SIGNPOSTS
OPEN AIR SERVICE AT LLANFIHANGEL ABERGWESYN,

SUNDAY JULY 11th, 3pm

Deanery Event
The parishioners of Llanwrtyd and Abergwesyn invite congregations in the Deanery to join them for a service on the site of St.Michael’s Church, Llanfihangel Abergwesyn on Sunday July 11th. The service which begins at 3pm will comprise hymns and readings celebrating the tradition of faith which flourished in the church before it closed in 1956. There will be opportunity for the sharing of reminiscences of Sunday worship and special services including christenings, weddings and funerals. Afterwards there is an invitation to tea in the Community Room.

The Medieval Church of Llanfihangel
In her book ‘The Churches of Abergwesyn’ Ruth Bidgood records the legend that the original plan had been to build the church four miles away in the valley of the Camarch above Llangammarch. However the builders found that whatever they constructed each day would be mysteriously removed overnight to Abergwesyn. They concluded that this was the work of St.Michael to whom it was intended to dedicate the church. Eventually they complied with his wish and built the church at Abergwesyn a short distance from another church already in existence dedicated to St.David known as Llanddewi Abergwesyn.
Until 1865 the churches belonged to different parishes but in that year they were united and Llanfihangel became the parish church. After this Llanddewi became increasingly dilapidated and was subsequently pulled down.
Old Llanfihangel church was also by this time in a poor state of repair and in 1870 it was resolved to replace it with a new church. The design was ambitious, providing seating for 112 persons, which represented about one third of the total population recorded in the 1861 census. The design included a rose window in the west wall and a stout belfry in the centre of the church with a peal of six bells.
The new church was opened by the Bishop of St.David’s on October 3rd 1871. Two other services were held on the same day: one at 3pm at which the preacher was the Revd.D.Williams of Llanelli and an evening service at which the Revd.W.Evans of Rhymney preached in Welsh.
The design of the new church was favourably received, one writer praising ‘its massive tower, admirable proportions and harmonious tone’. The interior walls were of glazed red brick with white stone facings. The chancel and sanctuary were large and raised above the nave, the chancel by a height of three steps, the sanctuary by a further four steps

Dilapidation of the new church
Sadly, only 50 years after the church was built it was in need of repair. No account had been taken of the high rainfall and harsh weather conditions which prevailed. The soft porous stone used in the construction was vulnerable to erosion and during the 1920s and 1930s rainwater began to penetrate into the fabric of the church. Valiant attempts were made to repoint the west wall, repair the nave roof and rose window. However it was a losing battle. By the late 1940s the stone of the chancel arch was falling away and the east end of the church was too dangerous to be used.

Closure and demolition
In 1954 an inspection of the church was made by the noted ecclesiastical architect George Pace who had overseen the restoration of many churches in Wales, notably Llandaff Cathedral. His conclusion was that the repair of the church would be prohibitively expensive; even reducing its size by means of a partial demolition and repair of what remained would be beyond the means of the parish to fund. He recommended a complete demolition and replacement with a new church built on a much smaller scale.
In 1956 the decision was taken to close the church but without any provision for its replacement. Demolition began and continued until 1963. The font was broken up and buried in the churchyard, the font cover was acquired by Eglwys Oen Duw, the choir stalls by St.George’s, Tredegar.

The Present Site
The site of the former church with its churchyard is well maintained. It serves as an eloquent testimony to the faith of those who worshipped there and kept the faith down through the ages.
Llanfihangel Abergwesyn continues to be a holy place and as such affords an excellent opportunity for an Open Air Service. This will be held on July 11th at 3pm – come and join us!

DEANERY WALK, SUNDAY AUGUST 15th, 2-5pm
LLANSANTFFRAID TO LLANELWEDD

Invitation
The walk is planned as an activity in the summer holidays for young people in the Deanery. Family and church members are also encouraged to attend to enjoy the walk and to help ensure the safety of young children. The walk will commence at Llansantffraid Church, assembling at 2pm for a short service.
The walk is approximately 5 miles and is expected to last 3 hours, taking into account slow progress on steep slopes and stops to enjoy the panoramic views.
The walk will end at Llanelwedd with a short service in St.Matthew’s Church followed by a barbecue at the Jubilee Hall.

The Walk
As the map indicates the walk will follow a route across the ridge of the Carneddau Hill, an area rich in prehistoric remains. The word ‘carneddau’ is the plural in welsh of ‘cairn’ meaning burial mound. A cairn is shown half way along the route of the walk.
Nearer to Llanelwedd the route will pass Caer Fawr, a Bronze Age settlement; to the south will be seen the ramparts of the Caer Einon hill fort.

CHURCH CALENDAR

St.James, Apostle, Sunday July 25th

The Call of St.James
Jesus called James and his brother John to follow him; they left their nets and fishing boat beside the Sea of Galilee and became disciples. Afterwards they were sent out by Jesus as Apostles to preach in his name. For this reason in the portraits of James show him carrying the Gospel in his hand. He is also shown with a staff and wide-brimmed hat. These details identify James the Apostle as the patron saint of pilgrims.

His Later Life
At Pentecost the Apostles were empowered to continue the work of spreading the Gospel. James undertook this work for the next 14 years, travelling according to one tradition as far as Spain. Evidently he was in Jerusalem when, according to the account in the Acts of the Apostles, ‘King Herod attacked certain members of the church and beheaded James, the brother of John’.
A tradition retains the connection between James and Spain after his death. Two of his companions are said to have retrieved body and taking it to the port of Jaffa they set sail. Eventually they reached the north west coast of Spain. There they brought the body ashore for burial, in the country to which James had brought the Gospel and where he had made the first converts to the Christian faith.

The Later Tradition
The place of James’ burial was forgotten for centuries until in 814 it was revealed in a vision to Bishop Theodomir. He was supposedly led by a star to discover it in Compostela, as the Wise Men had been led by a star to the place of Jesus’ birth. In the centuries which followed Compostela became a popular place of pilgrimage and was called Santiago (St.James) di Compostela in honour of the Saint. Pilgrims made the journey from all over Europe. For this reason St.James was, in time, adopted as the patron saint of pilgrims.

Mary, Mother of Jesus, Sunday August 15th

In the Roman Catholic Church August 15th has long commemorated the falling asleep of Mary.
In the Church in Wales the day is observed simply as the Feast of Mary, the Mother of Jesus. However since other events in the life of Mary have festivals assigned to them in the calendar, including her birth, annunciation and visitation, it would not be inappropriate to reflect on this day on the end of Mary’s life.
Words in the collect in the Alternative Lectionary evidently refer to the sequel to Mary’s earthly life: ‘Almighty God who looked upon the lowliness of Mary and chose her to be the mother of your only Son: grant that we who are redeemed by his blood may share with her in the glory of your eternal kingdom’

TWELTH ANNUAL KILVERT PILGRIMAGE

25th July 2010

The Eighth Sunday after Trinity and
the Sunday following the Royal Welsh Show

from St Mary's Newchurch to St David's Llandewifach
via St Michael's Bryngwyn and St Peter's Llanbedr

Of courtesy, it is much less
than courage of heart, or holiness:
yet in my walks it seems to me
that the grace of God is in courtesy.
(Hilaire Belloc, 1870-1953)

TIMETABLE
0800: St Mary's Newchurch: short 1662 Communion
for those who wish to include communion in their pilgrimage)

0845: Welcome and refreshments;
0930: 1662 Morning Prayer;
1015: Graveside observance for Emmeline.
10.30: Start for Bryngwyn
12.00: St Michael's Bryngwyn:
a service of readings, silences, and music;
1245: bring-your-own picnic lunch (drinks provided).
1330: Start for Llanbedr
1615: St Peter's Llanbedr: afternoon tea.
1700: Start for Llandewifach
1800: St David's Llandewifach: Festal Evensong;
1900: Final blessing and dismissal.

You can join (or leave) the pilgrimage at any church (or even, should the generally easy walking prove too much, drive from one to the next).

Please remember that each of the four churches has gone to considerable trouble, and expense, for this Pilgrimage: we do this gladly, rejoicing in the Pilgrimage fellowship. If you wish to share the expense, please put a donation in the wall safes, or in one of the collection plates (the Newchurch plate is made from Kilvert's weeping yew, fallen in 1990): taxpayers, please consider using Gift Aid envelopes.

Further information from:
John Milsom 01544 370 607
Aylmer Alexander 01497 851 295

MOTHERS’ UNION WAVE OF PRAYER

Saturday August 21st
Builth & Maesmynis 3pm-4pm
Llanwrtyd & Beulah 4pm-5pm
Llanyre 5pm-6pm
Wednesday August 25th
Erwood 9am-10am
Painscastle 10am-11am
Newbridge & Cwmbach 11am-12noon

BUILTH WELLS GROUP OF PARISHES

ROYAL WELSH AGRICULTURAL SHOW SERVICE
St.Mary’s Church, Builth Wells
Sunday July 18th 6pm,
Preacher Revd.Beti Griffiths

SUMMER FESTIVAL SERVICE
ST.DAVID’S CHURCH, LLANYNIS
Sunday August 29th, 3pm
(3 miles from Builth on the Builth-Llangamarch road south of the River Irfon)
Preacher: Very Revd.Geoffrey Marshall,
Dean of Brecon Cathedral
Tea will be provided afterwards at Cefnllys Gwynne by kind invitation of Mr.& Mrs.Charles Woosnam

Builth Wells w.Llanddewi’r Cwm & Llangynog w. Maesmynis & Llanynis w.Alltmawr
Canon Nigel Hall, The Vicarage, 1 North Road,
Builth Wells, LD2 3BT Tel: 01982 552355
email nigeldhall@hotmail.com

BUILTH DEANERY MOTHERS’ UNION

DEANERY FESTIVAL Monday 5th July, 2.30pm in Llanyre Church, preacher, Revd. Marian Morgan

WAVE OF PRAYER Sat.August 21st Builth 3pm-4pm, Llanwrtyd & Beulah 4pm-5pm, Llanyre 5pm-6pm
Wed.August 25th Erwood 9am-10am, Painscastle 10am-11am, Newbridge & Cwmbach 11am-12noon

The Colwyn Group of Parishes

Dear Friends,
“From Cornwall to Sinusitis...
For those of us who can take the opportunity to have a holiday... go for it!! Having said that, I am hardly the person to talk about rest and refreshment, especially as I have just returned from a 1200 mile drive in eight days heading down to Cornwall to sell our much loved caravan, shooting up to Yorkshire for a family funeral and finally spending some four days in the Yorkshire Dales, centered on an idyllic little pub where we finally managed to have some rest. As a slight complication to that of course, I ended up with rip roaring sinusitis to round the holiday off!!
As Paul writes in a letter to his friend Philemon, “...refresh my heart in Christ” (20). So shouldn’t we do just that – refresh our hearts in Christ; our one true source of refreshment. I hope and pray that you may have a wonderful and re-creating summer!!
Richard
Glascwm Church June DrawPrizewinners
1st £50 No 4 Norman Tyler, Coedspoil, Llanfaredd, pulled out by Sam Vale, Busnant Farm, Glascwm
2nd £30 No 20 Gwen Lewis, Gellidwyll, Glascwm was pulled out by Ken Jones, Old Post Office, Glascwm
3rd £20 No 17 Anthony Brown, Edw View, Cregrina was pulled out by Matthew Scrase, The Glais, Glascwm
Hope to see you at next month’s draw when if the weather is warm enough we may have homemade ice cream!
Grand Rectory Fete
Saturday 10th July 2.00pm
The Rectory, Llanelwedd
Fun for All the Family!
Many Stalls, Clown, Bouncy Castle, Games,
‘ Soak the Vicar’ in the Stocks & Refreshments

Services

4th July Trinity 5
Llanfaredd 9.30 ET Morning Prayer
Llansantffraed 10.00 RK Eucharist
Glascwm 7.00 RK The Village Service
11th July Trinity 6
Rhulen 9.30 EK Morning Prayer
Cregrina 9.30 GH Eucharist
Bettws 9.30 ET Morning Prayer
Llanelwedd 11.15 JO Eucharist

18th July Trinity 7
Llanfaredd 9.30 RK Eucharist
Glascwm 11.15 RK Eucharist
Llansantffraed 6.00 JO Eucharist
25th July James the Apostle
Rhulen 9.30 RK Eucharist
Bettws 9.30 JO Eucharist
Llanelwedd 11.15 RK Eucharist
Cregrina 6.00 RK/ET The Village Service
1st August Trinity 9
Llanfaredd 9.30 ET Morning Prayer
Llansantffraed 10.00 PM Eucharist
Glascwm 7.00 MO The Village Service
8th August Trinity 10
Rhulen 9.30 ET Morning Prayer
Cregrina 9.30 RK Eucharist
Bettws 9.30 EK Morning Prayer
Llanelwedd 11.15 RK Eucharist
15th August Mary, Mother of Our Lord
Llanfaredd 9.30 RK Eucharist
Glascwm 11.15 RK Eucharist
Llanelwedd 5.00 RK ‘Youth Walkers Service’
followed by BBQ. Please note change of venue and see Deanery Notices about the walk
22nd August Trinity 12
Rhulen 9.30 RK Eucharist
Bettws 9.30 JO Eucharist
Llanelwedd 11.15 RK Eucharist
Cregrina 6.00 ET/RK The Village Service
29th August Trinity13
Glascwm 11.15 JO Eucharist
Cregrina 3.00 EK/RK‘Worship for All’ Pet Service

Auction
St Matthew’s Church, Llanelwedd is contemplating holding an Auction of goods a little later in the year as a fund raising event. If anyone has anything they wish to donate for auction, would they please contact Olwen Hackley (01982 553368) in the first instance and we can arrange for delivery.

Pet Service
What a purrrfect (sorry!) opportunity to bring your pet to church! On 29th August at 3.00pm at Cregrina we will be having a Pet Service. This is a good time to remember our pets, including those who have passed away. So come along! Refreshments will be served after the Service for pets and humans!

Llanelwedd with Llanfaredd, Llansantffraed-in-Elwell, Bettws Disserth, Cregrina, Rhulen and Glascwm
Priest in Charge, Revd Richard Kirlew, The Rectory Llanelwedd, Builth Wells, LD2 3TY tel.01982 551288
The Erwood & Painscastle Group of Parishes

Dear Friends,
The Summer season of fund-raising has got off to a good start. The annual Chinese Auction for the Painscastle group of parishes was well supported and the Crickadarn Concert was a huge success. Many thanks to all who organised and those who supported those events.
As I write the Aberedw Charity Fete is taking place at White House where we hope the efforts of so many people will be rewarded with good weather and an enjoyable and profitable day.
A Faculty has now been granted for the installation of a toilet in the base of the tower in Aberedw which will make such a difference to the comfort of our parishioners and visitors, young and old!
My sincere thanks to everyone who has enquired after Leslie during his various stays in hospital, and for the prayers which have been offered for him. They certainly make a difference. Marian
Sun. 4th July Pentecost 6
9.00 Newchurch HC 1662 Short (HJF)
9,30 Llanbadarn-y-Garreg HC (MM)
9.30 Gwenddwr Morning Prayer
10.30 Newchurch MP (1662) (MO)
Followed by refreshments at Rose Cottage. All welcome
11.00 Llandeilo Graban Holy Communion (MM)
Sun. 11th July – Pentecost 7
9.30 Bryngwyn HC (MM)
9.30 Crickadarn HC (PJM)
11.00 Llanbedr HC (MM)
11.00 Aberedw HC (PJM)
Sun. 18th July – Pentecost 8
9.30 Llandeilo Graban HC (MM)
11.00 Gwenddwr HC (MM)
4.00 Newchurch HC (MM)
Sun. 25th July – Pentecost 9
9.30 Aberedw HC (MM)
9.30 Llanbedr HC (PJM)
11.00 Bryngwyn Family Communion (PJM)
11.00 Crickadarn HC (MM)
6.00 Llandewi Fach (HJF) (See Kivert Pilgimage)
Sun. 1st August – Pentecost 10
9.00 Newchurch HC 1662 Short (HJF)
9.30 Gwenddwr Morning Prayer
9.30 Llanbadarn-y-Garreg HC (MM)
10.30 Newchurch MP 1662 (MO)
Followed by refreshments at Rose Cottage. All welcome
11.00 Llandeilo Graban HC (MM)
Sun. 8th August – Pentecost 11
9.30 Bryngwyn HC (PJM)
9.30 Crickadarn HC (MM)
11.00 Aberedw HC (MM)
11.00 Llanbedr HC (PJM)

Sun. 15th August – Pentecost 12
9.30 Llandeilo Graban HC (MM)
11.00 Gwenddwr HC (MM)
Sun. 22nd August – Pentecost 13
9.30 Aberedw HC (PJM)
9.30 Llanbedr HC (MM)
11.00 Crickadarn HC (PJM)
11.00 Bryngwyn Fam.C (MM)
3.00 Llandewi Fach HC (MM)
Sun. 29th August – Pentecost 14
10 30 Newchurch Group Eucharist (MM)
3.00 Gwenddwr Family Service with Baptism (MM)
Sun. 5th Sept. – Pentecost 15
9.00 Newchurch HC 1662 Short (HJF)
9.30 Llanbadarn-y-Garreg HC MM
9.30 Gwenddwr Morning Prayer
10.30 Newchurch MP (1662) (MO)
Followed by refreshments at Rose Cottage. All welcome
11.00 Llandeilo Graban HC (MM)
5.00 Aberedw Hall – Deanery Agape Supper

MORIAH CHAPEL & ST TEILO’S CHURCH
LLANDEILO GRABAN
GRAND FETE & SPORTS
SATURDAY 3RD JULY 2010 AT 2.30 AT
THE SKREEN, ERWOOD
By kind permission of the owners, John and Barbara.

Stalls, Cakes, Plants, Bric-a-Brac etc.
Teas and something for everyone.

Entrance £1, Parking free.
accompanied children 12 years and under free

Aberedw w.Llandeilo Graban w.Llanbadarn-y-Garreg w.Crickadarn w.Gwenddwr & Bryngwyn w.Newchurch w.Llanbedr Painscastle w.Llanddewi Fach Priest-in-Charge: Revd.Marian Morgan, Trefechan, Aberedw,
Llandrindod Wells, LD2 3UW tel.01982 560359 and 01982 560702 E-mail mkemorgan@btinternet.com
THE UPPER WYE GROUP OF PARISHES
Dear Friends,
The older I get, one of the things that seems to crowd into my life with increasing frequency is the number of anniversaries which seem to occur. I’m reasonably confident that this isn’t due to the fact that more events are being commemorated or celebrated but rather that I, like you, I suspect are more conscious of the ones that are.
At the beginning of June, we celebrated the centenary of the founding of the Mothers’ Union branch in Llanyre and Llanfihangel Helygen. I don’t want to be accused of dissembling by claiming that the day chosen for our celebration was one of those glorious June days of fabled memory, but I think that I can claim that the frequent downpours of rain didn’t dampen either our spirits or the joy of the occasion. I am deeply grateful to our MU Diocesan President, Rev’d Kay Warrington who preached so movingly for us during our Festival Eucharist and the many friends of the branch who came to share our celebrations with us. It was a great joy to welcome you all. I must, however, express my particular thanks to all of the branch members who worked so tirelessly to decorate the church and prepare the sumptuous lunch which we all enjoyed. Particular thanks are due to Mrs. Shirley Evans for her fascinating display of the branch’s first one hundred years and, of course to Mrs. Jeanne Hughes, branch leader, whose Herculean efforts were rewarded in the success of our celebration. Grateful thanks are due to them all!
Speaking of anniversaries, July 27th marks the anniversary of my induction as Vicar here. It seems quite incredible that, as I write this, a year ago I was in the midst of preparations for moving house. As I look back over the past year, I puzzle about quite where exactly those twelve months have gone, but am equally incredulous that it is only a year since I, sorry Gelert, we arrived among you. Supreme among the images which crowd into my mind of those months is the kind, gracious generosity with which we’ve both been greeted alongside the enthusiastic and committed support shown by so many people. For that and for so much more you have my undying gratitude. Thank you to you all.
And so we look forward to what I hope will be a summer to equal those halcyon ones of our childhood memories. Whatever your summer plans are I’d like to wish you God’s choicest blessings.
With my love and prayers, as always, Ben

Weekly Worship for the Benefice in July and August

Sunday June 27th - 4th after Trinity
9.30am: Holy Eucharist: Llanyre
9.30am: Matins: Cwmbach
11.00am: Family Eucharist: Newbridge
5.00pm : Eucharist : Bryn Pabuan

Sunday July 4th - Trinity 5
9.30am : Holy Eucharist: Llanyre
11.00am : Morning Praise: Newbridge
11.00am: Holy Eucharist: Cwmbach
3.00pm: Holy Eucharist: Helygen

Sunday July 11th - Trinity 6 -Sea Sunday
9.30am: Morning Praise: Llanyre
9.30am : Holy Eucharist: Brynpabuan
11.00am: Holy Eucharist : Newbridge
3.00pm : Open Air Service Abergwesyn
NO Service at Cwmbach today

Sunday July 18th - Trinity 7
9.30am: Family Eucharist : Llanyre
11.00am: Holy Eucharist: Newbridge
3.00pm : Holy Eucharist: Llanafan

Sunday July 25th - St James (Trinity 8)
9.30am : Holy Eucharist : Llanyre
9.30am : Mattins: Cwmbach
11.00am: Family Eucharist: Newbridge
5.00pm: Holy Eucharist : Brynpabuan

Sunday August 1st - Trinity 9
9.30am : Holy Eucharist: Llanyre
11.00am : Morning Praise: Newbridge
11.00am: Holy Eucharist: Cwmbach
3.00pm: Holy Eucharist: Helygen

Sunday August 8th - Trinity 10
9.30am: Morning Praise: Llanyre
9.30am : Holy Eucharist: Brynpabuan
11.00am: Holy Eucharist : Newbridge
3.00pm : Holy Eucharist: Cwmbach

Sunday August 15th - St Mary The Virgin
9.30am: Family Eucharist : Llanyre
11.00am: Holy Eucharist: Newbridge
3.00pm : Holy Eucharist: Llanafan

Sunday August 22nd - Trinity 12
Victorian Day at Llanfihangel Helygen
10.30am Holy Communion (1622)
6.00pm Choral Evensong (1622)
Throughout the day there will be a display of Church Plate and Documents etc.Refreshments will be served in the afternoon. Everyone is invited to wear Victorian Dress for the day!

Sunday August 29th Trinity 13
10.30 am United Benefice Eucharist - Llanafan
6.00pm 'Songs of Praise' : Cwmbach

Midweek Services

8.30am Tues/Thurs/Fri: Llanyre: Morning Prayer
9.00am. Sat: Newbridge: Morning Prayer
8.30am Weds : Newbridge: Morning Prayer
10.00am Weds : Newbridge : Eucharist
10.30am: Thurs: Llanyre: Eucharist


Diary of Regular Meetings

A warm welcome is extended to anyone wishing to join any of these groups:

Youth Group for youngsters of 10+ meets every Sunday 6-8pm in Llanyre Church Hall.

Llanyre Llamas Group for parents and carers of preschool children meets every Tuesday from 1.30pm - 3.00pm in Llanyre Church Hall

Prayer Groups - Afternoons - 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 3.30pm at the Vicarage. Evenings - 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7.30pm - different venues.

Mothers' Union –
Newbridge and Cwmbach Branch - 2nd Tues. in the month in Iron Room, Cwmbach.
Llanyre Branch - 1st Weds. in the month 2.30pm in Llanyre Church Hall.

Also monthly in Caerwnon Park Social Club 'Songs of Praise' 2.30pm. Details from the Vicar or Chris Heath

News of the Benefice.

Baptism On Sunday 30th May friends and family of Olivia Heighway gathered in St. Llyr's for her baptism. Our love and best wishes go to Olivia, her brothers, Scott and Alex and her parents. May God's blessing be upon you all.

Wedding our congratulations and best wishes to Richard Mills of Great House, Helygen and Anita Wall who were married in St. Llyr's on 19th June. Our prayer is that God will bless them in their new life together.

In Memoriam
We extend our sympathy to the family and friends of Barbara Watkins, formerly of Penrhiw, Llanyre, who were gathered in St. Llyr's on Saturday 29th May for her funeral.
On Weds. June 2nd the funeral of Harold Mason, a long term resident of Cwmbach, was held in St John's. Our condolences go to his family and friends.
The funeral also took place on Sat. 12th June, in All Saints' Newbridge, of Elizabeth Rosemary Degerdon from Ashford, but formerly of Great House, Newbridge. We pray that God's love and peace may comfort all those who mourn her passing.

Retirement Congratulations and good wishes are sent to Mrs. Kathleen Young on her retirement from the staff of Newbridge Church in Wales School. Mrs Young has taught in the school for many years and will be remembered by countless children and their parents. We wish her a long, happy and fulfilling retirement.

Several 'Firsts' One only had to see the group of 18 youngsters leaving Llanyre Church Hall on Sunday evening, June 6th, to realise that a good time had obviously been had by all who attended the first meeting of Llanyre Youth Group. Thanks to the Vicar and all his helpers there was plenty to do and fun and fellowship was had by all. The group would welcome more members who must be 10+. They meet from 6pm - 8pm every Sunday.

Another 'first' in the Benefice took place in June when the first gathering of residents of Caerwnon Park met in the Social Club for 'Songs of Praise'. an afternoon led by the Vicar, enjoyed by all and to be repeated monthly.

The first hundred years of the Mothers' Union in Llanyre and Helygen was celebrated in great style with a service of Thanksgiving in Llanyre Church, on June 9th, followed by lunch in the Hall. Many friends, past and present, including former vicars, were able to join in the celebrations and to bring their greetings. The offering at that service, £150, is to be sent to the Mothers' Union Emergency Relief Fund. The members are grateful for all the cards and letters received and would like to thank all who were able to be present for their support. Congratulations to the Branch members and to all those who organised the very successful event. Onward now to the next hundred!!

I wonder how many of us in the Benefice have realised that we are coming up to the first anniversary of our Vicar's induction? July 27th - Yes, it has only been a year!! Ben has so quickly become involved and in the forefront of everything that it seems much longer than that. Happy Anniversary Ben!

Thank you.- to all in Llanyre who contributed to the Christian Aid collection in the village - £292 was raised - a special thank you to those who did the collecting.

The lovely concert given by the Radnor WI Choir at Brynpabuan on June 6th was enjoyed by all and raised £342 for Brynpabuan Church Funds.

A well attended coffee evening in Llanyre Church Hall resulted in £278. 00 being raised for the Llanyre branch of the Mothers' Union.

The members of All Saints' are very grateful to the late Marion Aston for the generous legacy which they received from her estate.

Other events in July/August-
Something for everyone!

Fri. July 2nd
‘The Journey' a musical presentation by Teen Challenge, suitable for teenagers and adults, telling the story of a young addict's struggle to overcome his addiction
Why not purchase a ticket (£2.50) for yourself or as a gift for a youngster or someone you know. Tickets available now from Marcia Gibson Watt; The Pavilion Box Office or the Spar Shop in Llandrindod. (See details elsewhere in Signposts.)


Sun. July 4th
Between 2pm and 6pm why not sample the delights of country gardens in Comin Coch, Llanfihangel Brynpabuan? Parking is available on the common whilst you visit 'Arafosa,' 'Goytre' and finish at 'Pencaerhelem Bungalow' where refreshments are available. There will be a plant stall and your £5 admission includes refreshments and entry to all three gardens. Proceeds are in aid of Brynpabuan Church.

Mon. 5th July at 2.30pm. The Mothers' Union Deanery Festival will be held in Llanyre Church

Weds July 7th Caerwnon Park Social Club hold another 'Songs of Praise 'afternoon. at 2.30pm

Sat. July 10th. Perhaps a 'Country and Western Evening' is more your scene. If so then Busnant Farm, Helygen at 8pm is the place to go. Tickets are £5.00 each Enquiries to Mr and Mrs. Lewis on 01597 851753 or 851826. You will have a great evening and help Helygen Church at the same time!

During July and August both branches of the Mothers' Union are holding outings - details from Branch Leaders.

Weds. August 4th A Coffee Evening, with various stalls, will be held at Pen Y Cae, Llanyre, the home of Ilma Marple at 7.30pm. Do join us for a n evening of fellowship. Proceeds to Llanyre Church.
Weds 11th August Another 'Songs of Praise ' in Caerwnon Social Club at 2.30pm

Sunday August 22nd as part of Llandrindod Victorian Festival, Llanfihangel Helygen Church will be hosting a Victorian Day. Details in the list of services above.

During the summer months All Saints' Church, Newbridge is open every Saturday morning from 9.30 onwards. Why not take the opportunity to explore the lovely features of this Victorian Church.

Llanyre Llamas continue to meet during the summer - and older siblings are welcome to join us during the holidays. A picnic and games afternoon will be on the programme.

And then for September....... Sun. evening Sept 12th in Llanafan Church the Ithon Singers will be performing with supporting artistes. Proceeds in aid of the church. Full details next month.

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Greetings and welcome to all holiday makers in the area - do join us at one of our services or join in one of our summer events- and please take back to your home church the loving greetings from the members of the Upper Wye Group of Churches!

Please send items for inclusion in the Sept. issue of Signposts to Joan Leach (01597 82576) by Thurs.6 Aug



Llanyre, Newbridge-on-Wye, Cwmbach Lechryd, Llanfihangel Helygen, Llanafan Fawr & Llanfihangel Brynpabuan Revd.Ben Griffith, 2 Highbury Fields, Llanyre, LD1 6NF, tel.01597 823321 email:rev.ben.griffith@btinternet.com

THE PARISHES OF THE IRFON VALLEY & BLAENAU IRFON

From the Revd.Catherine Haynes
Dear Friends,
Thank you all for your continued prayers and good wishes. I am now making slow but steady progress and hope to be more active before too long.
As my illness makes it impossible for me to return to parish work for a while, I am hoping to be able to spend some time doing postgraduate research. I have a strong interest in liturgy, especially in how church services relate to children, and would like to explore this further to help the Church.
At present I do not know where I will be living but, in the long term, I hope to remain in ministry in Wales.
I am fortunate in being very well cared for here with my parents in a beautiful part of Cumbria, although I do, of course, miss you all very much, and wish you all every blessing for the future.
You are ever in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you all. Catherine

Thanksgiving
and Farewell Evening
for our Vicar
Revd Catherine Haynes
Friday Evening 9th July
at 7.30 p.m.
St Cadmarch’s Church
(Llangammarch Wells)
Everyone Welcome
Please join us for refreshments and Music
(Donations welcomed towards a farewell gift)
For further information contact
Jacquie Brown tel.01982 553395
David White tel.01982 552251

Bible Study Group The Bible Study group at Afan Lodge meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm. This group is open to everyone and all are welcome to come along!
Mother’s Union Deanery Festival at Llanyre
Monday 5th July 2.30pm. If anyone can go could they please let Ann know, tel 01591 610 231
Mother’s Union Our Summer outing will be on Wednesday 14th July 11.00am - 3.30pm: Lunch at Elan Valley Centre and free time in Rhayader. Please contact Ann for more details and to let her know if you can go.
St. James’ Coffee Morning For a good cup of tea or coffee and some welcoming company, come along to St. James’ church on the 1st Saturday in each month from 10.30am onwards. As well as tea, coffee and refreshments, there will be fair trade goods on sale.
St. James’ Community Lunch The July and August Community Lunches will be on Thursday July 22nd and Thursday August 26th, 12 noon for 12.30pm. Everyone is welcome. No age limits. Come along to St.James’ Church and enjoy a good two course meal, tea and/or coffee for the bargain price of £4.00. For further information contact Ann Stocker 01591 610231

Service Times
Pentecost 6 4thJuly
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – Eglwys Oen Duw JB
11.00am – Holy Eucharist – St. James’ NH
11.15am – Morning Prayer Llanlleonfel PL
11.15am – Holy Eucharist Llanganten JB
4.30pm - Holy Eucharist –Tirabad JS
Friday 9th July
6.30pm – Holy Eucharist – Old Parish Church JB
Pentecost 7 11th July
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – Llangammarch JS
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – Eglwys Oen Duw JB
11.00am – Family Service – St James NC
11.15am – Holy Eucharist – Llanfechan JB
3.00pm – Open Air Service on the site of
Llanfihangel Abergwesyn Church
Pentecost 8 18th July
9.30am - Holy Eucharist - Eglwys Oen Duw JB
9.30am – Family Service - St Cadmarch’s JS
11.00am - Llanwrtyd United Service-St.James JB
11.15am - Holy Eucharist – Llanlleonfel JS
11.15am - Morning Service – Llanganten WT
service cancelled at Tirabad
Friday 23rd July
6.30pm – Holy Eucharist – Old Parish Church JB
St.James, Apostle 25th July
9.30am – Family Service - Eglwys Oen Duw YP
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – St Cadmarch’s JS
11.00am – Holy Eucharist – St James’ JB
11.15am – Holy Eucharist – Llanfechan JS

Pentecost 10 1st August
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – Eglwys Oen Duw JB
11.00am – Holy Eucharist – St. James’ NH
11.15am – Morning Prayer Llanlleonfel PL
11.15am – Holy Eucharist Llanganten JB
4.30pm - Holy Eucharist –Tirabad NH
Pentecost 11 8th August
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – Llangammarch JB
9.30am –Morning Prayer –Eglwys Oen Duw NC
11.00am – Family Service – St James NC
11.15am – Holy Eucharist – Llanfechan JB
Friday 13th August
6.30pm – Holy Eucharist – Old Parish Church JB
Feast of Mary, Mother of Jesus 15th August
9.30am - Holy Eucharist - Eglwys Oen Duw JB
9.30am – Family Service - St Cadmarch’s JS
11.00am - Llanwrtyd United Service-St.James JB
11.15am - Holy Eucharist – Llanlleonfel JS
11.15am - Morning Service – Llanganten WT
4.30pm – Evening Prayer – Tirabad PL
Pentecost 13 22nd August
9.30am - Holy Eucharist - Eglwys Oen Duw JB
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – St Cadmarch’s CH
11.00am – Holy Eucharist – St James’ JB
11.15am – Holy Eucharist – Llanfechan CH
Friday 27th August
6.30pm – Holy Eucharist – Old Parish Church JB
Pentecost 14 29th August
11.00am – Holy Eucharist - Eglwys Oen Duw NH
(NB Joint Service for all the churches in the Benefice)
Pentecost 15 5th September
9.30am – Holy Eucharist – Eglwys Oen Duw JB
11.00am – Holy Eucharist – St. James’ NH
11.15am – Morning Prayer Llanlleonfel PL
11.15am – Holy Eucharist Llanganten JB
4.30pm - Holy Eucharist –Tirabad JS

Holy Eucharist: Wednesdays 10am St James’ Llanwrtyd

JB Revd.J.Billam, JS Revd.J.Stocker, NH Canon N Hall, CH Revd.C.Hall, PL Mrs.P.Lowe, YP Mrs.Y.Parker,
NC Mr.N.Carter, WT Worship Team

Holy Baptism Aled Rhys Davies at Llanfechan
Gethin Kieran Jones at St.David’s Old Parish Church

Llanganten Church Fete
To be held on Sunday
8th August at 3p.m.
At Cilmery Village Hall
Stalls – Duck Race –
Refreshments - Raffle

St.Cadmarch’s, Llangammarch Wells; The Parish Church, Llanlleonfel, Garth; St.Afan’s, Llanfechan; St.Cannen’s,
Llanganten, Cilmery; St.James’, Llanwrtyd Wells; St.David’s, Llanwrtyd; St.David’s Tir Abad; Eglwys Oen Duw, Beulah;
For the time being in the case of pastoral need, including arrangements for funerals, baptisms and weddings,
contact: Revd.Canon Nigel Hall, The Vicarage, 1 North Road, Builth Wells, LD2 3BT Tel:01982 552355

Contributions for future issues are welcome and should be sent to:
Canon Nigel Hall, The Vicarage, 1 North Road, Builth Wells, Powys LD2 3BT
Tel.01982 552355 email nigeldhall@hotmail.com
For advertising enquiries please contact the above address
Deadline for next issue (September): Monday August 9th

• Vicar Canon Nigel Hall The Vicarage
1 North Road Builth Wells LD2 3BT
Tel: 01982 552355