Parish of Killay Parish Magazine March 2017

Killay

Ministry – more than just the Vicar

St Hilary and St Martin

50p

March 2017

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Golden Charter Pre-paid Funeral Plans available

2 Parish of Killay 2017

Parish of Killay - Who’s Who Vicar:

The Reverend Phillip Gwynn, BA, MA, DPS, Cert. Theol.

The Vicarage, 26 Hendrefoilan Rd. Tycoch, Swansea. SA2 9LS email Phillip@gwynn.org.uk ! 01792 204476 Mobile 07946351787

St Hilary's

St Hilary’s Church & Church Hall Parish Centre Gower Road, Killay, Swansea, SA2 7DZ

Reader Emeritus:

David Morgan

Eucharistic Assistants:

Gillian Hutchinson, Steve Lewis, David Morgan, Eileen Nielsen, Alan Pickard, Mike Powell, Catherine Swain

Churchwardens:

Jeremy Harris Valerie Beynon

Church Treasurer:

Alan Pickard

Sacristan:

Bryan Smale

Servers:

Beryl Claybrooke, Catherine Swain, Steve Lewis, Bryan Smale, John Williams, Roy Chapman.

PCC Secretary:

Eileen Nielsen

Parish Centre Booking Secretary:

Eileen Nielsen

Envelopes/Gift Aid Scheme:

Ken James

Organist/Choirmaster:

position currently vacant, for any expressions of interest, please contact The Vicar.

St Martin's

St Martin’s Church Fairwood Road, Dunvant, Swansea SA2 7PE

Eucharistic Assistants:

Stephen Gardner, Gareth Lewis

Churchwardens:

Roger Draisey Susan Dimblebee

! 07717 373435 ! 204352 ! 204717 ! 402559

! 520685 ! 07562377157 or 520685 ! 205963

!515391 !299503

Parish Magazine Copy Editor:

Roger Rees (reesfolk@btinternet.com) !207916

Commissioning Editor and Printer: Eric Thomas

Advertising & Distribution:

Ken James ! 205963

3 Parish of Killay 2017

The rigours of Lent have just begun – so let’s look forward to a breather!

So what are you giving up for Lent? – chocolate, potatoes, sitting in front of the tellie too much. Or are you going to DO something? – spend a bit more time in prayer, reading your bible, attend a Lent course? There’s still time, they meet on Mondays at 10.30am in Maxime Court near Sketty Cross or at 2pm in 23 Curry Close, on Tuesdays at 7pm in 6 Bayswater Road, Tycoch or on Wednesdays at 11am in 4 Hendrefoilan Drive.

The Fourth Sunday in Lent was called ‘Mid-Lent’ or ‘Refreshment Sunday’, when the rigors of Lent were relaxed more than was normal for a feast day. It is called Mothering Sunday as a reference to the Epistle reading for the Day (Galatians 4:21-31). The Lenten Epistles follow from each other with teaching about our life as Christians and how we are to follow Christ. On Midlent Sunday the Epistle talks of bondage and freedom; the bondage of the Law and the Old covenant as compared to the freedom in Christ, "the promised one", and the New Covenant. Verse 26 reads "But Jerusalem which is above is free, which is the mother of us all." We gain our freedom from Christ and, as it was seen before the Reformation, the Church.

We count the forty days of Lent as being the days Jesus fasted in the wild. If you actually count the days of Lent, they don’t include Sundays – and they most certainly don’t include Mothering Sunday or Midlent Sunday.

Thus Mothering Sunday is about the freedom that we gain through the promise of Jesus Christ delivered through our Mother the Church. People were encouraged to go to their ‘Mother Church’ (their home church or their home Cathedral) to worship and give thanks. Hence apprentices, and others, went home for the weekend and often brought gifts (or accumulated pay) home to their family.

On the other hand, Mother's Day is a secular festival invented in 1904 and is celebrated on the 2nd Sunday in May in most countries in the world. The British Isles seem to be the exception. In recent years Mothering Sunday has been hijacked to take the place of a special, secular day to give thanks for our mothers.

To look at the last verse of that famous Lenten hymn... ‘Keep, O keep us, Saviour dear, ever constant by thy side, that with thee we may appear at th’eternal Eastertide’. The purpose of Lent is that we draw closer to Christ’s side as He suffers for us – so that we might share in His ‘glorious Eastertide’.

There can be no Easter without Lent! Be disciplined and USE Lent to draw closer to Him. Your Friend and Vicar Phillip Parish of Killay 2017 4

Ministry is a matter for us all When the Vicar became responsible for the two parishes of Killay and Tycoch, it was evident that changes needed to be made to the regular Sunday worship pattern. An appeal was put out for volunteers who felt called to become Lay Worship Leaders, a new concept for many, because, isn’t that what the Vicar’s for? Lay Worship Leaders are a step between sitting in the pew and being a Lay Reader, as is David Morgan.

Six people were interested enough to meet with Canon Ian Rees, Bishop’s Officer for Calling and Discipleship – four from Killay and two from Tycoch. There was a basic training course, which took three sessions, and then the practical experience began – with a certain amount of fear and trepidation it has to be said. A modern re-working of Morning Worship was constructed by the group, with help from the Diocese of Blackburn and elsewhere.

A plan was devised that on the three Sundays when there was no Eucharist in one or other of the three churches, that the Lay Worship Team would lead those services; this, with David Morgan continuing his input from time to time. The services were extremely well received. There was a blip in St.Martin’s as there wasn’t an organist that particular week, but it was felt an acceptable starting point had been reached. It is hoped that on the Fourth Sunday in St.Hilary’s, that this particular service might involve young people from the local schools (possibly providing musical accompaniment) and also some of the uniformed organisations have been invited to take part.

We have a group of keen volunteers and we have a new service format. With the leading of the Holy Spirit, we look forward to more imaginative worship when not a Eucharist. People from across the three churches will have choices, the Eucharist, if not in my church, in another close by every Sunday morning, or a more colourful exploration of worship with the new team.

Also on his arrival in the parish, one or two people expressed a keenness to administer the chalice in church, and to take communion out to the sick and elderly. Six people offered themselves for this particular ministry, to compliment those who have been very ably fulfilling this role for some time. Following a brief training session with the Vicar, Steve, Cath, John, Mike from St.Hilary’s and Gareth and Stephen Gardner (from St.Martin’s) were let loose at the altar rail.

Administering the chalice in an appropriate and reverent manner is not quite as easy as you might think. There are those people that are found within most congregations; there are the gulpers (those who attempt to take too much wine) – remember that the wine is simply meant to touch your lips. There are those who spontaneously move their hands about in the vicinity of the chalice. Ladies who wear large widebrimmed hats (less so these days), and those who wear heavy lipstick (mainly ladies!).

Parish of Killay 2017 5

A date was arranged at which Bishop John might come along and present Licences (complete with his Diocesan seal) to the new Eucharistic Assistants, and Certificates of Authorisation to the Lay Worship Leaders. Whilst the day, weather-wise, was dreary outside, inside St.Hilary’s there was a full congregation with mounting anticipation. Bishop John was very pleased to be with us on an ‘ordinary’ Sunday – he doesn’t get out much!

We had an augmented choir and the singing of the hymns was carried out with great gusto. John Williams and Mike Powell, administering the chalice for the first time with the Bishop over their shoulder and such a large congregation must have been a daunting thought. All went well, noone had wine spilled down their front. There did seem to be quite a lot of wine left in the chalice at the end, so maybe they might be encouraged to be a tad more generous in the offering in the future.

A good time of fellowship was had in the Hall after the service, with people from all three churches mingling – along with one or two visitors. Very special visitors were Babs Roberts daughter and son-in-law, along with newly adopted grand-daughter. It was interesting that, as we celebrated the use of the talents of this group of adults, the children, in their Sunday School time, came back into church, to share small boxes, which contained an explanation of their talents.

The other day saw the Induction of Revd. Robert Davies-Hannen as Vicar of Sketty and Clyne Trinity Ministry Area Leader. I have no doubt that one of the things that we will be looking at might be the sharing of ministry across the three parishes that make up this Ministry Area. Ministry is the duty of all Baptised Christians, no matter what age, no matter what level of intellect or mobility – God has give each and everyone gifts, talents, to be used to the furtherance of His kingdom.

The glass is either half empty...yes, where there were four stipendiary clergy now there are two. Or is the glass half full...with more members of the congregations offering their God-given gifts to be used. Ask yourself what can I do in terms of ministry for God’s church?

Front cover photographs Eucharistic Assistants (top) (left to right): Steven Lewis, John Williams, Catherine Swain, Vicar – Revd. Phil Gwynn, Bishop John, Mike Powell, Stephen Gardner, Gareth Lewis.

Lay Worship Leaders (bottom) (left to right): John Williams (Killay), Sian Gwynn (Tycoch), Vicar – Revd. Phil Gwynn, Bishop John, Barbara Roberts (Killay), Mike Powell (Killay), Gareth Lewis (Killay) – *not in photograph Ken Ellis (Tycoch).

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"Lift up Your Voice and/or Pick up Your Instrument" Miles Quick, the RSCM's Head of Congregational and Instrumental Music, will be directing the first Church in Wales Menter Gerdd (operation music) event in the Swansea and Brecon Region at St Paul's Church Sketty on the evening of March 22nd 6.30pm – 9pm. He will be exploring new vocal material from refreshing traditional hymns to Taizé, Iona and worship songs and ways of introducing instruments into worship. There will be material for churches small and large, rural and urban, with music resources or none.

Come and sing and/or play with us at this event, aimed at those who would like to extend the range of the sung worship in their congregation and/or incorporate some instruments.

All are welcome – music-reader and non-readers alike. Instrumentalists are asked to let the organiser know in advance what instrument they play so that Miles can bring along appropriate scores.

Registration will be from 6.15pm and the event will conclude with light refreshments and a social get-together.

This is a free event but participants are requested to pre-register by Friday 17th March by contacting Jill Francis, tel 01792 796735, email: eifandjill@aol.com or by returning the slip below..

Mothers’ Union Retreat The MU Retreat will be held in Nicholston House on 10 May. The cost is £21. Please book as soon as possible with Alan or Sandra.

The Retreat Leader will be Canon Laurence Pelosi.

Have you got something you would like to say? Read a good book? Seen a good film or play?

Had a good holiday? Recommend a recipe? Gardening tips? Something interesting or funny happened to you? Tell us about it. There is a post box at the back of church – just drop in your contributions and we will share them in the magazine. Or e-mail to reesfolk@btinternet.com Articles for the magazine can be submitted any time up to the last Sunday of the month for publication the following month.

Roger 7 Parish of Killay 2017

Monthly Diary March 2017 2nd

11.00am

Thursday Holy Eucharist

5th

11.00am

The First Sunday of Lent Said Eucharist Special Service at Brecon Cathedral - our Vicar will be installed as an Honorary Canon

3.30pm 9th

11.00am

Thursday Holy Eucharist

12th

11.00am

The Second Sunday of Lent Eucharist followed by coffee Joint Evening Worship with Siloam at St Hilary’s

5.00pm 16th

11.00am

Thursday Holy Eucharist

19th

11.00am

The Third Sunday of Lent Eucharist followed by coffee

23rd

11.00am

Thursday Holy Eucharist

26th

11.00am

The Fourth Sunday of Lent Mothering Sunday Morning Worship followed by coffee Evensong at St Paul’s

6.30pm

Music Society

2nd Monday 7.30pm

Mothers’ Union

1st and 3rd Tuesdays 2pm

Brownies

every Tuesday 6pm

Bible Study Group 2nd & 4th Fridays 2pm at 124 Ashgrove, Killay

Ladies Guild

every Wednesday 7:30pm

Bowls

Simeon Fellowship

Luncheon Club

every Wednesday 11am - 2pm

every Friday evening 7pm - 10pm

last Tuesday of the month at 7.15 pm at Dunvant Rugby Club

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.

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Rotas for March 2017 Readers at Morning Eucharist 5th 12th 19th 26th

1st 1st 1st 1st

Glenys Vaughan Steve Lewis Gwynneth Prestwood Kay Phillips

2nd 2nd 2nd 2nd

David Vaughan Janet Lewis Margaret Thomas Julie Phillips

Offertory Procession 5th 12th 19th 26th

Christine & John Williams Eileen Nielsen & Sheila Betts Pam & Murray Davies Morning Worship

Altar Flowers 5th 12th 19th 26th

Lent Lent Lent Mothering Sunday

Sidespersons March April

Beryl Harris, Roy Chapman, Geraldine & Roger Rees Alan & Carole Pickard, Len Mitchell, Gwynneth Prestwood

Sponsor for Bread & Wine Glenda Penzer

Coffee

5th No coffee, Brecon trip 19th Susan Mapp

Church Cleaning

12th Janet Jones 26th Beryl Harris & Sylvia Powell

TBA

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St Martin’s Church Dunvant March 2017 Date

Service

Time

Sidesperson

5th

No service at this church due to our vicar being installed as an Honorary Canon of Brecon Cathedral Holy Eucharist at St Hilary’s 11.00am

12th

Morning Service

9.00am Colin Williams

Elaine Redmond

19th

Sung Eucharist 9.00am Roger Draisey followed by coffee

Margaret Draisey

26th

Holy Eucharist

Eileen Harris

8.00am Gareth Lewis

Reader

All welcome, please come and join us

Altar Flowers 5th

Lent

12th

Lent

19th

Lent

26th

Lent

Bread & Wine Sue Charles-Phillips Vicar Reverend Phillip Gwynn

01792 204476

Church Wardens Roger Draisey 01792 515391 Sue Dimblebee 01792 299503 ST MARTIN’S CHURCH IS AVAILABLE FOR HIRE. IT CAN ACCOMMODATE ABOUT 35 PEOPLE. IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, PLEASE CONTACT CHURCH WARDENS. 10 Parish of Killay 2017

Parish News We pray for those who are ill at home, in hospitals or nursing homes. Our prayers are also with those who are caring for them - Phyllis Harries, Emlyn Bawden, John Iles, Joan Dobbs, Graham Treharne, Eve Chriswick, Val Vaughan, Phyllis Davies, Greta Cox (was hospitalised for a few days but is home now) and Glenys Hall who is making good progress at home under Lyndon’s care.

r I would like to thank everyone for their prayers thoughts cards and visits to me while I was in hospital and at home; it was very much appreciated. I look forward to being out and about again soon. Thank you all so much.

God bless.

Betty Nutt I would like to thank everyone for their Get Well wishes, cards, gifts and visits.

I am recovering well from my recent surgery and I thank you all for your prayers which have carried me through this tough time.

Glenys Hall I would like to thank Rev. Phillip Gwynn and members of the congregation for the Get Well wishes during my recent illness in hospital and subsequent convalescence.

Phyllis Davies We send Congratulations for their Ruby (40th) Wedding Anniversary to Canon Phillip and Sian (5th March - same day as Phillip’s installation as Honorary Canon at Brecon Cathedral). You must have had prior warning about this when you were arranging the date for your wedding day!

Diamond Wedding. Congratulations to Cynthia and Don Lewis - we hope that Don will be his usual healthy self in order to enjoy the celebrations.

And to Margaret and Graham Jones - they will be celebrating with the family We trust that the three happy couples enjoy many, many more happy wedding anniversaries.

r Dates for your diaries The Constitution of the Church-in-Wales states that every parish must hold an Annual Vestry Meeting.

Please note in your diaries that Killay AVM will be held on Sunday 7th May, immediately following the morning Eucharist (there will NOT be refreshments that morning). It is anticipated that the Parish Annual Report will be published the week prior.

St.Martin’s Congregational Meeting will be held at 7pm on Wednesday 3rd May. This is due to the fact that the previous Sunday will be a 5th Sunday. This will therefore be the first Joint Ministry Area Eucharist hosted by Revd. Robert Davies-Hannen in Sketty. Apologies for any inconvenience, but the decision had to be to meet prior to Parish Annual Vestry Meeting.

Parish of Killay 2017 11

Replacement Killay/Tycoch Vicarage?

The Diocesan Parsonage Board have identified a property - 5, Millwood Gardens. The property has been inspected

by Simon Holland, Diocesan Inspector, who feels that it would work as a Vicarage. Sian and I have viewed the house and are quite happy to live there. An offer has been made by the Parsonage Board and this offer has been accepted. We await the results of various surveys.

Installation of new Canons – changes to routine service pattern On Sunday 5th March, our Vicar will be Installed as an Honorary Canon of Brecon Cathedral at a special service in the Cathedral at 3.30pm. In order to better facilitate people’s travel and preparations, there will be changes to the usual services that Sunday. Please note that there will NOT be an 8am service at St.Martin’s. The Holy Eucharist will be celebrated at 11am in St.Hilary’s, but this will be a short, said service, to enable people to have a bite to eat before setting off for Brecon.

Sunday, March 26th 12 Parish of Killay 2017

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“QUOTA” or “PARISH SHARE” or “MINISTRY SHARE” What’s in a name?

Over the years you have heard me talking about the Quota or Parish Share – what is that? Well, it is the way in which the Diocese collects money for the upkeep of ministry and to pay the stipend and pensions of the clerics.

The method of collecting this share allocated to our Parish has altered over time. The history of how the Parish Share was derived is as follows: • Parishes were asked to rank their 'ability to pay' on a four point scale and also asked to record so-called 'Regular Worshipper Numbers'. These two numbers were used to calculate a so called fair allocation of Parish Share.

• Subsequently, parishes' ability to pay was assessed by a Diocesan working party using Welsh Office deprivation data and placed on a six point scale. The new ratings were then used with the Worshipper numbers to calculate the Share.

Each of these ways of calculating the Parish Share was flawed in some way or other.

The Diocesan Board of Finance (DBF), in consultation with others, have revisited the subject and decided that the only way to make this fair is to base the charge on a basis of the costs of clerics allocated to a Deanery and therefore to the Parish.

So, if it goes to plan, our Greater Gower Deanery will be asked to raise the exact amount necessary to support the Deanery’s clerics etc. The Deanery will then distribute the costs to the Ministry Area which will divide this sum into the Parish Shares which will, hopefully, be rather more affordable. This is supposed to be phased in from 2018 over about 5 years – so watch this space.

So what does it mean to us? Well, providing we have a say and the figures that have been put forward by the DBF are correct, then we can look forward to being asked to pay less Ministry Share, allowing us to invest in outreach and provide for the future.

If you have any questions please, by all means, ask me and I’ll do my best to answer them.

Alan Pickard Treasurer

Electoral Roll Each year, other than the year when the whole roll is renewed, the Electoral Roll Officer provides a list (at the back of church) of all the members of the congregation that are currently on the roll. If you are not on this list and wish to be included, please fill in the form at the back of church.

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Music Society The February meeting took the form of the Annual General Meeting as, on the first meeting of the year in January, we held our Annual Dinner at the Toby Inn which was attended by a goodly number of members and friends who enjoyed an excellent meal, as usual, and an entertaining quiz.

In the absence of the chairperson, Barbara Roberts, at the A.G.M. who had been called away at short notice to help her daughter in the middle of a family emergency, Secretary Eric welcomed a good number of members to the meeting.

A brief review of the activities during 2016 was given and the programme for 2017, which had been circulated, was introduced and outlined.

The Balance Sheet for 2016 was explained and, despite the fees for the entertainment which had been provided and the cost of fitting castors to the upright piano, a satisfactory balance was brought forward.

The officers who served during 2016, namely: Chairperson Vice-Chair Secretary/Treasurer and Committee Members

Barbara Roberts Jane Riseborough Eric Thomas Julie Coles, Pat Stratton & Margaret Jones were all re-elected.

A Musical Quiz followed but turned out to be a disaster, but before being curtailed everyone had a good laugh and was content to concentrate on the tea & biscuits!!

The next meeting will be held on 13th March when we shall be entertained with some Guitar and Ukelele Music. New full or casual members would be very welcome!!! r A little girl was talking to her teacher about whales.

The teacher said it was physically impossible for a whale to swallow a human because, even though it was a very large mammal, its throat was very small.

The little girl stated that Jonah was swallowed by a whale.

Irritated, the teacher reiterated that a whale could not swallow a human; it was physically impossible.

The little girl said, 'When I get to heaven I will ask Jonah'.

The teacher asked, 'What if Jonah went to hell?'

The little girl replied, 'Then you ask him'.

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Ladies Guild One of our favourite speakers, Grace Birt, came along to tell us about “ A Welsh Journey”.

At school, Mynyddbach Comprehensive, Grace found learning languages almost impossible.

After becoming a primary school teacher, she was urged by her headmaster, to attend a course in order to teach Welsh at the school. At first, she found the course very hard and, after the first term, considered giving up, until her husband convinced her she should continue.

Early in the second and final term, Grace suddenly found the language very beautiful and learning became much easier. At the end of the course, the lecturer complimented her on becoming one of the best students!

Grace was determined to continue with, and improve, her Welsh so she joined “Merched Y Wawr”, an organisation for Welsh speaking women similar to the WI; the name translates as “Daughters of the Dawn”. The members were very supportive of her, teaching her new words and giving encouragement; in return she began entering the society's competitions at which her artistic and calligraphy skills became apparent. Several of her entries were made into Christmas card designs by the organisation. She was invited onto S4C to speak on a programme for Welsh learners and onto “Heno” to talk to Heather Gregory about Batik. Grace has also been chairperson of

Merched Y Wawr on two occasions, the first for six years.

Guild members were delighted to see and hear about some of her exquisite competition entries. Grace is an extremely talented lady whose self deprecating humour, when talking about herself and her achievements, had everyone laughing all evening. A talk not to be missed!

n

The following week, our speaker was Deirdre Finnerty-Davies, events, exhibitions and media organiser at The Mission Gallery, Gloucester Place, Swansea. The building was designed by Benjamin Bucknall and built in 1886 and was formerly the St Nicholas church for seamen. It was reopened in 1977 by a group of artists and volunteers and is now funded by the Arts Council of Wales.

Deirdre, born in Bray, Co Wicklow, is a stained glass artist who was advised to come to study at Swansea College of Art. On completion of her B.A, she volunteered at the gallery and did a 6 month internship whilst studying for her M.A. Apart from a small shop which sells a wide variety of items made by many local artists, the Gallery hosts exhibitions and workshops in painting, visual art, photography, jewellery etc. in order to encourage local talent. There is also an educational programme in conjunction with Swansea College of Art and University of Wales

16 Parish of Killay 2017

Trinity St. David. Children and families are encouraged to attend a range of art workshops and schools programmes include 3D printing.

Workshops for children are also arranged in school holidays. It was an interesting insight into what takes place in what appears to be a very small former church.

n On February 22nd, we were pleased to welcome back, Paul Richards, to tell us about Chinese Beliefs and Customs. Paul, a business man, had lived in the far east from 1984 until 1996 and visited many times in the previous 10 years; he had made many friends there as well as working closely with his staff.

There are about 7 billion people on earth of whom 1.4 billion are Chinese, i.e one in five!

About 50 million are Christian, 7% Buddhist, 3% Confucianism, 87% Taoist or Ancestor Worshippers and the remaining 3% Christian, Jewish or Muslim.

Chinese are very respectful of older family members and design ornate shrines, influenced by Feng Shui, in which to bury the deceased together with personal belongings, toiletries and favoured possessions. The body is covered with Hell (pretend paper money) which is then burned.

Yin and Yang and Feng Shui, which translates as wind and water, is extremely important to all Chinese; before making important decisions a Feng Shui master is consulted

resulting, in some cases, of architects, including Norman Forster, altering buildings to comply with the requirements of Feng Shui. Wind and air must flow through the building and settle on water in the front. The Shard and Gherkin, in London, have adhered to these principles.

Superstition is also important in Chinese life; red and gold are considered lucky colours but the number 4 is very unlucky and is omitted in lifts, buildings, houses and even from birthdays. Eight is very lucky so, babies are induced to be born on that date; the 2008 Beijing Olympics began at 8 seconds passed 8.08pm on August the eighth. Weddings, which can take months to take place, are also arranged on that date.

In China, monetary gifts are given in lieu of presents at birthdays, wedding days, anniversaries etc. and even funerals. This money is placed in red envelopes called Ang Pau, which are opened and counted before guests are allowed into the elaborate banquet.

A fascinating talk which had us all spellbound.

n March meetings: 1st March 8th March 15th March 22nd March 29th March

Ash Wednesday service followed by tea and Welsh Cakes Cockett OAS at Taliesin “Nine to Five” Mrs Diana Morgan ‘Unsung Heroines’ Mr Brian Quick ‘Nicknames’ Mrs Lilian Charles ‘The Royal Jewels’

n

17 Parish of Killay 2017

“Mothers’ Union members arranged a display in Church to celebrate National Marriage Week”

St.Hilary’s ladies – 4th win (on the trot)!

The annual inter-church quiz, ably led by our own David Morgan (for last 36yrs), was held recently at Ebenezer Chapel in Dunvant. A number of churches attended, with some churches having two teams. The hall was packed to bursting, and a great evening of fun and fellowship was shared together – with a lovely spread prepared by the ladies of the chapel. The winning team (again), were the ladies of St.Hilary’s. I’m told that they are on a roll, having now won consecutively for the past four years. There were one hundred questions, some incredibly challenging, but the ladies won through.

The photograph shows Sheila Betts collecting the trophy; with her are the Vicar, and Revds. Heini Jones (Siloam) and Christopher Owen (Ebenezer) – with the quizmaster David Morgan looking on.

There was a less successful outcome for the men of St.Hilary’s – they received the wooden spoon.

In their defence (says the Vicar as a member of the team), there were only four members in the team! Some teams had nine or more members. David Morgan announced that next year there needed to be more balanced teams – he’s a good man our David!

18 Parish of Killay 2017

and after the presentation of the licences ....

A good time of fellowship was had in the

Hall after the service, with people from all three churches mingling – along with one or two visitors.

Bishop John was very pleased to be with us on an ‘ordinary’ Sunday – he doesn’t get out much!

19 Parish of Killay 2017

Passover Haggadah

Wednesday 12th April 2017 at 6.30 for 7.00 pm St Hilary’s Parish Centre Cost £5 to include a drink and food.

All Welcome.

This is the BREAD which came down from heaven The Jewish Passover recalls the exodus from Egypt and the birth of the nation of Israel. It was during The Feast of the Passover that Jesus entered Jerusalem and celebrated the Last Supper, the event from which we derive the Eucharist or Mass.

Come and enjoy the service, share the food and sing traditional songs.

Sign the list at the back of church to enable us to cater for the correct number.

Further information from Alan & Carole Pickard or E Nielsen.

20 Parish of Killay 2017

Mothers’ Union The Branch AGM was held on February 7th; vicar Phillip Gwynn was chairman. The agenda was efficiently dealt with, all officers being re-elected, two committee members standing down and two members being proposed and elected. r st The second meeting on February 21 brought Mr Mike Powell to entertain us with “words, prayers, music and thoughts”. Mike is a popular member of St Hilary’s, very involved in church life.

The Bishop recently presented him with his licence to administer the sacrament and his certificate to officiate as a Lay Worship Leader.

Mike’s presentation began with music; Katherine Jenkins singing the beautiful “Ave Maria”. Words matter and Mike quoted words by blind and deaf Helen Keller about doors closing and opening and what could be on the other side, and, as George Bernard Shaw said, “life is about creating self”. More music followed; Katherine Jenkins singing the very emotive “O My Beloved Father”. Mike read a poem about a busy mother who regretted not spending more time with her baby; life is so busy; childhood passes so quickly. A choral rendering of “Abide With Me” held the attention of all. It was Hymn of the Year on Radio 2, 12 years running. This was followed by a poem about how a child learns by example. For football fans among us (not many!), there followed the famous Liverpool club’s anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from the musical Carousel, which has been recorded by over 200 singers including Gerry & the Pacemakers in 1963. We were expecting to hear “Memory” from the musical Cats but machines can be contrary and ours refused to perform so Mike read poems “Old Souls” about friendship, “A Dad’s Love” about a father’s special love for a daughter and, finally, “A Last Time”; we never know when the last time might be when we do our various tasks in life.

Bringing a delightful afternoon to an end, Mike was thanked for his presentation by member Diana Mowat. r Events in March: Friday Tuesday Friday Tuesday

March 3rd March 7th March 10th March 21st

Womens World Day of Prayer Meeting 2pm - ‘A Lenten Talk’ by Revd Ian Drew-Jones 11am MU Eucharist at St Mary’s, Swansea Meeting 2pm – A talk ‘Crosses’ by Mrs Judy Thomas

21 Parish of Killay 2017

He still moves stones - Everyone Needs a Miracle Come with the author Max Lucado to view an exhibition of paintings. Placed all around the room are the paintings. All framed. All in vivid colour. All set on easels, in pairs, and always back to back. You move towards the first painting. It’s a portrait of a leper, the central figure on the canvas. He stoops like a hunchback. His fingerless hand, draped in rags, extends toward you, pleading. A tattered wrap hides all of his face except two pain-filled eyes. The crowd around the leper is chaotic. A father is grabbing a curious child. A woman trips over her own feet as she scrambles to get away. A man glares over his shoulder as he runs. The painting is titled with the leper’s plea, ‘If you will, you can...’

The next painting portrays the same leper, but the scene has changed dramatically. The title has only two words, ‘I will’. In this sketch the leper is standing erect and tall. He is looking at his own outstretched hand – it has fingers! The veil is gone from his face and he is smiling. There is no crowd; only one other person is standing beside the leper. You can’t see his face, but you can see his hand on the shoulder of the healed man.

So the exhibition continues, with paintings in pairs. But alone in the centre of the hall is one single painting. It is different from all the others. There are no faces. No people. The artist has dipped his brush into an ancient prophecy and sketched two simple objects – a reed and a wick.

Is there anything more frail than a bruised reed? Look at the bruised reeds at the water’s edge. A once slender and tall stalk of sturdy grass, it is now bowed and bent. And the smouldering wick on the candle.

Once aflame, now flickering and failing. Still warm from yesterdays uses, but now, no fire. Not yet cold but far from hot.

Let’s stroll through the gallery together. Let’s ponder the moments when Christ met people at their points of pain. We’ll see the prophecy proved true. We’ll see bruised reeds straightened and smouldering wicks ignited.

Join us at one of the Lent courses, to explore this gallery...

Mondays:

10.30am 2pm

Maxime Court complex, Sketty.

23, Curry Close, Killay.

Tuesdays:

7pm

6, Bayswater Road, Tycoch.

Wednesdays:

11am

4, Hendrefoilan Drive (opp Olchfa School).

Bible Study Group The group meet at 2:00pm on the 2nd and 4th Friday of each month at 124 Ashgrove, Killay.

All are welcome.

22 Parish of Killay 2017

Global Warming Like a large number of you in the area I have a few daffodils shining brightly amongst the greenery of the garden. Why am I so pleased with this? Well, for one thing, I can pick and wear one of them on March 1st along with all those who celebrate St. David’s Day. All very well, but why a heading of global warming you may well think?

Simply because I know ,for a fact, that it has only been within the last ten years or so that a daffodil has bloomed in chez nous before March 1st. This was my aim all those years ago - to wear my own daffodil and not have to wear a leek when we sat together in the school hall celebrating the day by having an eisteddfod. Earlier ,the authority had given us the day off; then it became a half a day so that the morning was spent in celebrating Dewi Sant.... and the smell of leeks became stronger and stronger as the morning developed - so much so that .the doors of the hall were opened widely in order to relieve the pungent smell well before dinnertime.

According to one legend about why the Welsh wear leeks on St David's Day, the soldiers of the ancient British king, Cadwaladyr, were about to fight their traditional enemy, the Saxons. Dewi Sant (St David) advised the Welsh to wear a leek in order to recognise their fellow countrymen during the battle....or again perhaps they smelt stronger.

St David, patron of Wales, lived in the sixth century and founded a monastery on the site of St David's Cathedral (Ty Dewi). He and his followers lived a peaceful and ascetic life, which makes the legend about a battle rather doubtful. There are many legends about Dewi Sant, and this one is not recorded until the 17th century.

The second legend is set in the year 1346, when the Prince of Wales, Edward the Black Prince, defeated the French at the Battle of Crécy. Welsh archers fought bravely in a field of leeks and, as a reminder of their bravery and loyalty, the Welsh began to wear a leek in their caps every St David's Day. This is the legend which appears in Shakespeare's play Henry V written in the 16th century during the time of Elizabeth Tudor.

Leeks were eaten and used in medicine for centuries, but the connection with St David's Day is associated with the time of the Tudors when many Welsh served the monarchs of this Welsh dynasty. By the time Shakespeare included the story of the leek in his play, it was so well established that one of the characters could call it 'an ancient tradition.' Tudor royal household accounts list several payments for leeks in connection with this celebration. In 1536, Henry VIII presented his daughter with a leek on St David's Day. Dewi has been a popular saint in Wales since the 12th century and his feast day became a national festival during the 18th century. By this time the leek was often associated with caricatures of Welsh life, and this may be one reason why daffodils became popular as an alternative national symbol.

The flower appeared in early spring, around the time of St David's Day. Lloyd George wore the daffodil on this day and encouraged its use at the investiture of the Prince of Wales in 1911. Thus continued an important aspect of the earlier leek custom as a symbol of a distinctive Welsh identity, but offered a more pleasant-smelling alternative.

History placed aside, with a sideways thank you to Wikipedia, I must say that when global warming was first muted I was very sceptical about the issue knowing that over the centuries temperature fluctuation was not uncommon for our planet. However, recent television pictures of the great melt going on at the extreme cardinal points of our globe, north and south, have made me realign my thinking. Added to my wonderment at my daffodils blooming in February they have convinced me that there must be something going on...I’ll finish there, for we have leek soup for lunch - got to keep up with tradition.

David Morgan 23 Parish of Killay 2017

Older and Wiser • I didn't make it to the gym today. That makes five years in a row.

• I decided to change calling the bathroom John and renamed it the Jim. I feel so much better saying I went to the Jim this morning.

• Last year I joined a support group for procrastinators. We haven't met yet...

• I don't need anger management. I need people to stop irritating me!

• When I was a child I thought Nap Time was a punishment... Now, as a grown up, it just feels like a small vacation....

• My people skills are just fine. It's my tolerance of idiots that needs working on.

• If God wanted me to touch my toes, he would've put them on my knees.

• The kids text me "plz" which is shorter than please. I text back "no" which is shorter than "yes."

• I'm going to retire and live off of my savings. Not sure what I'll do the second week.

• The biggest lie I tell myself is "I don't need to write that down, I'll remember it.

• I’m old and wrinkled now but I was handsome once - I think it was a Friday.

• Of course I talk to myself, sometimes I need expert advice.

24 Parish of Killay 2017

MAZE

Name 8 things beginning with the letter S, that you can wear on your feet.

Answer to last month’s Logic Problem: Betty Locke Doris Daley Holly Holt Lois Palm Patty Burns

Watches game shows Watches Talk Shows Watches Religious Channel Watches Soap Operas Watches History Channel

Cleaned soaps in Room 512 Cleaned stationery in Room 504 Cleaned glasses in Room 531 Cleaned towels in Room 622 Cleaned Toilet Paper in Room 607

25 Parish of Killay 2017

WASH & DRY SERVICE IRONINGÂ DRY CLEANING K I L L AY B R A N C H Next to the BLACKBOY

GOWER RD

DUVETS DOMESTIC CLEANING

CALL

07855 928436

HOLIDAY LET CLEANING & LAUNDRY

www.watersidelaundry.com FREE LOCAL COLLECTION & DELIVERY

GEORGE CHAPLIN & SONS FRESH FRUIT AND VEGETABLES AND FINE QUALITY FOODS 11 THE PRECINCT, KILLAY 01792 281321

MARNEON SIGNS 11 Pont y Glasdwr, Dyfatty, Swansea, SA1 2BH

the complete sign service Tel: 01792 646949 Fax: 01792 652227 Please support the Advertisers who support us!

26 Parish of Killay 2017

27 Parish of Killay 2017

DigitalSolu*ons TV Aerial and Satellite Services

Aerial / Satellite Installa*on & Repairs HD TV Moun*ng & Set Up Freeview & Sky Mul*view Installa*on Mul* Points & Systems Catered Free Quota*ons & Advice Provided Fully QualiďŹ ed, Insured & Registered Fully Cer*ďŹ ed & Approved Prompt Service Swansea Based, Local Service For a professional, reliable service guaranteed, Choose DigitalSolu*ons for all your TV needs!

01792 421920 07795 244669 www.digitalsolu*onswales.co.uk jongemine@hotmail.co.uk

Registered Digital Installer 18264821

Peter Nicholas & Sons

ROO FI NG L t d Established 1984

Over 30 years experience Third generation of family tradition

Sl ati ng Ti li n g Fib r eglas s F asci a s G u tter s Property services etc...

01792 202115 07702 434983 01792 518767 07860 700651 www.peternicholasroofing.co.uk peter.nicholas65@ntlworld.com 28 Parish of Killay 2017

GOWER Interior & Exterior Work Undertaken No job too small!!!

Free Quotations upon Request Please call between 8am and 8pm Telephone: 01792 852860 Mobile: 07967245177

The Village Inn and Restaurant Established since 1974

Ki ll a y Pre c i n c t, Sw a ns e a , Tel: 01792 203311 Open 7 days a week for freshly brewed coffee, teas, ho t c h ocol a t e, t o asted teacakes and desserts.

Wide selection of bar lunches from toasted sandwiches, fresh sandwiches & paninis; chillies, pasta, fresh local fish, mixed grills, omelettes and many more home-made specialities.

Wide variety of beers available, including weekly guest beers mentioned in the Good Beer Guide.

Sunday lunches served 12 noon to 2:30 pm in restaurant and at the Bar. Reservations advisable.

Restaurant available for Lunches, Dinners, Buffets & Private Functions.

New menu available every day

29 Parish of Killay 2017

PAUL HARTNOLL 64 Goetre Fawr Road, Killay, Swansea, SA2 7QU Painting & Decorating, Internal & External FREE ESTIMATES!!

Tel: 01792 419693 – Mobile: 07931610204

DUNVANT RFC Broadacre, Killay, SA2 7RU

Why not become a member and make full use of your own local club?

Main large hall " Lounge " Committee Rooms " Large screen " Video Projector Sky "TV & DVD " Fully equiped keep-fit gym " Disabled Access ### Ideal for Birthdays, Weddings, Christenings, Anniversaries, Meetings, Conferences, Dances, Discos, Fund Raising events ### Ample Parking. Full Catering Facilities.

Contact John Watkins, Commercial Manager Club: 01792 296363 – Home: 01792 415376 Mob: 07780765382

Traditional Chinese Acupuncture

Alex Wood

MBAcC

(Member of the British Acupuncture Council) Over 10 Years Experience of Treating Complaints.

Tel: 01792 651717 Mob: 07812 702382

www.swanseaacupuncture.co.uk Natural Health Service 2 Page St Swansea

Hareslade Bishopston, Gower

Full range of Foods and Accessories Free Delivery to local area Broadmead, Killay, SA2 7EE

Tel: 01792 512135 www.killaypetshop.co.uk Open: Mon–Sat

9am–6pm

30 Parish of Killay 2017

Your only local Estate Agent with worldwide coverage

• Sales, Rentals & Auctions • Relocation Specialists • Residential, Commercial and Industrial Valuations • RICS House Buyers Survey Reports • Rent Reviews / Lease Renewals • Rating and Compensation • Commercial Property Advisors • Mortgage Advice Contact Branch Manager David Parton 419 Gower Road Killay Swansea SA2 7AN Tel: 01792 298014 Fax: 01792 280847 e-mail: ki@dawsonsproperty.co.uk website: dawsonsproperty.co.uk Branches at: Swansea, Morriston, Killay, Sketty, Mumbles, Gorseinon, Llanelli & Swansea Marina

31 Parish of Killay 2017

Exercise Classes

ENQUIRIES

CHRISTINE O’ROURKE

01792 290100

St Hilary’s Church Hall, Killay: Tues 10:00 – 11:00 am Ladies St Paul’s Parish Centre, Sketty: Tues 7:30 – 9:30 pm Ladies Thurs 10:00 – 11:00 am Ladies

AWARD WINNING

PRIME CUT BUTCHERS UNIT 7, THE PRECINCT, KILLAY Try our own-made FAGGOTS and PIES, Our own-cooked HAM, BEEF, PORK and TURKEY BREAST, ROAST CHICKENS and home-made SAUSAGES and BURGERS. Tel: 01792 290114

CHIROPODIST / PODIATRIST STATE REGISTERED / HPC REGISTERED

JENNIFER PROTHEROE D.Pod.MMCH.S. (BOWEN)

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SURGERY AT 18 ADMIRAL’S WALK, SKETTY TEL: 01792 535231

32 Parish of Killay 2017

HEARING WALES Private Hearing Care Specialists

Call us today on 0800 313 4304 OR VISIT US AT: 47/48 THE GROVE, UPLANDS, SWANSEA, SA2 0QR

Jim’s Landscapes

The Reliable Cost-Effective Gardening Service Lawn Cutting Hedge Trimming Weed Control Bed Digging Planting Garden Clearance Patio and Drives Power Washed

Call Jim McManus Home 01792 204870 or Mobile 07935 930989 and

Watch your Imagination Burst into Life 21 Raglan Road Sketty

33 Parish of Killay 2017

KILLAY OPTICIANS David Jenkins BSc(Hons) FCOptom Joe R. Warchal BSc(Hons) Accredited to provide Wales EYE Health Examinations Welsh Low Vision Service

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450 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea, SA2 7AL 01792 201382

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H E R I TA G E CARPET & FLOORING LTD

422 Gower Road, Killay, Swansea SA2 7AJ

Tel/Fax: 01792 202021 www.heritagecarpetandflooring.co.uk

HAIR BY CLAIRE Mobile Hairdresser Formerly of Mair’s

%#4&5")+(65"2#46; 9#4'

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CPF

*GNGPņU %CTFU )QTUGKPQP STEVE JONES ELECTRICAL ALL DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL WORK Everything from a socket to a complete re-wire Security Lighting Competitive prices NO JOB TOO SMALL 01792 517554 Mobile: 07974689902

Tel: 01792 894511 Mob: 07799403043

WHITECROSS AND SON LTD 9455

Plumbing & Heating Contractors Gas Boiler Servicing 28 Pentre Banadl, Killay SA2 7DD Tel: 01792 206156 Mobile: 07802152130

34 Parish of Killay 2017

Pre-payment Funeral Plans 24-hour Personal Service Monumental Masonry Sympathetic and Caring Staff

EDDIE TUCKER

FUNERAL DIRECTORS OF KILLAY

CLOSE TO THE COMMUNITY BECAUSE WE ARE PART OF IT

Private Rest Room

10 SWAN COURT THE PRECINCT KILLAY TEL. 01792 280101 www.eddietuckerfuneraldirectors.co.uk

35 Parish of Killay 2017

Church Services (Please check Monthly Diary page for location of Combined Services or any changes that may take place)

St Hilary’s 1st Sunday

11.00am

Eucharist (followed by coffee with Traidcraft Stall)

2nd Sunday

11.00am 5.00pm

Eucharist followed by coffee Combined Evensong with Siloam

3rd Sunday

11.00am

Eucharist followed by coffee

4th Sunday

11.00am

Morning Worship followed by coffee

5th Sunday

10.30am

Combined Service (Ministry Area)

Every Thursday

11.00am

Eucharist

1st Sunday

8.00am

Said Eucharist

2nd Sunday

9.00am

Non-eucharistic service

3rd Sunday

9.00am

Sung Eucharist

4th Sunday

8.00am

Said Eucharist

5th Sunday

10.30am

Combined Service (Ministry Area)

St Martin’s

St Hilary’s Church Hall – Parish Centre Two large rooms with refreshment and disabled facilities available for hire ….. parties, anniversaries, meetings etc.

Phone 07562377157 Parish of Killay 2017