Ashley Mag Feb 2022

The Rector’s Message for February The Loggerheads Benefice—ASHLEY St John the Baptist CHURCH RECTOR: The Rev’d Dr. David Isiorho 01630 672939 m.07484630582 Email: david.isiorho@outlook.com CHURCHWARDENS: Peter Shone 01630 672538. Jan Warren jan.warren@btinternet.com ASSOCIATE MINISTER: The Rev’d Sara Humphries 01630 673740.

Email: rev.sara.humphries@gmail.com BENEFICE ADMINSTRATOR Denise Keen loggerheadsbeneficeinfo@gmail.com 07761446753 BAPTISMS, WEDDINGS: Please contact The Rector (see above) FUNERALS: Contact the Benefice Administrator, Denise Keen (see above) CHURCH VERGER: Position vacant LAY READERS: Anna Mortimer 01630 672804 Dr Roger Pooley 01630 673292 Professor Emeritus Dr Helen Dent 01630 673292 ORGANIST/CHOIRMASTER: Peter Shone: 01630 672538 .p.shone@btinternet.com CHURCH AND COMMUNITY CHOIR: Peter Shone (contact details above) YOUNG PEOPLE: Chair of Management Committee: Jill Cheadle 01630 673968 e-mail : jillclogg@aol.com MAGAZINE EDITOR: John Hegarty 01630 653912 j.r.hegarty@gmail.com MAGAZINE ADVERTISING: Anthony Deere: anthony@loggerheads.me.uk 01630 672820 MAGAZINE DISTRIBUTION: Carole Shone: 01630 672538 caroleshone21@gmail.com BENEFICE WEBMASTER: Roger Bloor: 01782 799262 bloor.world@btinternet.com RETIRED PRIEST: Reverend Roger Legg.

***************************************************************** COVER PICTURE: I managed to snap this starling (?) taking advantage of our bird bath for a quick dip.

************************************************************************** On Wednesday, February 2 the Anglican Church celebrates the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: ‘Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.’

(Luke 2: 25-32, New International UK Version) SERVICES IN THE BENEFICE CHURCHES ARE ON PAGE 21

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Dear friends, The second month in a new year and our thoughts still run to new beginnings. How many of us, I wonder, made New Year resolutions? Determined to do better something we had failed to achieve in the past. Resolutions to give up smoking, eating cream cakes and many other habits are earnestly tackled as a new year begins. For us the liturgical year started back in Advent when we were still thinking again about John the Baptist who came into the world with a very clear yet very difficult vocation. God had chosen him to be the voice, crying in the wilderness - preparing the way for Jesus.

At the end of this next month, we celebrated Candlemas, traditionally the conclusion of Christmas, a turning point in the great liturgical rhythm of the year’s proclamation of the Gospel story. Candlemas is when we turn from the Holy Infant and begin to look to Calvary - when we turn from the manger to the Cross.

Lent starts early this year with Ash Wednesday on the 2nd March. This is a season of the Church’s year in which we are given an opportunity to think and pray about the important truths of life and of our faith, as we try to focus our minds on the redemptive suffering of Jesus Christ. Traditionally it is a time when we look at our spiritual life and try to improve it. Giving things up is still very popular.

This year it will come as no surprise if I ask you not to give anything up but rather to take something extra on. The something extra is the Benefice Lent Groups. Thus, working together to deepen our knowledge of the Christian faith and use this coming season of Lent to inform our prayers and Bible Study. This year we have a back-to-basics programme which give focus to the Lenten traditions and our Lord’s Temptations. At the end of the Lent course, I want invite the participants to share a Seder Meal.

Your friend and Parish Priest

Father David DETAILS OF SERVICES ACROSS THE BENEFICE ARE ON PAGE 21

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Ashley Parish Church Commitment Sunday – 27th February 2022 As you will probably know, one of the annual events in the life of the Ashley Parish Church is ‘Commitment Sunday’, usually the last Sunday before Lent. It is a time when Church Members and Friends of the Church have a structured opportunity to consider or reconsider how much money they donate to support the life and work of the Parish Church.

This is not an event where people ‘pretend to be out’ or ‘deliberately go away’ to avoid putting their hands in their pockets. Quite to the contrary. Over many years, the Church experience has been that people like to be asked, see a need for themselves to be involved, and want to give generously to support the life and work of the Parish Church. This seems to be the ongoing nature of the generous community of which we are each a part.

Principal reasons for this generosity are: • Our Community owns the prize of a beautiful Parish Church; • We can all see that our ‘grade two star listed’ church is continually kept in good condition and know this is expensive to do; • For everyone, it becomes ‘Our Church’ when we fill it with our friends and neighbours gathering to support the funeral of a loved one, or to attend our family weddings or celebrate a new baptism.

• People want to support their Church which ministers to our local sick and bereaved; • Nurtures companionship at Monday coffee mornings and other social events; • Works with young people at the Hugo Meynell School to share the values of Christian faith, working with our community and engaging with our local heritage all supported with regular school visits to church and holiday activities.

• Sings !! With strong church choir, an enthusiastic Community Choir, and lots of extra opportunities to make music together; • Extends a warm invitation to regular Sunday Worship.

ASHLEY CHURCH CROSSWORD ANSWERS AT BOTTOM OF PAGE

For so many people Christianity is the faith which they want to see promoted and growing in our society and they want to see this done under the initiative of their local church.

If you are not already a regular giver to the Parish Church but want to help us with your financial support please contact:

ACROSS Sermon. 4. candles. 6. tea. 13. brasses. 14. choir stalls. 15. [holy] communion.

DOWN 2. Psalms. 3. Chapter house. 5. East window. 7. Rood screen. 8. Valentine.

9. cassock. 10. vestry. 11. surplice. 12. Sermon

The Rector at Ashley Rectory, Charnes Road, Ashley tel 01630 672939 or email loggerheadsbeneficeinfo@gmail.com

Answers

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Eric Davis’ report from MDCE (continued from page 25) Following on from ‘Go Green’, Market Drayton Climate Action (MDCA) was formed on 10th January when 24 persons, including business and council representatives, put their names forward as founding members. With many more known to be keen on becoming involved, but unable to attend at that particular time, a further ‘duplicate’ meeting followed on 25th January. A Progress Report will appear in the next Issue but, anyone interested in learning more sooner, please contact Eric as below.

Although having no direct connection with the Town Council, MDCE holds its monthly meetings - usually on a Monday morning - in the Town Hall Council Chamber. Anyone wishing to consider joining will be welcome to attend, when the various on-going projects can be explained. Annual events already booked for 2022 are ‘Health & Wellbeing’ - 27th April; ‘Going Greener’ - 13th July; ‘Creativity, Culture & Leisure’ - 5th October; ArtsFest – 28th-30th October.

For further information on MDCE and MDCA’s community activities, please contact Eric Davis at: ericatriverside@btinternet.com or on 01630 655778.

INSTALLATION AND LICENSING SERVICE Our incumbent, Father David Isiorho, was installed as Rector of our Benefice by Bishop Matthew at St Mary Mucklestone Church on Sunday, 28th November 2021 at 3pm. During the same service, the Revd Sara Humphries was licensed as Associate Minister. On the left of the photo is the new Archdeacon of Stoke on Trent, the Venerable Megan Smith

DOMESTIC ABUSE (continued from page 24)       

www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk (live chat Mon-Fri 3-10pm) Samaritans: 116 123 | www.samaritans.org Shelter: 0808 800 4444 | www.shelter.org.uk Victim Support: 0808 168 9111 | www.victimsupport.org.uk Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111 | www.crimestoppers-uk.org Male victims (Respect): 0808 801 0327 Helpline for domestic abuse in same sex relationships: 0800 999 5428

The House of Bishops has published Responding well to Domestic abuse: Policy and practice guidance in 2017. It reminds us

‘The Church remains committed to those who have been survivors/victims of domestic abuse and to addressing the processes that lead to domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse in all its forms is contrary to the will of God and an affront to human dignity. All need to play their part in preventing or halting it.’

The whole document can be found on the church of England website or via the link below. https://www.churchofengland.org/sites/default/files/2017-12/ RespondingWellWeb.pdf

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The Catholic Parish of Our Lady and St John the Baptist Ashley Parish Priest: Father Anton Madej, scj We have now started Mass on a Wednesday evening at Our Lady & St John the Baptist Catholic Church, Ashley but PRIOR BOOKING IS REQUIRED To book TELEPHONE 01782 613023.

6.45pm Adoration 7.15pm Mass Regular Services Wednesdays: Adoration 6.45pm Mass 7.15pm Weekend Masses at Clayton

Saturday 6.00pm Sunday 8.45 am Sunday 10.00am

For Confessions, Baptisms, Marriages and Funerals please contact the Parish Priest on 01782 613023 (Office Hours: Wed/ Thur/Fri/Sat 10.00 am – 1.00pm) Email: olstwerburgh.clayton@rcaob.org.uk Web: www.ourladyandstwerburgh.org -3-

THE COMMUN ITY CHOIR AT CHRISTMAS Margaret Maxwell WENCESLAS “A man’s reach should exceed his grasp or what’s a heaven for?” (Robert Browning) This must surely be the motto of our community choir leader? To expect a motley crew of singers who have been out of action for so long due to covid restrictions to be able to perform Bob Chilcott’s Wenceslas was very ambitious but, as always, Peter Shone managed to pull it off with only a few weeks’ rehearsal. His optimism, patience and endless encouragement brought out far more than we knew we had in us.

On Sunday evening, 5th December, we gathered in the parish church for a final run through with guest accompanist, Jonathan Williams. An hour later we were ready to perform this quirky and atmospheric musical narration of the story of Good King Wenceslas’ act of charity. Soloists Peter Edge and Ruth Jeffries sang the parts of the king and the page respectively. The high point was probably the page’s poignant song “Thank you.”

The audience was then treated to some solos. Accompanied by Jonathan on piano Peter Edge sang “King David” by Herbert Howells and then entertained us greatly with his comical rendition of “If I were rich man” from Fiddler on the Roof.

After the choir had sung the Sussex Carol Ruth marked the death of Stephen Sondheim with a performance of “There won’t be trumpets” accompanied by Peter Shone. Jonathan then climbed up to the organ loft and filled the church with the sound of “Venite adoremus” by Lefebure-Wely. The evening was rounded off with a lusty version of the Hallelujah chorus from The Messiah in which the soloists and choirmaster enhanced the choir.

CAROLS AT THE CAR WASH (see also page 10) Later in the week Peter gathered us together again at the Loggerheads car wash for some community carol singing. Despite the cold and damp a goodly crowd gathered and were warmed with some hot toddy as we sang traditional carols with children from our local primary schools, their families and several others. Rev. David Isiorho included prayers and Rev. Sara Humphries reminded the children that Santa was not the only person who came to us on Christmas Day. Without the birth of Jesus Christ, God with us, there would be no Christmas to celebrate and therefore no Santa Claus.

As we sang “Rudolph the red nose reindeer” Santa appeared in his sleigh towed by a Landrover (Rudolph and his team were resting up before their big night) and the children were able to tell him what they hoped to find on Christmas morning.

As ever we are all very grateful to Peter Shone for giving us these opportunities to sing together. His rehearsals are great fun and always uplifting.

Even if you don’t think you can sing you should really give us a try. It is truly amazing what Peter manages to achieve regardless of one’s previous experience.

MARKET DRAYTON COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE (MDCE) CIO (Registered Charity Number 1178317) and

MARKET DRAYTON CLIMATE ACTION (Unincorporated Pending Decision on Appropriate Status)

Report by Eric Davis

MDCE was able to resume its annual Festivals in October - ‘Health & Wellbeing’, ‘Go Green’ and ArtsFest. Entry – as always - was free to exhibitors and visitors for the first two held in Festival Drayton Centre’s Auditorium, as were many of the ArtsFest events. The ‘Go Green’ Festival was the first of its kind for MDCE, with both exhibitor and visitor attendance exceeding expectations. With sanitary measures in place, Covid fears had been put on hold for this event, undoubtedly due to overriding concern for the need to combat climate change. Included in the event was a supplementary Speaker Session for an audience of about 40. Presentations were by specialists in their respective fields.

Professor Roy Alexander and Kate Harrison of Ashton Hayes (Cheshire) spoke on their community’s success in achieving carbon neutrality, their Project having started in 2006. Members of the Project now frequently provide advice to similar projects.

George Vigileous from Stroud spoke on behalf of NGO Earth Protector Communities, sister charity to Stop Ecocide International. Stop Ecocide International is working towards the establishment of a crime of Ecocide at the International Criminal Court, to sit alongside War Crimes, Genocide, Crimes Against Humanity and Crimes of Aggression. Might Market Drayton & District become an Earth Protector Community, following in the footsteps of Stroud, Woodbridge, Glastonbury, Helston and Penzance?

Unfortunately, the crime of Ecocide, incorporated into the Environment Bill

by Lady Bennett as it passed through the Lords, was withdrawn at the suggestion of the Minister. Assurances were given that the matter would be given attention in due course but had too many subsidiary implications to be considered at that stage.

Both Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin Councils have declared climate emergencies and have set a 2030 target for becoming carbon neutral. Chris Davies, Chair of Zero Carbon Shropshire, highlighted how the actions of individuals, households, businesses and councils can contribute towards achieving this target. Shropshire looks forward to liaising with neighbouring counties, all of which have similar ambitions.

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Do you know anyone who may have suffered domestic abuse?

Jan Warren

Domestic violence is the systematic pattern of behaviour on the part of the abuser designed to control their partner. Domestic violence is a crime.

Domestic abuse can occur to anyone regardless of age, race, disability, sexuality, class, or income. Most domestic abuse is perpetrated by men against women, but the perpetrator of domestic abuse can be of any gender, and the victim can be of any gender. Victims can be male, although the majority are female, and abuse can occur in same sex relationships, between siblings or by adult children against a parent. Many victims will only disclose that a partner was violent and abusive after leaving a relationship.

The abuse take include psychological, physical, sexual, financial, and emotional abuse as well as neglect, spiritual and digital abuse. The abuse is often hidden behind closed doors and with the restrictions we have had during the pandemic this could make the situation more difficult for victims.

It is a sad fact that 2 women are killed every week in England and Wales by current or former partners (Office of National Statistics, 2015) – 1 woman killed every 3 days.

1 in 4 women in England and Wales will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes and 8% will suffer domestic violence in any given year (Crime Survey of England and Wales, 2013/14). On average, a woman is assaulted 35 times before her first call to the police. Overall, 27.1% of women and 13.2% of men had experienced any domestic abuse since the age of 16, equivalent to an estimated 4.5 million female victims and 2.2 million male victims (Crime Survey for England and Wales March 2015).

Domestic violence has a higher rate of repeat victimisation than any other crime. ( Home office July 2002) There are many myths and misconceptions about domestic abuse which we need to be aware of and challenge. These can include ‘it doesn’t happen round here’, ‘a victim can cause a perpetrator to become abusive’, ‘its about anger’ or ‘a victim can choose to leave but they don’t’. Victim blaming is common and can discourage victims from coming forward. As a community we need to be aware and provide support to anyone suffering domestic abuse and to recognise the signs that domestic abuse may be happening. The church is here to listen and support and there are also charities and organisations that can offer support. These include:National Domestic Violence Helpline: 0808 2000 247 - 24 hour helpline: 0800 970 2070 Continued on page 26 -24-

AN ABUNDANT BLESSING When Rev. Mark Lawrence became our new circuit minister last September he brought with him an additional and wonderful blessing, his wife. Carolyn supports Mark in every way she can as part of “Team Lawrence.”

Carolyn’s Christian journey began at a Dick Saunders crusade when she was 15. Her relationship with God enabled her to overcome her teenage angsts so that a fun loving girl became a vibrant, warm hearted, passionate follower of Christ. When she married Mark four years later they discovered that he had been converted at the same crusade.

Family is very important to Carolyn so she was a full time mum for most of the time before their two daughters were in full time education. She now has three grandchildren and another one on the way, and rejoices in being with them all whenever possible.

Mark’s decision to enter the ministry in 1995 meant that she had to leave her roots in Bedfordshire as they moved to Wesley College, Bristol. While Mark was training Carolyn became involved with the George Muller Foundation helping in schools and toddler groups in areas of great social need. During Mark’s ministry in the Isle of Wight & then Lincoln her involvement with children continued. She undertook a degree in Education at Portsmouth University followed by a postgraduate course and then taught in schools for nine years.

In 2012 came a big move to Guyana where her teaching skills were really needed while Mark undertook church and circuit roles. This was a testing experience for them both; they learned to rely deeply on God’s provision and sustenance. This venture also aroused Carolyn’s interest in the global community.

Back in Devon in 2014 opportunities for teaching were lacking so Carolyn turned her attention to Methodist Women in Britain where she had a national role and gained international experience representing the UK on the World Federation of Methodist & Uniting Women. This led on to working with the Global Relationships Team at Methodist Church House, linking with partner churches across the world through prayer support and hands-on action.

The next step, following promptings from God, was to allow her name to go forward for vice president of the Methodist Conference. She was duly elected and began her year of office in June 2020.

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A STUDY OF THE HISTORY OF ASHLEY: PART 12

M. Mark Pownall

Religion in Ashley: The Parish Church of St John the Baptist For over 700 years there has been a church in Ashley, standing in an elevated position on the edge of the village. The tower is over 400 years older than the church and probably dates from the 14th century about 1612. The main part of the building dates only from 1860 because it was in “such a ruinous state” and enlarged to accommodate a growing population. The tower and part of the North Wall behind the Gerard Monument were the only parts retained during this restoration.

The earliest reference to a church in Ashley appears in 1205 when King John visited Newcastle. He gave the revenues of the “ecclesia in Esselie” to the Canons Regular of Montesfuat, an Abbey in Normandy. Forty years later, Philip de Bromley, a patron of the church and Lord of the Manor, was responsible for some rebuilding. He was also knighted by Henry III for his aid in the rebuilding of Westminster Abbey.

All churches have some kind of legend, and Ashley is no exception. Sometime between 1350 and 1400, David Kenric, a standard bearer to the Black Prince (eldest son of Edward III), lost his way in Ashley on his way to join his master. He thrust his spear into the ground and said that if he returns from the war, he would build a church on that spot. Laden with booty from the wars, he used some of his money to build or possibly rebuild Ashley church. There are certainly references to the Kenric family in the Parish records, who later became Lords of the Manor in nearby Woore.

There is little available evidence about the church until the time of Elizabeth I. At this time the connection with the Gilbert Gerrard begins. He was a strong supporter of then the Princess Elizabeth during the religious persecutions of Mary Tudor’s reign. When Elizabeth became Queen, she made him Master of the Rolls. At this time, he acquired some of the manors belonging to his Roman Catholic cousin Thomas Gerrard of Etwall, Derbyshire. These included Audley, Norton in Hales, Podmore, Bromley and Ashley.

At Bromley, Sir Gilbert built Gerrard’s Bromley Hall which was the most prominent structure in 16th century Staffordshire (as referred to by Robert Plot) and was home to seven generations of Gerards. Although Sir Gilbert’s work kept him away from home for most of the year, he visited the area regularly and was a patron of Ashley Church. He was also a Justice of the Peace for Staffordshire along with the Earl of Essex. In 1592, Sir Gilbert died and was buried in the family vault in Ashley church. In his will he left money for the Church and for the care of the woods around Ashley.

TO BE CONTINUED

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Blore Rural District History Society The group meets monthly, usually on the 2nd Monday of the month but has changed its venue to Ashley Methodist Church, Wesleyan Road, Ashley, TF9 4JT, at 7.30pm. Visiting speakers with expertise in a broad range of historical areas will give a short talk, followed by a question and answer session and opportunity for general discussion. The aim is to provide both an informative and enjoyable social night. Suggestions for future topics are welcomed.

The next talk is

“Ashley through Terry Hodgkiss’s Eyes”

by Jan Pownall on the

14th February 2022.

This is an account by the late Terry Hodgkiss who left a brief history of life in Ashley and Hookgate. This is followed up by historical information around the time of his and his parent’s life. *Admission £2.50 per person, including refreshments* *New members welcome* For more information contact Chairman Mark Pownall on (01630) 672446 or 07865941078

Blore Rural District History Society PROGRAMME OF TALKS MARCH—OCTOBER 2022 14th MARCH 2022 Mark Hinsley: “Battle of Blore Heath and latest information” 11th APRIL 2022 Margaret Thompstone: “Little Moreton Hall” 9th MAY 2022 Steve Booth: “The RAF Fauld Explosion” 13th JUNE 2022 David Bunn: “Wartime Airfields in Staffordshire” 12th SEPTEMBER 2022 Martin Wood: “ Shrewsbury Town Crier” 10th OCTOBER 2022 Judy Hubble: “Shugborough Hall. A Brief History”

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ASHLEY CHURCH COFFEE MORNINGS In the Chapter House (next to the Church) EVERYONE WELCOME

Every Monday except Easter 10am-12noon Want to know more?

Contact Jean Sharp 01630 672447

WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP US “OPEN THE BOOK”?

Every Monday morning in school term time, a keen group of parishioners from the four churches of the Benefice dress up in (sort-of!) biblical robes and make their way first to Mucklestone Church where they shiver, dress up and practice the bible reading of the week before going to Mucklestone School.

The School is ready for us! Children on duty that morning prepare an altar (with the appropriate cover for the season of the Church’s year) with candles and a toy lamb that signifies an important value, such as honesty or courage. The children know all about this. The whole school gathered, the children recite a prayer, and the candles are lit .

The Open the Book team then swing into action with the bible story appropriate for that week. For example, in January we told the story of the Wise Men visiting the baby Jesus and his family with the warning of the massacre that Herod would soon be inflicting on children under two years of age. King Herod came across as suitably nasty (boo! shouted the youngsters) and angry that there could be another “King of the Jews”. We hope we did not frighten the children!

On then to Hugo Meynell school to repeat the Open the Book reading for the children there. We use the Open the Book bible that was especially written for reading to children below the age of 11 and we aim to make the stories come to life with our dramatisations.

Would you like to join our team of readers? It’s a great opportunity to share the Bible with our young people. Contact Noel Brown in Ashley Church on Sundays or on email: noelbrown1948@btinternet.com ‘Open the Book’ is a worldwide initiative of the Bible Society

An abundant blessing—continued from page 5 This was not the best of times to be involved in activities on a national scale. What should have been a year of personal visits, travel and exciting events became a time of zoom meetings, radio broadcasts, lecturing and preaching remotely. Sadly she missed out on several once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as a Buckingham Palace garden party, COP 26, meeting refugees in Dover and a visit to Malawi for All We Can. Hours spent in front of a computer screen were probably more taxing than a busy travel schedule.

However, a very different modus operandi meant that her recorded sermons could be shared simultaneously by several churches. Working from home she could spend more time with each community she “visited,” joining in with small church groups via zoom thus getting to know many more individuals. She and the President, Rev. Richard Teal, held regular live Facebook sessions and, for those without access to the internet, they recorded prayers and reflections on a phone line.

The responsibility of being called upon as a national leader for her opinion on all manner of topics was challenging but also a great privilege and Carolyn used every opportunity to bring glory to Jesus and to encourage ordinary Methodists in their walk with God. Carolyn is particularly conscious of the negative and discouraging impressions a congregation may give, however unwittingly, thereby discouraging rather than welcoming newcomers.

She has long campaigned against abuse and bullying in church so one of her most satisfying achievements was the inclusion of an anti-bullying section in the Methodist Church’s safeguarding policy.

In the short time that Mark and Carolyn have been with us in the Market Drayton circuit we have come to appreciate their powerful preaching skills, the importance they give to prayer and their genuine interest and care for our community. In addition Carolyn, very much a people person, thoroughly enjoys social occasions; they are a generous and hospitable couple.

Under their leadership we have an enjoyable as well as challenging future to look forward to. Thanks be to God! Margaret Maxwell

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Hymns that mean a lot to us No. 136 Angels from the realms of glory Words: James Montgomery (1771-1854) Music: French traditional carol Angels from the realms of glory, wing your flight o'er all the earth; ye who sang creation's story now proclaim Messiah's birth: Refrain: Come and worship, come and worship, worship Christ, the newborn king.

SANCTUARY LAMP All day, every day - the SANCTUARY LAMP in Ashley Church is lit and can be dedicated to the memory of loved ones.

Talk to Jan Warren, or Peter Shone (churchwardens), for details contact details are on last page of the Magazine

2 Shepherds, in the field abiding, watching o'er your flocks by night, God with us is now residing; yonder shines the infant light: [Refrain] 3 Sages, leave your contemplations, brighter visions beam afar; seek the great Desire of nations; ye have seen his natal star: [Refrain] James Montgomery (pic.) was the son of Moravian parents who died on a West Indies mission fieldtrip while he was in boarding school. He protested against slavery, the lot of boy chimney sweeps, and lotteries. He published at least four hundred hymns. Some critics judge his hymn texts to be equal in quality to those of Isaac Watts and Charles Wesley . [Source: hymnary.org] No less that ten of his hymns are in “Ancient and Modern” including “Hail to the Lord’s Anointed”, and “Stand up and bless the Lord”; the others are unfamiliar to me.

This is a wonderful hymn that bridges Christmas with Epiphany-tide. It is easy to sing and you can really let rip in the refrain. Angels have a leading role (see also page 21) and the words evoke wonderful mind-pictures. I love “realms of glory”, the idea of a “desire of nations” and “natal star” is clever.

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“Money is like muck - no good unless spread.”

Francis Bacon (1561-1626)

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Charity Number 1179850

It really did look a lot like Christmas!

By Jill This was certainly true when the Befrienders held their Christmas lunch for the Friends and their guests on Friday December 10th 2021.

The tables at Ashley Memorial Hall were festively dressed and so looked splendid with crackers Christmas napkins and beautiful seasonal flower arrangements forming the perfect table centre. The Menu included prawn cocktails and other dainty smoked salmon or pate morsels. These were followed by a variety of sandwiches, sausage rolls and other savouries after which, cakes and mince pies which certainly, judging by the empty plates, did not disappoint!

Accountant: I'm giving up spreadsheets for forty days, for Lent Fed-up client, fond of a pun: Excellent.

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The luscious lunch was followed by enjoyable entertainment provided by singer, Neil Mason. Not only has he a superb voice but an engaging personality. He endeared himself to his prospective audience by visiting each table to chat and discover any “favourite songs “ which he could later incorporate into his programme. His programme of seasonal songs , including old timers such as “Rudolph the red Nosed reindeer” and “White Christmas “ as well as some Frank Sinatra and Bobby Darren numbers which not only clearly brought back happy memories, judging by their singing and smiles on the faces of our Friends . Not only did Neil’s music set feet a tapping , but encouraged the more adventurous , some would say extrovert Befrienders, to jive around the tables.! A feast for body, mind and spirit you might say which everyone thoroughly enjoyed! We had of course, enjoyed what one might call an “hors d’oeuvre” two Fridays earlier, when our friend Mike Haynes entertained us with a cornucopia of songs with guitar or ukulele accompaniment .

What a joy; what a star!

Photographic evidence shows how the audience were captivated, indeed enthralled by the whole performance !

See other news and photos on page 16 -9-

ASHLEY MEMORIAL HALL We are delighted to announce that a new committee was elected to manage Ashley Memorial Hall at the end of 2021.

The new committee is excited about the possibilities for the hall and wants to hear your views, feedback and thoughts about what you want to see moving forward. With this in mind, we would greatly welcome members of our community to contribute to a survey which will help inform plans and ultimately shape the future of our community Hall.

Please visit www.ashleymemorialhall.com for a link to the survey.

If you prefer to give your views face to face, the hall will be open to the community for drop in sessions with members of the committee as follows Drop in sessions: February 8th - 19:30 - 20:30 February 19th -15:00 - 16:00 March 8th - 19:30 - 20:30 March 12th 15:00 - 16:00 Committee Anne McClean is Committee Chair, joined by Mark Sherwen as Vice Chair, Debra Wellard as Treasurer and Debbie Bennett as Secretary. Officers come from a wide range of professions, bringing a wealth of experience to the management of the hall as a charitable organisation.

Anne McClean, Committee Chair says “We want to make the hall a vibrant, exciting and active place for the community to come together, with a wide array of things to do. We are really looking forward to hearing what people want and to try some new ideas for a programme of events.’”

Mark Sherwen, Committee Vice Chair says: “I have only moved to the area recently but I have volunteered to serve on the committee because I believe that Village Halls like Churches, Pubs and Post Offices are crucial to the health of a village community. It is incumbent on those people responsible for their management to respond to the needs and desires of the residents of the parish to maximise the use of the facility to the benefit of all concerned. Like Anne, I am looking forward to hearing the views of the community”.

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ASHLEY METHODIST CHURCH

Looking back on our services: January 9, 2022 From the early days of Methodism, John Wesley invited the Methodist people to renew their covenant relationship with God. Wesley drew much of his material for the service from seventeenth century Puritans and subsequently made changes to it. It was revised twice during the nineteenth century and other branches of world-wide Methodism had versions of it. The emphasis of the whole service is on God’s readiness to enfold us in generous love, not dependent on our deserving, so annually Methodists look forward to renewing their covenant and last Sunday we held our eagerly awaited Covenant Service at Ashley led by our minister, the Rev’d Mark Lawrence who was welcomed by steward Bunty Hodgkins.

After his call to worship we sang our opening Hymn “O Worship the Lord in the Beauty of Holiness” followed by our prayers of praise, adoration, and confession. Richard Lucas read from John’s gospel, chapter 15, in which Jesus described himself as the real vine and his Father as the gardener. He breaks off every branch that does not bear fruit so that it will be clean and bear more fruit. He commands us to love one another.

Mark used some word of St Paul in the twelfth chapter of his letter to the Romans as the theme for his sermon in which Paul appeals to the early church not to conform to the standards of the world but to let God transform them inwardly by a complete change of mind. “Then you will know the will of God – what is good and pleasing to him and is perfect”. Mark spoke of the transformation of the laws of the Old Testament to the New Testament which shares with us the Grace of the New Covenant. And in the New Covenant we have the wonderful gift of simple everyday discipleship and service. We moved into the liturgy of the Covenant Renewal, the elements of bread and wine of Holy Communion being administered by Mark assisted by Jill Harrison. We sang “O Jesus I have promised” as our closing hymn.

Services: Sunday 6th Rev. Mark Lawrence Holy Communion Sunday 13th Mr Peter Mitchell Sunday 20th Rev. Mark Lawrence Sunday 27th Mr Paul Bishop All services at 10.30am Junior church meets on 13th and 27th at 10.30am Children are always welcome and provision is made for them at all times.

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What on earth happens in February?

Imbolc February 1 A Celtic and neo-Druidic festival. Half way between the winter solstice and the vernal equinox, it is associated with the revival of Spring vegetation. In the Scottish highlands it was St Bride’s (Brigid) day, who was “invited” into your house to sleep on a bed of rushes to ensure soil fertility. Picture shows a Brigid’s cross plaited with rushes.

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Candlemas February 2 

"Candlemas" (or Candle Mass) - a tradition where the priest blessed beeswax candles for use throughout the year, some of which were distributed to the faithful for use in the home. Coincides with the Purification of Christ in the Temple, described in Luke 2:22-40: Simeon had waited to see Jesus before he died: “Now lettest now thy servant depart in peace, for mine eyes have seen thy salvation.” Candles have a major place in Christian worship, reminding us of the light of Christ.

♥ St Valentine’s Day February 14 ♥ Commemorates an early Christian martyr, Valentine. Valentine was secretly marrying young men (to their betrothed!), in contravention of a law of the Emperor Claudius II who wanted them to be single (they made better soldiers). He was imprisoned but befriended and miraculously healed the blind daughter of one of his jailers. On the evening before Valentine was to be executed, he wrote to her, "From your Valentine." The first Valentine’s card!

Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) March 1 The day before Ash Wednesday. The day of “shriving” or going to confess one’s sins. It seems to date back over a thousand years. Pancakes were (are?) a way to use up the “sinful” things like butter, sugar and milk. During Lent one was to eat only plainer foods that gave no “pleasure”.

+ Ash Wednesday + March 2 The start of Lent. Ashes from the burning of Palm Sunday palms were used to mark a cross on the forehead, as a sign of penitence. The forty days of Lent should be a period of prayer and fasting, linking us to the forty days Jesus spent in the desert before the start of his public ministry.

Sources and pictures: Wikipedia; Frazer, The Golden Bough, Macmillan 1960

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Racial Justice: What’s it got to do with me?

An online resource for Racial Justice Sunday February 13, 2022

The cover poem A bird in the birdbath splashing around, Failed to notice the cat, sneaking up on the ground.

Happily splashing in the little birdbath, He became susceptible to the feline’s wrath.

Water splashed and feathers flew, As the bird took off to the sky of blue.

Sadder and wiser he perched in the tree, Staring down at the cat, that had made him flee.

Juan Olivarez Find out more at: https://www.poemhunter.com/juan-olivarez/biography/

(Reprinted from Lichfield Diocesan Newsletter)

This is a call for all Christians to engage in the righteous struggle for racial justice because racial justice is everyone’s business.

As we shall see in our resource [https://ctbi.org.uk/wp-content/ uploads/2021/12/RJS-2022-edit.pdf.pagespeed.ce.nU7KxSg95M.pdf] for Racial Justice Sunday (RJS) 2022, the Bible has a lot to say about justice because as God’s Word, it reflects God’s heart for justice. It can be argued that we should love justice because God does!

Racism and racial discrimination are justice issues because they deny basic justice and human dignity to women and men who are made in the image of God. Equally, they are sinful because, among other issues, they assume all are not equal before God and are not part of God’s family.

For those who have previously not engaged with RJS because they did not feel equipped to do so, this resource will provide them with the tools to play an active role in this work.

Who is the resource for?

• It is an opportunity for all churches to focus on the three ‘R’s of ‘Remembering’, ‘Reflecting’ and ‘Responding’: • Remembering the importance of racial justice.

• Reflecting on human diversity and thanking God for it.

• Responding by working to end injustice, racism and ignorance through prayer and action.

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Venerable oak Tight ivy-shrouded in death Wind-downed, now firewood I wrote this a few years ago. The tree was the oldest on our farm here at Blore Heath. It managed each year to put out a few leaves but it was definitely on its last legs. “Growing down”, as English Nature likes to say about really old trees. The masses of ivy that had grown up almost seemed to be keeping it upright. Eventually it succumbed to one of our really windy days and blew over. But it lives on in a chain-saw-carved seat near the Oak Tree Dance Studio and its stump was relocated nearby— great for the dance school children to climb on.

JRH

“Poetry is the rhymical creation of beauty in words.”

Edgar Alan Poe -17-

New Befrienders’ service for 2022!

Following on from the shopping and prescription collection service that they co-ordinated during 2020/21, Loggerheads and District Befrienders are now launching a new ongoing service for the local area, to collect prescriptions and/or get shopping for people coming out of hospital. This would be on a short-term basis.

To ask for this service or for more information, phone our usual number: 07523512934

Activities for 2022: We are continuing with our usual monthly programme

whilst bearing in mind current guidelines regarding Covid.

January and February  Coffee mornings on 1st, 3rd and 4th Fridays  Silver Diners’ Lunches on the 2nd Friday  The coffee mornings are held at Ashley Methodist Church from 10.00 to 12.00  All are welcome!  The Walking Group Each Thursday afternoon  Active, leisure and stroller walks in various locations. Starting time 1.30p.m  For further details contact Pat on ozhenshaw@gmail.com

Diary of a Grandad Llamarama Anna, who runs the Llama trekking centre in Burton on Trent, invited us all to go and see her herd and have a walk with them. I thought the big black one (“Barack O’Llama”) might have remembered me fondly after I fed him loads—and chatted to him—eye to eye—whilst being interviewed for “Countryfile” (see December diary) with Ellie Harrison, but if he did he showed no sign.

After a short talk, we were invited to feed the llamas by hand and then take a walk around the field, leading them on their snazzy halters.

Llamas have their own agendas on a walk, even around their own patch. They stop and investigate any kind of herbiage, nibbling the slightest sign of greenery. And there is a boss one who likes to lead. ( Grandad had him.)

After the walk we were treated to super cakes and drinks in Anna’s wondrous log cabin whilst the llamas rested in their stables.

More photos from the Befrienders Christmas Party (see page 9)

BREAKING NEWS: The collected “Diary of a Grandad” with all episodes from 2013—2021 will be available soon in paperback. Watch this space for details!

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JASMINE IS A HOT DOG Sue helps Jasmine with her monthly blog

Sue’s mindful stroll

Ground breaking news! An energy producing company has compiled a list of how to stay warm this winter to cut down on fuel bills and save the planet! And guess who or what is probably top of this list? Well I will tell you it`s us, me, Primrose, and Honeysuckle (she has decided to call herself this due to her mature years =12). Snuggle up with a fur baby! Our body temperatures are about 3 degrees warmer than a human. Our mum is always cold so it takes us all in rotation to keep her warm on the settee while we watch “the box”. They also suggested star jumps which are impossible for dogs, having 4 legs and all that.

We sat down and had a board meeting. I was a bit bored (pun!) but my sisters were right—put some warm clothes on and a big coat and take your dog for a long walk. I added the word long. You will soon get warmed up and mindful! You will be refreshed when you get home and enjoy a warm drink. Which reminds me that when you fill our bowls with cold water DO add a little boiled water to take the chill off. Honey used to shudder when she drank cold water but now she enjoys her drink.

It has rained a lot and I mean a lot so do wipe us thoroughly when we get back: don`t leave us damp. And short-haired dogs need a coat: it has been very cold and it is going to get colder. We have a little electric radiator on at night and a fleece blanket.

When we arrive at the woods we all get very excited so we bark— in fact all the dogs bark with excitement on arrival. Mum calls me “Offen Bach”. I hope you get this—she is very cultured, our Mum. As I have mentioned it has rained an awful lot and we think we have got webbed feet. Mum wears boots but I think we could all do with flippers!

Oh how rude of me - I forgot to wish you a Happy New Year and I hope you have taken your Christmas tree down. Our outside lights are still up although not lit but dad hasn`t taken them down yet.

As we live in a house we have an “upstairs”. The other two go up there, where they have some special “upstairs toys” so I can`t take them. I am sure you are aware I have very long legs and mum doesn`t think it is good for me to come down the stairs as I tend to tumble down at speed.

Tomorrow we have to go for our annual Health check and vaccination to the vets; luckily mum goes in with us now so we are not frightened. Byee for now, Jasmine.

It is an absolutely fabulous day. The sky is pure azure-blue and the sun blindingly bright as it is so low in the sky. I am certainly not complaining as it illuminates the tree tops and, as far as my eyes can see, it radiates warmth and a gives a glow to lift our hearts.

I am pleased to announce that the mud has dried up so the paths are more inviting as I stroll. It is quite pleasant with no frost today! The grass is soft rather wet from the previous night nice—to walk on, quite springy and I am sure paws appreciate it.

The dead bracken lies flat in submission to the frost but still very beautiful— painted bronze for winter. Klang! The latch closes behind us - yes- got all three present and correct. I am excited with anticipation. For, on the last few mornings, I have spotted the egret fishing in the stream, sometimes perched up a tree staring down into the water ready to swoop on some unsuspecting fish and one day actually walking in the water with a typical ungainly walk associated with herons.

An egret has white or buff plumage, they are not biologically distinct from the herons and have the same build. Being white they can easily be seen at a distance.

And yes there it is! It makes me so happy to spot it but - wait - there are two; I have never two together before. They don`t stay long once they have sensed a presence so off they gracefully fly. Occasionally I catch up with them further upstream by the Ramblers Bridge so fingers crossed.

As we cross the large field that leads to the stepping stones I can hear the noisy crows squawking; while, beneath the berry-filled holly bushes, blackbirds root around in the leaves flirting them about, searching for invertebrates worms etc.

There are still many little birds to be seen, my favourites being the robins with their bright red chests which both male and female have. I enjoy all my walk but I have favourite parts, one being the walk up the old cart track between the ancient oak trees where the fallen leaves provide a thick luxurious carpet beneath my feet, as I gaze upward mesmerised by the blue sky.

Turning to walk down the field to the Ramblers Bridge on the opposite side black, ghost-like trees stand out against the skyline. I peer around at the trees below that shade the stream and, there in the corner tucked away above a meander in the stream, are the egrets. This has certainly been my lucky day!

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Top tip: I adore the radio and the other day I heard someone say that they were unable to do something any more but that this was only a comma not a full stop - that there were plenty of other things that they could do! Interesting.

Sue Lea

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A b ird in t h e b i rd b a t h s p la s h in g a ro u n d by

J u a n O li v a r e z See full poem on p. 17

ASHLEY PARISH MAGAZINE February 2022