 1st 8.00am 11.15am
Said Richard Burden
Eucharistic Assistant 1st 8.00am Biddy O’Kane 11.15am Elaine Gale Intercessor 1st 8.00am 11.15am
Vicar Vicar
Reader 1st 8.00am 11.15am Duty Warden 1st 8.00am 10.00am 11.15am
Intercessor 8th 9.30am Reader 8th 9.30am
Ann Penton
11.15am 6.30pm
Carol Edwards Chris Vickery Ann Burden Mary Davies
Duty Warden 8th 9.30am 11.15am 6.30pm
Jane Watkeys David James Eifion Francis
11th Wednesday 11.00am EA / Warden Reader
Jane Watkeys Joyce Philips
Sue Mitchell Anne Rees
Leader 15th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am
Vicar Vicar Vicar
Jane Watkeys Eifion Francis Jane Watkeys
Music 15th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am
Said Jill Francis Richard Burden
Leader 8th 9.30am 11.15am 6.30pm
Vicar Sister Marian Alan Griffiths
Music 8th 9.30am 11.15am
Jill Francis Richard Burden
Eucharistic Assistant 8th 9.30am Janet Vine Liz Jowett 11.15am Mattins
Eucharistic Assistant 15th 8.00am Liz Jowett 9.30am Karen Philips, Sue James 11.15am Peter Bowen Intercessor 15th 8.00am Vicar 9.30am Karen Williams 11.15am Vicar Reader 15th 8.00am Dr Anne Rees 9.30am Jen Davies Angela Ball 11.15am Ann Rees Page 34
Duty Warden 15th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am 18th Wednesday 11.00am Warden EA Reader
Jane Watkeys Jane Watkeys Janet Vine
Vicar Vicar Carol Service
Music 22nd 8.00am 9.30am 6.30pm
Said Jill Francis Richard Burden
Eucharistic Assistant 22nd 8.00am Janet Vine 9.30am Ken Lewis Elaine Gale
Reader 22nd 8.00am 9.30am Duty Warden 22nd 8.00am 9.30am 6.30pm
29th First Sunday after Christmas 10.30am Joint Service at St Paul’s
Eifion Francis Clive Garish Fran Steadman
Leader 22nd 8.00am 9.30am 6.30pm
Intercessor 22nd 8.00am 9.30am
25th Wednesday Christmas Day
Vicar Liz Jowett Anne Price Owen Sue James Wendy Thomas Jane Watkeys David James Jane Watkeys David James
All Souls Church, Tycoch Sidespersons Ray Bevan, David Coffey, Brenda Smith Readers 1st Dorothy Daulby & Moira Bevan 8th David Jenkins & Sue Jenkins 15th Family Worship 22nd Hazel Richards & Celia Hall Intercessions 1st Mike Williams 8th Dave Coffey 15th Family Worship 22nd Vicar Eucharistic Assistant / Altar Servers 1st Nicola Tanner / Alayne Jenkins 8th Pam Williams 15th Family Worship 22nd Howard Richards Readers/Intercessors/Eucharist Assistants for Christmas Eve and 29th December to be confirmed
Flowers Christmas Day in memory of Rowena Jones & Anne Lewis Church Cleaning Volunteers - 1st Saturday of the month
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Parish of Killay - Who’s Who Vicar:
Rev’d. Canon Phillip Gwynn, BA, MA, DPS, Cert. Theol. The Vicarage, 68 Ffordd-yr-Olchfa, Sketty, Swansea. SA2 7RF email Phillip@gwynn.org.uk Tel: 01792 204758 Mobile 07946351787 St Hilary’s Church & Church Hall Parish Centre Gower Road, Killay, Swansea, SA2 7DZ Ken Ellis, Sian Gwynn, Sarah Harris, Gareth Lewis, Mike Powell, Barbara Roberts. Roy Chapman, Steve Lewis, Alan Pickard, Mike Powell, Catherine Swain.
St Hilary's Lay Worship Leaders Eucharistic Assistants: Churchwardens: Parish Vicar’s Warden Parish Vicar’s Sub-Warden Parish People’s Warden Parish Treasurer: Assistant Parish Treasurer: Sacristan: Servers: PCC Secretary: Parish Centre Booking Secretary: Envelopes/Gift Aid Scheme: Organists:
St Martin's Eucharistic Assistant: Sub-Wardens: Magazine - Killay Editor: Commissioning Editor and Printer: Advertising: Distribution:
Mike Powell Tel: 208955 Catherine Swain Tel: 298166 Jeremy Harris Tel: 07717373435 Ken Ellis (kenellis72@gmail.com) Tel: 207313 Alan Pickard Tel: 204717 Steve Lewis Tel: 519311 Roy Chapman, Beryl Claybrooke, Steve Lewis, Glenda Penzer, Catherine Swain, Dylan Gwynn, Rhys Davies, Carys Davies, Shannon Edwards Marian Williams Tel: 204175 Eileen Nielsen Tel: 07562377157 or 520685 Alan Pickard Tel: 204717 Chris Samuel Tel: 299993 Huw Thomas Tel: 232271 Martin Draisey (St.Martin’s) St Martin’s Church Fairwood Road, Dunvant, Swansea SA2 7PE Gareth Lewis Roger Draisey Tel: 515391 Susan Dimblebee Tel: 299503 Roger Rees (rogerrees134@gmail.com) Tel: 207916 Eric Thomas Steve Lewis Tel: 519311 Lynne Lewis Tel: 898275
www.parishofkillay.co.uk Page 37
Parish of Sketty - Who’s Who Vicar Assistant Curate, (Deacon)
Rev. Robert Davies-Hannen Rev. Sister Marian, S.C.L.
202767 208724
Reader Churchwarden (Vicar’s) PCC Secretary PCC Treasurer Magazine contact
Alan Griffiths Jane Watkeys Andrew Hill Fran Steadman Susan James email: susanj77@hotmail.com Sister Marian email: sister.marian@btopenworld.com
208269 208203 301504
Richard Burden Jill Francis Hilary Rose
521391 796735 232808
Iris Jones Clare Hazell Fred Amner Julia Mitchell Ken Owens Iris Jones
201955 208013 206466 208620 201850 201955
Jayne Cooper parishofsketty@gmail.com Mike Johns
208779
Webmaster
201511 208724
The Parish Church of St Paul Asst Organist / Choirmaster Music Group Bellringers Holy Trinity Church Wardens Envelopes, Gift Aid Minute Secretary Treasurer Lettings Secretary St Paul's Parish Centre Administrator, } Bookings } Treasurer
www.parishofsketty.org.uk Page 38
203875
Parish of Tycoch - Who’s Who Vicar:
Canon Phillip Gwynn, BA, MA, DPS, Cert. Theol. The Vicarage, 68 Ffordd-yr-Olchfa, Sketty, Swansea. SA2 7RF email phillip@gwynn.org.uk Tel: 01792 204758 Mobile 07946351787
Church Warden
Alayne Jenkins
423936 alayne.jenkins56@gmail.com
Church Warden
Celia Hall
405104 celia.hall@ntlworld.com
Church Hall Hire
Celia Hall
405104 celia.hall@ntlworld.com
Sunday School, Magazine contact
Sian Gwynn
204758 phillip@gwynn.org.uk
Girl Guides
Elizabeth John
874699 elizabeth.john@me.com
Rainbows
Nicola Tanner
207479 nicola.tanner2008@btinternet.com
Director of Music
Lynne Novis
206601 lynne771@btinternet.com
Web site maintenance
Sian Gwynn
204758 phillip@gwynn.org.uk
www.parishoftycoch.co.uk
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St Hilary’s Church Gower Rd, Killay SA2 7DZ St Martin’s Church Fairwood Rd, Dunvant SA2 7PE St Paul's Church Gower Rd/ De la Beche Rd SA2 9AR Holy Trinity Church Parkway, Sketty Park SA2 8JQ All Souls Church Harlech Crescent, Tycoch SA2 9LP Everyone is welcome to our services, full details of which are on the back page www.parishofkillay.co.uk
The deadline for articles for January 2020 magazine is on Thursday 26 December 2019. The magazine is printed and published by the Clyne Trinity Ministry Area, Church in Wales. The views in the articles reflect the views of the individuals contributing the items and are not intended to represent the official views of the Ministry Area or The Church in Wales. Communications should be addressed to the editors of relevant Parish:Parish of Killay Roger Rees Tel: 207916 email: rogerrees134@gmail.com Parish of Sketty Susan James Tel: 201511 email: susanj77@hotmail.com Parish of Tycoch Sian Gwynn Tel: 204758 email: phillip@gwynn.org.uk
www.parishofsketty.org.uk www.parishoftycoch.co.uk
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www.parishofkillay.co.uk
www.parishofsketty.org.uk www.parishoftycoch.co.uk
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Killay, Sketty & Tycoch
Church Services