PLYMPTON ST MARY CONTACTS

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2 PLYMPTON ST MARY CONTACTS PARISH STAFF Revd. Robert Harris 209 Ridgeway Revd. Roger Beck 81 Fore St, St Maurice Revd. Mark Brimicombe 4 David Close, Plympton Revd. Ian Provost 8 Larkhall Rise, Plymouth READERS Mr Bob Harrison 22 Almond Drive, Plympton Mrs Margaret Provost 8 Larkhall Rise, Plymouth CHURCH WARDENS Mr Kenneth Kingwell 11 Rashleigh Avenue Mr Peter Leigh 8 Longmeadow Close SEXTON & CHURCH ARCHIVIST Mr Bob Dyer 27 Braddons Hill CAPTAIN OF BELLS Mrs Mary Nicholls 16 Longmeadow Close DIRECTOR OF MUSIC Mrs Mila Collier 4 Beattie Road, St Budeaux, PL5 1HU ST MARY S INFANT SCHOOL Mrs Suzie Ottewell, Acting Headteacher PARISH SAFEGUARDING REPRESENTATIVE Mr David J. Farley FarleyDjUK@aol.com Courtland Crescent CHILDREN S ADVOCATE Mrs Sarah Duckworth duckworth11@hotmail.co.uk MOTHERS UNION Mrs Anne Tozer WEEKLY NOTICES Mrs Pauline Nicholls grandma.pauline@btinternet.com PARISH OFFICE Open 9 am to 12noon (Mon-Fri) stmarysplympton@gmail.com PUBLICITY & MEDIA Rodger Ruse rikkiplympton@aol.com [Cont p26] 2

3 The Parish Church of ST MARY THE BLESSED VIRGIN PLYMPTON ST MARY Serving Christ in the heart of Plympton and beyond August 2016 Dear Friends, Thoughts at this time of year turn to holidays if we are fortunate to be having one. I have just arranged a few days at Sarum College in Salisbury. It is set in the cathedral close and was a theological college training many generations for the priesthood. When several colleges were closed quite a few years ago now Salisbury (and Chichester where Robert and I trained) were among those where such residential training came to an end. They were usually sold for other purposes but a brave venture kept Sarum as a college offering many and varied short courses as well as degree courses in various aspects of the Christian faith and some non-residential training for ministry. In addition to this it is possible just to stay at the college for a short break and to book in for the meals that you would like. Since going there on a course a number of years ago I have stayed once or twice each year. In my case for a rest, some walking and catching up with reading. The food is excellent and most rooms are en-suite. There is an excellent library and bookshop (NB I need to dispose of books not buy more!) and the cathedral with its daily services is just across the green. Another of our connections with Sarum is that Professor David Catchpole who teaches there has been coming to St Mary s for several years now to lead a study day on some aspect of the New Testament. These days have been greatly appreciated and I hope to arrange another next year. The other pleasure for me going to Sarum concerns its next door neighbours. A few years ago the Benedictine community that were at Elmore (previously at Nashdom) decided that their numbers needed a smaller house and they purchased the house that had been occupied by the college principal. Some of you will know that after his time as Bishop of Plymouth Dom Kenneth Newing joined this community and is still there in his nineties. I was one of the first group ordained after he became a bishop in 1982 and I am very conscious of following in his footsteps at St Maurice where he was Rector for so many years. It will be good to catch up with him. I happen to be writing this letter the day after the Feast of St Benedict (11th July) whose Rule has been so influential and long lasting in the church. If you are going on holiday do give our greetings to the local church and it is always interesting to read parish magazines from elsewhere. Yours in Our Lord, Roger Editor s note: The Rule of Saint Benedict (Regula Benedicti) is a book of precepts written by Benedict of Nursia (c ) for monks living communally under the authority of an abbot. 3

4 RECTOR S NOTEBOOK HOLY COMMUNION AT HOME The Blessed Sacrament is reserved in church for the Communion of the Sick and housebound and the Sacrament of Anointing is also available. Please contact one of the clergy. Also please let Ron and Cherry Nicholls (Tel: ) know of anyone suffering from sickness at home or in hospital who keep the clergy informed. FAMILY FUN AFTERNOON - We shall be holding a family afternoon at the Vicarage on Monday 29th August from 2.30 pm. All children are welcome - they just need to bring one (or both) of their parents with them. There will be food to eat (and make); opportunities to get very wet we shall have a water slide; and more besides. Please let Robert or Christine know if you wish to attend Tel: BEFORE THE SERVICE - Our services on a Sunday provide us with an important opportunity to meet with God, but also with one another. It is an important opportunity to catch up with friends, for some the only opportunity since the previous Sunday. However, the period before the services is also a time when some people wish to prepare by praying quietly. On a Sunday morning the clergy and servers meet together as part of their preparation to lead the worship of the whole Parish. With these things in mind I would ask those who wish to have a chat to do so as quietly as possible so that they do not disrupt the prayers of others even better simply say hello and save that really good chat to have over a cup of coffee after the service. Thank you for your consideration and cooperation. THE USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS - It is hoped to make a greater use of photographs of parish events and activities in this magazine and on the website. These will not only help illustrate the richness of our parish life but also provide topical interest. If you do not wish to be included in such photos please let Phil Smith and Ian (Jack) Duckworth know. The normal safeguarding rules will apply to our young people and any others who may be vulnerable. ANNUAL QUIET DAY AT BUCKFAST ABBEY is on Saturday 29th October conducted by The Venerable Ian Chandler, Archdeacon of Plymouth. There will be a list in church to sign next month and the day this year will be open to St Mary's & St Maurice. Revd. Roger Beck MOTHERS UNION Twelve of our members enjoyed a strawberries, cream and scones tea on Wednesday 6th July in the church hall garden as we were lucky to have warm sunshine. THERE IS NO MEETING IN AUGUST. Our next meeting will be on Wednesday 7th September at 2pm in church for Holy Communion. Marguerite Coaker 4

5 PARISH BBQ ON 2ND JULY After a day of a little sunshine and lots of heavy showers the rain actually held off long enough for the BBQ to go ahead in the Vicarage garden, although I did notice several people had brought umbrellas as a precaution. Music was provided by our dynamic duo, Ken and Tony, presiding over the BBQ was our host, Robert, lovely beefburgers, sausages, chicken with a selection of salads and sauces served by our hostess, Christine, ably assisted by Claire-Louise Journeaux. In the kitchen Sheila Prizeman and Lucy Skinner were kept busy and beavered away all evening. Parishioners from St Mary's, St Maurice and Chaddlewood United Church plus friends and relations all looked as if they were really enjoying this very informal evening, lots of chattering, laughter and mingling which is always good to see. So a big thank you to Robert and Christine and all those involved in arranging such a friendly evening for over 50 attendees including children and families from both Plympton Parishes. Judith Bye Food Music Friendliness SUPPORT FOR ST MARY S FROM PLYMPTON CONSERVATIVE CLUB Plympton Conservative Club had invited members to nominate their favourite charity for the Club to support in the coming months. I nominated St. Mary's Church as my favourite charity. I am pleased to say that my letter was read out in full at the May committee meeting and the Secretary, Mr. Ian Oxenham, has now informed me that my application was successful and that St. Mary's Church will be the Club's favoured registered charity for the rest of this year. Upon visiting the Club last evening I was delighted to see two collecting boxes on the bar inviting patrons to give generously to St. Mary's Church. Also, the poster you sent to me reference Easy Fundraising has been laminated and is on display on the club's notice board. Hopefully, members will respond with enthusiasm. St. Mary's does hold a special place in the hearts of so many local people, even those who are not regular churchgoers. Plus of course, several members of our congregation are also members of the Conservative Club. David J. Farley 5

6 THANKS TO THE ST MARY S CHURCH COMMUNITY I would like to take this opportunity to thank my friends who came to my late Aunt Rose's funeral recently. My family and myself felt very touched to have such wonderful support. Also to thank you for the kindness and generosity for the donations. I have recently been informed that the amount collected was just over 200 which has been donated to the Children's Society. I must also mention our thanks to Revd. Roger Beck who conducted the service. He was able to carry out my Aunt's last wishes. Thank you again on behalf of my family and myself - a heartfelt "Thank You" and God Bless you all. Joan Thompson THE CHURCH IN THE CUPBOARD Someone from St Mary's asked me what service I attended on a Sunday and I told them "I go to Chaddlewood United Church in the morning and St Mary's in the evening. "Oh", they said, "you go to St Mary's in the Cupboard". I had never thought of ourselves in that way, but I suppose in a way we are. At 9am on the 2nd 4th and 5th Sundays of the month, several of us arrive at Chaddlewood Farm Community centre, to a bare hall that has been used for many events during the week and in half an hour it is transformed into a Holy place of worship. Out of our cupboard comes an altar, digital piano, lectern, church banners. A carpet is laid in front of the altar, chairs are set out with bibles and hymn books on them and a table with church literature placed on it. The altar cloth is put in place and, on it, its cross, Bible, candles etc. When Holy Communion is to be celebrated the altar is laid up accordingly. What a Holy and welcoming place of worship the hall has become! Now we await our rather special congregation - and I think we are special. You see, a church is always, as a house of God, a special place but we, at the end of our service, have to hold that holiness in our hearts till the following week. All the furniture goes back in the cupboard, but we have to embrace and hold the blessing and grace we have been empowered with through the coming week. We are the Church. A building can be a beautiful and holy structure but its people are the church. We at Chaddlewood United Church are a committed and caring church with mission at its heart. Though not huge in numbers we do hope that some of you will join us in our worship sometime and experience the fellowship of "The Church in the Cupboard". Beryl Smith NANCY JOHNSON You may have noticed that prayers have been said for a few weeks following Nancy s admission to Derriford Hospital and she was quite poorly. Just to say Nancy is now at St Vincent s care Home in St Maurice where her health continues to improve. Nancy has been regularly visited by our Parish Staff, as well as Judith Goodridge and others from Chaddlewood United Church, and Nancy is most grateful for their support and your prayers as she settles into her new location. I also know her daughter Penny is also thankful for the continued pastoral care from the church family. Phil Smith 6

7 Church of England Devon Magazine Good News from the Diocese of Exeter August 2016 BISHOP ROBERT SPREADS VISION IN TAVISTOCK The Bishop of Exeter, Robert Atwell, began a year of visits to parishes to talk about the new vision for the Church of England in Devon with three days in Tavistock.Bishop Robert met with people from across the town and rural community, sharing conversations and listening to some of the problems people face. He visited New Court Farm in Lamerton, where he met farmers, young and old, and discussed milk costs, TB, rural sustainability, food security and much more. He said: The government think their first priority is to defend the nation but actually it is to feed the nation. In terms of food security, in the event of a crisis, we only have six weeks of food stocks. That s why the farming community is so important. Thank you for all you are doing for all of us in the nation. At a special service in Buckland Monachorum he confirmed 17 people of all ages, in a service where candidates profess their Christian faith. The service was joyful and very moving he said. Bishop Robert launched the new vision and its three priorities to pray, grow and serve with joy this spring. He and the Bishop of Plymouth, Nick McKinnel, and the Bishop of Crediton, Sarah Mullally, are spending the year visiting parishes to talk with people about the priorities to grow the Church in Devon, and to serve the community. Bishop Robert has produced a short film outlining the vision which can be seen on the diocesan website His stay in and around Tavistock had been a fantastic start to Bishops in Mission, he added. A FAIR AND LOCAL HARVEST A pack of ideas and useful links are available on the diocesan website ( to help parishes focus on both supporting our local farmers and others who grow our food this harvest-time. Social Responsibility Officer Sally Farrant said: Farmers and food growers face deeply challenging issues and we need to review how we produce, distribute and consume food. Harvest celebrations offer a perfect time to do this. 7

8 1,500 young people at Upload Those aged between 11 and 21 who were at the biggest party of the year enjoyed a skate park, football cage, pamper zone, giant inflatables, as well as big screen gaming, live bands and much more. Organiser, diocesan youth church adviser Rev James Grier said: I am really pleased with the event. Not only did the young people have a great time, but they came out buzzing about being in a church building and wanting more events like this. I was humbled by the behaviour and attitude of the young people and overwhelmed by the fact we had over 200 people from across the diocese helping to make this event happen. Bishop Robert who attended said: It was brilliant to see so many young people in and around the cathedral. Whether their ear drums are still intact I couldn t say, but what a way to go deaf! Over 1,500 young people attended Upload, held in Exeter Cathedral to celebrate the Queen s birthday and inspire young people to think about Christian faith. Queen awards birthday medal Devon woman Anne Hawken received the British Empire Medal in the Queen s 90th birthday honours list for services to the community in Kennford. Anne, who has been a member of St Andrew s Church since 1960 and a PCC member for 40 years, as well as a very active member of the Mothers Union and much more said: I was totally shocked and feel humbled and honoured. I have loved helping people along the way. 8

9 The prayer support from everyone was tangible and I had a feeling of being held in God s care. Everyone was brilliant. It was my faith that got me through it. God s Masterpiece Suzanne Dugmore s world was turned upside down when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour and had to undergo major surgery. Suzanne is married to Diocesan Mission Enabler Barry Dugmore and it was during his ordination training in the year 2,000 that it was discovered that Suzanne had a rare benign brain tumour. She said: It was slow growing and had probably been getting larger for years. She underwent intensive, nine hour surgery as it was attached to her brain stem. It left her permanently deaf in her left ear and paralysed on the left side of her face. It also affected her eye which now has no tears and has a weight inserted in the eye lid so it will close. Despite all of this Suzanne never lost her faith in a loving God. She said: The prayer support from everyone was tangible and I had a feeling of being held in God s care. Everyone was brilliant. It was my faith that got me through it. Now, 16 years later, Suzanne is using her experience to help others and is a role model for a new south-west based charity promoting social inclusion and aiming to change perceptions and stereotypes. The charity site beautyunseen.org contains nine stories of role models who have overcome a variety of challenges including Suzanne. They will be telling their experiences through creative arts at a live event in Bristol on 1 October. Suzanne who has since rediscovered art as therapy, now produces portraits, postcards and prints in her online shop. She said: There is a message I send with all my pictures and that is We are God s Masterpiece from Ephesians Chapter 2v10. It is a message that meant something to me whilst I was in recovery. We are all God s masterpiece. 9

10 When I first visited Salisbury it was not the cathedral that arrested my attention, but Elizabeth Frink s statue Woman Walking set on the cathedral green. Confident, graceful, womanly and enormously powerful she strides towards the cathedral, her face upturned to the sun. A similar thing happened to me in Florence. It wasn t Michelangelo s monumental statue of David, beautiful though it is, that moved me but his four unfinished statues in the Academia. They are called The Prisoners or The Wrestlers because the figures are only half-formed. Their bodies are still imprisoned in the marble. An arm emerges here, a leg there, a face only partially carved peeps out of you from the side. When asked about his work Michelangelo is reported to have said that the sculpture already exists, trapped within the block of stone. It was his job to release it by taking away that which is superfluous. I have always found his words a powerful commentary about the way God deals with us. It is as if God is the sculptor and we his work of art. In fact in his letter to the Ephesians Paul describes us as God s handiwork (Eph.2.10 NIV). It is as if each of us come to God s bench rough-hewn and is gradually fashioned by his hand to a truer beauty. Walking in God s Sunlight Paul goes on to talk about us growing up into a spiritual maturity, people who will be measured by nothing less than the full stature of Christ (Eph. 4.13). All of us are on that journey. The process of maturing includes having that which is superfluous in our lives chipped away, so that we are no longer imprisoned, but released to be ourselves. Sometimes our hearts can feel calcified, cold as marble, our minds and bodies good as dead. But God calls us to become who we are his own work of art. God yearns to set us free, so that like the woman walking on the cathedral green in Salisbury, we stride into the sunlight breathing the fresh air of God s grace. Twitter.com/cofedevon Facebook Diocese of Exeter 10

11 SOMME COMMEMORATIONS: REFLECTION AND THE FUTURE I attended two local events, in Plymouth and Exeter, and I know some other of our chucrh family, including Margaret and Revd Ian Provost and their son Timothy, attended similar in France. These events have impacted powerfully on people. Emotions arise in people over 65s such as me, when discovering losing Great uncles of whom I knew little from family records. Grandparents lives were deeply affected by such awful experiences. In many cases, military records were lost and contact with that generation was at the level of that possible between a child and a grandparent. I met with a lady and her husband clutching an old photograph of a grandparent who served in the Worcester Rifles looking at the list of names at the Shrouds of the Somme commemoration in Exeter. We are a generation with only tenuous and fragile links to the First World war who seem to bear a responsibility to tell the story to the young so the stories can help the young become wise through History. In Plymouth, the 29 Commando battery organised the service of commemoration on the Hoe. The theme was the Flower of Youth linking the lost generation of 1916 to the need to give today s young people a challenge to make their own future by looking at the sacrifice of their ancestors and use it to make their world better in the future. Such services are always sombre and emotionally charged with the empathy of They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old (by Lawrence Binyon) but what then? Shrouds of the Somme installation in Northernhay Gdns, Exeter. The names were read out aloud over the 6 days. Rob Heard, the artist, started by thinking deeply of each soldier while crafting each body and shroud. This became too much, so he then thought of each name when he marked them off the list as made and ready for being put out. Stories were sent in and can be found on the website with other resources for contemplation and information. The Archbishop of Canterbury recently advised when considering study of the Gospels live on Facebook What does it say? What does it mean? What are we going to do about it? I think this approach applies to responding to the Remembrance events to make something good come of them. What happened? What does it mean about what works to benefit the world? What should we be willing to fight for and how peaceful can we be? Phil Smith 11

12 HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MOTHERS UNION! This month (August) will see the world s largest lay-christian membership charity, Mothers Union, mark 140 years of faithful outreach to families of all faiths and none. Since 1876, when Mary Sumner first brought together parents in her own parish to build their confidence in bringing up their children in the Christian faith, the MU has grown to an organisation of over four million women and men in over 80 countries of the world. Why celebrate 140th, rather than wait for 150th? In the Old Testament of the Bible, in the first book of Samuel, there is the story of Samuel marking an unlooked-for victory against the mighty Philistines by erecting a stone between Mizpah and Shen, naming it Ebenezer meaning stone of help as a permanent reminder of the leading and guidance of God Thus far has the Lord helped us. Thus the 140th can be celebrated as a stepping stone to the 150th! Over the past 140 years, Mothers Union has faced, and will continue to face, many challenges. Family life is under increasing pressure and the call on MU s resources is higher than ever. But the MU can look at how it is meeting these challenges and say, like Samuel, Thus far has the Lord helped us. During 2016 over 500,000 people will benefit from Mothers Union s support for family life. This includes campaigning against early marriage. Many more will know the support of its membership without any tally being taken because in their daily lives MU members support families in prayer, in voicing their support for policy changes that benefit families and in their practical support. There has never been a more challenging, or more exciting time to be part of Mothers Union. Find out more from your local Mothers Union or by ringing or communications@mothersunion.org CHURCH FAMILY THOUGHTS At this time of year, we think and pray for, especially, those children moving between schools or awaiting examination results. For most, they will be happy as they move on to their next stage of education, training or employment but for some it is an uncertain time even if they have been very successful. As a specific example, Andrew Dinwoodie is to be congratulated for gaining a First Class Honours in Hispanic Studies but he is concerned that the Brexit news may undermine the benefits of the valuable experience he gained in Spain in his 3rd Year. Therefore, we hope and pray that all young people associated with the Church, or known to us, will feel that God holds them up, and will bring all things to work for good in their futures. Editor 12

13 FROM THE REGISTERS 2016 BAPTISMS 3rd July 10th July MARRIAGES 23rd July 29th July 30th July Francesca Alyssa Brannan Bethany Monica Brannan Elyssa Jade Mansfield Harrison James Mansfield Jenson James Mansfield Juliana Joie Mansfield Owen Jamison Mansfield Niaomi Louise Burt (Adult) Nathan Daniel Tibbs to Jade Elizabeth Reed Kevin Westlake to Danielle Jean Mason Scott Richard Wieprecht to Sophie Jasmine Elvin FUNERALS & INTERMENTS OF ASHES 17th June Sidney James Pike age 93 21st June Dean Hendy age 51 4th July Margaret Edna Davies age 82 8th July Judith Margaret Rice age 60 Seen at Overbecks National Trust 13

14 MAIN SERVICES FOR AUGUST 7th AUGUST ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Parish Communion 11.45am Holy Baptism 6.30pm Evensong 14th AUGUST THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY PATRONAL FESTIVAL 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Parish Communion 10.00am Morning Prayer at CUC 11.45am Holy Baptism 6.30pm Evensong 21st AUGUST THIRTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Family Eucharist & welcome of newly baptised 11.45am Holy Baptism 6.30pm Evensong 28th AUGUST FOURTEENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY 8.00am Holy Communion 9.30am Morning Prayer (in choir) 10.00am Parish Communion 10.00am Holy Communion at CUC 6.30pm Evensong During term time St Mary s Sunday Club (from age 3) meet in the parish hall and join the Parish Communion at the Peace. CUC is Chaddlewood United Church who meet at Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre. 14

15 Plymouth Blitz Episode 1 - by Alan Blake December 28th 1940 This was a Saturday, and the Scouts of Sutton High School Troop were to have a whist drive at their scout hut in Regent s Street. I walked from home, along Cobourg St and Pound St crossing Tavistock Road by the Harvest Home and along Regent St. During the evening, we heard the Air Raid Warning but carried on with the games. We were aware of bangs and booms during the evening but were much too excited and engrossed to bother about it. When the whist drive was over - 1st Prize was a Scout Diary for our scout master told us that there had been an Air raid- bombs had been dropped, and he proposed to keep us there until the All Clear sounded. Eventually we were sent home, and retracing my steps I noticed nothing unusual until I reached the end of Coburg St. Then it became evident that a bomb or bombs had fallen nearby; there was broken glass and rubble all over the road and the shops at the end of Boons Place had vanished - Raymond Bowdens among them. A broken snooker table hung on a pile of beams and masonry! My concern now was - had my house been hit? Were my parents and sisters still alive? Scrambling and tumbling over the debris, I ran as fast as I could to my home. All the glass in front of the house was smashed, half the slate roof was blown away, but thankfully my family was safe. They had sheltered under the stairs - Father had kept going to the front door to see if I was coming, and when the bomb blast blew him and the front door onto the stairs - he was bruised but otherwise unhurt. Black dots show where bombs dropped across Plymouth Thank goodness our scoutmaster kept us until the all clear! Otherwise, I might not be writing this now! Alan Blake 15

16 GIVING EFFICIENTLY TO MAINTAIN THE CHURCH AND SUPPORT GROWTH Stewardship is a process where people consider how best to use their money, time and talent to support the causes that are close to them. Some are ad-hoc such as cash donations in the street but many people want to ensure the most benefit to their causes by making donations tax-efficient and regular. As far as giving to St Mary s is concerned, tax-efficient money donation (increasing the value of the donation by 25% at no cost to the donor) can be done in the first four of the following ways and is really important as we have major expenditure we cannot avoid and which we must prepare for (eg Church renovation, replacement of the church boiler, and Parish Hall flooring): 1. Regular monthly giving by using Parish Giving Scheme under a Direct Debit. This allows the Church to administer the Gift Aid benefit more easily and to be able to plan spending by knowing what income will be available (A really good thing!). Details from Keith Shepperd or Claire-Louise Journeaux. 2. Regular weekly giving by use of Sealed Envelopes provided via Claire-Louise Journeaux. This allows people to give varied amounts each month/week. However, the administration of the scheme by the Parish representative (eg having to organise the envelopes) demands more. Missing a week leads to remembering to bring it the next time. 3. Occasional additional giving via Yellow Envelopes available in the pews. These have a Gift Aid tick box and a statement to sign to make it more tax efficient. This method is usually done by an occasional visitor to the church. 4. A Legacy is a gift made to charity in a will. Legacies are invaluable to charities and make up 15% of the country s charitable income. Anybody can leave a gift to charity in their will. However, whilst 75% of adults give to charity in their lifetime, only 1 in 7 go on to leave a legacy. There are different ways of giving through a legacy: A specific amount; any amount left after all the other beneficiaries have been provided for; a specific gift (eg a painting to be auctioned); an amount reliant on other eventualities (eg if the estate is worth more than a certain amount). 5. Cash in the collection plate at a service. 6. Your Time - each hour you spend helping on church activity may be saving the church 9 or raising more than 10, so basic tasks such as cleaning on a regular basis, or helping at a Table-top or Coffee Morning may very efficient way to give when you do not have spare cash (Coffee mornings raise over 30 in 3 hours, generally). However, some tasks requiring training or special materials (eg painting, masonry, electrical, plumbing) may need to be done by professionals due to insurance or H&S guidance. 7. Easy-fundraising via internet shopping (see page 21 for details) Phil Smith (article as requested by PCC) Important Notes: Some ways of giving are linked to legal or financial issues (eg Wills, Tax) so you may well need professional advice. The list above does not constitute advice! Also the purpose of a church is not just to raise money but to spread the Good News so remember how important it is to Love God and Your Neighbour as well as to only give what you can manage. 16

17 PLYMOUTH DEANERY FOCUS ON DEMENTIA We want churches to be at the heart of dementia-friendly communities, where the voices of those living with dementia, and those who care for them, are clearly heard. This publication provides practical guidance on developing dementia friendly churches, drawn from national expertise and local experience. Revd Dr David Primrose, Director of Transforming Communities, Diocese of Lichfield Churches are at the centre of many communities and offer support to many people. Faith is very important to people and some faithful church goers may have Dementia in one of its forms. Therefore the church community as a whole needs to consider how to adapt to support those suffering from dementia and their carers - remembering that each person s experience of the related conditions will be different. What is Dementia? It is thought there are people living with dementia, and this is expected to rise significantly over the next 30 years. Most people will have specific needs to be accommodated. Symptoms may include day-to-day memory problems; concentrating, planning and organising (including difficulties carrying out a sequence of tasks or solving problems); language problems (eg finding the right word for something); visuospacial skills (eg seeing objects clearly in 3 dimensions or judging distances); orientation (such as losing track of the day, the date, or being confused where they are). Also those living with dementia (preferred expression to suffering from ) may feel anxious or sad or see things that aren t there. Dementia is a progressive illness and increasing support and care over time may be necessary. The rate of increase of symptoms can vary greatly with each individual. What can churches do? Adopt a positive attitude (those living with dementia still have a positive contribution to make); encourage supportive relationships (focusing on people feeling supported as this can remain even when someone forgets what was said); facilitate communication (eg listening attentively and looking for gestures that communicate - being patient); create an accessible environment (eg clear signage); encourage creativity (eg flower arranging, or creating a prayer); being part of a network (link to local groups agencies etc such as Age UK, British Red Cross); Learn from others (by helping people express themselves, we can learn more about our faith too). There is more information and support via Livability ( and use of their Developing a Dementia-friendly church booklet) or Alzheimers Society ( Do remember Alzheimers is only one form of the range of conditions which are included under Dementia. This topic will no doubt form part of PCC discussion in relation to our church in the future as there are 3000 people in Plymouth who are living with dementia, and it is estimated that 1 in 3 of the over 65s will develop a form of dementia during their lifetime. Phil Smith (Deanery Synod Rep) 17

18 YOUR CHURCH If you try to detail all the tasks that need to be done by people to keep St Mary's or any other church going, you will need to set aside weeks to ensure you do not forget anyone. Some have titles which seem to be clear (Rector, Churchwarden, Director of Music etc ). However, one which may not be understood is Sexton. Our Sexton is Bob Dyer. Apart from also singing in the choir particularly on Sundays, Bob carries out tasks throughout the week linked to funerals and the maintenance of the churchyard. These duties include supporting funerals and undertakers in church but more obviously, outside, the preparation of the plots for interment of ashes attending the services there, and caring for the grass areas around the churchyard. It amazes me how he still finds time to play golf regularly at Wrangaton. You may note in cool weather he often wears a hat labelled The Lawn Ranger and can be seen driving around the grassy areas or trimming hedges with shears. Thanks Bob, and all the other officers of the PCC for all you do each week so we can worship a beautiful and historic church! Phil Smith Sudoku Puzzle (medium) Solution on page 22 18

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21 Observations on our Christian Life Don t bother much about your feelings. When they are humble, loving, brave, give thanks for them; when they are conceited, selfish, cowardly, ask to have them changed. C. S. Lewis Bible guidance But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 And we urge you, brothers, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with them all. 1 Thessalonians 5:14 PODIATRIST & CHIROPODIST STATE REGISTERED (HCPC) Joanne Whiteley Bsc (Hons.) Pod. MChs Accredited Member of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists HOME VISITS including Nail Cutting Service Tel: Mobile: joannewhiteley@live.co.uk Helping YOUR Church No-cost Fundraising 1. Sign up at Stmarysplymptonpcc/ 2. Go to easyfundraising 3. SHOP! NO CATCHES NO COST Help us to preserve both your history and your spiritual community Any Questions? Ask Keith Shepperd or Revd. Robert (see contacts pages) 21

22 Sudoku solution from page 18 Counselling 22

23 ST MARY S TABLE TOP SALES These sales are organised to raise funds to support the Church and are not a commercial venture 10am pm ST MARY S CHURCH HALL Saturday 6th August 2016 Saturday 3rd September 2016 Saturday 1st October 2016 Table rents 6 for each table Book well in advance - often fully booked months ahead! Contact Marcia Knight on

24 Expert installations and repairs 10 year parts and labour warrantees on selected boilers Fixed price contracts Annual Boiler Maintenance Contracts Local, friendly, trustworthy & reliable engineers 24

25 Magazine and Publicity Matters Please send articles to by the following dates: September Edition: Wednesday 10th August October Edition: Wednesday 7th September or write it down and put it in the Magazine pigeon-hole at rear of church by the previous Sunday. Photographs submitted can only be used if permitted by the owner of any copyright. When using photographs of children and young people, it is preferable to use group pictures and written permission must be obtained from parents to use such pictures. See David Farley (Safeguarding Representative) or Phil Smith (Editor) for permission forms. Advertisements, and any service quotes offered, do not imply recommendation on behalf of the Church. Grateful thanks go to our advertisers, especially Walter Parson who sponsor the printing, and subscribers who financially support each edition. Enquiries for Magazine distribution - contact Marguerite Coaker Tel: Enquiries for advertising, please contact the Editor on editor.plymptonpilgrim@virginmedia.com as soon as possible as available space is limited. Phil Smith & Marguerite Coaker 25

26 MAGAZINE Phil Smith, Editor 45 Molesworth Road Marguerite Coaker Magazine Distribution WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT Ian and Sarah Duckworth HOLY BAPTISM Enquiries to the Parish Office on Tuesday and Thursday mornings (348525). At other times: SUNDAY CLUB Sunday mornings at 10am for children aged 3-13 details from David Upcott and Louise Lewis PARENT & BABY/ Wednesday am in the Hall (during term time) TODDLER details from Teresa Talbot PRE-SCHOOL Monday am & pm Hall Tuesday am - Hall Wednesday am & pm - Meeting Room Thursday am & pm Hall and Meeting Room Friday and & pm Hall Mon - Fri: 11.30am-12.30pm Lunch Club details from Teresa Talbot RECENTLY BEREAVED Monday 9:30-11:30am David Brinkley MELTING POT Helpline/Coffee/Company/trips on Tuesdays 9: am in Parish Centre or Sheila Prizeman BIBLE STUDY PRAYER GROUP BIBLE STUDY GOOD COMPANY FAMILY FRIENDS AT CHADDLEWOOD Monday evenings at 7.30pm led by Rev Ian Provost Details from Judith Goodridge Wednesdays at 9.30am am Details from Beryl Smith th Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm Led by Bob Harrison. Details from Beryl Smith 1st Thursday of each month for ladies on their own Monthly outings and a meal out Details from Judy Willcocks Each Friday Bible Study and discussion at 11.00am Details from one of the above contacts at Chaddlewood 26

27 Daily Services in Plympton MONDAY 8.30 am Morning Prayer, St. Mary s Church TUESDAY 8.30 am Morning Prayer, St. Maurice s Church am Eucharist, St. Mary s Church 7.00 pm Eucharist, St. Maurice s Church WEDNESDAY 8.00 am Morning Prayer, St. Mary s Church 8.30 am Eucharist, St. Mary s Church 9.30 am Eucharist, St. Maurice s Church THURSDAY 8.30 am Morning Prayer, St. Maurice s Church 7.00 pm Eucharist, St. Mary s Church FRIDAY 8.00 am Morning Prayer, St. Mary s Church 8.30 am Eucharist, St. Mary s Church SATURDAY 8.30 am Morning Prayer, St. Mary s Church Services at Chaddlewood United Church at Chaddlewood Farm Community Centre (unless stated otherwise) 1st Sunday: 2nd Sunday: 3rd Sunday: 4th Sunday: 5th Sunday: 10.30am Methodist Service at Colebrook Meth. Church 10am Anglican Service at Chaddlewood 10am Combined at St Mary s Parish Church 10am Anglican Service at Chaddlewood At Chaddlewood - see notices for details 27

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