Esgobaeth MynwyDiocese of Monmouth

NewsCommunion in Both Kinds   As Christmas approaches, the bishops are very mindful that Anglican practice and teaching is that “the cup of the Lord is not to be denied to lay people” (Article XXX).  We therefore regularly review the current prohibition on sharing the common cup, which has been imposed for severely urgent health reasons only, and at first, at the direction of the Welsh Government.  We recently gave permission for communion in both kinds by intinction, where the administration was by the priest or minister of communion alone, but we are aware that this is not really the best of solutions.   However, we do not feel that the current health situation allows the restoration of the common cup, and we continue to direct that the use of individual communion cups is not permitted.  This is for reasons of reverent disposal after Communion as much as any other reason, but we are persuaded that the introduction of individual cups would require a change to canon law at present.   We therefore ask you to bear with us in the current discipline.  We undertake to review this once again in the new year.  The Bishop of Bangor, Andy John The Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory Cameron The Bishop of St Davids, Joanna Penberthy The Bishop of Llandaff, June Osborne The Bishop of Monmouth, Cherry VannElection of the Archbishop of Wales – December 6-8 A parish church in a Victorian spa town in the heart of Wales will host an important event in December – the election of the next Archbishop of Wales.The doors of Holy Trinity Church in Llandrindod Wells will be locked for up to three days on December 6 as the Electoral College meets inside to choose the 14th Archbishop of Wales. The mid-Wales town has been the location for the election of all the Archbishops of Wales since the first in 1920, due to its central location. This election follows the retirement of the Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Davies, who held the office of Archbishop of Wales for four years. His successor will be chosen from among the serving Welsh diocesan bishops – the Bishop of Bangor, Andy John, the Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory Cameron, the Bishop of St Davids, Joanna Penberthy, the Bishop of Llandaff, June Osborne, the Bishop of Monmouth, Cherry Vann, and the newly appointed Bishop of Swansea and Brecon, John Lomas. Those making the decision represent churches across Wales. Each of the six dioceses elects three clerics and three lay people onto the College and the bishops are also members – making a total of 42 people. The College President is the Senior Bishop, Bishop Andy John. The meeting will begin at 9.30am with a public service of Holy Communion to which everyone is welcome. Following that, however, only college members and staff supporting the work of the college, will be allowed to remain in the church as its discussions are confidential. After a discussion on the needs of the Province and a period of prayer and reflection, the President will call for nominations. The bishops nominated then withdraw from the discussion, only returning to vote. A nominee must achieve two-thirds of the votes of the college in order to be elected Archbishop. If after a vote is taken no candidate receives the necessary votes, the process begins again with fresh nominations, which may or may not include those who had been nominated in the previous round. Once the Archbishop is elected, the church doors will open and the announcement made. The normal practice is for the bishop to confirm his or her election immediately. The new Archbishop will be enthroned in his or her home cathedral at a later date. The College can take up to three days to elect an Archbishop. If it fails to do so after this time, the decision passes to the Bench of Bishops. You can find out more about the Welsh Diocesan Bishop’s at: https://www.churchinwales.org.uk/en/about-us/bishops/Church Welcomes Welsh Government Pledge on Fossil FuelsChristians in Wales are welcoming the Welsh Government’s pledge to end oil and gas exploration within the next 15 years.   The Church in Wales is commending its decision to sign up to the Beyond Oil and Gas Alliance (BOGA). BOGA is a coalition of 10 nations and regions including Denmark, Costa Rica, France and Ireland who have pledged to end oil and gas exploration by 2035.     The Welsh Government announcement was made during the recent COP26 climate summit in Glasgow.   The Bishop of St Davids, Joanna Penberthy, who chairs the Church in Wales’ climate group, CHASE, says, “This is a step in the right direction for Wales and we are delighted the Welsh Government has shown such visionary leadership. The pledge is an example of the necessary action needed at every level of society to stop catastrophic climate change.”   Following the conclusion of the COP talks, the Church in Wales is calling for a renewed determination to keep global warming below the relatively safe level of 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels.   Earlier this year, the Church’s Governing Body committed it to be net zero carbon by 2030 and now, post-COP 26, churches are encouraged to:Continue to use the excellent Climate Sunday resources that will remain available on the Climate Sunday website Climate Sunday | Home | Worship | Commit | Speak Up You could invite other churches of all denominations locally to work together with you for mutual prayer, support and encouragement.Undertake the straightforward, easy-wins steps in the Church in Wales’ ‘Practical path to net zero carbon’ booklet to set themselves on their own net zero path.  The booklet can be found on the Church in Wales’ Climate Change webpage: Climate change – The Church in WalesRegister for A Rocha’s Eco-Church Eco Church – An A Rocha UK Project.  Could Eco-Church be your church’s Advent Project this year?  And you could aim to gain the Bronze award or your next award by next September’s Creation time.Celebration SundayOn November 21st, the Feast of Christ the King, all churches were invited to join in celebrating our life and witness together as the Diocese of Monmouth. It was an opportunity to recognise our unity in Christ, the King of all things, and to celebrate all that binds us together in our common life in Christ.A special liturgy was created which can be downloaded below and there is also a sermon given by Bishop Cherry – available on video and as a hard copy. Congregations were encouraged to join together wherever possible. Download: Celebration Sunday Liturgy Bishop Cherry’s SermonDownload: Bishop Cherry’s Celebration Sunday Sermon Hymn – Newport Cathedral ChoirHere are some photos from, Trellech Grange, the Cathedral, St Mary’s Monmouth, St Mark’s Newport, St Paul’s Newbridge and East Cardiff.Wales joins a 24-hour global wave of prayerPeople in Wales are being invited to join in a 24-hour global wave of prayer this month.The Church in Wales is taking part in the Anglican Communion virtual Day of Prayer on November 30, thought to be the first of its kind. It will bring people together from across the globe to pray for a world suffering from the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change, as well as injustice, exploitation and war.The Church is leading one half-hour session with a film featuring prayers and reflections on the theme of climate change from each of its six dioceses, including some of its primary schools. The session will be introduced by the Senior Bishop, Andy John, the Bishop of Bangor and begins at 9.30am.He says, “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to join in prayer and express our solidarity with people across the world.The parish has got a lot bigger over the past year, thanks to digital technology.“We have all seen how effectively we can worship online and how easy it is to reach across boundaries and borders. As the world becomes more inter-connected we learn, too, how much we have in common with each other, how our actions in one place impact our neighbours and, crucially, how we have to solve problems together to ensure the common good of all. I am delighted the Church in Wales is leading one of the sessions and I urge you to sign up, join in and make a day of it.”The event is co-ordinated by the mission agency, USPG, and more than half of the Anglican Communion’s 42 provinces will be taking part. How to join inThe event is open to everyone. There is no need to register. You can get involved via Zoom or Facebook. When you want to join just click on one of these links:Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82308523750?pwd=dzRXQ3A2TVM5VjhwZVpaaGpKTFdDdz09Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USPGglobalYou can join at any time that suits you, stay for as long as you like and come back as many times as you want. You can join the slot allocated to your province (9.30am for Wales) or choose to pray with other parts of the world…or both.  Pray alone or togetherYou can choose to watch at home, at work – wherever works for you. And you can decide to pray alone or organise a Prayer Watch Party and invite friends or a church group to join you. Praying with others can be a particularly powerful collective experience. Whatever you decide, you will be contributing to a global wave of prayer and we hope you will feel inspired and united to the global church. If you would like to share details with friends and family, you can download our printable poster here.  ResourcesHere you can download resources related to USPG’s Communion Day of Prayer.PosterResponses and a CollectWays to get involved Church in Wales sessionThe Church in Wales will lead the session starting at 9.30am.We are very grateful to the following for their contributions:Pupils of Bishop Childs Church in Wales school, Monmouth Diocese, at their faith gardenEglwys Wyllt, Forest Church, led by the Revd Stuart Elliot at Bangor DioceseThe Heritage Garden at Brecon Cathedral and intercessions led by the Dean of BreconPupils of Ysgol Pant Pastynog School, St Asaph Diocese, for their harvest songRevd Anne Beman for the Count on Nature project at St Davids DiocesePupils of St Mary the Virgin Church in Wales school at the Stations of Creation at St Mary the Virgin’s Church, Cardiff, Llandaff DioceseChristian Aid Christmas Appeal  – South Sudan facing climate chaos With COP26 turning out to be a mixed bag of results – some good, some definitely not – Christian Aid will continue to press the government on this vital issue. In particular, securing adequate support for those vulnerable countries facing the worst of the loss and damage caused by the climate emergency is a key demand. Through its partners, Christian Aid itself continues its work in some of the world’s poorest communities, standing with them as they fight the effects of climate change. One such example is highlighted in Christian Aid’s Christmas Appeal this year. In South Sudan – also the focus of the Church in Wales’s Centenary Appeal – communities are struggling with droughts and flash floods.  One effect of this erratic weather pattern is that drinking water can be severely affected. For a mother like Adut, pictured, this meant having to face impossible choices. Would she risk the health of her children with dirty water, or face not giving them any water at all?Adut’s life was changed when Support for Peace and Education Development Program – Christian Aid’s local partner – constructed a bore hole in her village. Through using a hand pump, Adut and her neighbours now have access to reliable and clean water. It’s the kind of intervention that changes lives in a radical way. As climate change continues to cause havoc and make extreme poverty even worse, such programs are a vital contribution to helping the most vulnerable communities adapt. For more information about Christian Aid’s Christmas Appeal and how you could help more communities like Adut’s, please go to https://www.christianaid.org.uk/appeals/key-appeals/christmas-appealHelp NeededDechrau Canu, Dechrau Canmol are filming a piece about ‘Clergy who Run’ at Butetown Parkrun on the 4th of December. They’re looking for more women who could be involved, if you can help please contact Father Edward Owen on 07403 935555 or vicar.gragetown@outlook.comRe-engage Community Christmasreengage.org.uk/christmasTraining and EventsChurch in Wales – Archdiocese of Cardiff Shared Training   The Church in Wales and the Archdiocese of Cardiff have recently begun collaboration on an exciting new partnership offering training to churches to equip them with the skills needed for the post-Lockdown world. The online events they are currently holding are:30th November: Welcoming VolunteersEach session will be run by a specialist consultant in each field and will cover the up-to-date advice for the new environment many places of worship find themselves in when it comes to reaching out to the local community.  For more information, please see the following documents for each session. Welcoming VolunteersChrist’s Healing Light in AdventLiturgy and Prayers for Healing, Wholeness and Reconciliation   1.30pm Thursday 2nd Dec 2021 Via Zoom Led by Reverend Beverley SmithAs we enter Advent you are invited to join the Diocesan Healing, Wholeness and Reconciliation Group for a service celebrating Christ’s Healing Light, during which we are invited by Christ to receive his healing touch through prayer.   There will be an opportunity for each person to be prayed with in break-out groups, but this is not essential. No-one is expected to share personal information. If you wish to join in the liturgy but not the prayers and have a time of quiet, you are welcome. Book your place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/christs-healing-light-in-advent-registration-205773763867Hearing God in Advent and ChristmasSaturday December 4th 2021 10am to 3.30pm St Mark’s, Gold Tops, Newport, NP20 4PHThis is an opportunity to be together, to think of ideas for the future and to enjoy Eucharist together led by Bishop Cherry. Whilst part of the Licensed Lay Ministers Annual Programme, we have been able to open up this day for anyone.Revd Professor Jeremy Duff, the Principal of St Padarn’s Institute will lead us in some biblical reflections and offer some time for quiet through the day as well. Jeremy is an outstanding biblical scholar and speaker and we are delighted that he has agreed to come along to this event.The day will include a Eucharist led by Bishop Cherry.There is no cost for the event but we would ask that you bring along a packed lunch. Tea and Coffee will be provided.Hopefully you will be able to come along to this – whilst December can be a very busy time it is important to take time out for some Advent reflection.To help with planning please could you let us know whether you will be able to attend by emailing : archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk  by November 30th2022 Festival of Prayer – 9th July 2022Bookings are now open for the 2022 Festival of Prayer. A day of varied and stimulating lectures, discussions and different opportunities for prayer. Participants will have the opportunity to select 3 workshops to attend out of the 19 topics available.The day also includes a welcome address Bishop Cherry. To find out more or book your place: https://festivalofprayer.live/Services and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here. Join an Advent Carol Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 5:00pm here.  Esgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Tachwedd 2021 Rhagfyr / December 14th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth 10.30am / y.b., St John Maindee Ewcharist:  Adfent / Eucharist: AdventCalling Conversations Our seventh session in our Calling Conversations series; involving a group of panellists from different ministries having a conversation about vocations. This “Calling Conversation” is on training experiences and our panellists include: – Revd Emma Ackland, Ordained Deacon – Revd Prof Jeremy Duff, Principal of St Padarn’s – Darren Lynch, Training for Priesthood – Marcus Pipe, Training for NSM PriesthoodAdvent Course 2021We’re pleased to announce the 2021 Diocesan Advent Course is now available. This year’s course has been drafted by Archdeacon Ian Rees and Revd Becca Stevens.  ‘Wait, Trust, Commit’ explores the themes of anticipation and hope as we examine our relationship with and commitment to Jesus.  This 3-session course includes prayers, readings, commentary, and questions to enable discussion in your groups.  We hope you will find this a valuable resource.  DOWNLOAD – ADVENT 2021: WAIT, TRUST, COMMIT (PDF) This course is also available on our Diocesan website.  If you are planning to use this course to lead a group and are open to receiving additional members, please let us know: https://forms.gle/1fLgdogrcN7cpxcAA If you would like to participate in this course, but do not have a local group, please contact the Diocesan Office at admin.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk VacanciesArchdeacon of the Gwent Valleys & Diocesan Director of Mission   The Bishop of Monmouth is looking for an experienced and creative priest to become the Archdeacon of the Gwent Valleys and Diocesan Director of Mission.   She/he will work closely with the Bishop as part of her senior team, and with the churches of the newly established Ministry Areas, to embed the five marks of mission throughout the Diocese and develop transformational team working.   We are looking for someone who can demonstrate that they:can work as a collaborative team player as well as a leaderhave experience of helping people of all ages to grow in and share their faithare keen and able to foster and support new ways of being Church and help existing congregations to be missionally mindedunderstand how to support the development of good team working amongst lay and ordained ministershave proven ability to communicate easily and effectively at all levelsThe Diocese of Monmouth seeks to be an inclusive diocese and welcomes applications from people regardless of gender, sexuality, disability or ethnicity. Applications from BAME and women are especially welcome.For an informal conversation please contact: The Venerable Jonathan Williams, Archdeacon of Newport on  01633 215206 or archdeacon.newport@churchinwales.org.uk  Closing date: Friday 14th January 2022   For more details, including the full profile, click here.Church Administrator for Mid Torfaen Ministry Area Summary Mid Torfaen Ministry Area is looking for someone to provide support to their team of Clergy and ‘lay’ people who manage the day to day running of their Churches. This is an opportunity to join and warm and friendly team, to manage and develop our office volunteers and to set up the office.  This post is key in supporting us as we develop the vision and mission for this area. We are open to flexible working hours to fit with your circumstances.  Would you like to join our creative and lively team?  Would you like a new challenge? Overview Mid Torfaen Ministry Area covers most of Pontypool and outlying area. We are a new ministry area and have 7 very varied churches. You will be line managed by the Ministry Area Leader and will largely manage your own workload.   For an informal chat please contact: Revd Kate O’Sullivan, Ministry Area Leader for Mid Torfaen on 07854 598269 For job description and person specification, please email: revdkateosullivan@gmail.com   To apply, send you CV to revdkateosullivan67@gmail.comMinistry Area Leader – Upper Eastern Valleys  The Upper Eastern Valleys MA are looking for a collaborative and creative priest with a genuine passion for mission, to join them in ministry working on the next steps of a new Ministry Area in the South Wales Valleys working around the towns of Ebbw Vale, Abertillery and Blaenavon and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful opportunity to help form the new Ministry Area working with lay and ordained colleagues and also working closely with the new Church Army Centre of Mission which will provide some new and exciting opportunities for mission. For an informal conversation please contact: The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on  07983 684151 or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing Date: Friday 10th December For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.Team Vicar – Mynydd Bedwellte Ministry Area  Mynydd Bedwellte MA are looking for an enthusiastic and creative priest to join them in a new Ministry Area in the South Wales valleys, mainly focused on the towns and villages of Bedwellty, New Tredegar and Aberbargoed.This is a great opportunity to be part of a developing ministry team and work collaboratively across a diverse area. They want you to help build up the local church in its worshipping and spiritual life and be rooted in mission and community ministry.  For an informal conversation please contact: The Revd Matt Davis, Ministry Area Leader on  07800 750259 or mattdavisciw@gmail.com Closing Date: Friday 10th December For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.Team Vicar – Netherwent Ministry Area  Netherwent MA are looking for a collaborative, caring and creative priest with a genuine passion for working with others and for mission to join they as they form a new Ministry Area to serve the communities of this beautiful corner of South-East Wales. Are you someone who:Has a strong faith and a heart for community, for mission and for nurturing disciples?Understands and would like to work with rural communities?Is able to develop good relationships with people of all ages including schools, young people and their families?Is a team player and has the ability to motivate and inspire others?If so… they would very much like to hear from you.  For an informal conversation please contact: The Revd Canon Jeremy Harris, Ministry Area Leader on  01633 882551 or jeremydharris@hotmail.co.uk  Closing Date: Friday 10th December For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Esgobaeth Mynwy Diocese of Monmouth

NewsWhite Ribbon Day Around the world, 1 in 3 women has been beaten, coerced into sex or otherwise abused in her life-time. 1 in 20 women has been raped as well as 1 in 10 women experiencing some form of sexual violence since the age of 15. In the UK alone, 2 women are killed every week by a current or former male partner.   Sadly, this kind of violence and abuse goes on in Christian families too, as the recently published book, ‘Spousal Violence Among World Christians’ highlights. (Elizabeth Koepping, Bloomsbury Publishing Plc)   These are the shocking statistics that are the backdrop to White Ribbon Day November 25th, which is also International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.   Please keep in your prayers all who suffer from domestic abuse and violence, especially on White Ribbon Day. Take a look at the sixteen days of activism that follow and see how you can join those who are saying ‘no’ to violence against women. You might also want to become a White Ribbon Ambassadors and Champions and/or support the work of Restored and the role of the Church in opposing domestic abuse.A message from the CinW Property Department    As many of you will know, our churches are insured under a Ecclesiastical Insurance Group (EIG) Church in Wales scheme with individual policies for each church directly with each parish/Ministry Area.    The current scheme is in its fourth year and the Representative Body has decided to continue the current policy for a further year.  Ecclesiastical will be sending out renewal terms to each parish/Ministry Area soon.     During 2022, the Representative Body will undertake a tender exercise to make sure we are getting good value.  We have sent out a short questionnaire about the current insurance arrangements to inform that process.Christian Aid Christmas Appeal  – South Sudan facing climate chaos With COP26 turning out to be a mixed bag of results – some good, some definitely not – Christian Aid will continue to press the government on this vital issue. In particular, securing adequate support for those vulnerable countries facing the worst of the loss and damage caused by the climate emergency is a key demand. Through its partners, Christian Aid itself continues its work in some of the world’s poorest communities, standing with them as they fight the effects of climate change. One such example is highlighted in Christian Aid’s Christmas Appeal this year. In South Sudan – also the focus of the Church in Wales’s Centenary Appeal – communities are struggling with droughts and flash floods.  One effect of this erratic weather pattern is that drinking water can be severely affected. For a mother like Adut, pictured, this meant having to face impossible choices. Would she risk the health of her children with dirty water, or face not giving them any water at all?Adut’s life was changed when Support for Peace and Education Development Program – Christian Aid’s local partner – constructed a bore hole in her village. Through using a hand pump, Adut and her neighbours now have access to reliable and clean water. It’s the kind of intervention that changes lives in a radical way. As climate change continues to cause havoc and make extreme poverty even worse, such programs are a vital contribution to helping the most vulnerable communities adapt. For more information about Christian Aid’s Christmas Appeal and how you could help more communities like Adut’s, please go to https://www.christianaid.org.uk/appeals/key-appeals/christmas-appealCelebration Sunday This Sunday (November 21st) is Celebration Sunday, we know there will be lots of lovely services taking place across the diocese and we’d love to put together a collage of celebration. Each church will follow the same liturgy and has a special Celebration Sunday Candle to light, pictured below. These were blessed by the Bishop last month. Please send us your pictures or tag us on social media, @MonmouthDCO on Twitter or Monmouth Diocese on Facebook.Ffrindiau’r Byd Climate Emergency Competition This year the Church in Wales has called a Climate Emergency. Our church schools joined this debate by discussing – If they could say something to the people in charge, the leaders of our governments and communities about looking after our planet, what would they say? We set a competition and asked pupils to paint, draw or design a piece of 2D art that depicts how they would like our planet to look in the future. We are delighted to share the winners of that competition, congratulations Ava and Isabel, and thank you everyone for taking part!Wales joins a 24-hour global wave of prayer People in Wales are being invited to join in a 24-hour global wave of prayer later this month.The Church in Wales is taking part in the Anglican Communion virtual Day of Prayer on November 30, thought to be the first of its kind. It will bring people together from across the globe to pray for a world suffering from the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change, as well as injustice, exploitation and war.The Church is leading one half-hour session with a film featuring prayers and reflections on the theme of climate change from each of its six dioceses.Thanks to the wonderful staff and students at Bishop Childs CinW Primary School who braved the rain to film our contribution in their Prayer Garden.Find or more here: Wales joins a 24-hour global wave of prayer – The Church in WalesHelp NeededDechrau Canu, Dechrau Canmol are filming a piece about ‘Clergy who Run’ at Butetown Parkrun on the 4th of December. They’re looking for more women who could be involved, if you can help please contact Father Edward Owen on 07403 935555 or vicar.gragetown@outlook.comTraining and EventsChurch in Wales – Archdiocese of Cardiff Shared Training   The Church in Wales and the Archdiocese of Cardiff have recently begun collaboration on an exciting new partnership offering training to churches to equip them with the skills needed for the post-Lockdown world. The online events they are currently holding are:24th November: Community Consultation ‘what is it’?30th November: Welcoming VolunteersEach session will be run by a specialist consultant in each field and will cover the up-to-date advice for the new environment many places of worship find themselves in when it comes to reaching out to the local community.  For more information, please see the following documents for each session. Community Consultation ‘what is it’? Welcoming VolunteersFriends of the Cathedral AGM and Annual Lecture – tomorrow! Saturday November 20th 11 am in the Nave. After the formal business of the AGM, the Annual Lecture will be given by the Very Revd Michael Tavinor, former Dean of Hereford. His title is: Our English Neighbour: An illustrated and lighthearted canter through the 106 bishops of Hereford. All are welcome; you do not have to be a Friend to attend the Lecture.Calling Conversations – 23rd November Our next “Calling Conversation” is on Training Experiences and our panellists include:Revd Emma Ackland, Ordained DeaconDarren Lynch, Training for PriesthoodRevd Prof Jeremy Duff, Principal of St Padarn’s InstituteMarcus Pipe, Training for NSM PriesthoodThe conversation will be steamed live on Facebook on Tuesday 23rd November at 7pm.Christ’s Healing Light in AdventLiturgy and Prayers for Healing, Wholeness and Reconciliation   1.30pm Thursday 2nd Dec 2021 Via Zoom Led by Reverend Beverley SmithAs we enter Advent you are invited to join the Diocesan Healing, Wholeness and Reconciliation Group for a service celebrating Christ’s Healing Light, during which we are invited by Christ to receive his healing touch through prayer.   There will be an opportunity for each person to be prayed with in break-out groups, but this is not essential. No-one is expected to share personal information. If you wish to join in the liturgy but not the prayers and have a time of quiet, you are welcome. Book your place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/christs-healing-light-in-advent-registration-205773763867Hearing God in Advent and ChristmasSaturday December 4th 2021 10am to 3.30pm St Mark’s, Gold Tops, Newport, NP20 4PHThis is an opportunity to be together, to think of ideas for the future and to enjoy Eucharist together led by Bishop Cherry. Whilst part of the Licensed Lay Ministers Annual Programme, we have been able to open up this day for anyone.Revd Professor Jeremy Duff, the Principal of St Padarn’s Institute will lead us in some biblical reflections and offer some time for quiet through the day as well. Jeremy is an outstanding biblical scholar and speaker and we are delighted that he has agreed to come along to this event.The day will include a Eucharist led by Bishop Cherry.There is no cost for the event but we would ask that you bring along a packed lunch. Tea and Coffee will be provided.Hopefully you will be able to come along to this – whilst December can be a very busy time it is important to take time out for some Advent reflection.To help with planning please could you let us know whether you will be able to attend by emailing : archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk  by November 30th2022 Festival of Prayer – 9th July 2022Bookings are now open for the 2022 Festival of Prayer. A day of varied and stimulating lectures, discussions and different opportunities for prayer. Participants will have the opportunity to select 3 workshops to attend out of the 19 topics available.The day also includes a welcome address Bishop Cherry. To find out more or book your place: https://festivalofprayer.live/Services and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Esgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Tachwedd 2021 Rhagfyr / December 14th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth 10.30am / y.b., St John Maindee Ewcharist:  Adfent / Eucharist: AdventAdvent Course 2021We’re pleased to announce the 2021 Diocesan Advent Course is now available. This year’s course has been drafted by Archdeacon Ian Rees and Revd Becca Stevens.  ‘Wait, Trust, Commit’ explores the themes of anticipation and hope as we examine our relationship with and commitment to Jesus.  This 3-session course includes prayers, readings, commentary, and questions to enable discussion in your groups.  We hope you will find this a valuable resource.  DOWNLOAD – ADVENT 2021: WAIT, TRUST, COMMIT (PDF) This course is also available on our Diocesan website.  If you are planning to use this course to lead a group and are open to receiving additional members, please let us know: https://forms.gle/1fLgdogrcN7cpxcAA If you would like to participate in this course, but do not have a local group, please contact the Diocesan Office at admin.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk VacanciesChurch Administrator for Mid Torfaen Ministry Area Summary Mid Torfaen Ministry Area is looking for someone to provide support to their team of Clergy and ‘lay’ people who manage the day to day running of their Churches. This is an opportunity to join and warm and friendly team, to manage and develop our office volunteers and to set up the office.  This post is key in supporting us as we develop the vision and mission for this area. We are open to flexible working hours to fit with your circumstances.  Would you like to join our creative and lively team?  Would you like a new challenge? Overview Mid Torfaen Ministry Area covers most of Pontypool and outlying area. We are a new ministry area and have 7 very varied churches. You will be line managed by the Ministry Area Leader and will largely manage your own workload.   For an informal chat please contact: Revd Kate O’Sullivan, Ministry Area Leader for Mid Torfaen on 07854 598269 For job description and person specification, please email: revdkateosullivan@gmail.com   To apply, send you CV to revdkateosullivan67@gmail.comChurch Administrative Assistant – St. Mary’s, Malpas Summary Are you looking for a job offering flexible working to fit as closely as possible with your personal and family circumstances?  St Mary’s Malpas are looking for someone to provide support to their team of Clergy and ‘lay’ people who manage the day to day running of their Church. This is an invitation to join them to further our vision and mission. Are you looking for such a challenge? Do you believe you are the right person? Is this the right job for you? Overview St. Marys Church in Wales is in Malpas, Newport. It is part of a group of 5 local Churches forming the Newport North West Ministry Area. It is a busy Church both in the number and variety of religious services it provides and the depth of its outreach into the local community. Check out their website at www.stmarysmalpas.org.  There is potential for this role to expand in scope and hours. Job Title: Church Administrative                               Reporting to: Ministry Area Leader   Location: St. Mary’s Church office, Llanover close, Malpas Hours: initially 15 hours per week  – as 3 hours per day (Monday-Friday) with some flexibility at an hourly rate of £12 per hour. More details (Job Description & Person Specification) can be found on their website here. If you’re interested, submit a CV to newportnorthma@outlook.comMinistry Area Leader – Upper Eastern Valleys  The Upper Eastern Valleys MA are looking for a collaborative and creative priest with a genuine passion for mission, to join them in ministry working on the next steps of a new Ministry Area in the South Wales Valleys working around the towns of Ebbw Vale, Abertillery and Blaenavon and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful opportunity to help form the new Ministry Area working with lay and ordained colleagues and also working closely with the new Church Army Centre of Mission which will provide some new and exciting opportunities for mission. For an informal conversation please contact: The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on  07983 684151 or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing Date: Friday 10th December. For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.Team Vicar – Mynydd Bedwellte Ministry Area  Mynydd Bedwellte MA are looking for an enthusiastic and creative priest to join them in a new Ministry Area in the South Wales valleys, mainly focused on the towns and villages of Bedwellty, New Tredegar and Aberbargoed.This is a great opportunity to be part of a developing ministry team and work collaboratively across a diverse area. They want you to help build up the local church in its worshipping and spiritual life and be rooted in mission and community ministry.  For an informal conversation please contact: The Revd Matt Davis, Ministry Area Leader on  07800 750259 or mattdavisciw@gmail.com Closing Date: Friday 10th December For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.Team Vicar – Netherwent Ministry Area  Netherwent MA are looking for a collaborative, caring and creative priest with a genuine passion for working with others and for mission to join they as they form a new Ministry Area to serve the communities of this beautiful corner of South-East Wales. Are you someone who:Has a strong faith and a heart for community, for mission and for nurturing disciples?Understands and would like to work with rural communities?Is able to develop good relationships with people of all ages including schools, young people and their families?Is a team player and has the ability to motivate and inspire others?If so… they would very much like to hear from you.  For an informal conversation please contact: The Revd Canon Jeremy Harris, Ministry Area Leader on  01633 882551 or jeremydharris@hotmail.co.uk  Closing Date: Friday 10th December For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

Memorial Service for Archdeacon SueJoin the livestream of the service here.NewsFormer Navy aircraft engineer appointed BishopThe Archdeacon of Wrexham, John Lomas, an aircraft engineer, who served in the Royal Navy during the Falklands War, has been chosen as the 10th Bishop of Swansea and Brecon. The announcement was made on the 4th of November at Brecon Cathedral by Senior Bishop, Andy John. You can watch the announcement below.Find out more about the appointment and Archdeacon John here.Diocesan Conference Election Results  Please find below the results of the 2021 Conference Elections, congratulations to all those elected. Election Results – Monmouth Diocesan Conference 2021  If you’d like to access any of the discussion videos, the Bishop’s address or any other resources from Conference they are available on our website here.The future of the UK’s church buildingsThis week National Churches Trust have launched a national debate looking at The Future of the UK’s Church Buildings.With an increasing number of churches and chapels facing closure,  the debate highlights the community, economic, heritage and spiritual benefits of churches.This is a chance for churches to say how their local church can be saved for future generations.The Future of the UK’s Church Buildings debate is backed by Michael Palin, Vice President of the National Churches Trust. He said:“The UK has over 39,000 church buildings. The restrictions of COVID-19, resulting in reduced funding and fewer worshippers, has clouded the future for many of them. Yet churches remain a vital and much-loved part ofthe UK’s history and heritage and we can’t let them fall into neglect and disuse.  There is hope.  More and more churches are adapting to the modern world and the needs of their communities, providing not just spiritual comforts but a range of valuable services to local people such as foodbanks and youth clubs. If you care as much as I do about the future of these much loved buildings, do get involved with the National Churches Trust debate about ‘The Future of Churches’ and help shape their future.” You can download the report, access the consultation, watch the video from Michael Palin and take part in the consultation here.Help NeededNight Shelters at Newport Churches – An urgent question from Eden Gate   Newport City Council has identified a growing need to offer additional provision to the increasing numbers of people sleeping rough on the city streets. Unless something is done, they are likely to be there in below-freezing temperatures over the coming months.   Despite best efforts to secure and retain everyone in temporary accommodation, some do not engage with such an approach for various reasons. In addition, the ability to secure such accommodation is becoming more difficult.   With a desire to address this, Eden Gate are working closely with Newport City Council to develop a short-term solution for the coldest, winter months. Off The Streets (colloquially referred to as OTC), is our answer to the problem and, hopefully, with the assistance of local churches and volunteers, will run in a similar way to the old style Nightshelter. We are seeking urgent contact with all Newport churches to establish whether there is a heart to run OTC together.   Some churches have already confirmed a willingness and ability to get involved but we really need to identify more. If your church is able to help, please get in touch with zena.setterlund@edengate.org.uk or francis.richley@edengate.org.uk  (07557 911680)A note from the Revd Henry Davies:Food Banks I was involved for many years with Raven House Trust and currently we run one in Bettws where I am a PTO priest.In view of the difficulties some people in our communities will be facing, we anticipate that the coming months will see a greater demand on Food Bank resources. It occurred to me that it would be helpful if the Diocese knew what items food banks needed so lists could be kept at the Diocesan Office. Would you be kind enough to let me know contact details of food banks in your area so that I could find out, or if you already know their “wants list” that would be helpful.I am aware of contact details for Newport, of course.Thank you for taking the time to read this noteIn Christ.Henry Davies01633 718657henry.d@ntlworld.comActions for COP26Join with Christian Aid, Tearfund and CAFOD on the Global Day of Action for climate justice – this Saturday!  What? On Saturday the 6th of November, mass mobilisations are taking place across the world to demand action on climate change in this critical moment in time as world leaders meet in Glasgow for the COP26 climate conference.   One of these mass mobilisations will take place in Cardiff. Please join Christian Aid, Tearfund and CAFOD at this critical moment in time to join in the call for climate justice, and to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sister on the frontline of the climate emergency. They are aiming to draw together as a ‘faith bloc’, so that the faith imperative for action on climate change is visible.   Where and when?  –              Saturday 6th November    –              11AM – Join the group at Eglwys Dewi Sant (St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff CF10 3DD) from 10:45AM for a brief prayer meeting at 11AM. This will be an opportunity to chat, collect placards, and have a moment of reflection before we head over to the march together by 12PM.   –              12PM – Assemble at City Hall before marching through the city towards Cardiff Bay for a rally at the Senedd.     Prayer & Action – Spread the word! Over the coming weeks, please will you share this invitation with your congregation and community and come as a group to join?  –              #PrayForCOP26: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/climate-justice-every-moment-matters –              Further Information about the Global Day of Action: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved-campaigns/climate-change/cop26-mobilisation –              You can also share about the Cardiff Day of Action via Facebook here:  https://fb.me/e/1PsRxOoYj   Please let them know if you are coming! If you have any questions and to RSVP, please contact nmunday@christian-aid.org / 02920844652.Climate champion joins faith reps at COP26Climate Change Champion, Julia Edwards, is representing the Church in Wales at the COP26 summit in Glasgow this week. Accountability and hope are the two key messages Christians have for world leaders, she says.The two-week long COP26, the UN climate talks being held in Glasgow, is a strange beast; it divides a small section of the city into two coloured zones – blue for the UN negotiations north of the River Clyde and on the southern banks, green for ‘ticketed’ civil society and the public. Additionally, there is a plethora of other climate events doted around the city. If you have ever visited Edinburgh during the Fringe, you may have a sense of the range of activities on offer. But this time they are focused on the Climate Challenge, although the actual event, COP26, is largely being ignored by the locals, who may be wondering what all the fuss is about. You too might be wondering that and also what is the Church in Wales’ rep. actually doing north of the border.Faith groups feature highly in the ‘other activities’ agenda and also, accredited faith representatives can effectively lobby and influence world leaders and negotiators. Accountability and hope are key Christian messages. Read more from Julia here.Bishops statement on COP26 The Climate Emergency is a profound challenge for humanity and the decisions made at COP26 will affect us all. Scientists warn that this decade is critical to stave off catastrophic climate change.  We are already witnessing extreme weather events. The unprecedented heatwaves, droughts and wildfires in the USA, Canada, Turkey, Greece and Siberia, the catastrophic floods in Germany and our own experience of Storm Dennis in South Wales last year are but a foretaste of what is in store for many more of us if we continue on our current path. We must act fast to avert disaster.  What happens in the next 10 years can change the course of history. Climate change is also an issue of justice. People who are marginalised, on low incomes and developing countries are most at risk. They have contributed least to the situation and yet they are the least able to adapt to the consequences. Governments need to be bold, decisive and to act fast so that carbon emissions are cut drastically over the next few years and we have to hold them and ourselves to account. Each one of us needs to limit our contributions to climate change by moving away from our unsustainable life-styles and consumption. This year the Church in Wales committed to being Net Zero Carbon ideally by 2030 and by divesting from fossil-fuel companies by the end of 2021. We are now calling on our political leaders to:Take immediate action to achieve net-zero emissions.Limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C. Hear the voices of people already impacted by climate change and put their needs centre stageEquip those most at risk of climate change with the financial means to tackle climate change.Ensure that wealthier nations take the lead by sharing knowledge and resources with those nations experiencing the inescapable consequences of climate change.Take action to stop the use of fossil fuels and the expansion of fossil-fuel energy and invest in clean energy.We also encourage people in Wales to take part on the Global Day of Action for Climate Justice on November 6 to make their voices heard. We all have an obligation to care for God’s creation and we pray that COP26 will prove a real turning point in our stewardship of earth’s precious resources.  The Bishop of Bangor, Andy John The Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory Cameron The Bishop of St Davids, Joanna Penberthy The Bishop of Llandaff, June Osborne The Bishop of Monmouth, Cherry Vann  Watch the video message here:Wales joins a 24-hour global wave of prayer People in Wales are being invited to join in a 24-hour global wave of prayer next month.The Church in Wales is taking part in the Anglican Communion virtual Day of Prayer on November 30, thought to be the first of its kind. It will bring people together from across the globe to pray for a world suffering from the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change, as well as injustice, exploitation and war.The Church is leading one half-hour session with a film featuring prayers and reflections on the theme of climate change from each of its six dioceses.Thanks to the wonderful staff and students at Bishop Childs CinW Primary School who braved the rain to film our contribution in their Prayer Garden.Find or more here: Wales joins a 24-hour global wave of prayer – The Church in WalesSchool in the SpotlightEvery half term we will be focusing on one of our schools. This gives us a chance to share projects or news and allows us to celebrate all the wonderful things going on across our Diocese.This half term the School in the Spotlight is Llantillio Pertholey Church in Wales Primary School. Find out more about the school here.Training and EventsSafeguarding Training Sessions Online via Zoom These sessions are for all who hold an ecclesiastical office, or who hold licence/PTO/commission from the Diocesan Bishop(whether lay or ordained),for those who run Sunday School or Youth clubs, Organists/Directors of Music, for whom an enhanced DBS is required. The training is presented in two parts, Part 1 & Part 2, to complete the course both parts must be attended. The course lasts for approximately 2-2.5 hours and there is no cost to attend the course. Please note Module A must be completed first. PART 1 Tuesday 09 November, 10:00 Friday 12 November, 10:00 PART 2 Wednesday 17 November, 10:00 Thursday 18 November, 14:00 Tuesday 23 November, 10:00 Thursday 25 November, 14:00 Monday 29 November, 10:00 Wednesday 01 December, 14:00 To book a place, please contact Sarah via email on safeguardingtraining@cinw.org.uk The Church in Wales has a responsibility to ensure that all church members are cared for and protected.Church in Wales – Archdiocese of Cardiff Shared Training   The Church in Wales and the Archdiocese of Cardiff have recently begun collaboration on an exciting new partnership offering training to churches to equip them with the skills needed for the post-Lockdown world. The online events they are currently holding are:9th November: Writing Funding Bids – The Do’s and Don’ts of Successful Funding Applications.24th November: Community Consultation ‘what is it’?30th November: Welcoming VolunteersEach session will be run by a specialist consultant in each field and will cover the up-to-date advice for the new environment many places of worship find themselves in when it comes to reaching out to the local community.  For more information, please see the following documents for each session. Writing Funding Bids – The Do’s and Don’ts of Successful Funding Applications Community Consultation ‘what is it’? Welcoming VolunteersAnti Bullying Week – 15th November “Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build p and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.” Ephesians 4:29Life Events LaunchThroughout November, the Church in Wales is holding a series of high-profile events across all 6 dioceses to launch its new ‘Life Events’ initiative. This exciting project is aimed at supporting local church ministries to individuals and families at key times in their lives such as weddings, christenings and funerals. There are a wide variety of printed materials now available, along with over 100 pages of ideas and practical suggestions available online. Find out more here and take a look at what’s available at www.stpadarns.ac.uk/lifeevents.   The launch for the Diocese of Monmouth will be held on November 17th 2021, 10am to 3.30pm at Newport Cathedral. We would like to encourage as many clergy and LLM/Readers to attend as possible. Further details and registrations can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/life-events-launch-tickets-177318653867 St Padarn’s have also put together a series of short, uplifting videos offering a wide range of easy and very practical suggestions about how individuals and their churches can get more involved. You can see the whole series here, and watch the ‘Everyone’s Ministry’ video below,Calling Conversations – 30th November Our next “Calling Conversation” is on Training Experiences and our panellists include:Revd Emma Ackland, Ordained DeaconGrace Lomas, Training for PriesthoodRevd Prof Jeremy Duff, Principal of St Padarn’s InstituteMarcus Pipe, Training for NSM PriesthoodThe conversation will be steamed live on Facebook on Tuesday 30th November at 7pm.Christ’s Healing Light in AdventLiturgy and Prayers for Healing, Wholeness and Reconciliation   1.30pm Thursday 2nd Dec 2021 Via Zoom Led by Reverend Beverley SmithAs we enter Advent you are invited to join the Diocesan Healing, Wholeness and Reconciliation Group for a service celebrating Christ’s Healing Light, during which we are invited by Christ to receive his healing touch through prayer.   There will be an opportunity for each person to be prayed with in break-out groups, but this is not essential. No-one is expected to share personal information. If you wish to join in the liturgy but not the prayers and have a time of quiet, you are welcome. Book your place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/christs-healing-light-in-advent-registration-205773763867Services and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Esgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Tachwedd 2021 Tachwedd / November 13th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn 9.30am / y.b., St Thomas Monmouth Eucharist: Remembrance / Ewcharist:  Sul y GofioAdvent Course 2021We’re pleased to announce the 2021 Diocesan Advent Course is now available. This year’s course has been drafted by Archdeacon Ian Rees and Revd Becca Stevens.  ‘Wait, Trust, Commit’ explores the themes of anticipation and hope as we examine our relationship with and commitment to Jesus.  This 3-session course includes prayers, readings, commentary, and questions to enable discussion in your groups.  We hope you will find this a valuable resource.  DOWNLOAD – ADVENT 2021: WAIT, TRUST, COMMIT (PDF) This course is also available on our Diocesan website.  If you are planning to use this course to lead a group and are open to receiving additional members, please let us know: https://forms.gle/1fLgdogrcN7cpxcAA If you would like to participate in this course, but do not have a local group, please contact the Diocesan Office at admin.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Ecclesiastical Insurance: Winter Weather Advice Ecclesiastical have a range of guidance available to help with preparing your churches for Christmas. Practical advice: Churches at Christmas | Risk Management (ecclesiastical.com)   More general advice on dealing with the winter weather: Cold Weather Advice | Risk Management (ecclesiastical.com)  DAC Archaeology Guidance Our DAC archaeologists, Peter Webster and Ray Howell, have prepared a revised guidance note on archaeology in churchyards, this is a useful resource for anyone who is preparing faculty applications and in need of guidance. Read the guidance here.Clerical Cloak Available Revd David Kellan has a clerical cloak in good condition available to fit someone approx. 5’5″. He also still has some books available. If you are interested please email him at hyweldda1067@gmail.comVacanciesChurch Administrative Assistant – St. Mary’s, Malpas Summary Are you looking for a job offering flexible working to fit as closely as possible with your personal and family circumstances?  St Mary’s Malpas are looking for someone to provide support to their team of Clergy and ‘lay’ people who manage the day to day running of their Church. This is an invitation to join them to further our vision and mission. Are you looking for such a challenge? Do you believe you are the right person? Is this the right job for you? Overview St. Marys Church in Wales is in Malpas, Newport. It is part of a group of 5 local Churches forming the Newport North West Ministry Area. It is a busy Church both in the number and variety of religious services it provides and the depth of its outreach into the local community. Check out their website at www.stmarysmalpas.org.  There is potential for this role to expand in scope and hours. Job Title: Church Administrative                               Reporting to: Ministry Area Leader   Location: St. Mary’s Church office, Llanover close, Malpas Hours: initially 15 hours per week  – as 3 hours per day (Monday-Friday) with some flexibility at an hourly rate of £12 per hour. More details (Job Description & Person Specification) can be found on their website here. If you’re interested, submit a CV to newportnorthma@outlook.comMinistry Area Leader – Upper Eastern Valleys  The Upper Eastern Valleys MA are looking for a collaborative and creative priest with a genuine passion for mission, to join them in ministry working on the next steps of a new Ministry Area in the South Wales Valleys working around the towns of Ebbw Vale, Abertillery and Blaenavon and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful opportunity to help form the new Ministry Area working with lay and ordained colleagues and also working closely with the new Church Army Centre of Mission which will provide some new and exciting opportunities for mission. For an informal conversation please contact: The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on  07983 684151 or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing Date: Friday 10th December. For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.Team Vicar – Mynydd Bedwellte Ministry Area  Mynydd Bedwellte MA are looking for an enthusiastic and creative priest to join them in a new Ministry Area in the South Wales valleys, mainly focused on the towns and villages of Bedwellty, New Tredegar and Aberbargoed.This is a great opportunity to be part of a developing ministry team and work collaboratively across a diverse area. They want you to help build up the local church in its worshipping and spiritual life and be rooted in mission and community ministry.  For an informal conversation please contact: The Revd Matt Davis, Ministry Area Leader on  07800 750259 or mattdavisciw@gmail.com Closing Date: Friday 10th December For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.Team Vicar – Netherwent Ministry Area  Netherwent MA are looking for a collaborative, caring and creative priest with a genuine passion for working with others and for mission to join they as they form a new Ministry Area to serve the communities of this beautiful corner of South-East Wales. Are you someone who:Has a strong faith and a heart for community, for mission and for nurturing disciples?Understands and would like to work with rural communities?Is able to develop good relationships with people of all ages including schools, young people and their families?Is a team player and has the ability to motivate and inspire others?If so… they would very much like to hear from you.  For an informal conversation please contact: The Revd Canon Jeremy Harris, Ministry Area Leader on  01633 882551 or jeremydharris@hotmail.co.uk  Closing Date: Friday 10th December For more details, including the Ministry Area profile, click here.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of MonmouthEsgobaeth Mynwy

NewsFaith in our Future – Diocesan Conference 2021  Our Diocesan Conference this year looked at what ‘Faith in our Future’ means to us.During the Presidential Address, Bishop Cherry encouraged us to share our thoughts and ideas, our hopes and dreams to help shape our future.Focusing on five key themes – discipleship; stewardship; environmental issues; social justice and diversity and equality, the conference brought all these elements together under our new diocesan branding – ‘Faith in our Future’.Acknowledging the uncertainty and unpredictability of these challenging times, Bishop Cherry reminded us of Isaiah (ch12). She said: “Isaiah holds out a truth for us to grasp in these troubling times. ‘I will trust and will not be afraid, for the Lord God is my strength and my might.’ Trust in God forms the bedrock of our Christian faith.”Bishop Cherry commended our new ‘Faith in our Future’ strapline and encouraged us to use it, along with its colourful tree image, as a ‘backcloth’ to frame our life over the coming years.She explained: “It’s simple and yet it says some fundamental things about what the Church as the people of God, and therefore we as the Diocese of Monmouth, are about.“The words, Faith in our Future, proclaim that fundamental trust in the grace and mercy of God. Christians are called to have faith, not because of ourselves or anything we can do, but because of God and all that God has already done for us.”Following on from the Conference business of Thursday evening, Saturday morning was dedicated to visioning and engagement.A very powerful Opening Worship from students at St Teilo’s High School set the tone for the morning, which included challenging discussions around our five themes, and also an imagination exercise which encouraged us to think about our hopes for the future and the steps needed to get there.All the Conference Resources are available on the Diocesan Website and Bishop Cherry’s address is available here.Ministry AreasMinistry Area Development Fund The DBF have agreed to top up the Ministry Area Development Fund with an extra £48,000 to support Ministry Area formation. £3,000 is available to each Ministry Area and this can be applied for as one lump sum or multiple smaller amounts, as best suits the development of each Ministry Area.   Ministry Areas can use this money for any purpose which they can demonstrate will develop their Ministry Area.  As an example, applications might be for:  Promotional materials, branding and/or websites.Equipment for a local office/administrative centre.The purchase of administrative/business software.Training fees associated with building local capacity.Equipment for joint mission initiatives.Training or team building.  Applications will be approved by the Standing Committee Grants Sub-Committee on a quarterly basis. Upcoming deadlines are, 17th November, 16th February, 18th May. Download the application form here. For more information contact Libby, libbymorgan-owen@churchinwales.org.uk The DBF has also approved a scheme to partially fund Ministry Area Administrators in each Ministry Area. Information on this scheme will be sent to directly to Ministry Area Leaders.Actions in the Run Up to COP26Wales joins a 24-hour global wave of prayer People in Wales are being invited to join in a 24-hour global wave of prayer next month.The Church in Wales is taking part in the Anglican Communion virtual Day of Prayer on November 30, thought to be the first of its kind. It will bring people together from across the globe to pray for a world suffering from the Covid-19 pandemic and climate change, as well as injustice, exploitation and war.The Church is leading one half-hour session with a film featuring prayers and reflections on the theme of climate change from each of its six dioceses.Thanks to the wonderful staff and students at Bishop Childs CinW Primary School who braved the rain to film our contribution in their Prayer Garden.Find or more here: Wales joins a 24-hour global wave of prayer – The Church in WalesRing out for Climate Justice!  Our churches and Cathedral are being encouraged to join a national campaign to ring out their bells as a voice for climate justice.As the UK gets ready to welcome COP26 Climate Change Conference to Glasgow, bells across the UK will ring for 30 minutes on Saturday 30th October at 6pm to welcome delegates, but also as a reminder of the urgency of the dangers we now face.The campaign has been started by Edward Gildea, Climate campaign adviser for Christian Aid.He explains: “We mostly associate church bells with the call to worship, weddings and very special national celebrations such as the millennium or the ending of the 2nd World War. But they also have another historic function: to ring out warnings.“Normally those warnings have been local: to warn of fire, floods or shipwrecks. But they were very much on standby to warn of possible invasions by Hitler, Napoleon or the Spanish Armada. Times of real national crisis.“We believe today is a real time of national crisis. We need to ring out the Code Red Warning to humanity, that God’s creation is at greater risk than ever before and we have a role as stewards of His creation to speak out.”Join with Christian Aid, Tearfund and CAFOD on the Global Day of Action for climate justice.     What? On Saturday the 6th of November, mass mobilisations are taking place across the world to demand action on climate change in this critical moment in time as world leaders meet in Glasgow for the COP26 climate conference.   One of these mass mobilisations will take place in Cardiff. Please join Christian Aid, Tearfund and CAFOD at this critical moment in time to join in the call for climate justice, and to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sister on the frontline of the climate emergency. They are aiming to draw together as a ‘faith bloc’, so that the faith imperative for action on climate change is visible.   Where and when?  –              Saturday 6th November    –              11AM – Join the group at Eglwys Dewi Sant (St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff CF10 3DD) from 10:45AM for a brief prayer meeting at 11AM. This will be an opportunity to chat, collect placards, and have a moment of reflection before we head over to the march together by 12PM.   –              12PM – Assemble at City Hall before marching through the city towards Cardiff Bay for a rally at the Senedd.     Prayer & Action – Spread the word! Over the coming weeks, please will you share this invitation with your congregation and community and come as a group to join?  –              #PrayForCOP26: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/climate-justice-every-moment-matters –              Further Information about the Global Day of Action: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved-campaigns/climate-change/cop26-mobilisation –              You can also share about the Cardiff Day of Action via Facebook here:  https://fb.me/e/1PsRxOoYj   Please let them know if you are coming! If you have any questions and to RSVP, please contact nmunday@christian-aid.org / 02920844652.Towards net zero carbonEach day in October, in the run up to the UN COP26 summit on climate change, the Church in Wales is posting tips on how to get your church on its way to net zero carbon emissions. Follow @ChurchinWales on Twitter and Facebook to see them.Training and EventsSafeguarding Training Sessions Online via Zoom These sessions are for all who hold an ecclesiastical office, or who hold licence/PTO/commission from the Diocesan Bishop(whether lay or ordained),for those who run Sunday School or Youth clubs, Organists/Directors of Music, for whom an enhanced DBS is required. The training is presented in two parts, Part 1 & Part 2, to complete the course both parts must be attended. The course lasts for approximately 2-2.5 hours and there is no cost to attend the course. Please note Module A must be completed first. PART 1 Thursday 28 October, 10:00 Friday 29 October, 14:00 Tuesday 02 November, 14:00 Thursday 04 November, 14:00 Tuesday 09 November, 10:00 Friday 12 November, 10:00 PART 2 Wednesday 17 November, 10:00 Thursday 18 November, 14:00 Tuesday 23 November, 10:00 Thursday 25 November, 14:00 Monday 29 November, 10:00 Wednesday 01 December, 14:00 To book a place, please contact Sarah via email on safeguardingtraining@cinw.org.uk The Church in Wales has a responsibility to ensure that all church members are cared for and protected.  Wales’ Tenth Recovery Sunday on BBC Radio Cymru Sunday, 31st October, 2021, will be another milestone in the history of the battle against addiction to alcohol, drugs and other harmful behaviours in Wales. Once again this year, a Sunday has been designated as Recovery Sunday to encourage churches not only to think about those suffering from various dependencies or addictions, to learn more about their situation, their needs and the help available through such centres as Adferiad, the Living Room, Inroads, and other providers, but also to encourage churches to do something practical to help. A service will be broadcasted on BBC Radio Cymru on the morning of Sunday 31st October – and you can use this service in your churches. It will be available for download from: www.cynnal.wales. Find out more here.Life Events LaunchThroughout November, the Church in Wales is holding a series of high-profile events across all 6 dioceses to launch its new ‘Life Events’ initiative. This exciting project is aimed at supporting local church ministries to individuals and families at key times in their lives such as weddings, christenings and funerals. There are a wide variety of printed materials now available, along with over 100 pages of ideas and practical suggestions available online. Find out more here and take a look at what’s available at www.stpadarns.ac.uk/lifeevents.   The launch for the Diocese of Monmouth will be held on November 17th 2021, 10am to 3.30pm at Newport Cathedral. We would like to encourage as many clergy and LLM/Readers to attend as possible. Further details and registrations can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/life-events-launch-tickets-177318653867Calling Conversations – 30th November Our next “Calling Conversation” is on Training Experiences and our panellists include:Revd Emma Ackland, Ordained DeaconGrace Lomas, Training for PriesthoodRevd Prof Jeremy Duff, Principal of St Padarn’s InstituteMarcus Pipe, Training for NSM PriesthoodThe conversation will be steamed live on Facebook on Tuesday 30th November at 7pm.The most important Welsh book and the most famous Welsh woman The most important book ever to appear in the Welsh language and the world’s most famous Welsh woman are the two focal points of an exhibition running at the National Library of Wales between early October 2021 and early April 2022. The Beibl i Bawb (‘A Bible for All’) exhibition outlines the history of translating the Bible into Welsh, together with the efforts down the centuries, by people such as Griffith Jones (Llanddowror), Peter Williams and Thomas Charles of Bala, to produce and disseminate copies and to teach people to read the Bible.   There’s also a unique opportunity to see Mary Jones’s Bibles, as this exhibition brings together four items closely related to Mary Jones which have never before been seen together.   For more details and to read the full press release visit our website: https://www.library.wales/information-for/press-and-media/press-releases/the-most-important-welsh-book-and-the-most-famous-welsh-womanServices and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Calling Conversations Our sixth session in our Calling Conversations series; involving a group of panellists from different ministries having a conversation about vocations. This “Calling Conversation” is on spiritual directors and our panellists include:Constantina Alexander, Third Order Franciscan Area Minister for WalesRevd Jane Butler, Spirituality Coordinator for MonmouthRevd Martyn Evans, Vicar of Llangynwyd w MaestegRuth Holgate, Director at St Beuno’s Jesuit Spirituality Centre If you would like further information on spiritual direction or to request a Spiritual Director – you can contact Revd Jane Butler (Diocesan Spirituality Coordinator) at jane.upperislwyn@yahoo.comBooks Available Revd David Kellan has a range of books available to anyone’s who’s interested on a range of topics including, Devotional Books inc CS Lewis and Michel QuoistDoctrine and EthicsChurch HistoryOT/NT Commentaries inc Peake’s Commentary and Catholic CommentaryConcordance on Holy ScriptureDictionary of Christian Ethics/Worship/TheologyIf you would be interested in any of them please get in touch with Revd David at, hyweldda1067@gmail.comEsgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Tachwedd 2021 Tachwedd / November 13th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn 9.30am / y.b., St Thomas Monmouth Eucharist: Remembrance / Ewcharist:  Sul y GofioFor a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

NewsConference 2021 Thank-you to everyone who attended the first part of Conference last night. If you weren’t able to attend, we’ll be editing together all of the footage and making it available on our website next week. Conference will continue tomorrow morning at 9am with Opening Worship from pupils at St Teilo’s High School, followed by Bishop Cherry’s presidential address. This will be livestreamed here for anyone who wishes to watch. The remainder of Saturday is dedicated to our 5 themes – discipleship; stewardship; diversity and equality; environmental issues and social justice.  This portion of Conference will rely heavily on breakout groups and will not be included in the stream. However, all the resources and videos used in the second half will be available tomorrow on our diocesan website. Our 100th Anniversary We had great hopes of marking the 100th Anniversary of the Monmouth Diocese in style. But continuing COVID restrictions mean that this is not possible. We are, however, going to celebrate the day – October 17th, this Sunday– with a special Songs of Praise from the Cathedral that will, as usual, be live-streamed. The service will start at 4pm. You can watch the livestream here.   Further celebrations are planned for next summer when, hopefully, gathering together will be less of a risk.Centenary Bell Ringing As explained by Bishop Cherry, plans to mark the Centenary of the formation of the Diocese of Monmouth have had to be scaled back. However, churches with towers who are able to ring or chime their bells are being encouraged to do so on Sunday 17th October to celebrate this historical event.Canon Jenny Mole explains: “The Monmouth Branch of the Llandaff and Monmouth Diocesan Association of Church Bell Ringers had thought about organising a wide-scale amount of ringing on the bells in the 40+ towers in the Diocese which have bells.  However, this, too, has had to be curtailed as the ringing rooms of many towers are so enclosed and have such little ventilation that it is still inadvisable for ringing to take place in them.“However, it would be wonderful if those who can take part, do so!”Fancy a challenge? How about chiming / ringing one bell 100 times………?If you do ring at your Church, please could you let Canon Jenny Mole know so that a record can be compiled and kept for posterity on 01633 258556 / revcanjen63@btinternet.com Read more here.Last Chance to Book!The Feast of St Luke the Physician18th October 2021Celebrating the Ministry of Healing, Wholeness and ReconciliationSt Woolos’ Cathedral: 1.30 – 4pmTea and coffee available from 1pm You are invited to come toSoak up the peace and quiet of the CathedralListen to two hospital chaplains talk about their ministry of healingReflect on the central place of healing, wholeness and reconciliation (salvation) in the life of the ChurchJoin with others in a service of healing, wholeness and reconciliationReceive individual prayer (for those who wish it)All are welcome! Book a place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-feast-of-st-luke-the-physician-tickets-188258073967 Watch via YouTube: https://youtu.be/jEOY24IPi8kContacting the Diocesan Office We are in the process of having our phone system switched to a new contract meaning the direct lines are temporarily unavailable. Staff are still contactable via email and mobile numbers listed here. For general enquiries please call Libby on 07508 801511 or 01633 267490Memorial Service for Archdeacon SueWe continue to mourn the sudden death of Archdeacon Sue and the loss that she is to the churches of the diocese. A special memorial service for her is being held at the Cathedral on Sunday November 7th at 4pm. Places can be booked with Vicki in the Bishop’s Office monbishpa@churchinwales.org.uk  and the service will be live-streamed. Please make all bookings by the 24th October and please pass on this information to anyone who you know may want to attend but does not receive the Friday e-mail.Archdeaconry of the Gwent ValleysArchdeacon Jonathan Williams has returned from sabbatical and will now be sharing temporary responsibility for the Archdeaconry of the Gwent Valleys with Archdeacon Ian Rees, until a new Archdeacon is in place. Archdeacon JonathanArchdeacon Jonathan will be looking after the Cwmbran Ministry Area and Mid-Torfaen Ministry Area. Email: archdeacon.newport@churchinwales.org.uk Tel: 01633 215206 Archdeacon IanArchdeacon Ian will be looking after the Ministry Areas of Islwyn, Mynydd Bedwellte and the Upper Eastern Valleys (parishes of Blaenavon, Ebbw Vale, Cwmtillery, Abertillery, Llanhilleth and Six Bells). Email: archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Tel: 07983 684151 or 01291 671183.Actions in the Run Up to COP26Join with Christian Aid, Tearfund and CAFOD on the Global Day of Action for climate justice.     What? On Saturday the 6th of November, mass mobilisations are taking place across the world to demand action on climate change in this critical moment in time as world leaders meet in Glasgow for the COP26 climate conference.   One of these mass mobilisations will take place in Cardiff. Please join Christian Aid, Tearfund and CAFOD at this critical moment in time to join in the call for climate justice, and to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sister on the frontline of the climate emergency. They are aiming to draw together as a ‘faith bloc’, so that the faith imperative for action on climate change is visible.   Where and when?  –              Saturday 6th November    –              11AM – Join the group at Eglwys Dewi Sant (St Andrew’s Crescent, Cardiff CF10 3DD) from 10:45AM for a brief prayer meeting at 11AM. This will be an opportunity to chat, collect placards, and have a moment of reflection before we head over to the march together by 12PM.   –              12PM – Assemble at City Hall before marching through the city towards Cardiff Bay for a rally at the Senedd.     Prayer & Action – Spread the word! Over the coming weeks, please will you share this invitation with your congregation and community and come as a group to join?  –              #PrayForCOP26: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/climate-justice-every-moment-matters –              Further Information about the Global Day of Action: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved-campaigns/climate-change/cop26-mobilisation –              You can also share about the Cardiff Day of Action via Facebook here:  https://fb.me/e/1PsRxOoYj   Please let them know if you are coming! If you have any questions and to RSVP, please contact nmunday@christian-aid.org / 02920844652.Towards net zero carbonEach day in October, in the run up to the UN COP26 summit on climate change, the Church in Wales is posting tips on how to get your church on its way to net zero carbon emissions. Follow @ChurchinWales on Twitter and Facebook to see them.Training and EventsPlease email office@stpaulsnewport.org.uk or phone 01633 266076 to book a seat. Calling Conversations – 19th OctoberOur next “Calling Conversation” is on Spiritual Directors and our panellists include:Constantina Alexander, Third Order Franciscan Area Minister for WalesRevd Jane Butler, Spirituality Co-Ordinator for MonmouthRevd Martyn Evans, Vicar of Llangynwyd w Maesteg Ruth Holgate, director at St Beuno’s Jesuit Spirituality Centre The conversation will be steamed live on Facebook on Tuesday 19th October at 7pm here: https://fb.me/e/1Mx9GoVdq Questions for the panel can be submitted here: https://forms.gle/kJv4TxKnts5De2zo6Safeguarding Training Sessions Online via Zoom These sessions are for all who hold an ecclesiastical office, or who hold licence/PTO/commission from the Diocesan Bishop(whether lay or ordained),for those who run Sunday School or Youth clubs, Organists/Directors of Music, for whom an enhanced DBS is required. The training is presented in two parts, Part 1 & Part 2, to complete the course both parts must be attended. The course lasts for approximately 2-2.5 hours and there is no cost to attend the course. Please note Module A must be completed first. PART 1 Thursday 28 October, 10:00 Friday 29 October, 14:00 Tuesday 02 November, 14:00 Thursday 04 November, 14:00 Tuesday 09 November, 10:00 Friday 12 November, 10:00 PART 2 Wednesday 17 November, 10:00 Thursday 18 November, 14:00 Tuesday 23 November, 10:00 Thursday 25 November, 14:00 Monday 29 November, 10:00 Wednesday 01 December, 14:00 To book a place, please contact Sarah via email on safeguardingtraining@cinw.org.uk The Church in Wales has a responsibility to ensure that all church members are cared for and protected.  Wales’ Tenth Recovery Sunday on BBC Radio Cymru Sunday, 31st October, 2021, will be another milestone in the history of the battle against addiction to alcohol, drugs and other harmful behaviours in Wales. Once again this year, a Sunday has been designated as Recovery Sunday to encourage churches not only to think about those suffering from various dependencies or addictions, to learn more about their situation, their needs and the help available through such centres as Adferiad, the Living Room, Inroads, and other providers, but also to encourage churches to do something practical to help. A service will be broadcasted on BBC Radio Cymru on the morning of Sunday 31st October – and you can use this service in your churches. It will be available for download from: www.cynnal.wales. Find out more here.The most important Welsh book and the most famous Welsh woman The most important book ever to appear in the Welsh language and the world’s most famous Welsh woman are the two focal points of an exhibition running at the National Library of Wales between early October 2021 and early April 2022. The Beibl i Bawb (‘A Bible for All’) exhibition outlines the history of translating the Bible into Welsh, together with the efforts down the centuries, by people such as Griffith Jones (Llanddowror), Peter Williams and Thomas Charles of Bala, to produce and disseminate copies and to teach people to read the Bible.   There’s also a unique opportunity to see Mary Jones’s Bibles, as this exhibition brings together four items closely related to Mary Jones which have never before been seen together.   For more details and to read the full press release visit our website: https://www.library.wales/information-for/press-and-media/press-releases/the-most-important-welsh-book-and-the-most-famous-welsh-womanServices and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here. Join the Diocesan Centenary Songs of Praise at 4:00pm here.  Books Available Revd David Kellan has a range of books available to anyone’s who’s interested on a range of topics including, Devotional Books inc CS Lewis and Michel QuoistDoctrine and EthicsLiturgy inc Dom Gregory DixChurch HistoryOT/NT Commentaries inc Peake’s Commentary and Catholic CommentaryConcordance on Holy ScriptureDictionary of Christian Ethics/Worship/TheologyIf you would be interested in any of them please get in touch with Revd David at, hyweldda1067@gmail.comEsgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Tachwedd 2021 Tachwedd / November 13th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn 9.30am / y.b., St Thomas Monmouth Eucharist: Remembrance / Ewcharist:  Sul y GofioVacanciesHouse for Duty Priest – Monmouth Ministry Area  Monmouth Ministry Area are looking for a collaborative and caring priest with a genuine passion for working with others, lay and ordained in a beautiful part of Wales.Based in the lovely village of Llanishen and primarily working with 4 churches around that area, you will also be part of the Ministry Team covering the new Ministry Area of Monmouth which has 19 churches.They hope for a Priest who will be:Caring – has a strong pastoral heart and passion for encouraging the members of each of the congregations in discipleshipCollaborative in nature – working well with the Ministry Team, lay and ordained, within the Ministry Area and is a good team playerCommunity focused – being a visible presence in the Ministry AreaEngaging – has energy and commitment to engage with the local communities and is sympathetic to the needs of rural communities For an informal conversation please contact The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on 07983 684151  or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing date for applications: 18th October 2021 Interviews will be held early in November Click here for more details and the application form.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

For Your PrayersThe Venerable John Blackburn died on 1st October. He began his ministry as Curate of Risca before becoming an Army Chaplain. He rose through the ranks to become Chaplain General to the Armed Forces. In 2004 John returned to the Diocese of Monmouth as incumbent at Risca until his retirement in 2013. Revd. Derek Young died on the 3rd of October in the Grange. He had fallen at his home the night before. Sadly, he had been due to preside at his final service at St Michael’s Llanfihangel Crucorney; a church that he had served with great devotion since 1999. Memorial Service for Archdeacon Sue We continue to mourn the sudden death of Archdeacon Sue and the loss that she is to the churches of the diocese. A special memorial service for her is being held at the Cathedral on Sunday November 7th at 4pm. Places can be booked with Vicki in the Bishop’s Office monbishpa@churchinwales.org.uk and the service will be live-streamed. Please pass on this information to anyone who you know may want to attend but does not receive the Friday e-mail.Archdeaconry of the Gwent ValleysArchdeacon Jonathan Williams returned from sabbatical this week and will now be sharing temporary responsibility for the Archdeaconry of the Gwent Valleys with Archdeacon Ian Rees, until a new Archdeacon is in place. Archdeacon JonathanArchdeacon Jonathan will be looking after the Cwmbran Ministry Area and Mid-Torfaen Ministry Area. Email: archdeacon.newport@churchinwales.org.uk Tel: 01633 215206 Archdeacon IanArchdeacon Ian will be looking after the Ministry Areas of Islwyn, Mynydd Bedwellte and the Upper Eastern Valleys (parishes of Blaenavon, Ebbw Vale, Cwmtillery, Abertillery, Llanhilleth and Six Bells). Email: archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Tel: 07983 684151 or 01291 671183.NewsOur 100th Anniversary We had great hopes of marking the 100th Anniversary of the Monmouth Diocese in style. But continuing COVID restrictions mean that this is not possible. We are, however, going to celebrate the day – October 17th – with a special Songs of Praise from the Cathedral that will, as usual, be live-streamed. The service will start at 4pm. If you would like to attend this service, please email Vicki Stevens on monbishpa@churchinwales.org.uk to reserve a space.   Further celebrations are planned for next summer when, hopefully, gathering together will be less of a risk.Centenary Bell Ringing As explained by Bishop Cherry, plans to mark the Centenary of the formation of the Diocese of Monmouth have had to be scaled back. However, churches with towers who are able to ring or chime their bells are being encouraged to do so on Sunday 17th October to celebrate this historical event.Canon Jenny Mole explains: “The Monmouth Branch of the Llandaff and Monmouth Diocesan Association of Church Bell Ringers had thought about organising a wide-scale amount of ringing on the bells in the 40+ towers in the Diocese which have bells.  However, this, too, has had to be curtailed as the ringing rooms of many towers are so enclosed and have such little ventilation that it is still inadvisable for ringing to take place in them.“However, it would be wonderful if those who can take part, do so!”Fancy a challenge? How about chiming / ringing one bell 100 times………?If you do ring at your Church, please could you let Canon Jenny Mole know so that a record can be compiled and kept for posterity on 01633 258556 / revcanjen63@btinternet.com Read more here.Towards net zero carbonEach day in October, in the run up to the UN COP26 summit on climate change, the Church in Wales is posting tips on how to get your church on its way to net zero carbon emissions. Follow @ChurchinWales on Twitter and Facebook to see them.Contacting the Diocesan Office We are in the process of having our phone system switched to a new contract meaning the office phone lines are temporarily unavailable. Staff are still contactable via email and mobile numbers listed here. For general enquiries please call Libby on 07508 801511Conference 2021 We are pleased to announce this year’s Conference will be held digitally. Papers for Conference have been posted out to members, if you haven’t received them please email monmouthadministration@churchinwales.org.uk Thank-you to members who have already registered their attendance, if you haven’t already done so please click here Only those who register will receive the zoom link to be able to participate. If you wish to attend Conference as an observer, a YouTube link be sent out by email and social media in the coming weeks.Training and EventsPlease email office@stpaulsnewport.org.uk or phone 01633 266076 to book a seat. The Feast of St Luke the Physician18th October 2021Celebrating the Ministry of Healing, Wholeness and ReconciliationSt Woolos’ Cathedral: 1.30 – 4pmTea and coffee available from 1pm You are invited to come toSoak up the peace and quiet of the CathedralListen to two hospital chaplains talk about their ministry of healingReflect on the central place of healing, wholeness and reconciliation (salvation) in the life of the ChurchJoin with others in a service of healing, wholeness and reconciliationReceive individual prayer (for those who wish it)All are welcome! Book a place or request the YouTube link: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-feast-of-st-luke-the-physician-tickets-188258073967Music for Mission and Ministry Music for Mission and Ministry is designed primarily for Anglican clergy, Readers and Lay Leaders, but is open to anyone who wants to deepen their understanding about the use and management of music in worship. It is a carefully targeted course, providing practical guidance for parish music situations of all types, since the principles are generic and the application of them is part of the topic of the course. RSCM are holding the next course from the 19th to 21st of October. Find out more here.Lift up your Voice – Bristol – Saturday 23 October, 2–5pm   Workshops for churches with limited musical resources.   Come and be encouraged about making music with your congregation. Miles Quick, former RSCM Head of Congregational & Instrumental Music, will unpack strategies and share resources to help you think creatively about how you can incorporate music into your church’s worship, however limited the possibilities might seem.   To find out more and to book your place, click here.   Hosted at the church of St Thomas the Martyr, Bristol. In association with The Churches Conservation Trust.The Healing Potential of the Hybrid Church – 30th October, 10.30 – 13.00 In this workshop, we explore what church worship and the healing potential of ministry looks like as we emerge from lockdown and have a blended approach of an online and offline communities. With expert input from a range of specialists, we will together consider the opportunities of the hybrid church to offer hope and healing to our traumatised communities. We will also explore how our churches can learn from the digital world and the communities themselves in order to grow the Kingdom in the world we find ourselves in today.   Online booking: https://gohealth.org.uk/shop/booking/the-healing-potential-of-the-hybrid-church-live-streaming-booking/?category=allServices and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Calling ConversationsOur latest “Calling Conversation” is on vocations in the workplace and our panellists include: – Darren Millar MS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for Clwyd West – Penny Heard, Operational Director of the Highveld Anglican Board of Social Responsibility – Ian Loynd, Headteacher of St Teilo’s Church in Wales High School Watch here:Third Sector Resilience Fund for Wales Charities and voluntary organisations in Wales are facing existing and new challenges as they deal with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Phase 3 of the Third sector resilience fund for Wales (TSRF) is part of the £2.4m of support announced by Welsh Government. Grant funding is available to help voluntary organisations with the costs of surviving the COVID-19 pandemic and / or invest in new or additional activity which will generate a return beyond the period of funding. Find out more here.Esgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Hydref 2021 Hydref / October 12th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth 7pm / y.h., St Mary Magor Harvest Festival / Diolchgarwch am y Cynhaeaf Sight Loss SundayFind out more at sightlossfriendlychurch.org.uk/slsundayVacanciesHouse for Duty Priest – Monmouth Ministry Area  Monmouth Ministry Area are looking for a collaborative and caring priest with a genuine passion for working with others, lay and ordained in a beautiful part of Wales.Based in the lovely village of Llanishen and primarily working with 4 churches around that area, you will also be part of the Ministry Team covering the new Ministry Area of Monmouth which has 19 churches.They hope for a Priest who will be:Caring – has a strong pastoral heart and passion for encouraging the members of each of the congregations in discipleshipCollaborative in nature – working well with the Ministry Team, lay and ordained, within the Ministry Area and is a good team playerCommunity focused – being a visible presence in the Ministry AreaEngaging – has energy and commitment to engage with the local communities and is sympathetic to the needs of rural communities For an informal conversation please contact The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on 07983 684151  or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing date for applications: 18th October 2021 Interviews will be held early in November Click here for more details and the application form.Ministry Team – East Cardiff (3 Posts)  East Cardiff Ministry Area are forming a new creative and collaborative Ministry Team, who will help us to grow in our united mission to serve the communities of East Cardiff. Our goal is for each member of our team to work to their strengths, bring their own complementary gifts and skills and, we pray, to flourish in their own ministry and vocation.  Post 1: Vicar for Liturgy and WorshipAre you someone who:Has a deep and mature spirituality rooted in the sacraments?Values the breadth of worshipping traditions across the Anglican Church?Has relevant experience developing vibrant liturgy which draws on sources both ancient and modern?Our new Vicar for Liturgy and Worship will help us to develop a vibrant and diverse worship and prayer life, taking full responsibility for coordinating public worship across the Ministry Area.  Post 2: Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral CareAre you someone who:Has a pastoral heart, sensitive to the needs of others?Is passionate about the occasional offices as an opportunity for hospitality, mission and faith formation?Has experience providing one-to-one pastoral care and developing a team of pastoral visitors?Our new Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral Care will help us to develop our inclusive welcome, ensuring all are able to belong fully to the life of the Church. They will take full responsibility for co-ordinating pastoral care across the Ministry Area.  Post 3: Priest for Children, Families and CommunityAre you someone who:Has a servant’s heart, with a community focused and strengths-based outlook?Believes in the profound goodness of children, even the most challenging, and has experience of youth and/or schools ministry?Is deeply loving, inclusive and affirming with a highly effective understanding of the challenges and opportunities in urban communities?St Teilo’s, the largest Anglican school in the Province of Wales, is at the heart of the new East Cardiff Ministry Area. Together, we are seeking to develop creative and deeply Christian partnerships within and between St Teilo’s and the East Cardiff Ministry Area, our Church in Wales primary schools and other local schools.Our new Priest for Children, Families and Community will help us to create projects and initiatives focused on wholeness and wellbeing in our schools and local communities, with a particular focus on the poor and vulnerable. They will explore and encourage discipleship by growing opportunities for prayer, hospitality and service.The salary for the post will be a little over £38,000 and will increase with inflation in line with JNC pay awards. The post is subject to membership of the national Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). For an informal conversation on any of these posts, please contact Reverend James Henley, Ministry Area Leader on 02920 752138 or james.henley@gmail.com For the recruitment pack and applications forms please click here. Applications should be submitted by email to: james.henley@gmail.com Closing date for applications: Friday 15th October 2021For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

For Your Prayers Paul Williams, who held many roles over the years in Magor Ministry Area and was a long standing member of the Diocesan Standing Committee, has sadly passed away this week. Paul was a retired senior local government official and prior to this served in the Household Cavalry from 1963-1975, studying at the Royal Military School of Music and Guildhall School of Music in London. He was the choirmaster in the Magor Ministry Area and a LLM. Please keep his wife Lisa and the rest of his family and friends in your prayers. NewsOur 100th Anniversary We had great hopes of marking the 100th Anniversary of the Monmouth Diocese in style. But continuing COVID restrictions mean that this is not possible. We are, however, going to celebrate the day – October 17th – with a special Songs of Praise from the Cathedral that will, as usual, be live-streamed. The service will start at 4pm. If you would like to attend this service, please email Vicki Stevens on monbishpa@churchinwales.org.uk to reserve a space.   Further celebrations are planned for next summer when, hopefully, gathering together will be less of a risk. Archdeacon Ian’s Guide to Ministry Areas We welcomed the Ven Ian Rees to the Diocese of Monmouth at the beginning of the Summer. Now that he has had time to settle in, we thought it would be a good time to ask him what he has thought of his move so far! In this edition of the Friday e-mail, he speaks about the warm welcome he has received, but also outlines his thoughts about Ministry Areas – which he has compiled in Archdeacon Ian’s Guide to Ministry Areas (PDF).Archdeacon Ian may have only been here a short time, but it has been a challenging time. Sadly, Archdeacon Sue passed away at the end of July and Archdeacon Jonathan was on sabbatical which has meant a steep learning curve. Thankfully, Archdeacon Jonathan returned on the 29th September so we are back to two Archdeacons! Afghan Crisis ToolkitLlandaff Diocese have created a toolkit to assist churches in helping Afghan Refugees. Bishop June says,“Wales has had a rich history of welcoming migrants and refugees to these shores – from students across the Celtic world attending Llanilltud in the 6th century, to the industrial migrations of the 19th and 20th centuries. The Irish Famine of the 1840s saw Wales welcoming 30,000 Irish migrants fleeing starvation. In Llandaff our industrial valleys have played host to workers from across the world, and Tiger Bay and Butetown transformed Cardiff into one of the most wonderfully multicultural cities on these islands.Yet in Wales, and across the United Kingdom, we haven’t always got it right, we haven’t always given the welcome those arriving at our shores have deserved. And now, as thousands of families who have worked with and supported British and Welsh troops, diplomats, and civil servants in Afghanistan flee from the Taliban, we as a nation face the challenge of welcoming them and helping them to build new lives in a foreign land.” View the toolkit here.This month, we are being encouraged to support several campaigns highlighting the importance of defibrillators and the need to learn life-saving CPR. From ‘Shoctober’ to World Restart a Heart Day, there are plenty of opportunities for our churches to get involved and help support and raise awareness of these hugely important initiatives. Rev Gilly Hubbard, team vicar in Caldicot, says: “Back in June, our churches were encouraged to support the Save a life campaign to ‘Touch Someone’s Life’ by watching and displaying a short film which gives clear instruction as to what to do should someone suffer a cardiac arrest – as we, the general public, are the people most likely to be called upon to perform life-saving CPR. This is a Welsh Government initiative, supported by the Church in Wales and numerous other organisations and charities. including Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust (WAST).  “Hopefully, by now this film has been watched in some churches and been integrated on some church websites. However, if this has passed your church by, please consider making it a priority in the weeks to come, especially during the month of October so we can support the work of WAST and Save a Life Cymru.” ‘Shoctober’ may sound like a Halloween event but is actually a Welsh Ambulance Services NHS Trust (WAST) annual campaign held throughout October which aims to teach Junior pupils (Primary schools) appropriate use of 999 and life savings skills; recovery position, CPR, choking and raise awareness of defibrillators. October also marks National Restart a Heart Day. Held on Saturday 16th October, this special day helps to create awareness about the importance of learning CPR and using defibrillators to help save lives. Revd Gilly, says: “The Save a Life Cymru campaign seeks to promote the placing of AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) outside halls, community centres, churches, businesses and other public places and for the general public to know where they are situated. “Do you know where your nearest AED is? Is it within 500 meters? 500 metres is a long way to run in an emergency…Maybe your church could support a local organisation to fund-raise for an AED, or run a CPR training morning? “God has given us the wonderful gift of life- sometimes we are called upon to save a life in more ways than one!” To watch Save a Life Cymru’s video on what to do if someone has a cardiac arrest, please visit https://gov.wales/save-a-life-cymru. Contacting the Diocesan Office We are in the process of having our phone system switched to a new contract meaning the office phone lines are temporarily unavailable. Staff are still contactable via email and mobile numbers listed here. For general enquiries please call Libby on 07508 801511 Flourish September – Caring for Creation Join Bishop Cherry Vann and others from across the Diocese of Monmouth and beyond, as they talk about what caring for creation means to them. In this edition, we hear from a farmer talking about harvest; young Christians joining together to raise awareness of climate crisis by walking from Cornwall to Glasgow (in time for Cop26 – the UN Climate Change Summit); Revd Becca Stevens, who updates us with what’s happening across the wider Church in Wales and also how we can all do our little bit to help, while Revd Tim Clements, Rural Life Advisor, gives us an insight into this very special type of ministry. Conference 2021 We are pleased to announce this year’s Conference will be held digitally. Papers for Conference have been posted out to members, if you haven’t received them please email monmouthadministration@churchinwales.org.uk Thank-you to members who have already registered their attendance, if you haven’t already done so please click here Only those who register will receive the zoom link to be able to participate. If you wish to attend Conference as an observer, a YouTube link be sent out by email and social media in the coming weeks.Training and EventsThe St Deiniol Lectures – Monday October 4, 7pm  Professor John Clarke, Professor Emeritus in the History of Ideas, Kingston University, London, on:   “Mysticism: its Relevance Today”  followed by open discussion   at Itton Village Hall, NP16 6BP Itton Road, Chepstow (B4293)     To allow for Covid safety measures, please pre-book with Anne Octon (01291 641918; anneocton@gmail.com)   NB: Please wear masks on entry to the hall – you can remove them once seated. Organ Recital at St Cadoc’s CaerleonPlease email office@stpaulsnewport.org.uk or phone 01633 266076 to book a seat. Email SarahRobinson@churchinwales.org.uk for more details. Music for Mission and Ministry Music for Mission and Ministry is designed primarily for Anglican clergy, Readers and Lay Leaders, but is open to anyone who wants to deepen their understanding about the use and management of music in worship. It is a carefully targeted course, providing practical guidance for parish music situations of all types, since the principles are generic and the application of them is part of the topic of the course. RSCM are holding the next course from the 19th to 21st of October. Find out more here. Lift up your Voice – Bristol – Saturday 23 October, 2–5pm   Workshops for churches with limited musical resources.   Come and be encouraged about making music with your congregation. Miles Quick, former RSCM Head of Congregational & Instrumental Music, will unpack strategies and share resources to help you think creatively about how you can incorporate music into your church’s worship, however limited the possibilities might seem.   To find out more and to book your place, click here.   Hosted at the church of St Thomas the Martyr, Bristol. In association with The Churches Conservation Trust. The Healing Potential of the Hybrid Church – 30th October, 10.30 – 13.00 In this workshop, we explore what church worship and the healing potential of ministry looks like as we emerge from lockdown and have a blended approach of an online and offline communities. With expert input from a range of specialists, we will together consider the opportunities of the hybrid church to offer hope and healing to our traumatised communities. We will also explore how our churches can learn from the digital world and the communities themselves in order to grow the Kingdom in the world we find ourselves in today.   Online booking: https://gohealth.org.uk/shop/booking/the-healing-potential-of-the-hybrid-church-live-streaming-booking/?category=all Services and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Calling ConversationsOur latest “Calling Conversation” is on vocations in the workplace and our panellists include: – Darren Millar MS, Member of the Welsh Parliament for Clwyd West – Penny Heard, Operational Director of the Highveld Anglican Board of Social Responsibility – Ian Loynd, Headteacher of St Teilo’s Church in Wales High School Watch here: It’s not too late to hold a Climate Sunday service! Monmouth Diocese is designating October 3rd as our Climate Sunday. We have chosen the Sunday closest to the Feast of St Francis of Assisi and the end of Creationtide that runs through September. There are some excellent resources on the website at www.climatesunday.org to help you to plan for worship and other activities. Make sure you register your service on the Climate Sunday website. This will ensure that your church can be counted in the total commitment from churches across the UK, which will be presented at COP26 to the UK government.Third Sector Resilience Fund for Wales Charities and voluntary organisations in Wales are facing existing and new challenges as they deal with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Phase 3 of the Third sector resilience fund for Wales (TSRF) is part of the £2.4m of support announced by Welsh Government. Grant funding is available to help voluntary organisations with the costs of surviving the COVID-19 pandemic and / or invest in new or additional activity which will generate a return beyond the period of funding. Find out more here.Esgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Hydref 2021 Hydref / October 12th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth 7pm / y.h., St Mary Magor Harvest Festival / Diolchgarwch am y Cynhaeaf Sight Loss SundayFind out more at sightlossfriendlychurch.org.uk/slsunday VacanciesHouse for Duty Priest – Monmouth Ministry Area  Monmouth Ministry Area are looking for a collaborative and caring priest with a genuine passion for working with others, lay and ordained in a beautiful part of Wales.Based in the lovely village of Llanishen and primarily working with 4 churches around that area, you will also be part of the Ministry Team covering the new Ministry Area of Monmouth which has 19 churches.They hope for a Priest who will be:Caring – has a strong pastoral heart and passion for encouraging the members of each of the congregations in discipleshipCollaborative in nature – working well with the Ministry Team, lay and ordained, within the Ministry Area and is a good team playerCommunity focused – being a visible presence in the Ministry AreaEngaging – has energy and commitment to engage with the local communities and is sympathetic to the needs of rural communities For an informal conversation please contact The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on 07983 684151  or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing date for applications: 18th October 2021 Interviews will be held early in November Click here for more details and the application form. Ministry Team – East Cardiff (3 Posts)  East Cardiff Ministry Area are forming a new creative and collaborative Ministry Team, who will help us to grow in our united mission to serve the communities of East Cardiff. Our goal is for each member of our team to work to their strengths, bring their own complementary gifts and skills and, we pray, to flourish in their own ministry and vocation.  Post 1: Vicar for Liturgy and WorshipAre you someone who:Has a deep and mature spirituality rooted in the sacraments?Values the breadth of worshipping traditions across the Anglican Church?Has relevant experience developing vibrant liturgy which draws on sources both ancient and modern?Our new Vicar for Liturgy and Worship will help us to develop a vibrant and diverse worship and prayer life, taking full responsibility for coordinating public worship across the Ministry Area.  Post 2: Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral CareAre you someone who:Has a pastoral heart, sensitive to the needs of others?Is passionate about the occasional offices as an opportunity for hospitality, mission and faith formation?Has experience providing one-to-one pastoral care and developing a team of pastoral visitors?Our new Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral Care will help us to develop our inclusive welcome, ensuring all are able to belong fully to the life of the Church. They will take full responsibility for co-ordinating pastoral care across the Ministry Area.  Post 3: Priest for Children, Families and CommunityAre you someone who:Has a servant’s heart, with a community focused and strengths-based outlook?Believes in the profound goodness of children, even the most challenging, and has experience of youth and/or schools ministry?Is deeply loving, inclusive and affirming with a highly effective understanding of the challenges and opportunities in urban communities?St Teilo’s, the largest Anglican school in the Province of Wales, is at the heart of the new East Cardiff Ministry Area. Together, we are seeking to develop creative and deeply Christian partnerships within and between St Teilo’s and the East Cardiff Ministry Area, our Church in Wales primary schools and other local schools.Our new Priest for Children, Families and Community will help us to create projects and initiatives focused on wholeness and wellbeing in our schools and local communities, with a particular focus on the poor and vulnerable. They will explore and encourage discipleship by growing opportunities for prayer, hospitality and service.The salary for the post will be a little over £38,000 and will increase with inflation in line with JNC pay awards. The post is subject to membership of the national Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). For an informal conversation on any of these posts, please contact Reverend James Henley, Ministry Area Leader on 02920 752138 or james.henley@gmail.com For the recruitment pack and applications forms please click here. Applications should be submitted by email to: james.henley@gmail.com Closing date for applications: Friday 15th October 2021For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

For Your PrayersThe Funeral of the Reverend Dennis Richards will be held in the cathedral at 12.30pm on Friday 1st October. The service will be livestreamed for those unable to be present in person. Due to Covid restrictions numbers of those able to attend are limited. Could any clergy who wish to attend please email jeremydharris@hotmail.com and indicate if they wish to robe (Alb and white stole). NewsQ4 Financial Support and 2022 Ministry Share At their recent meeting, the Diocesan Board of Finance agreed to continue their financial support to parishes with a 20% rebate in Q4 of 2021. This is on top of the 30% that the board have already agreed for Q3. This is intended to allow time for parishes and Ministry Areas to recover as restrictions ease. The DBF acknowledge it remains an uncertain time for many, and recognise the need for this continued support.This means that the Board will have offered a 40% rebate for three quarters of 2020 and two quarters of 2021 with a further 30% in Q3 of 2021 and 20% in Q4 of 2021– a full 21 months of enhanced support. It has only been possible to offer this level of support for such an extended period of time, partly by drawing on the Board’s own reserves, but largely thanks to the generous support that we have received from the Representative Body of Church in Wales. This clearly demonstrates how the whole Church continues to work together and support each other through these most difficult times.In addition to agreeing the 20% rebate for Q4 of 2021, the DBF have also set the Ministry Share level for 2022. Due to the lack of attendance data, the DBF have made the decision that Ministry Share figures will again be rolled over from 2020 with a 2% increase to reflect the 2% stipend increase. Individual correspondence with each parish will be sent out in the usual way in due course. All Things Considered – Ty Mawr The Sunday morning BBC Wales Radio programme, ‘All Things Considered’, focussed last Sunday on our own Ty Mawr, the Anglican Contemplative Community just outside Monmouth that many of you will know. It provided a lovely insight into their life and calling with some beautiful singing as well. For those of you who missed it, or who would like to listen to it again, the link is https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000zrzvContacting the Diocesan Office We are in the process of having our phone system switched to a new contract meaning the office phone lines are temporarily unavailable. Staff are still contactable via email and mobile numbers listed here. For general enquiries please call Libby on 07508 801511Flourish September – Caring for Creation Join Bishop Cherry Vann and others from across the Diocese of Monmouth and beyond, as they talk about what caring for creation means to them. In this edition, we hear from a farmer talking about harvest; young Christians joining together to raise awareness of climate crisis by walking from Cornwall to Glasgow (in time for Cop26 – the UN Climate Change Summit); Revd Becca Stevens, who updates us with what’s happening across the wider Church in Wales and also how we can all do our little bit to help, while Revd Tim Clements, Rural Life Advisor, gives us an insight into this very special type of ministry.Same-sex: Civil Marriage or Civil Partnership Blessing Liturgy for the Blessing of a Same-sex Civil Marriage or Civil Partnership has been published today for use from 1st October. Read more here.  Conference 2021 We are pleased to announce this year’s Conference will be held digitally. Papers for Conference have been posted out to members, if you haven’t received them please email monmouthadministration@churchinwales.org.uk Thank-you to members who have already registered their attendance, if you haven’t already done so please click here Only those who register will receive the zoom link to be able to participate. If you wish to attend Conference as an observer, a YouTube link be sent out by email and social media in the coming weeks.Together for Our PlanetThe National Lottery are offering from £1,000 to £10,000 of funding to support communities across the UK to take action on climate change.Projects should reflect what matters to your community and can be small in scale. They could cover an area like:foodtransportenergywaste and consumptionthe natural environment.You do notneed to be an expert in any of these areas to apply. They’re particularly interested to hear from people starting to think about taking action on climate change in their communities. Application Deadline: 5pm on 18th of NovemberTo help answer any questions you may have about the Together for Our Planet funding programme, including the criteria and what they are hoping to fund a webinar was held on Tuesday 21st of September, you can view the presentation from the webinar here.Training and EventsWhy should Christians Campaign?’ event happening during the Great Big Green Week A Rocha are looking forward to joining communities across the UK and contributing ourselves to the Great Big Green Week (18 – 26 September). The week is organised by The Climate Coalition, of which A Rocha UK is a member. It will have a particular focus on the links between climate change and nature and be the biggest event for climate and nature ever in the UK. The week will be an opportunity to raise the profile of climate change and how it is affecting nature and people, and the places we love, right here in the UK and across the world. You can sign up here to receive notifications for events happening near you.  On 24 September,  A Rocha UK are inviting their supporters to meet online for a first pilot ‘Campaign Friday’ event. Experienced campaigner (and also CEO of A Rocha UK), Andy Atkins will speak on why Christians should campaign; they’ll point towards some key nature related campaigns; and – for those who want – take part in them right there and then! More info and event sign up can be found on the Eventbrite page here.Calling ConversationsThe next session is about Vocations in the Workplace and is on the 28th of September. Join the session here.The St Deiniol Lectures – Monday October 4, 7pm  Professor John Clarke, Professor Emeritus in the History of Ideas, Kingston University, London, on:   “Mysticism: its Relevance Today”  followed by open discussion   at Itton Village Hall, NP16 6BP Itton Road, Chepstow (B4293)     To allow for Covid safety measures, please pre-book with Anne Octon (01291 641918; anneocton@gmail.com)   NB: Please wear masks on entry to the hall – you can remove them once seated.Please email office@stpaulsnewport.org.uk or phone 01633 266076 to book a seat. Email SarahRobinson@churchinwales.org.uk for more details. Music for Mission and Ministry Music for Mission and Ministry is designed primarily for Anglican clergy, Readers and Lay Leaders, but is open to anyone who wants to deepen their understanding about the use and management of music in worship. It is a carefully targeted course, providing practical guidance for parish music situations of all types, since the principles are generic and the application of them is part of the topic of the course. RSCM are holding the next course from the 19th to 21st of October. Find out more here.Lift up your Voice – Bristol – Saturday 23 October, 2–5pm   Workshops for churches with limited musical resources.   Come and be encouraged about making music with your congregation. Miles Quick, former RSCM Head of Congregational & Instrumental Music, will unpack strategies and share resources to help you think creatively about how you can incorporate music into your church’s worship, however limited the possibilities might seem.   To find out more and to book your place, click here.   Hosted at the church of St Thomas the Martyr, Bristol. In association with The Churches Conservation Trust.The Healing Potential of the Hybrid Church – 30th October, 10.30 – 13.00 In this workshop, we explore what church worship and the healing potential of ministry looks like as we emerge from lockdown and have a blended approach of an online and offline communities. With expert input from a range of specialists, we will together consider the opportunities of the hybrid church to offer hope and healing to our traumatised communities. We will also explore how our churches can learn from the digital world and the communities themselves in order to grow the Kingdom in the world we find ourselves in today.   Online booking: https://gohealth.org.uk/shop/booking/the-healing-potential-of-the-hybrid-church-live-streaming-booking/?category=allServices and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Nations’ Climate Sunday Service: Churches Prepare for COP26 – Live Stream Recording Available The Nations’ Climate Sunday Service was held on 5 September 2021 at Glasgow Cathedral. The service was a partnership between Climate Sunday (an initiative of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland), Glasgow Cathedral and Glasgow Churches Together.  You can now watch a recording of the livestream on the Climate Sunday website here.  It’s not too late to hold a Climate Sunday service! Monmouth Diocese is designating October 3rd as our Climate Sunday. We have chosen the Sunday closest to the Feast of St Francis of Assisi and the end of Creationtide that runs through September. There are some excellent resources on the website at www.climatesunday.org to help you to plan for worship and other activities. Make sure you register your service on the Climate Sunday website. This will ensure that your church can be counted in the total commitment from churches across the UK, which will be presented at COP26 to the UK government.   Esgobaeth Mynwy Gwasanaethau Cymraeg Hydref 2021 Hydref / October 12th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth 7pm / y.h., St Mary Magor Harvest Festival / Diolchgarwch am y Cynhaeaf Sight Loss SundayFind out more at sightlossfriendlychurch.org.uk/slsunday Vacancies House for Duty Priest – Monmouth Ministry Area  Monmouth Ministry Area are looking for a collaborative and caring priest with a genuine passion for working with others, lay and ordained in a beautiful part of Wales.Based in the lovely village of Llanishen and primarily working with 4 churches around that area, you will also be part of the Ministry Team covering the new Ministry Area of Monmouth which has 19 churches.They hope for a Priest who will be:Caring – has a strong pastoral heart and passion for encouraging the members of each of the congregations in discipleshipCollaborative in nature – working well with the Ministry Team, lay and ordained, within the Ministry Area and is a good team playerCommunity focused – being a visible presence in the Ministry AreaEngaging – has energy and commitment to engage with the local communities and is sympathetic to the needs of rural communities For an informal conversation please contact The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on 07983 684151  or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing date for applications: 18th October 2021 Interviews will be held early in November Click here for more details and the application form. Ministry Team – East Cardiff (3 Posts)  East Cardiff Ministry Area are forming a new creative and collaborative Ministry Team, who will help us to grow in our united mission to serve the communities of East Cardiff. Our goal is for each member of our team to work to their strengths, bring their own complementary gifts and skills and, we pray, to flourish in their own ministry and vocation.  Post 1: Vicar for Liturgy and WorshipAre you someone who:Has a deep and mature spirituality rooted in the sacraments?Values the breadth of worshipping traditions across the Anglican Church?Has relevant experience developing vibrant liturgy which draws on sources both ancient and modern?Our new Vicar for Liturgy and Worship will help us to develop a vibrant and diverse worship and prayer life, taking full responsibility for coordinating public worship across the Ministry Area.  Post 2: Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral CareAre you someone who:Has a pastoral heart, sensitive to the needs of others?Is passionate about the occasional offices as an opportunity for hospitality, mission and faith formation?Has experience providing one-to-one pastoral care and developing a team of pastoral visitors?Our new Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral Care will help us to develop our inclusive welcome, ensuring all are able to belong fully to the life of the Church. They will take full responsibility for co-ordinating pastoral care across the Ministry Area.  Post 3: Priest for Children, Families and CommunityAre you someone who:Has a servant’s heart, with a community focused and strengths-based outlook?Believes in the profound goodness of children, even the most challenging, and has experience of youth and/or schools ministry?Is deeply loving, inclusive and affirming with a highly effective understanding of the challenges and opportunities in urban communities?St Teilo’s, the largest Anglican school in the Province of Wales, is at the heart of the new East Cardiff Ministry Area. Together, we are seeking to develop creative and deeply Christian partnerships within and between St Teilo’s and the East Cardiff Ministry Area, our Church in Wales primary schools and other local schools.Our new Priest for Children, Families and Community will help us to create projects and initiatives focused on wholeness and wellbeing in our schools and local communities, with a particular focus on the poor and vulnerable. They will explore and encourage discipleship by growing opportunities for prayer, hospitality and service.The salary for the post will be a little over £38,000 and will increase with inflation in line with JNC pay awards. The post is subject to membership of the national Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). For an informal conversation on any of these posts, please contact Reverend James Henley, Ministry Area Leader on 02920 752138 or james.henley@gmail.com For the recruitment pack and applications forms please click here. Applications should be submitted by email to: james.henley@gmail.com Closing date for applications: Friday 15th October 2021 Verger and Sacristan (full-time) Applications are invited for the Cathedral Verger and Sacristan. This is a key position in the functioning of the Cathedral. The verger holds the space and is an ambassador to all who come. Salary package: 23,000 plus 10% to the approved pension scheme. Newport is the gateway to South Wales with excellent road and rail links. Closing date for applications is 12noon Friday 8th October 2021. Application is by submitting the completed application form which includes a confidential declaration – a CV substitute is not sufficient. In addition please write a letter of application stating how you meet the requirements of the post. Completed applications by email to deanofnewport@churchinwales.org.uk by 12noon on 8th October 2021. Interviews will be on Friday 5th November 2021. Further details and application form can be downloaded here.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

NewsAdvent CourseI am delighted to commend a short, three session course for study groups to use during the season of Advent. Exploring the bible and sharing our faith, our doubts, our experience and our questions together is a wonderful way to grow in our Christian discipleship.Our Director of Ministry, Archdeacon Ian says, “Pre-empting the Church in Wales’ year of biblical literacy in 2022, this 3 session Advent course is being produced in the diocese. Resources will be available early in November from the website or can be emailed out and the discussions for each session can be held in person or online. The sessions will look at biblical passages relating to ‘Waiting for Jesus’, ‘Trusting in Jesus’ and ‘Committing to Jesus’”.This is an excellent way for us to prepare our hearts and minds for the season of Christmas. Do use this resource as part of your journey through Advent.Conference 2021 We are pleased to announce this year’s Conference will be held digitally. Papers for Conference have been posted out to members this week. If you wish to attend Conference as an observer, a YouTube link be sent out by email and social media in the coming weeks.Together for Our PlanetThe National Lottery are offering from £1,000 to £10,000 of funding to support communities across the UK to take action on climate change.Projects should reflect what matters to your community and can be small in scale. They could cover an area like:foodtransportenergywaste and consumptionthe natural environment.You do notneed to be an expert in any of these areas to apply. They’re particularly interested to hear from people starting to think about taking action on climate change in their communities. Application Deadline: 5pm on 18th of NovemberTo help answer any questions you may have about the Together for Our Planet funding programme, including the criteria and what they are hoping to fund a webinar is being held on Tuesday 21st of September at 11am. Sign p for the webinar and find out more about the grant here.Training and EventsAre you attending the Abergavenny Food Festival this weekend?A warm welcome awaits you at St Mary’s Priory Church in the heart of Abergavenny!    Over the Food Festival Weekend St Mary’s will be open to welcome visitors and pilgrims from across the Diocese and beyond.  Come and see the world-famous 15th century Jesse carving, featured recently on BBC 2’s History of Art in Wales,  the exquisitely restored medieval monuments in the Herbert Chapel and the wonderful art of our Artist-in-Residence Jeremy Thomas, portraying over twenty-five different scenes from the gospels and copies of the art are on sale in Jeremy’s studio in the Tithe Barn.   Explore the peace and quiet of the Abbot’s Garden and enjoy fresh Fair Trade coffee and homemade cakes in our pop-up coffee shop in the medieval Tithe Barn.  Here you can also see our Millennium Tapestry and visit our exhibition about the history of the Priory and the community that once lived, worked and prayed here.   Outside in the Priory Courtyard, Made in Monmouthshire are running an Art Village with exquisite work by local artists and craftspeople for sale.   On Sunday 19th, the Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity the following services take place at St Mary’s   8.00am Holy Eucharist 11.00am The Priory Eucharist, with St Mary’s Priory Choir, featuring Mozart’s Missa Brevis;  ‘Day by Day’ by Martin How and ‘From all that dwell’ by Walmisley. 5.00pm Choral Evensong, sung by the renowned choir Academia Musica from Hereford.  Responses, Gibbons; Canticles, Brewer in D; Anthem, Rejoice in the Lord always, anon. We look forward to welcoming you!    Fr John Connell SCP, Rector of AbergavennyRSCM International Chorister Day Event Sunday 19th September, Newport Cathedral, 2-6pm   The Royal School of Church Music is organising “International Chorister Day” as a way of celebrating the opportunities that being a chorister provides.   The official event for SE Wales will be at Newport Cathedral: come and “be a chorister for an afternoon”!   An afternoon of singing, musical activities and games and refreshments, ending with a service (which parents are welcome to attend)    Start time – 2pm Closing act of worship – 5pm Contact for more details – Emma Gibbins   07952 514117 / emmagibbins1978@gmail.com   You can register for a place here:  https://www.rscm.org.uk/courses/icd-wales/Diocesan Healing ServiceWe’re pleased to announce the next Diocesan Healing Services on Wednesday 22nd September at 7.30pm. This service will be led by Bishop Cherry and Rev. James Henley with Bishop Cherry delivering the sermon. Healing and Reconciliation lie at the heart of our Christian faith and we invite you to join us in drawing nearer to Christ and opening ourselves to the grace of the Holy Spirit. Book you place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/diocesan-healing-service-registration-169638245559Why should Christians Campaign?’ event happening during the Great Big Green Week A Rocha are looking forward to joining communities across the UK and contributing ourselves to the Great Big Green Week (18 – 26 September). The week is organised by The Climate Coalition, of which A Rocha UK is a member. It will have a particular focus on the links between climate change and nature and be the biggest event for climate and nature ever in the UK. The week will be an opportunity to raise the profile of climate change and how it is affecting nature and people, and the places we love, right here in the UK and across the world. You can sign up here to receive notifications for events happening near you.  On 24 September,  A Rocha UK are inviting their supporters to meet online for a first pilot ‘Campaign Friday’ event. Experienced campaigner (and also CEO of A Rocha UK), Andy Atkins will speak on why Christians should campaign; they’ll point towards some key nature related campaigns; and – for those who want – take part in them right there and then! More info and event sign up can be found on the Eventbrite page here.Calling ConversationsThe next session is about Vocations in the Workplace and is on the 28th of September. Join the session here.The St Deiniol Lectures – Monday October 4, 7pm  Professor John Clarke, Professor Emeritus in the History of Ideas, Kingston University, London, on:   “Mysticism: its Relevance Today”  followed by open discussion   at Itton Village Hall, NP16 6BP Itton Road, Chepstow (B4293)     To allow for Covid safety measures, please pre-book with Anne Octon (01291 641918; anneocton@gmail.com)   NB: Please wear masks on entry to the hall – you can remove them once seated.Email SarahRobinson@churchinwales.org.uk for more details.Services and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Nations’ Climate Sunday Service: Churches Prepare for COP26 – Live Stream Recording Available The Nations’ Climate Sunday Service was held on 5 September 2021 at Glasgow Cathedral. The service was a partnership between Climate Sunday (an initiative of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland), Glasgow Cathedral and Glasgow Churches Together.  You can now watch a recording of the livestream on the Climate Sunday website here.  It’s not too late to hold a Climate Sunday service! Monmouth Diocese is designating October 3rd as our Climate Sunday. We have chosen the Sunday closest to the Feast of St Francis of Assisi and the end of Creationtide that runs through September. There are some excellent resources on the website at www.climatesunday.org to help you to plan for worship and other activities. Make sure you register your service on the Climate Sunday website. This will ensure that your church can be counted in the total commitment from churches across the UK, which will be presented at COP26 to the UK government.   Esgobaeth MynwyGwasanaethau Cymraeg Medi 2021 – Awst 2022 Date DyddiadTime AmserVenue LleoliaethService & Theme Gwasanaeth & ThemaMedi September 11th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas MonmouthEucharist EwcharistHydref October 12th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth7pm / y.h.St Mary, MagorHarvest Festival Diolchgarwch am y CynhaeafTachwedd November 13th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas MonmouthEucharist: Remembrance Ewcharist:  Sul y GofioRhagfyr December 14th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth10.30 am /y.b.St John, Maindee, NewportEucharist: Advent Ewcharist: AdfentIonawr January 8th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn5 pm /y.h.Cathedral CadeirlanPlygainChwefror February 8th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth7 pm / y.h.St Mary, MagorEucharist EwcharistMawrth March 12th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist EwcharistEbrill April 26th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth10.30 am / y.b.St John, Maindee, NewportEucharist EwcharistMai May 8th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am / y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist EwcharistMehefin June 15th Wednesday / Deydd Mercher6.30pm / y.h.Cathedral CadeirlanChoral Evensong Hwyrol WeddiGorfennaf July 9th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist  EwcharistAwst August 9thtbcIslwyn Ministry Area  tbcGymanfa GanuMedi September 10th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist  EwcharistSight Loss SundayFind out more at sightlossfriendlychurch.org.uk/slsundayVacanciesHouse for Duty Priest – Monmouth Ministry Area  Monmouth Ministry Area are looking for a collaborative and caring priest with a genuine passion for working with others, lay and ordained in a beautiful part of Wales.Based in the lovely village of Llanishen and primarily working with 4 churches around that area, you will also be part of the Ministry Team covering the new Ministry Area of Monmouth which has 19 churches.They hope for a Priest who will be:Caring – has a strong pastoral heart and passion for encouraging the members of each of the congregations in discipleshipCollaborative in nature – working well with the Ministry Team, lay and ordained, within the Ministry Area and is a good team playerCommunity focused – being a visible presence in the Ministry AreaEngaging – has energy and commitment to engage with the local communities and is sympathetic to the needs of rural communities For an informal conversation please contact The Venerable Ian Rees, Archdeacon of Monmouth on 07983 684151  or archdeacon.monmouth@churchinwales.org.uk Closing date for applications: 18th October 2021 Interviews will be held early in November Click here for more details and the application form.Ministry Team – East Cardiff (3 Posts)  East Cardiff Ministry Area are forming a new creative and collaborative Ministry Team, who will help us to grow in our united mission to serve the communities of East Cardiff. Our goal is for each member of our team to work to their strengths, bring their own complementary gifts and skills and, we pray, to flourish in their own ministry and vocation.  Post 1: Vicar for Liturgy and WorshipAre you someone who:Has a deep and mature spirituality rooted in the sacraments?Values the breadth of worshipping traditions across the Anglican Church?Has relevant experience developing vibrant liturgy which draws on sources both ancient and modern?Our new Vicar for Liturgy and Worship will help us to develop a vibrant and diverse worship and prayer life, taking full responsibility for coordinating public worship across the Ministry Area.  Post 2: Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral CareAre you someone who:Has a pastoral heart, sensitive to the needs of others?Is passionate about the occasional offices as an opportunity for hospitality, mission and faith formation?Has experience providing one-to-one pastoral care and developing a team of pastoral visitors?Our new Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral Care will help us to develop our inclusive welcome, ensuring all are able to belong fully to the life of the Church. They will take full responsibility for co-ordinating pastoral care across the Ministry Area.  Post 3: Priest for Children, Families and CommunityAre you someone who:Has a servant’s heart, with a community focused and strengths-based outlook?Believes in the profound goodness of children, even the most challenging, and has experience of youth and/or schools ministry?Is deeply loving, inclusive and affirming with a highly effective understanding of the challenges and opportunities in urban communities?St Teilo’s, the largest Anglican school in the Province of Wales, is at the heart of the new East Cardiff Ministry Area. Together, we are seeking to develop creative and deeply Christian partnerships within and between St Teilo’s and the East Cardiff Ministry Area, our Church in Wales primary schools and other local schools.Our new Priest for Children, Families and Community will help us to create projects and initiatives focused on wholeness and wellbeing in our schools and local communities, with a particular focus on the poor and vulnerable. They will explore and encourage discipleship by growing opportunities for prayer, hospitality and service.The salary for the post will be a little over £38,000 and will increase with inflation in line with JNC pay awards. The post is subject to membership of the national Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). For an informal conversation on any of these posts, please contact Reverend James Henley, Ministry Area Leader on 02920 752138 or james.henley@gmail.com For the recruitment pack and applications forms please click here. Applications should be submitted by email to: james.henley@gmail.com Closing date for applications: Friday 15th October 2021Canon ResidentiaryThe Dean in consultation with the Bishop wishes to appoint a full-time Residentiary Canon for Newport Cathedral.This is an exciting time to join Newport Cathedral as a new team is being formed.The role is both pastor and missioner: to develop the life and faith of the congregation as well as look beyond to draw in new people and broaden the demographic balance. This will also involve nurturing a rich combination of the existing and new styles of worship that will underpin the Cathedral’s life and witness.We are looking for a mission-minded, open, relational and engaging person, someone who can think beyond the established, while working within it.Newport is the gateway to South Wales with excellent road and rail links.Closing date for applications is 12noon Friday 24th September 2021.Interviews over Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st October 2021 (both days).For further details and application form: www.newportcathedral.org.uk/vacanciesVerger and Sacristan (full-time) Applications are invited for the Cathedral Verger and Sacristan. This is a key position in the functioning of the Cathedral. The verger holds the space and is an ambassador to all who come. Salary package: 23,000 plus 10% to the approved pension scheme. Newport is the gateway to South Wales with excellent road and rail links. Closing date for applications is 12noon Friday 8th October 2021. Application is by submitting the completed application form which includes a confidential declaration – a CV substitute is not sufficient. In addition please write a letter of application stating how you meet the requirements of the post. Completed applications by email to deanofnewport@churchinwales.org.uk by 12noon on 8th October 2021. Interviews will be on Friday 5th November 2021. Further details and application form can be downloaded here.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

NewsConference 2021 We are pleased to announce this year’s Conference will be held digitally. Papers for Conference will be posted out to members next week. If you wish to attend Conference as an observer, a YouTube link be sent out by email and social media in the coming weeks.Church approves blessing service for same-sex partnerships Same-sex couples will be able to have their civil partnership or marriage blessed in Church in Wales churches for the first time after new legislation was passed this week.A Bill to authorise a service of blessing was approved by members of the Church’s Governing Body at its meeting. It was passed by the necessary two-thirds majority in each order of the three orders – Bishops, clergy and laity.The service will be used experimentally for five years and it will be up to individual clergy to decide whether or not they wish to lead it.The service is for a blessing only as same-sex couples are unable to marry in church.The Bill was introduced by the Bishops, following an indication from Governing Body members that it was “pastorally unsustainable” for the Church to make no formal provision for those in committed same-sex relationships. Responding to the vote, the Bishop of St Asaph, Gregory Cameron, who introduced the Bill, said, “I come out of this debate with no sense of triumph but believing that the Church in Wales has done the right thing under God for the LGBTQIA+ community. The Church has spoken decisively today in favour of blessings.“There is a journey still to be taken but I hope that we can do it together with all the wings of the Church.”  The Bishops passed the Bill unanimously, the clergy by 28 to 12 with two abstentions and the laity by 49 to 10 with one abstention.The discussion and vote was held on the first day of the Governing Body meeting at the International Convention Centre Wales in Newport.Watch the live stream of the meetingDownload the agenda and reportsMore information about the meetingSenior Bishop urges church to respond to new challengesThe Covid pandemic had changed the “landscape of life” and raised questions about what was essential in a way hardly seen before, the Senior Bishop of the Church in Wales said this week.In his keynote address as President of the Church’s Governing Body, at the start of its two-day meeting, Bishop Andy John urged the Church to look for God in the changing world and respond to new challenges.The impact of Covid on the economy and our national well-being had been profound, he said. He thanked all those who had cared for others in nursing and care homes and hospitals, and praised churches for being “light on their feet”, discovering new, online ways of being church and finding innovative ways to serve the community.External events had always shaped Christian purpose, he said, stressing, “What is significant has never been the size of the challenge but the scale of the faithful response.”Bishop Andy, who is also the Bishop of Bangor, warned that organisations failing to adapt to changes ran the risk of “fossilization”.He said, “Being incapable of responding to new challenges means a lack of freedom to discover what God is doing all around us. We can imagine what kind of church we would have been had our forebears remained ambivalent about slavery and not developed a fuller understanding of the value of humanity made in the image of God. Or what would we have been had we not grasped the matter of women being called to the priesthood and episcopate?”Addressing members concerned about a Bill being debated at the Governing Body meeting to authorise a service of blessing for same-sex partnerships, Bishop Andy acknowledged a change would be painful for those who regarded it a departure from Christ’s word.He said, “But every development is to some degree a departure; something changes whenever there is a new expression of practice. And even when such a change appears consonant with a stated position, it is nevertheless a change. When the church changed its position on forbidding meat with blood in it or saw that slavery in all and any form was wicked, there was change.“The ‘authority of the eternal yesterday’ must not be a millstone around our necks but provide a basis for a courageous embrace of what God is doing in the world around us. Mission always lies at the heart of faith. And being alive to God, to what might happen next, is part of remaining curious and open to new opportunity.”The Bishops, he said, were in the process of addressing deep issues of the future of the Church – both its structure and mission – to ensure it was mission focused and fit for purpose.He praised the Church in Wales’ transformation of its traditional parish system into Ministry and Mission Areas. The new platforms kept what was good about parishes while also allowing new expressions of church to be embraced, he said.“As diverse expressions of church become more normal, there will be new questions still about how we grow vocations – to the priesthood, and also lay leaders who will offer the support and direction needed. But we ought to be in no doubt that the hybrid, mixed ecology (or economy) of church life is here to stay and is across the whole of Wales.”Urging members to look for God through the changes happening around them, Bishop Andy concluded, “To see our task like this is to be open to what God has prepared for those who love him. It is to see the task through Christ’s eyes and to be set free to do what is truly important.” Read the full Presidential address here.Vice-Chancellor is new chair of Church’s trusteesA university vice-chancellor is to take up a senior role in the Church in Wales.Professor Medwin Hughes, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), is to be the new chair of the Church’s trustees, its Representative Body (the RB).Wales’ longest serving university vice-chancellor, Prof Hughes will take over the role from James Turner who is retiring in December after nine years.Announcing the news at a meeting of the Church’s Governing Body this week, Mr Turner described Professor Hughes as a “man of enormous ability”. He said, “Medwin’s career accomplishments are very impressive indeed and just summarising them here would do him a disservice. Suffice it to say he is a man of enormous ability and with a wealth of professional experience that will be tremendously useful to both the RB and the Church in Wales more generally.”Welcoming the news, the Senior Bishop, Andy John, said, “This is an excellent appointment. Medwin brings a wealth of academic and institutional experience but with a track record of management change. A hopeful, radical [MA1] agenda for this next period of our life is wholly welcome and I am sure Medwin will help lead us forward as a church. The bishops look forward to working with him closely in the near future.”Professor Hughes, a former member of the Church’s Governing Body, said, “I am delighted to be chosen as chair of the RB. This is an exciting time of transformation within the Church in Wales. I look forward to working with key stakeholders across the Church as we continue to ensure that resources are available for the benefit of the Church across Wales.”Simon Lloyd, chief executive of the Church, added, “Medwin will bring a wealth of experience to the role as well as the benefit of his long involvement in the life of the Church in Wales. I very much look forward to working with him.”Passing on the baton, Mr Turner warned that membership of the RB was not for the faint-hearted. He said, “I wish Medwin all the very best and assure him of my prayers as he takes on this extremely interesting role, which I’m sure he will enjoy very much. I would also like to thank all the members of the RB and its committees with whom I’ve served – being a member of the RB is not for the faint-hearted and their commitment and diligence over the years has been much appreciated. I have also enjoyed the support and wisdom of many members of staff and I extend my thanks to all of them.” Read more here.Ministry Team Training Day – 5th October Ministry Area Leaders are coordinating attendance for our upcoming Ministry Team Training Day. This is an important formation opportunity for ministry teams that will help equip and resource you for working together in ways that will release the gifts and skills of each of the members. Its aim is to support the team in working as well as it can and modelling something that is complimentary, collaborative and fruitful.Free trees for churchesIf you want to help Wales reach its net zero carbon targets, you could branch out and plant some trees. From a hedge to a working wood, Llinos Humphreys, from Coed Cadw – the Woodland Trust in Wales – describes what’s on offer for churches in a free tree scheme.Coed Cadw wants to see trees and green spaces close to everyone, and to that end, wants to give everybody in Wales the chance to plant a tree. That’s why it gives away thousands of trees every year to schools, colleges, universities, community groups and churches through its Free Trees For Schools and Communities scheme.The UK needs millions more trees to reach its carbon net-zero target by 2050. And as churches often have plenty of publicly accessible land, they are the perfect place to start. The good news is, it couldn’t be easier to get involved.Coed Cadw’s Free Trees for Schools and Communities scheme offers Free Trees packs in a variety of sizes from 15 to 420 trees; these include mixed species packs with different options to suit your specific site needs. For instance, you could pick an ‘urban’ tree pack, designed for residential areas with limited communal space; a ‘wildlife’ pack, to help provide food and shelter for wildlife and create a living legacy for future generations; or a ‘hedge’ pack to create a natural screen, or connect with existing woodland to help wildlife stay on the move. Other options include a ‘wild harvest’ pack, to provide an array of fruits and nuts for making your own jams, jellies, or wines; and even a ‘working wood’ pack which could provide fuel for a log burner in 7-10 years.Read more and find out how to apply here.Training and EventsOpen Doors – Newport Cathedral – tomorrow!Visit Newport Cathedral on the 11th of September as part of the Cadw Open Doors event. The Cathedral will be open 10am – 4pm with a free concert at midday and a talk about the history of the magnificent Norman building. Refreshments will be available and the shop will be open. Find out more here.RSCM International Chorister Day Event Sunday 19th September, Newport Cathedral, 2-6pm   The Royal School of Church Music is organising “International Chorister Day” as a way of celebrating the opportunities that being a chorister provides.   The official event for SE Wales will be at Newport Cathedral: come and “be a chorister for an afternoon”!   An afternoon of singing, musical activities and games and refreshments, ending with a service (which parents are welcome to attend)    Start time – 2pm Closing act of worship – 5pm Contact for more details – Emma Gibbins   07952 514117 / emmagibbins1978@gmail.com   You can register for a place here:  https://www.rscm.org.uk/courses/icd-wales/Diocesan Healing ServiceWe’re pleased to announce the next Diocesan Healing Services on Wednesday 22nd September at 7.30pm. This service will be led by Bishop Cherry and Rev. James Henley with Bishop Cherry delivering the sermon. Healing and Reconciliation lie at the heart of our Christian faith and we invite you to join us in drawing nearer to Christ and opening ourselves to the grace of the Holy Spirit. Book you place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/diocesan-healing-service-registration-169638245559Calling ConversationsThe next session is about Vocations in the Workplace and is on the 28th of September. Join the session here.Email SarahRobinson@churchinwales.org.uk for more details.Certificate in Pastoral Supervision and Reflective Practice Gloucestershire Spiritual Direction Trust is inviting interest from spiritual directors, clergy and pastoral workers in the surrounding area for an exciting programme of learning newly available in this area starting in November 2021. The venue in Chipping Sodbury, South Gloucestershire, has good road (M4 & M5) and rail links with Bristol at Yate railway station.  Module 1: 3 days 29 Nov –  1 Dec 2021Introduction to Pastoral Supervision & Reflective PracticeModule 2: 3 days 7 – 9 Feb 2022Behind the Words – beneath the surface: theoretical Frameworks and PracticeModule 3: 3 days 4 – 6 April 2022Integrating Learning and Practice The certificate is validated by The Institute of Pastoral Supervision & Reflective Practice (https://www.ipsrp.org.uk/) and comprises 3 modules delivered face to face over a 6 month period: Individual practical learning is achieved through offering supervision to at least twosupervisees or a group during the course. The course will be led by two experienced tutors in this field, Fr Tony Nolan and Revd. Bob Whorton The combined course fee for the modules and practical supervision will be £1098.00. A number of bursaries are available to successful applicants for up to 50% of course fees. INTERESTED? Contact Chris Mason on 07749 903 658 or revd.chris.mason@gmail.com  for further information and/or an application form. The deadline for receiving completed applications is Friday 17th September 2021  Services and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Esgobaeth MynwyGwasanaethau Cymraeg Medi 2021 – Awst 2022 Date DyddiadTime AmserVenue LleoliaethService & Theme Gwasanaeth & ThemaMedi September 11th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas MonmouthEucharist EwcharistHydref October 12th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth7pm / y.h.St Mary, MagorHarvest Festival Diolchgarwch am y CynhaeafTachwedd November 13th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas MonmouthEucharist: Remembrance Ewcharist:  Sul y GofioRhagfyr December 14th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth10.30 am /y.b.St John, Maindee, NewportEucharist: Advent Ewcharist: AdfentIonawr January 8th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn5 pm /y.h.Cathedral CadeirlanPlygainChwefror February 8th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth7 pm / y.h.St Mary, MagorEucharist EwcharistMawrth March 12th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist EwcharistEbrill April 26th Tuesday / Dydd Mawrth10.30 am / y.b.St John, Maindee, NewportEucharist EwcharistMai May 8th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am / y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist EwcharistMehefin June 15th Wednesday / Deydd Mercher6.30pm / y.h.Cathedral CadeirlanChoral Evensong Hwyrol WeddiGorfennaf July 9th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist  EwcharistAwst August 9thtbcIslwyn Ministry Area  tbcGymanfa GanuMedi September 10th Saturday / Dydd Sadwrn9.30 am /y.b.St Thomas, MonmouthEucharist  EwcharistSight Loss SundayFind out more at sightlossfriendlychurch.org.uk/slsundayKneelers Available! St Grwst’s Church in Llanrwst in the Diocese of St Asaph completed a major £1.2m restoration and reordering project last year, part of which involved removing the pews and replacing them with chairs.   Previously they had had kneelers in church, which feature tapestry designs of the six Welsh diocese, and they have 22 Diocese of Monmouth kneelers left which we are looking for a home for. If you would be interested please contact Jon Richmond – saintgrwstchurch@gmail.com / 07936 973476VacanciesMinistry Team – East Cardiff (3 Posts)  East Cardiff Ministry Area are forming a new creative and collaborative Ministry Team, who will help us to grow in our united mission to serve the communities of East Cardiff. Our goal is for each member of our team to work to their strengths, bring their own complementary gifts and skills and, we pray, to flourish in their own ministry and vocation.  Post 1: Vicar for Liturgy and WorshipAre you someone who:Has a deep and mature spirituality rooted in the sacraments?Values the breadth of worshipping traditions across the Anglican Church?Has relevant experience developing vibrant liturgy which draws on sources both ancient and modern?Our new Vicar for Liturgy and Worship will help us to develop a vibrant and diverse worship and prayer life, taking full responsibility for coordinating public worship across the Ministry Area.  Post 2: Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral CareAre you someone who:Has a pastoral heart, sensitive to the needs of others?Is passionate about the occasional offices as an opportunity for hospitality, mission and faith formation?Has experience providing one-to-one pastoral care and developing a team of pastoral visitors?Our new Vicar for Belonging and Pastoral Care will help us to develop our inclusive welcome, ensuring all are able to belong fully to the life of the Church. They will take full responsibility for co-ordinating pastoral care across the Ministry Area.  Post 3: Priest for Children, Families and CommunityAre you someone who:Has a servant’s heart, with a community focused and strengths-based outlook?Believes in the profound goodness of children, even the most challenging, and has experience of youth and/or schools ministry?Is deeply loving, inclusive and affirming with a highly effective understanding of the challenges and opportunities in urban communities?St Teilo’s, the largest Anglican school in the Province of Wales, is at the heart of the new East Cardiff Ministry Area. Together, we are seeking to develop creative and deeply Christian partnerships within and between St Teilo’s and the East Cardiff Ministry Area, our Church in Wales primary schools and other local schools.Our new Priest for Children, Families and Community will help us to create projects and initiatives focused on wholeness and wellbeing in our schools and local communities, with a particular focus on the poor and vulnerable. They will explore and encourage discipleship by growing opportunities for prayer, hospitality and service.The salary for the post will be a little over £38,000 and will increase with inflation in line with JNC pay awards. The post is subject to membership of the national Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). For an informal conversation on any of these posts, please contact Reverend James Henley, Ministry Area Leader on 02920 752138 or james.henley@gmail.com For the recruitment pack and applications forms please click here. Applications should be submitted by email to: james.henley@gmail.com Closing date for applications: Friday 15th October 2021Canon ResidentiaryThe Dean in consultation with the Bishop wishes to appoint a full-time Residentiary Canon for Newport Cathedral.This is an exciting time to join Newport Cathedral as a new team is being formed.The role is both pastor and missioner: to develop the life and faith of the congregation as well as look beyond to draw in new people and broaden the demographic balance. This will also involve nurturing a rich combination of the existing and new styles of worship that will underpin the Cathedral’s life and witness.We are looking for a mission-minded, open, relational and engaging person, someone who can think beyond the established, while working within it.Newport is the gateway to South Wales with excellent road and rail links.Closing date for applications is 12noon Friday 24th September 2021.Interviews over Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st October 2021 (both days).For further details and application form: www.newportcathedral.org.uk/vacanciesVerger and Sacristan (full-time) Applications are invited for the Cathedral Verger and Sacristan. This is a key position in the functioning of the Cathedral. The verger holds the space and is an ambassador to all who come. Salary package: 23,000 plus 10% to the approved pension scheme. Newport is the gateway to South Wales with excellent road and rail links. Closing date for applications is 12noon Friday 8th October 2021. Application is by submitting the completed application form which includes a confidential declaration – a CV substitute is not sufficient. In addition please write a letter of application stating how you meet the requirements of the post. Completed applications by email to deanofnewport@churchinwales.org.uk by 12noon on 8th October 2021. Interviews will be on Friday 5th November 2021. Further details and application form can be downloaded here.Diocese of Llandaff Church Buildings Officer  As first point of contact in the Church Buildings team you’ll be working with a variety of people with different needs and you’ll be someone who thrives on helping others develop their ideas and achieve their plans. We’re developing our work around environmental issues and achieving carbon net-zero so you’ll be involved with projects centred around Eco-church, churchyards and energy audits.You’ll be working with churches to encourage them to be open to visitors and the local community, and if you enjoy using social media there’ll be opportunities for you to promote the beautiful buildings.You will need to be good at admin as you’ll be running the systems for church inspections, energy audits and online faculty applications (training will be given in specific systems) and you’ll be someone who’s at ease using MS Office suite and Zoom.This is a full-time permanent post 37.5 hours per week (with occasional need to attend evening or weekend events). Currently mainly working from home. Going forward likely to be working on a hybrid model of home/office working.Salary: £25,800 per annum Closing date: Thursday 16th September Find out more here.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.

Diocese of Monmouth Esgobaeth Mynwy

NewsCollege to elect new bishop ends with no decision The next Bishop of Swansea and Brecon Diocese will be chosen by the Bishops after the Church’s Electoral College ended today (Friday) without a result.No candidate was able to secure the necessary two-thirds majority vote of the College during its full three-day meeting at St Mary’s Church in Swansea.The decision will now be taken by the Bench of Bishops in due course.The President of the Electoral College, Bishop Andy John, said the appointment would be high on the Bishops’ agenda.He said, “Whenever we have engagements like this and there is rigorous debate and close engagement, a decision is a very difficult thing to achieve. As the College hasn’t come to one mind, it has asked the Bench of Bishops to take responsibility for the next appointment. So that is now very high on our agenda. We will be consulting together, both with the diocese and amongst ourselves, in the hope we can provide for the diocese someone who can take it forward. I am really confident that we will be able to do that soon.” Read more here.Coronavirus (Covid-19) GuidanceUpdate: 3 September 2021Following the recent announcement by the Welsh Government concerning face masks at weddings, we have amended our guidance accordingly:Covid 19 Guidance Marriages and Funerals Alert Level 0 3SEPT20 (PDF)Covid 19 Churches Risk Assessment Guidance Alert Level 0 – 3SEPT20 (PDF)Governing Body Meeting – September 6-8Same-sex couples will be able to have their civil partnership or marriage blessed in Church in Wales churches for the first time if new legislation is passed next week.A Bill to authorise a service of blessing will be considered by members of the Church’s Governing Body at its meeting on September 6.It proposes that the service be used experimentally for five years and that it will be up to individual clergy to decide whether or not they wish to lead it.The service is for a blessing only as same-sex couples are unable to marry in church.The Bill is being introduced by the Bishops, following an indication from Governing Body members that it was now “pastorally unsustainable” for the Church to make no formal provision for those in committed same-sex relationships.In the Explanatory Memoradum they say, “Approval of this rite would be stating that the Church in Wales accepts that the loving and faithful commitment of two persons of the same sex, aspiring to life-long fidelity and mutual comfort, and who have made a commitment in civil partnership or marriage, is worthy of acceptance by the Church by asking God’s blessing upon their commitment.”While recognising that the Bill is controversial, they describe it as a “step on the way towards repentance of a history in the Church which has demonised and persecuted gay and lesbian people, forcing them into fear, dishonesty and sometimes even hypocrisy, and which has precluded them from living publicly and honestly lives of committed partnership.”The bishops are urging Governing Body members to debate the Bill in a respectful and dignified way, acknowledging that it will raise difficult issues of faith and belief. They have issued a set of ‘Pastoral Principles’ intended to guide people towards thoughtful and considerate discussions.Introducing them they say, “There can be no room for seeking to undermine sincerely held views. Neither should we seek to walk away from each other. Our union in Christ is at the heart of our life and the bonds and character of our baptism hold us together; sharing a commitment to each other as together we seek the Kingdom of God. We hope these materials will stimulate this quality of engagement.”The Bill will be voted on in all three orders of the Governing Body – the Bishops, the clergy and the laity. It will need to achieve a two-thirds majority in each order for it to be passed.The discussion and vote will be held on the first day of the Governing Body meeting which takes place on September 6 at the International Convention Centre Wales in Newport and will be live-streamed via a link on the Church in Wales website and Youtube channel. The second day of the meeting will take place online only, via Zoom, on Wednesday, September 8 and will also be live-streamed.Other items on the agenda include:An address by the President, the Bishop of Bangor Andy JohnAn update on the Church’s progress to its carbon zero targetA plenary discussion on how the Church should emerge from Covid-19A presentation on resources for ‘life events’, such as christenings, weddings and funerals, with Canon Dr Sandra Millar, head of life events for the Church of EnglandAn update on plans for a Year of Biblical Literacy in 2022The meeting will be live-streamed via a link on the Church in Wales website and YouTube channel Please keep all the members of Governing Body in your prayers.Training and EventsOpen Doors – Newport CathedralVisit Newport Cathedral on the 11th of September as part of the Cadw Open Doors event. The Cathedral will be open 10am – 4pm with a free concert at midday and a talk about the history of the magnificent Norman building. Refreshments will be available and the shop will be open. Find out more here.RSCM International Chorister Day Event Sunday 19th September, Newport Cathedral, 2-6pm   The Royal School of Church Music is organising “International Chorister Day” as a way of celebrating the opportunities that being a chorister provides.   The official event for SE Wales will be at Newport Cathedral: come and “be a chorister for an afternoon”!   An afternoon of singing, musical activities and games and refreshments, ending with a service (which parents are welcome to attend)    Start time – 2pm Closing act of worship – 5pm Contact for more details – Emma Gibbins   07952 514117 / emmagibbins1978@gmail.com   You can register for a place here:  https://www.rscm.org.uk/courses/icd-wales/Diocesan Healing ServiceWe’re pleased to announce the next Diocesan Healing Services on Wednesday 22nd September at 7.30pm. This service will be led by Bishop Cherry and Rev. James Henley with Bishop Cherry delivering the sermon. Healing and Reconciliation lie at the heart of our Christian faith and we invite you to join us in drawing nearer to Christ and opening ourselves to the grace of the Holy Spirit. Book you place here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/diocesan-healing-service-registration-169638245559Calling ConversationsThe next session is about Vocations in the Workplace and is on the 28th of September. Join the session here.Email SarahRobinson@churchinwales.org.uk for more details.Certificate in Pastoral Supervision and Reflective Practice Gloucestershire Spiritual Direction Trust is inviting interest from spiritual directors, clergy and pastoral workers in the surrounding area for an exciting programme of learning newly available in this area starting in November 2021. The venue in Chipping Sodbury, South Gloucestershire, has good road (M4 & M5) and rail links with Bristol at Yate railway station.  Module 1: 3 days 29 Nov –  1 Dec 2021Introduction to Pastoral Supervision & Reflective PracticeModule 2: 3 days 7 – 9 Feb 2022Behind the Words – beneath the surface: theoretical Frameworks and PracticeModule 3: 3 days 4 – 6 April 2022Integrating Learning and Practice The certificate is validated by The Institute of Pastoral Supervision & Reflective Practice (https://www.ipsrp.org.uk/) and comprises 3 modules delivered face to face over a 6 month period: Individual practical learning is achieved through offering supervision to at least twosupervisees or a group during the course. The course will be led by two experienced tutors in this field, Fr Tony Nolan and Revd. Bob Whorton The combined course fee for the modules and practical supervision will be £1098.00. A number of bursaries are available to successful applicants for up to 50% of course fees. INTERESTED? Contact Chris Mason on 07749 903 658 or revd.chris.mason@gmail.com  for further information and/or an application form. The deadline for receiving completed applications is Friday 17th September 2021  Services and Resources Join a Service from the Cathedral on Sunday at 10:30am here.  Sight Loss SundayFind out more at sightlossfriendlychurch.org.uk/slsundayKneelers Available! St Grwst’s Church in Llanrwst in the Diocese of St Asaph completed a major £1.2m restoration and reordering project last year, part of which involved removing the pews and replacing them with chairs.   Previously they had had kneelers in church, which feature tapestry designs of the six Welsh diocese, and they have 22 Diocese of Monmouth kneelers left which we are looking for a home for. If you would be interested please contact Jon Richmond – saintgrwstchurch@gmail.com / 07936 973476VacanciesCanon ResidentiaryThe Dean in consultation with the Bishop wishes to appoint a full-time Residentiary Canon for Newport Cathedral.This is an exciting time to join Newport Cathedral as a new team is being formed.The role is both pastor and missioner: to develop the life and faith of the congregation as well as look beyond to draw in new people and broaden the demographic balance. This will also involve nurturing a rich combination of the existing and new styles of worship that will underpin the Cathedral’s life and witness.We are looking for a mission-minded, open, relational and engaging person, someone who can think beyond the established, while working within it.Newport is the gateway to South Wales with excellent road and rail links.Closing date for applications is 12noon Friday 24th September 2021.Interviews over Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st October 2021 (both days).For further details and application form: www.newportcathedral.org.uk/vacanciesVerger and Sacristan (full-time) Applications are invited for the Cathedral Verger and Sacristan. This is a key position in the functioning of the Cathedral. The verger holds the space and is an ambassador to all who come. Salary package: 23,000 plus 10% to the approved pension scheme. Newport is the gateway to South Wales with excellent road and rail links. Closing date for applications is 12noon Friday 8th October 2021. Application is by submitting the completed application form which includes a confidential declaration – a CV substitute is not sufficient. In addition please write a letter of application stating how you meet the requirements of the post. Completed applications by email to deanofnewport@churchinwales.org.uk by 12noon on 8th October 2021. Interviews will be on Friday 5th November 2021. Further details and application form can be downloaded here.Diocese of Llandaff Church Buildings Officer  As first point of contact in the Church Buildings team you’ll be working with a variety of people with different needs and you’ll be someone who thrives on helping others develop their ideas and achieve their plans. We’re developing our work around environmental issues and achieving carbon net-zero so you’ll be involved with projects centred around Eco-church, churchyards and energy audits.You’ll be working with churches to encourage them to be open to visitors and the local community, and if you enjoy using social media there’ll be opportunities for you to promote the beautiful buildings.You will need to be good at admin as you’ll be running the systems for church inspections, energy audits and online faculty applications (training will be given in specific systems) and you’ll be someone who’s at ease using MS Office suite and Zoom.This is a full-time permanent post 37.5 hours per week (with occasional need to attend evening or weekend events). Currently mainly working from home. Going forward likely to be working on a hybrid model of home/office working.Salary: £25,800 per annum Find out more here.For a downloadable and printable version of this email please click here. You can find the one-stop-shop for all you need to know and this week’s updates here.