The magazine of the Clyne Trinity Ministry Area, covering the Parishes of Killay, Sketty & Tycoch
November 2019
50p
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Dear Friends Tear your cloak in two this November. The month of November sees the clocks having just dropped back an hour, so we have dark and often cold, nights. But at the end of the month we celebrate the coming of the light, with the bringing out of the Advent wreaths and the preparations for the great festival of the Nativity with carols and candle-lit festivities. We also celebrate a number of saints in this liturgical month – 1st All Saints, 2nd All Souls, 6th St.Illtud, 11th Martin of Tours, 22nd Cecilia (Patron saint of musicians) and 30th St.Andrew (Patron Saint of Scotland). To pick out one of these saints, to whom we have a church dedicated within our Clyne Trinity Ministry Area – let’s look at St.Martin of Tours. This winter, when you next see someone who looks both poor and cold, think of Martin of Tours and the tiny church dedicated to him in Fairwood Road, Dunvant. This monk bishop, born in Pannonia (now Hungary) became one of the most popular saints of the Middle Ages. Martin’s father was a pagan officer in the Roman Army and Martin was intended for the army as well. But from an early age Martin wanted to be a Christian and felt that, as a Christian, he could not serve the Roman Empire. Martin was imprisoned for this early ‘conscientious objection’, and not released until 357 when he was nearly 40. One day Martin met a nearly naked beggar at Amiens. He took off his cloak, cut it in half and gave the half to the beggar. Soon after this, he had a dream in which Christ appeared to him wearing the half of the cloak which Martin had given away. Martin was the pioneer of western monasticism; he founded the first monastery in the whole of Gaul about 360. He was made Bishop of Tours in 372 – by popular demand of both his clergy and his people. As Bishop, Martin continued his simple life as a monk and evangelist. Christianity had been largely confined to the urban centres of population but Martin went further and took Christianity to the pagani (country-men). For the next 25 years this greatly loved Bishop travelled his diocese by donkey and by boat, preaching the Page 3
good news of Jesus Christ and helping his people to tear down their heathen temples and sacred trees. He was sought out for his healing prayers for the sick and also his defence of the faith from heretics. Martin’s emblem in English art is often that of a goose, whose annual migration is about this time of year. ‘St Martin’s Summer’ in England is a spell of fine weather that sometimes occurs around 11th November. So let us draw our curtains to keep out the cold and dark, but let us also think of those who have no curtains to close – and are sleeping out in the cold dark nights of November in this fair city of ours. Your Friend and Vicar Canon Phillip
Parish of Killay
St Hilary & St Martin
parishofkillay.co.uk
Christmas Services December 2019
Wednesday 11th Parish Carol Service 7pm (St Hilary) Thursday 12th
Eddie Tucker Memorial Carol Service 6pm (St Hilary)
Friday 13th
CHRISTINGLE SERVICE (at All Souls, Tycoch)
Sunday 15
Killay Community Council Carol Service 6pm (Siloam)
Sunday 22nd
Holy Eucharist 11am (St Hilary) N.B. This replaces Lay-led worship St.Martin’s Community candle-lit Carol Service 6pm
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Christmas Eve 4pm Crib Service (at All Souls, Tycoch). 11pm Carols by candle-light prior to 11.30pm Midnight Mass (St Hilary) Christmas Day 9am Eucharist (St.Martin’s), said service Carols at start and finish. 11am Eucharist (St Hilary), said service Carols at start and finish
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Parish News Killay
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e 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 Risborough and Madge Ellis. Elaine and Ken Graves wish to expressed their heartfelt appreciation to all who prayed for Cassey, their grand daughter, during her illness and treatment. Cassey is now making good progress and her medical team has given her some positive feed back when she attended hospital during October. Sue & Bob Mapp wish to thank everyone who sent cards, flowers and best wishes on their Golden Wedding anniversary. Happy Birthday wishes to Ken James who is approaching his 90th birthday in November. News from Lunch Club What a wonderful day our Lunch Club members had on Wednesday 18 September. Thirty six of us boarded a coach to take us to Brecon. At 12pm we arrived at our restaurant and enjoyed a lovely meal. At 2pm we travelled on to Brecon Mountain Railway. We were so lucky to have such a beautiful day to enjoy the marvellous scenery. When we passed the lake the sun was glistening on the blue water with beautiful green fields and hills in the distance. We were able to get off at the end of the run to watch the little train turn to take us back to the coach. We also had another stop half way for 20 minutes to enjoy an ice-cream or cold drink. We arrived back in Killay at 5.45 after a lovely day out. We are pleased to have had some response to our request for help in the Lunch Club kitchen. We just need two more helpers and we could then start up our Team A again. Each team only work every fifth week on a rota system. If you are interested please come along any Wednesday morning to have a chat and see what we do. We were all very sorry to hear that Christine has decided to retire as leader of the Lunch Club after all her hard work running it for 30 years. She will be greatly missed and we wish her well for the future. Page 5
On 13 November the Lunch Club will be holding a coffee morning at 10.30am. We hope to have some interesting stalls including a bring and buy and also a raffle. Do come along for a chat with your friends over a coffee or cup of tea. We appreciate all the support we receive from the members of St Hilary's Church and the local community. Apologies for disruption as repairs continue in Killay Parish Centre Due to a long term water leak in one of the toilet areas in the Parish Centre, we have found ourselves having to dry out the structure of that part of the building. Clearly this leak has been running un-noticed for some time. Once the structure is dried out, then flooring needs to be re-layed, walls need re-plastering and decorating. These works will take several more weeks. The Vicar, Churchwardens and members of the PCC ask all users of the Parish Centre to bear with us whilst these works are carried out. Many thanks for your understanding. 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 reetings from the Parish of Llynderw and St Padarn’s Institute. I am now in my fourth week of fulltime training for Stipendiary Ministry- what is affectionately called “Vicar School”. On Sundays and Tuesdays, I am having onthe-job training in the Parish, then from Wednesday to Friday, I am part of the fulltime community of St.Padarn’s (formerly St. Michael’s) in Llandaff, studying for a Batchelor of Theology degree. I have received a warm welcome from the clergy and congregations of Holy Cross and Clyne Chapel. There is much that is familiar, and even more that is new and different. I am sure this will be a steep learning curve! I would like to thank you the Parish of Killay for your very kind gift, as well as for all your encouragement and good wishes. I would value your continued prayers for both Jeremy and me as we adjust to a new way of life. The process I am undergoing is known as “Formation for Ministry”. Please pray that I will allow God to shape and mould me into the person He wants me to be, for the work He has called me to do. God bless, Sarah Harris
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Parish Centre Saturday 23 November 12noon - 3pm Christmas Fayre. This year Christmas Fayre will be held on Saturday 23rd November 12noon – 3pm. In previous years the stalls have been as listed; Soup and Rolls, Cake stall, Savouries stall, New Gifts, Bottle Stall, Jewellery and scarves, Welsh Cakes, Books, Tea / Coffee & Mince Pies, Christmas Stall,
Jigsaws (Complete ), Childrens Games to play on the day, Tuck Shop, Cards. If you are able to help with any of these stalls or provide items for the stalls, please let Sian Gwynn or Sue Dimblebee know. Help is required on Friday 22nd November 7pm to set up for the Fayre and to receive donations. Sian & Sue.
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 October draw was made at All Souls on Sunday 27 October and the winners are..... First prize of £35 Ken Ellis (All Souls) Second prize £15 Ken Ellis (All Souls) 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 7
Harvest event at Dunvant RFC
You know that you have arrived as a local celeb, when you are paid in Twinings Peppermint Tea! Kev Johns provided a really entertaining interlude in what was a night of horrendous gales and storms outside. Kevin refused any payment for the event, but Canon Phil happens to know how he loves Peppermint Tea. It was a great night with almost one hundred tickets being sold and over £900 being raised so far (monies are still trickling in – wouldn’t it be nice if we could give £1,000) to be presented to the Diocesan Faith in Families organisation. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the food, as someone commented to Canon Phil ‘This was not ANY buffet – this was an M&S Buffet”. Some lucky people went home with splendid hampers as raffle prizes, and our thanks to everyone who contributed such sumptuous items – and thanks to Eileen Neilsen for the arm twisting! Many have suggested that we have a similar evening sometime next year. Revd. Robert is putting his thinking cap on.
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wansea Philharmonic Choir will hold their 60th Anniversary concert on Sunday 8th December, in the Brangwyn Hall, starting at 7.30 p.m. Accompanied by the British Sinfonietta and under the baton of their conductor, Jonathan Rogers, the main work will be Bach’s gloriously uplifting B minor Mass. Soloists are to be Daisy Walford, Kieron Connor Valentine, Gareth Treseder and Michael Lafferty. The Choir will also give the first full performance of Nathan Dearden’s 3 Postcards. This new commission was awarded to the Choir under Making Music’s Adopt a Composer scheme, one of only six such awards nationwide, which are to be recorded for broadcast by the BBC. Tickets, at £20 or £15 (£10 for students) are available from Jan Proudfoot (tel: 299443) any Choir member, or on the door on the night.
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Parish News Sketty
e were delighted last month to welcome our newest member, baby Franklin, who was baptised at St Paul’s surrounded by family and friends. Carol Davies and Liz Jowett are now both recovering at home following hip surgery and we wish them a full and speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with all we know who are ill whether in hospital or at home, many of whom are housebound. A goodly dozen or more of Sketty folk braved the awful rain to join our Ministry area friends at the Harvest “do” in Dunvant Rugby club. We were given laughter, courtesy of Kevin Johns, and good food. Thank you to those who organised the evening, hopefully the first of many. Don’t forget that the annual Fireworks display at St Paul’s, now organised by the Scouts, will take place, weather permitting on Saturday November 2nd. Refreshments will be available. Sue James
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The deadline for articles for December magazine is Thursday 21 November 2019 Page 12
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Parish News Tycoch
he end of September and the month of October has been a busy time at All Souls. Saturday 28th September the Retro games evening was held; this was a great success not only for the income it raised but the fun and laughter. At several points in the evening the laughter around the room was so loud it was difficult to hear people speaking to you. Then it would change to silence as people concentrated on the task in hand. What fun!! Thank you to everyone who organised the evening and especially our caterers, who once again provided a lovely buffet. Next day was the Ministry Area Joint Service, it was such a pleasure to welcome our friends from the other 4 churches. The singing was magnificent and so uplifting, thank you to Vicar Robert, Canon Phillip and Sister Marian for feeding your people spiritually and Lynne for providing the musical enhancement. 6th October Harvest Sunday, the altar flowers were outstanding, the colours so vibrant and in keeping with the autumn season and harvest. Fruit , vegetables and dried foods were distributed to the food banks. Thursday 17th October was the Ministry Area Harvest Supper ‘Harvest Mix’ . The weather was dreadful but over
90 people turned out from the Ministry area. Our speaker was Kevin Johns who is a presenter at Swansea Sound and also a minister at Elim church. It was so interesting hearing him talk of his days as a young minister and of course the loves of his life ‘The Swans’ and ‘Plasmarl’. This was followed by a few musical items from the Rockabilly Ukulele Band, £950 pound was raised for Faith in Families. Members of our congregation are still on a roll to raise money, which is essential for the upkeep of the church in Tycoch. They are putting Christmas into fundraising. Mince Pies, Christmas cake and Table Centres all available to order from Pam, Alayne, Celia and Hazel, get your orders in early as resources are limited. There is also a selection of Christmas cards for sale, including an All Souls exclusive. Sian Gwynn
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He’d fought in the wars, but the guide didn’t say which one
parishoftycoch.co.uk
Christmas Services December 2019 Thursday 12th
7.30pm – Sketty Cytun Christmas Social at St.Paul’s Parish Centre (Carols & Mince Pies)
Friday 13th
6pm – Christingle Service
Christmas Eve: 4pm Crib Service 5.30pm Carols – 6pm First Eucharist of Christmas & Blessing of Crib
O Come all ye faithful
Parish of Tycoch All Souls Church
Bonfires and Beacons
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Photograph by Canon Peter Brooks
ovember 5th is a favourite day for many with our firework displays and parties. However, it has been questioned as to whether or not Christians should be using bonfires during festivals at all. The word is believed to be a corruption of ‘bone fire’ derived from a Celtic midsummer festival where animal bones were burnt to ward off evil spirits. Page 14
Historically some bonfires were lit to dispose of the enemy’s dead after a battle and as a symbol of victory. The lighting of bonfires on November 5th is a sign of celebration when we remember the survival of the Protestant King James after an attempt to blow him up by Roman Catholic activists led by Warwickshire Robert Catesby. However, bonfires were also used as beacons. For example they were used to guide ships home as well as to give news or warnings of events such as invasions or a battle victory. Like most things around us, meditation on bonfires can make them useful mediums that speaks to us of Jesus. Christians are called to be bonfires for Jesus. We should burn with the fire of the Holy Spirit which enables us to be beacons that tell those who see us that there is news, good news about Jesus. Or we could be like the prophets that gave warning of disaster if we don’t change and return to following God’s ways in an increasingly secular world. Sometimes bonfires were used as protection. They would be lit at camp sites to ward off wild animals during the night. In this we are reminded of the flames of Pentecost, symbols of God’s Holy Spirit giving us power and protection when we seek His help and support. Sometimes bonfires have been lit to provide a source of heat and warmth during festivals and large outdoor events- during frosty weather. People gather around them whilst drinking soup or eating hot dogs. We can remind ourselves again of the love of God warming us and enabling us to carry on when we are facing cold and bitter opposition and fear. Many have testified of feeling warmth flowing through them when they have prayer for help and healing. Fire purifies and cleanses as it did when it was used at the end of battles. We are purified when the Holy Spirit cleanses us from sin and guilt. These are just a few thoughts on the way Christians use fire and bonfires in contemplative prayer to remind them of God at work in our lives today. I hope and pray that families will have enjoyment and fun in safety, whilst remembering love and forgiveness which is at the heart of our faith and that we ourselves, as beacons lit by God, are called to tell that good news wherever we are. Sister Marian
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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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Killay Church Parish Magazine – November 1928; The Vicar’s Letter My Dear Parishioners, I have noticed during the last few Sundays several fresh faces in the congregation morning and evening, and on making enquiries from the Churchwardens or Sidesmen frequently fail to get the information I need as to who they are and where they live. I am doing my best to get into touch immediately with new-comers, and am devoting to visiting as much time as one can who works single-handed in a populous and scattered parish possibly can, and yet people come and settle down among us and in some cases attend Church for a long time before any of the Church officials speak to them. I believe this can to a certain extent at least be remedied. Once in Church we are all one – worshipping together as brothers and sisters at the same Altar. I would remind the Sidesmen, therefore, that they need not hesitate to speak to any stranger that comes along. In fact, that is their chief work to make themselves affable to all the members, and see that everyone has a Prayer Book and Hymn Book, and if they themselves attend the services regularly, they will soon notice any stranger and can find out from him his name and address. Other worshippers too can help in this respect. I should also like to ask those who are new to the parish, and who might see this Parish Magazine, to make themselves known to me on the road or to leave their address in Church, so that I may call on them. I am particularly anxious that a spirit of friendliness should prevail amongst the Churchpeople of this parish, and that all should feel absolutely at home in Church. We are glad to see everyone and everyone is welcome. Another suggestion is that we should make it a practice of occupying the front seats in church first and sit as closely together as possible. This is specially applicable to Wednesday evenings when we have a service at 7 o’clock. It seems absurd to sit at the back when there is ample room in front. In speaking of this service, may I once again urge you all to come as often as you can. Invite your friends as well. The Rev. W. D. G. Wilkinson, who paid us an unexpected visit and preached one evening, was surprised to see so many present. We must not, nevertheless, get self-satisfied. There is always room for improvement, and I appeal especially to those who know that they are not discharging their spiritual duties as they should. We cannot worship God by proxy. Sending one’s children to Church is not enough. It must be our delight as well as our privilege to aim at worshipping God in His house each time the opportunity presents itself. I am, Your affectionate friend and Vicar, D. LYNNE DAVIES. Page 19
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Mothers’ Union Killay
others’ Union member, Mrs Sue Letson, and retired Anglican Minister husband, Barry, spoke to the Branch on October 1st. Sue’s talk, “ Take One M.U. Member”, told the story of Alice and John in a town, Rukangiri, on the borders of Rwanda and Uganda, west of Lake Victoria. It is an area which was devastated by Idi Amin, the dictator who threw out all Ugandan Asians, his army looting and killing. Alice was a M.U. member who met and married John, an ex criminal who had found faith and became an Anglican Pastor. The area was also ruined by a drought; people died, children were homeless and hungry. Alice started taking in homeless children; they brought more until there were 25 in the couple’s home. Alice and John founded a small school which led to them starting a charity after meeting some people from the U.K. This would support the school. While Sue spoke, Barry showed photos of the area, now recovered from the drought - lovely verdant countryside with flowers and fruit trees, monkeys and Lake Victoria. With the school established, John bought land to set up a farm; with a tractor and a van they could feed the school and sell the surplus. It became a model farm; there are gentle Ankoli cattle and Fresian cows for milk which is transported in a churn strapped to a bicycle. Lack of water was a problem. Money was raised for a bore hole 56 ft deep but this didn’t produce much water. They then went down 250 ft to an artesian well, supplying water to the village too. The school now supports 800 pupils all in uniforms of red and blue; they do their own washing, the boys making more mess than the girls! Their education is free. The latest project is to raise £7,000 to build proper toilet facilities for which plans have been drawn up. As if she doesn’t have enough to do, Alice organised a wedding ring collection and, at a mass ceremony, over 100 people were married. Now the women could be M.U. members. She then organised handicraft groups and soap and vaseline making, giving the village women knowledge of hygiene and health plus an income. Barry showed photos of the children and the church; on Sundays they organise their own services and willingly attend. Finally, we saw photos of a local waterfall which has a sculpture of a young girl in front of it. The witch doctors used to send young unmarried pregnant girls to their deaths from the top of the waterfall. Today there are no such sacrifices. Built in 1958 on a former leper colony, there is now a memorial hospital. Page 21
The Secretary thanked Sue and Barry for their presentation saying that, with love, faith and God’s help, it is amazing what one M.U. member has done. The speaker on October 15th was Mr Alan Gray, a volunteer and trustee of Nicholaston House, Gower, which was originally built and owned by a retired sea captain, John Evans. He purchased the land from the Penrice Estate in 1887 to make a home for his large family. The property has extensive views over the Bristol Channel and Oxwich Bay. Later, it was sold to become a private hotel which lost money and was repossessed by the Bank. Swansea City Mission were looking for premises for prayer and spiritual healing; a local travel firm also wanted premises and 2 sealed bids were presented when the property was put up for auction. Swansea City Mission had raised £295,251 against it’s rivals of £291,000. Alan said God works in mysterious ways. In 1998, the house opened for all Christian organisations to use, a place of peace and healing. Painted on the wall in the entrance hall are the words by Haggai, “In this place I will give peace”. Numerous events are held at Nicholaston House, including retreats and prayer meetings. There are courses on art, eating disorders, relationships and bereavement plus walking tours in the countryside. There is a very attractive garden around the house, tended by volunteers. Staff and volunteers meet every morning for prayers in the Celtic chapel in the grounds, built in medieval style and completed in 2010. The house is used by the YMCA, bringing groups from London for study weekends, prayer and relaxation. There are bed and breakfast facilities and the kitchens have a 5* rating. A large extension was built in 2005 and a conservatory to the front of the house but it now needs substantial renovations and redevelopment for which planning has been granted. £2 million needs to be raised which will improve and modernise the facilities it can offer. Alan stated the trustees are stepping out in faith, trusting in God. Visitors comment on the peace and serenity found in the house and gardens which Alan said is blessed with God’s love. Pat Stratton thanked Alan for his inspirational talk saying Nicholaston House is a place for peace and relaxation away from normal life. Events for November Fri Nov 1st 11:00am MU Eucharist, St Mary’s, Swansea Tue Nov 5th 2:00pm Meeting – “Two World Wars” by Mr Andrew Jones Tue Nov 19th 2:00pm Meeting – “Christmas Past & Present” by Mrs Viv Davies Christmas lunch will be held on Tuesday, December 3rd. 12:30 for 1:00pm at the Black Boy, Killay. Page 22
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Music Society Killay
ur October meeting saw the welcome return of our good friend the Rev. Clive Williams. He spoke about the life and works of Carl Maria Friedrich von Weber who was a conductor, pianist, guitarist, critic and one of the first significant composers of the Romantic school. He was born on November 18" 1786 in Eutin, Holstein, Germany. He is noted especially for his operas “Der Freischutz”, “Euryantha”, and “Oberon”. Clive played “The Huntsman’s Chorus” from “Der Freischutz”. Weber was the founder of the German National Opera. He used stories from old German legends and produced libretti in German, not the traditional Italian. He was born into a musical family. His father, Franz Anton, believed he was descended from a 17th century baron, hence the ‘von’, but there was no blue blood in the family. His mother, Genovefa, and his aunts, uncles and brothers were all musical. His father was leader of the town band and formed a small travelling company. He was 52 when Weber was born and his mother was just 20. A cousin of Weber was Mozart’s wife Constance Weber. He was a weak child born with a diseased hip which caused him to limp all his life. His father wanted him to be a child prodigy but he had no proper education. The Company toured S. Germany and, at 3years old, he had some violin lessons from his halfbrother, Fridolin, who was not very patient.
At one stage he tore the bow from his hand exclaiming “You'll never be a musician”. When he was 10, his mother fell ill in Hilburghausen. They stayed there for some time and here he had his first real music lessons from a local oboist and he learned about the orchestra. In 1797 they proceeded to Salzburg where he became a pupil of Michael Haydn, the younger brother of Franz Joseph Haydn. Weber published his first music aged 11. Next Clive played part of Weber’s 9th work — Variations on a theme. His mother died of TB when he was12. The troupe stayed briefly in Munich where he had lessons in lithography and then went on to Freiberg. Here, at age 14, he composed his first opera “Das Waldmadchen” of which only 2 songs survive. They then returned to Salzburg and back to Michael Haydn. He composed the opera “Peter Schmoll”. For a while he opted out of
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society but eventually had more lessons with Abbe Vogler. At 18 he was appointed musical director at Breslau Opera House. He wanted to reform opera libretto away from Italian into German. However he had no support; other musicians were jealous and blocked him. Being so young, he faced many difficulties and had a near fatal accident when he swallowed some engraving fluid which ruined his voice. He then became director of music to Duke Eugen of Wurttemburg and then a secretary in the court of King Frederick 1 of Wurttemburg. Next Clive played Weber’s beautiful “Cradle Song”. Unfortunately he lived carelessly, ran up debts and was briefly imprisoned. Expelled from Wurttemburg at 24 years old he spent 3 years wandering penniless around Germany. However he did meet Goethe and composed 2 clarinet concertos. The clarinet was his favourite instrument but he was also a brilliant pianist. Clive then played part of one of his clarinet concertos. He moved from Mannheim to Darmstadt and then on to Munich. During this time he became obsessed with the legend of “Der Freischutz”, concerning the devil, magic bullets and love. Aged 26 he became Director of the Prague Opera House and then on to Berlin where he brought in new singers and produced his Romantic ideals but he faced more opposition. However his reputation saved him and he was appointed Director of Opera at Dresden. He then had enough money to marry his love Caroline Brandt. He
was able to succeed in his ideas for German National Opera in Dresden. However, even though he was increasingly ill with TB, he nevertheless continued composing — One of his most famous pieces is “Invitation to the Dance”. He began his longed-for opera “Der Freischutz” in Dresden and it was an immediate success when performed in Berlin in 1821. He became a champion of German opera. In 1823 he met Beethoven. There followed the opera “Euryanthe” but all his travelling did not help his TB. At 38 he was commissioned by Covent Garden to write an opera. He began to learn English and wanted the commission to secure his family’s future. In1826 he left for London, stopping in Paris where he met Rossini. His opera “Oberon” was given a rapturous welcome. He had been staying at the house of Sir George Smart, also a composer who wrote the hymn tune “Wiltshire” (Through all the changing scenes of life). Weber’s body was found on June 5th 1826. At his funeral, Wagner gave the eulogy and he was buried in London but later his body was exhumed and taken to Dresden. In conclusion, Clive played “The Huntsman’s Chorus” from “Der Freischttz”. As usual, Clive gave us a most entertaining and informative evening. He was warmly thanked by the Chairman and members. We look forward to next year’s visit. Our next meeting will be on November 11th when we will be entertained by the Hemiola Singers and friends. All welcome.
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Ladies Guild Killay
ur first speaker in October was retired art teacher, Mrs Kirstine Dunthorne, who spoke obout The Glyn Vivian Art Gallery. The gallery was opened in 1911, having been paid for by a bequest from Richard Glynn Vivian (1835-1910) philanthropist and art collector. It was designed by the architect Glendenning Moxham who also designed St Hilary's Church. When it was opened, Alexandra Road was an elegant , tree lined boulevard. The first curator was William Grant Murray, principal of the College of Art, he was an accomplished artist who encouraged young artists. Kirstine showed sides of the changes at the Gallery over the last hundred years, paintings of well known artists such as Augustus John and Welsh painters Ceri Richards and Evan Walters and also the dislays of Swansea pottery. The Gallery has also hosted exhbitions of works by Leonardo Da Vinci and Canaletto. The Glynn Vivian has changed greatly over the years and sadly, due to the lack of funding can no longer employ an education officer, however it does encourage childrens groups to visit. A most interesting talk.
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he following week, 9th October, there was a similar historical theme to our talk when Ian Smith of the Waterfront Museum came to speak about 200 hundred years of change in Swansea. Ian was very enthusiastic about his subject showing slides of the area around Swansea docks at the time when Swansea was the copper producing capital of the world and the local seamen and ships were known as “Cape Horners” As a result of the copper works the area around Hafod and Kilvey hill became so polluted that there was no vegetation there until the 1960's when a regeneration programme began Changes to the city centre, the market, the Mumbles train, High Street and Wind Street were all featured as was the devastation caused by the Blitz and the re-building. Guild members could relate to the subject and were more than happy to add their comments throughout the talk. It was a most enjoyable evening, no doubt Ian will be asked back again. ur talk the following week was entitled “The Fforestfach Boy Who Never Grew Up”, however, this was a ploy by our speaker, Gareth Richards, to mislead members as to the real subject of this talk.
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All his life Gareth, a retired police officer, dreamed of staying in a lighthouse on island. His 60th birthday present from his wife and daughters was a three night stay in a lighthouse on Lundy Island. There, he fell in love; with a seal! Sitting on the rocks near the ocean, he saw a beautiful North Atlantic grey seal looking up at him with the most beautiful dark eyes. He was hooked! He began to find out all he could about the animals, photographing them and learning to identify them by their pellage markings which are as unique as fingerprints in humans. Gareth now spends a week on Lundy at the beginning of each year and another in the birthing season in September studying them. He spends much of his time protecting, photographing and recording the seals on Gower, on Lundy and in Cornwall where he is a member of Cornish seal sanctuary. As a Marine Life Rescue
Medic, he is called out to rescue, where possible, stranded sea creatures and also to euthanise injured or animals which have been attacked by dogs. This he finds very distressing. It was a very enjoyable evening with his photographs of the seals evincing “Ooo's” and “Ahh's” from all present. esley-Ann Meager, a legal consultant, gave an interesting and thought provoking talk entitled, “Who Will Inherit Your Wealth?” She stressed the importance of making a Will to avoid the potentially difficult issue of intestacy. She explained the benefits of taking out Lasting Powers of Attorney in advance, so that your wishes can be carried out in respect of your property and finance and secondly, your health and welfare, should you become unable to make these decisions yourself. Her final topic was Property Trusts. There were many questions which were answered fully.
L
At a recent Mothers’ Union meeting Carole Pickard and Sandra Banks presented Sue Mapp with a bouquet of flowers and a card and congratulated her on her and Bob’s Golden Wedding. They were married at All Saints Church, Oystermouth.
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Mothers’ Union Sketty
O
ur speaker on the first meeting in October was Dr Jennifer Rudd her talk was on “ A personal response to the climate emergency” she was very interesting to listen to and gave us some tips on what we can do to help.
On our second meeting our speaker was Mrs Biddy O’Kane. She told us about her trip to Lourdes as she goes along to help as she has nursing experience. She brought books for us to look at and pictures and the talk was very interesting and we asked a lot of questions afterwards. It was a very good meeting. Iris Jones Branch Leader.
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MAZE
Pair up the groups of letters to make 12 six letter words: TER TLE HEM ROW
DOW MAT BAN RIC
ANT BOR LOW SER
TER WIN TEA SHO
FAB HOL KIN BOT
Answers to last months BEARS quiz: 1. Winnie the Pooh 9. Bungle from Rainbow 2. Paddington 10. Kung Fu Panda 3. Balloo from Jungle Book 11. Rupert 4. Fozzie from Sesame Street 12. Teddy Ruxpin 5. Biffo from the Beano 13. Sooty 6. Care Bears 14. Mr Bean’s teddy 7. Superted 15. Pudsey 8. Yogi and Boo Boo 16. Brer Bear
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ACE DLE SOL WER
St James the Least of All The Rev Dr Gary Bowness continues his letters from ‘Uncle Eustace’… On the perils of eating with members of your church The Rectory, St James the Least My dear Nephew Darren One of the rather dubious pleasures of being rector here is to dine twice a year with Lord and Lady Shuttlingsloe. I was summoned to go along yesterday evening. As usual, I was greeted by the footman and led into the entrance hall, where only a few weeks ago we held the parish Harvest supper for 200 people. I relinquished my coat, took a deep breath, and set off to follow him down endless corridors to the drawing room. The house is rumoured to be haunted, but I suspect any sounds of footsteps come from guests of previous years, still wandering the corridors trying to find their way out. There were the usual guests - most of whom were merely continuing conversations they had had the previous evening at another stately, decaying pile in the county. They were standing, because all the chairs were occupied by the Lord's dogs, and everyone agreed that the dogs looked far too comfortable to move. Since one aged golden retriever recognised me, having developed an over-familiarity with my own dog, he amicably let me squeeze beside him on a sofa - even if it left me for the rest of the evening looking as if I was wearing an Afghan coat. When the meal was ready, the butler arrived with our overcoats, because the dining room is a cavernous chamber which is largely unheated as birds are nesting in the chimney. Lord Shuttlingsloe considers this perfectly acceptable, since his family have been eating in this way for the past 500 years, which is how long most of the present staff have worked there. Conversation at my end of the table was less than easy, since Lady S dozed throughout the meal and my companion on the other side seemed to hold me personally responsible for the Spanish Inquisition. Had I been, she would most definitely have been on my list for questioning. As Rector, one has one's social responsibilities, but I confess, there were moments when I rather envied your own evening, with a meal on a tray in front of the television – in a warm house. Your loving uncle, Eustace Page 32
November Rotas St Hilary’s Church, Killay Readers 3rd 1st Kay Phillips 2nd Julie Phillips 10th 1st Marian Williams 2nd Alan Clewett 17th 1st Graham Trew 2nd Beryl Claybrooke 24th Sunday School / Worship Leaders 1st Dec
1st 2nd
Jim Proudfoot Angela Reed
Offertory Procession 3rd Nansi Evans, Wendy John 10th Gwynneth Prestwood, Pat Stratton 17th Mike & Sylvia Powell 24th Family Service 1st Dec Sally Bowen, Carol Conway Altar Flowers 3rd Mary Jones 10th Sue Mapp 17th Memory of Joyce Rowe 24th Jan Proudfoot Sidespersons November Jim & Jan Proudfoot, Gillian Hutchinson, Ken James Sponsor for Bread & Wine Memory of Yvonne Bevan
Coffee 3rd Pat Stratton 17th Carol Conway
10th Sian Gwynn 24th Gillian Hutchinson
Sidespersons December Lyndon & Glenys Hall, Mike & Phyl Smith
St Martin’s Church, Dunvant Readers 3rd Eileen Harris 10th Elaine Redmond 17th Lynne Lewis 24th Margaret Draisey Sidesperson 3rd Elaine Graves 10th Sue Dimblebee 17th Gareth Dimblebee 24th Roger Draisey Altar Flowers 3rd Yvonne Bevan nee Dart 10th Colin & Margaret Williams 17th Ian Dimblebee 24th Phyllis Cameron Bread & Wine Colin & Margaret Williams Holy Dusters Roger & Margaret Draisey
Church Cleaning Eileen Nielsen Page 33
St Paul’s Church, Sketty Leader 3rd 8.00am 10.00am 11.15am
Vicar Café Church Vicar
Music 3rd 8.00am 11.15am
Said Richard Burden
Eucharistic Assistant 3rd 8.00am Biddy O’Kane 11.15am Elaine Gale Intercessor 3rd 8.00am 11.15am
Vicar Vicar
Reader 3rd 8.00am 11.15am
Sue Mitchell Anne Rees
Duty Warden 3rd 8.00am 10.00am 11.15am
Jane Watkeys Eifion Francis Jane Watkeys
Leader 10th 10.50am Vicar Remembrance Sunday Joint Service 6.30pm Alan Griffiths Music 10th 10.50am
Richard Burden
Eucharistic Assistant 10th 10.50am Viv Lewis & Janet Vine Intercessor 10th 10.50am
Reader 10th 10.50am 6.30pm Duty Warden 10th 10.50am 6.30pm
Carol Davies Elaine Gale Harold Grenfell Jane Watkeys Eifion Francis
13th Wednesday 11.00am EA / Warden Reader
Janet Vine Joyce Philips
Leader 17th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am
Vicar Vicar Vicar
Music 17th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am
Said Jill Francis Richard Burden
Eucharistic Assistant 17th 8.00am Biddy O’Kane 9.30am Karen Philips, Sue James 11.15am Elaine Gale Intercessor 17th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am Reader 17th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am
Ann Penton Page 34
Vicar Karen Williams Vicar Ann Price Owen Jen Davies David James Clive Williams
Duty Warden 17th 8.00am 9.30am 11.15am 20th Wednesday 11.00am Warden EA Reader
Vicar Vicar Vicar
Music 24th 8.00am 9.30am
Said Jill Francis
Eucharistic Assistant 24th 8.00am Janet Vine 9.30am Jane Watkeys Elaine Gale
Reader 24th 8.00am 9.30am 6.30pm Duty Warden 24th 8.00am 9.30am 27th Wednesday 11.00am Warden EA
Sidespersons Ray Bevan, David Coffey, Brenda Smith
Eifion Francis Clive Garrish Fran Steadman
Leader 24th 8.00am 9.30am 6.30pm
Intercessor 24th 8.00am 9.30am
All Souls Church, Tycoch
Jane Watkeys Jane Watkeys Janet Vine
Vicar David James Janet Vine Sue James Chris Vickery Mary Davies
Readers 3rd Dorothy Daulby & Moira Bevan 10th Howard Richards & Hazel Richards 17th Family Worship 24th Celia Hall & Nicola Tanner Intercessions 3rd Mike Williams 10th Dave Coffey 17th Family Worship 24th Vicar Eucharistic Assistant / Altar Servers 3rd Pam Williams 10th Nicola Tanner / Alayne Jenkins 17th Family Worship 24th Howard Richards
Flowers in memory of Nancy & Leslie Williams Church Cleaning Volunteers - 1st Saturday of the month
Jane Watkeys David James Jane Watkeys Clive Garrish
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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 (reesfolk@btinternet.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 December magazine is on Thursday 21 November 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: reesfolk@btinternet.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