LUDLOW TOWERS. March p. The Parish Magazine of Ludlow St Laurence

Transcription

1 LUDLOW TOWERS The Parish Magazine of Ludlow St Laurence March p

2 LUDLOW ST LAURENCE PARISH OFFICE 2 College Street, Ludlow, Shropshire. SY8 1AN Telephone: office@stlaurences.org.uk website: The office is open to the public on weekday mornings between am and pm. Parish Office Shop Manager Amanda Davidson Office Administrator Nicky Luck Church Executive Manager Shaun Ward Parish Finance Manager Michael Hunt St John s parish office Grace Johnson Ashford Group office Clare Bicker-Caarten Bromfield Group office Grace Johnson CLERGY (Days off in italics) Rector Revd Kelvin Price Tue Assistant Priest Revd Prebendary Ann Barge Wed NORMAL SUNDAY SERVICES St Laurence 8.00am Holy Communion BCP 9.30am Parish Eucharist Sung Eucharist once a month 11.30am 2nd and 4th Sundays Choral Matins 3.30pm 1st and 3rd Sundays Choral Evensong (No 3rd service on the 5th Sunday of the month) St John 9.30am 1st & 3rd Sundays Holy Communion 2nd & 4th Sundays Lay-led Worship St Giles 11.15am 1st Sunday Family Service 2nd & 4th Sundays Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Morning Prayer 2

3 CONTENTS Letter from Bishop Richard 4 Canon Jeffry Wilcox RIP 5 From the Registers & Palm Sunday - 25 March 5 Who s doing the steering this Lent? Clergy letter - Christine Brewster 6 CTAL Lent course - Abiding 7 Regular Services 8 Christian Aid 9 Coffee Morning at Clifton Court for Marie Curie Cancer Care 9 Mother s Day or Mothering Sunday 10 Messy Church 10 What s on at St Laurence s in March & Invitation for Good Friday 11 PCC meeting summary - January 2018 & Rector s Teatime update 12 Farewell to Peter Challenger 13 Events in Ludlow for Fairtrade Fortnight 26 February - 11 March 14 Traidcraft Big Brew - Hidden Entrepreneur appeal 15 Notes from St John s 16 Do not ask me to remember - a poem 17 Forever Church & Seminar: Towards a positive old age 17 Life & Ludlow & Repair Café 18 Snowdrops at St Laurence s 19 Book reviews 20 Church to reduce avoidable plastic & Vacancy for apprentice chandler 21 Calling all tour guides & Daffodil Day 22 Conservation Trust for St Laurence s - Palmers events 23 Children s page 24 Film review - Wings of Eagles 25 Magazine deadline dates and guidelines 26 Contact list - St Laurence s and St John s 27 3

4 LETTER FROM THE BISHOP Three Cheers for the four clergy who featured in A Vicar s Life on BBC2! I believe there is an enormous amount to be thankful for following the BBC s six part series about four vicars from the Diocese of Hereford. I want to record my wholehearted congratulations and thanks to all of them, the two Matthews, Nicholas and Ruth. It must have been a considerable strain to have had television cameras following them round for six months, and it is a great credit to them that they emerged so well: authentic, really positive witnesses to their faith and to their calling. Thanks are also due to the BBC for a sympathetic portrayal of the vicars. OK, of course there were things which any of us might choose to take issues with, and the programmes were selective snapshots rather than comprehensive surveys of ministry. None of us can control how others see us, and there were times when I wanted to say, Yes, but or How about? But that s not the point. Rather, let s respond positively to the attention given to those four clergy, and through them to the diocese as a whole. There are many possible themes for discussion and potential action in the light of the series. Life events baptisms, weddings and funerals were shown in a very good light. Do we maximise the pastoral opportunities afforded to us by those events? Are we as welcoming as we should and could be? The four clergy were a diverse group (relatively speaking: for example, no ethnic mix). But in their different ways, each one was clearly called, gifted and warm-hearted. Who do you know who might be being called by God to ordination? There were many challenges, often understated, implicitly or explicitly within the programmes. In the course of the series, each of the vicars made profound observations and raised questions to do with the nature of mission, the call to be outward looking, the need to take ourselves not too seriously and God very seriously. Thank you to Matthew, Matthew, Nicholas and Ruth for what you have given us. 4

5 FROM THE REGISTERS BAPTISMS Amelie Hiles FUNERALS 4 February Enid Whitehead 7 February (service of thanksgiving) David Jackson Kathleen Morse 8 February 9 February Glyn Bradley 10 February (interment of ashes) Terence McCourt 14 February Robert Leech Jack Dahn Peggy James 16 February 23 February 27 February SUNDAY 25 MARCH JEFFRY WILCOX We have all been greatly saddened by the news of the death of Canon Jeffry Wilcox. Since he and Claire moved from Streatham to Ludlow in 2006, St Laurence's has been central to his life and he has made enormous contributions both to our church and to the wider community for which we are all grateful. He did so much during the Vacancies following the departures of Brian Curnew and Colin Williams, working tirelessly in helping to 'keep the show on the road'. Many of us have enjoyed pastoral visits from him in our times of need. That welcome smile, his kindness, compassion and sense of humour are remembered with gratitude. Nothing was ever too much for him. Jeffry has been loved by all of us and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Claire and the family at this sad time. An obituary will appear at a later date. DON T FORGET Please note that the Parish Eucharist service will start at 10am after the arrival of the Palm Procession which will leave the Buttercross at 9.40am. 5 British Summer Time starts at 2am on Sunday 25 March when the clocks go forward one hour.

6 CLERGY LETTER From Revd Christine Brewster When I was training for the priesthood in the 1990s, I was privileged to undertake a pastoral placement in Kenya. The churches were about two hours north of Nairobi in the Diocese of Kirinyaga, where the terrain varies from equatorial rain forests, undulating fertile hills to dry desert. The church buildings were large, simple, barn-like structures, where the needs of local poverty-stricken parishioners were considered to be the priority. People often walked well over ten miles to church where, instead of cash, they offered maize and tea which was auctioned at the end of the service, and funerals took place on the hillsides amongst the shambas and tea plantations, always with joyous singing and brightly coloured flowers. Here was a very different culture from ours, and the local Bishop built his thinking and practice upon the belief that the Christian faith is universally accessible through the medium of different cultures; God s love and mercy unites all people everywhere, regardless of cultural practices. Whilst I was on this placement, I came across a poem, written in English and pinned up in isolation on one of the church walls. The poem, entitled The Road of Life, has stayed with me, and as we travel through Lent, whoever we are, wherever we live, whatever our culture, whatever our church traditions or practices, we re all on the road of life, and we have to decide who ll be doing the steering! 6 The Road of Life At first I saw God as my observer, my judge, keeping track of the things I did wrong, so as to know whether I merited heaven or hell when I die. I recognised his picture when I saw it, but really didn t know him. But later on when I met Christ, it seemed as though life were rather like a bike ride, but it was a tandem bike, and I noticed that Christ was on the back, helping me to pedal. I don t know just when it was that he suggested we change places, but life has not been the same since. When I had control, I knew the way. It was rather boring, but predictable; it was the shortest distance between two points. But when he took the lead, he knew delightful long cuts, up mountains and through rocky places at breakneck speeds. It was all I could do to hang on, even though it looked like madness! I worried and was anxious and asked Where are you taking me? He laughed and didn t answer, and I started to learn to trust. I forgot my boring life and entered into the adventure, and when I d say I m scared, he d lean back and touch my hand. He took me to meet people with gifts that I needed,

7 gifts of healing, acceptance and joy. They gave me gifts to take on my journey, my Lord s and mine, and we were off again! He said. Give the gifts away; they re extra baggage, too much weight. So I did, to the people we met, and I found that in giving I ve received, and still our burden was light. I didn t trust him at first, in control of my life. I thought he d wreck it, but he knows bike secrets, knows how to take sharp corners, knows how to jump to clear rocks, knows how to fly and shorten the scary passages. I m learning to shut up and pedal in the strangest places, and I m beginning to enjoy the view and the cool breezes on my face with my delightful companion, Jesus Christ and when I m sure I can t do any more, he just smiles and says, Pedal! so who s doing the steering this Lent? Christine Brewster Churches Together Around Ludlow Meeting Together in Lent ABIDING Explorations in John s Gospel at St Peter s Church, Ludlow Thursdays from 2.30pm to 4pm led by Neil Richardson February 15th Abiding - John February 22nd In my love - John March 1st 'I am the true vine' - John March 8th Not of this World? - John March 15th The Spirit will guide you into all truth - John March 22nd 'May they all be one' - John 17 Tea and Coffee will be served at around 3.45pm. All are welcome to all sessions, or as many as you are able to attend. For further information please contact: Heather Price heatherprice1951@gmail.com Neil Richardson neilgrichardson@live.co.uk 7

8 PATTERN OF REGULAR WEEKLY SERVICES AND ACTIVITIES AT ST LAURENCE S Monday Morning Prayer Rector s teatime (none in March) Evening Prayer Bells Practice Tuesday Morning Prayer Evening Prayer Handbells Practice Wednesday Toddler Group Holy Communion Thursday Morning Prayer Open Prayer Group (4th Thurs only) Evening Prayer Little Trebs Singing Group Practice for Junior Choristers Choir Practice Friday Holy Communion Toddler Group Compline Saturday Guided tours of church Sunday Holy Communion Parish Eucharist Matins (2nd and 4th Sundays) or Evensong (1st and 3rd Sundays 8

9 CHRISTIAN AID Lent began on 14 February; as part of our Lent observance Friday Lent lunches started on 16 February and are continuing on 2, 9, 16 and 23 March. So there are just 4 Fridays left, and the one St Laurence's hosts is scheduled for 2 March. I hope you can make it, but if you do miss it there are another three for you to enjoy. We ask for financial contributions bearing a relation to what you eat. In other words, what would be the commercial cost for soup, bread and cheese and coffee? Please think carefully about this. Details of locations and times are in the weekly news sheet and on the posters. Why do we need to be so generous? Here are further examples of where our aid goes: In Kenya Christian Aid and its partners reach out to 170,000 orphans and vulnerable children living with or affected by HIV and AIDS. For the next 5 years Christian Aid will work with the Kenyan government to ensure children receive the health care, nutrition, education, legal protection and other critical support they need. Through the UK's aid-funded Disaster and Emergency Preparedness Programmes, Christian Aid is involved in 8 projects across Africa and Asia. It is supporting communities in eastern Myanmar, to reduce the impact of disasters and to cope better in their aftermath. They are also supporting similar projects in Bangladesh and Ethiopia. Lent lunches are enjoyable and very few, if any, of us know anything anywhere near starvation. Please support us as part of our Christian witness, particularly at this time when we are surrounded by such grim news worldwide. Next up - Christian Aid Week which, as you already know, takes place between 14 and 20 May. Please continue to pray for the work of Christian Aid worldwide and thank you for your continuing support Coffee Morning Thursday 12 April Clifton Court Raffle In aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care Claire Donations 9

10 Mother s Day or Mothering Sunday? The American invention, Mother s Day, will be celebrated on Sunday 11 March, though the cards, boxes of chocolates and reservations for deliveries of flowers will be in the shops long before. It s a very nice idea, as most of us love our mothers dearly and welcome a chance to celebrate their importance in our lives. I say American invention, because long before Mother s Day there was a Christian event, marked nowadays in the Church Calendar, with the title Mothering Sunday. It s still widely observed in churches on the fourth Sunday of Lent, and yes, that s 11 March, too. The difference between them is subtle but profound. Mother s Day is about who she is, particularly in our lives. Mothering Sunday, as its rather awkward name implies, is about a quality which we recognise in mothers but can be present elsewhere to mother someone. We have all needed mothering, from time to time, and not simply when we were tiny and helpless, literally dependent on our mothers for our sustenance and survival. During the years of the last War I was mothered by my grandmother. Sometimes a friend acts in this role for us, when we feel lonely or helpless. Mothering means caring deeply, sustaining, supporting, whatever the cost. That is why God, whom we usually call Father, is sometimes spoken of in the Bible as mothering us, gathering us in His arms of love, even feeding us like a mother. On Mothering Sunday we celebrate so much more than our own beloved mums. We celebrate the whole glorious notion of care, compassion and nurture. And of that care, very often our own mothers are the very best examples. Canon David Winter Messy Church The first meeting of the new year was in Elim Church last month. We heard the story of The Good Samaritan and learnt about being a good neighbour. We have shortened the timetable a little, so the meetings will run from 2.30 to 4pm. The programme will be the same that is crafts, celebration, and tea. The next meeting will be on Sunday 22 April in St Laurence s Church but the theme is yet to be confirmed. As usual all are welcome. Sue Thomas Sandi Burley

11 WHAT S ON AT ST LAURENCE S IN MARCH Date Time Event Details 21 Feb - 16 March Fairtrade Fortnight stall in church shop Wed pm Requiem Mass for Canon Jeffry Wilcox Thur 7 11am Funeral service for Canon Jeffry Wilcox Sat 10 3pm Thanksgiving service for Antonia O'Kennedy Mon 12 10am Commonwealth Day Commemoration Service Thur am Open Prayer Group Sat pm Ludlow Choral Society - Requiem Aeternam Sun am 10am Palm Sunday procession from the Buttercross Parish Eucharist for Palm Sunday Tue 27 10am St Laurence CofE School Easter service Thur pm Solemn Eucharist of the Lord s Supper for Maundy Thursday Fri pm Preaching of the Cross 2pm Liturgy of the Cross Sat pm Easter Vigil Invitation for GOOD FRIDAY People were very kind in the things they said about the Good Friday Cross at Pooh Corner meditations I did four years ago. Kelvin has invited me to lead the Preaching of the Cross again this year. My approach this time will be to see how using our five senses (hearing, sight, taste, touch and smell) can give us insights into the meaning of the Passion. So can I give you a warm invitation to join me in Sensing the Cross on Good Friday, 29 March, at 12.00? Revd Andrew Body 11

12 PCC MEETING 25 JANUARY 2017 Summary of main points 8 members of the PCC attended Weddings: agreed to offer set times for Saturday weddings 1pm and 4pm Bell ringing: agreed to allow quarter peals (approx 45 minutes) before evensong on first and third Sundays each month Reordering: resolved to proceed with removal of pews from nave, make interim nave altar configuration permanent, commission seasonal hangings, provide Theo and TheoM chairs in place of pews Town wall repairs: resolved to support the application by Ludlow Town Council to carry out investigations to the churchyard and town wall Music: on-going discussions with local school to establish choral scholarship scheme Vision: considered draft submission for HLF pre-application bid Staffing: approved appointment of chief receptionist for parish office (4 hours per week) Committees: received reports from Standing, Arts@StLaurence's, Fabric and Vision committees Shop and commercial: authorised Church Executive Manager (CEM) to negotiate terms with Cards for Good Causes for 2018 Christmas shop; resolved to increase charge for stewards on duty to purchase discounted hot drinks; authorised CEM to seek commercial partner for franchise café to be trialled in south aisle at weekends in tourist season; authorised CEM to prepare detailed proposal for Beer Festival in church Date of next meeting: 26 March 2018 A copy of the two latest confirmed PCC minutes is available on the PCC noticeboard above the pigeonholes at the back of the church. All confirmed minutes can be viewed in the parish office. Rector s Teatime Mondays 3-4pm Please note that there will be no Rector s teatimes this month. The next will be on Monday 16 April. 12

13 BIDDING FAREWELL This month, rather than introducing a new or less visible member of the St Laurence s family, we are saying farewell to one of the many unseen figures working behind the scenes to keep the show on the road. Since June last year Peter Challenger has been employed as interim office administrator, working with the volunteer receptionists to ensure that the church office runs smoothly. As Nicky Luck (more of her next month) arrives to take up the post on a permanent basis Peter is leaving for pastures new, or at least closer to home. In future you ll find him working at Hereford Cathedral, where you may also hear him singing in the choir as a lay clerk. This CartoonChurch.com cartoon by Dave Walker originally appeared in the Church Times. 13

14 As we celebrate 15 years since Ludlow became a Fairtrade Town do visit the Ludlow Fairtrade Town flower bed in the Castle Gardens. You may even see the blue or yellow spring bulbs flowering. Look out for Fairtrade displays in shops and cafes in Ludlow and choose the Fairtrade products they supply. Traidcraft Stall in St Laurence s Church 21 February - 16 March Food and crafts, recipe ideas, new products, policy & campaigns Traidcraft Big Brew Saturday 3 March 10am - 2pm At Wesley s Café, Ludlow Methodist Church Fairtrade Stall Thursday 8 March 10am 2pm At Local Produce Market Castle Square Schools Study Day Thursday 8 March 10am - 12pm At Ludlow Methodist Church Traidcraft Spring Mini Fair Saturday 10 March 10am - 4pm At Ludlow Mascall Centre Traidcraft Big Brew refreshments Sunday 11 March In St Laurence s Church after 9.30am Eucharist Fairtrade display in the library throughout the fortnight Ludlow Fair Trade Town Group will be supplying a Fairtrade Bala Sport playball to a number of schools to help promote Fairtrade balls and involvement in Fairtrade in schools. If your Church, school or work place has not applied for Fairtrade Status now is a good time. How to become a Fairtrade Church - the 3 Goals: For more information and church resources visit: Penelope A Bridstrup pabridstrup@btinternet.com 14

15 Sunday 11 March after the 9.30am Eucharist at Parish Breakfast in St Laurence Support the work of Traidcraft Exchange and the Hidden Entrepreneur appeal, to help those who have determination and talent to succeed but lack opportunity. They don t run international businesses, but they have the raw ingredients to create something special. Homebaked cookies or cakes baked with Fairtrade Ingredients welcome to eat, buy or sell! Donations doubled by UK government until 11 April

16 NOTES FROM ST JOHN S PARISH The problem with writing magazine articles is that events which have happened at the end of one month are history by the time the next issue is due. Such is the case with our big event on 28 January when Wayne Davies was commissioned by Bishop Richard as Intergenerational Missioner supported financially by Church Commissioners, the Diocese and St John s, with promises of support from other churches. The church was as full as the scaffolding allowed, with representatives from the Diocese and other Ludlow churches as well as our own congregation. It was a truly inspiring service and many people remarked upon the warmth of feeling that was generated. We are making progress regarding tendering for the work within Phase 1 of our building project. By the time this goes to print the contract will have been awarded and a date agreed for the commencement of works. How this will affect the use of the church is as yet unknown, but contingency plans are being laid. Our fund-raising for this stage is in a very healthy state, thanks to the generosity of a number of donors, but we shall soon have to embark upon major fund-raising for the heating. We are shortly to meet with a heating consultant in order to review all options so that the best possible solution is arrived at. Before Christmas Bishop Alistair gave us the go-ahead to start de-cluttering the church, and has directed us as to which objects can be disposed of. The 16 wooden chairs can go, and we can invite offers for them. However, we must ensure that we retain sufficient for our present needs, as new chairs are very much within future planning. Lesley Lewis will have organised a Spring De-Cluttering Sale by the time your read this, as we have to do significant clearing before the builders start work. Please speak to either of the churchwardens if you have interest in acquiring any object. Lesley is also organising a sponsored walk from St John s around Ludlow churches on Sunday 8 April in aid of church funds. More details from Lesley and congregational members. We thank Don Millington for sending out our monthly newsletter with details of significant events and services. All the Easter services will be listed at the beginning of March. Perhaps it is not too soon to wish everyone a Happy Easter from St John s. A prayer for wisdom Sheila French Lord, you know better than I know myself that I am growing older and will some day be really old. Keep me from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every occasion about every subject. Release me from craving to straighten out somebody s affairs. Make me thoughtful, but not moody; helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom, it seems a pity not to use it all, but you know Lord, I want a few friends at the end.

17 Do not ask me to remember Do not ask me to remember Do not try to make me understand Let me rest and know you're with me Kiss my cheek and hold my hand I'm confused beyond your concept I am sick and sad and lost All I know is that I need you to be with me at all cost. Do not lose your patience with me Do not scold or curse my cry I can't help the way I'm acting Can't be different though I try Just remember that I need you That the best of me is gone Please don't fail to stand beside me Love me till my life is done June I am very conscious of the continuing prayerful support from church members and am so grateful for the visits she receives from friends. June is not alone in living with this bewildering condition. There are many in our local area and an estimated 850,000 nationally so this poem/prayer speaks for them as well as June. Michael Day As the magazine went to print we heard the sad news of June Day s death on Sunday 18 February. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Michael and the family at this sad time Helena Lane Community Centre 20, Hamlet Road Ludlow 19 th February - led by Ruth Downes 19 th March - led by Simon Lambourne 16 th April - led by Kim Stilwell 21 st May - led by Kelvin Price FAMILIAR BIBLE STORIES WELL LOVED SONGS LIGHT REFRESHMENTS Seminar series: towards a positive old age Rod Thomson, Director of Public Health Shropshire, will speak on Health and well-being in rural communities, the Local Government Association and Public Health England Report, Jane Robinson and Joyce Brand have identified 12 points in the report particularly relevant to Ludlow and have asked Rod to speak to these. The report is available on-line. Wednesday 7 March 3 5 pm at Ludlow Methodist Church 17

18 LIFE & LUDLOW The Life & Ludlow programme concludes in March with a series of four lectures to be given by the Very Revd Michael Tavinor, Dean of Hereford. Further details and the registration form for these lectures can be downloaded from the website Copies of the programme can also be obtained from the display by the church door or by contacting Barry Forrester on LIFE & LUDLOW Unscrambling issues of life and faith Entitled Hereford s Rogues Gallery: The lives and times of the Bishops and Deans of Hereford the series selects bishops and deans from four successive centuries, places them in their historical and theological context, and asks what each may be saying to the church of today as follows: On 1 March On 8 March On 15 March On 22 March All lectures take place at the Ludlow Mascall Centre beginning at 10.30am with coffee available beforehand from 10am. The cost is 6 (including coffee) per lecture or 20 for the series. REPAIR CAFÉ In Ludlow: on Saturday 17 March, Ludlow Mascall Centre, pm. If you ve got something you love or love using that s broken or not working properly, bring it along to our second Repair Café and our team of volunteer fixers will do their best to send it home working again! There s no charge but donations are requested to cover event costs. If you want to know more contact Diane Lyle: or diane.lyle@btinternet.com See you on 17 March! 18

19 SNOW DROPS AT ST LAURENCE S A Memorable Candlemas Weekend Candlemas Day, 2 February, the Feast of the Presentation of Christ in the Temple, marks the occasion, 40 days after his birth, when Jesus was taken to the Temple and was recognised as the Messiah, the Son of God and as the Light of the World. Candles have been used in church for many centuries at this time often with complicated services and huge processions involving the whole community. Candlemas Bells is an alternative name for snowdrops, the beautiful flowers we look for as a sign that spring is coming. Snowdrops are also referred to as flowers symbolic of hope. There are many interesting references to both Candlemas and snowdrops on the Internet This year Candlemas was observed on Sunday 28 January in Ludlow. The snowdrops planted at St Laurence s a few years ago were looking beautiful, and Rector Kelvin drew the attention of the congregation to them in his sermon at Evensong immediately prior to the Candlemas Supper. 19 However, my own thoughts of admiration, when I had gone to inspect the Church garden the day before, were tempered by the fact that I did not think there were enough of these beautiful flowers and that I should do something about increasing the number for the future! Shaun and I planted the snowdrops in 2013 and they were not cheap (they never are) which explains the rather limited number. So, out with a collecting box and a new appeal poster. Over the next two days, thanks to the generosity of members of the congregation at the Candlemas Services or the delicious supper on the Sunday, to supporters attending the Conservation Trust lecture by the Bishop of Worcester on the Monday, and some local residents and visitors to the church who were visiting or passing by, I collected 50 in cash for purchasing bulbs and was given one and promised two more buckets full of bulbs already in flower. Terry and I planted the first bucketful on the Monday and will return to Ludlow to finish the task in mid- February. We will have spent some of the collection at Stanton Lacy church during their annual Snowdrop weekend - an ideal place for us to be purchasing our bulbs. Finally, thank you again for your generosity and for making this a memorable Candlemas, and remember next year to look for an even better one. Jen Davies, gardener

20 Love, Remember - 40 poems of loss, lament and hope by Malcolm Guite, Canterbury Press, The best-selling poet Malcolm Guite has chosen forty poems from across the centuries that express the universal experience of loss, and reflects on them in order to draw out the comfort, understanding and hope they offer. Some of the poems will be familiar, many will be new, but together they provide a sure companion for the journey across difficult terrain. Some of Malcolm's own poetry is included, written out of his work as a priest with the dying and the bereaved and giving to the volume a powerful authenticity. The choice forty poems explore the risk of love, the pain of letting go, and look toward glimpses of resurrection. Paul: A Biography By Tom Wright, SPCK, One of the world s leading New Testament scholars here tells the story behind the story, the story of the Apostle Paul, whose letters have shaped so much of world history. Tom Wright has drawn on his own decades of acquaintance with Paul, as well as on other Pauline scholarship. This really excellent book not only brings Paul to life, but then places that life in the complex and overlapping array of Jewish and non-jewish communities, all set within the Roman empire. The result provides such a helpful picture, both of Paul and of the early Christian communities of which he was so significant a founder and shaper. Interpreting Dreams and Visions - a practical guide for using them powerfully to impact the world By Liz Evans, LionHudson, You will spend on average six years of your life dreaming. This is more than a simple mental process, for the Bible tells us that dreams and visions are important ways in which God chooses to speak to people. This book explains the language of dreams and visions, so that you can hear what God is saying to you at night, and during your prayer times. Love has a Voice and He wants to speak to His modern-day people. The book is highly practical, and includes training exercises at the end of each chapter. Church welcomes plans for plastic The Church of England has welcomed the Government s recent plans to protect the environment by tackling 20

21 the problem of too much plastic, and helping wildlife. The new environmental plans have been hailed as terrific and as caring for God s creation, according to the Bishop of Salisbury, the Rt Revd Nick Holtam, who is the Church s lead bishop on environmental issues. The Government recently announced that it is going to bring in measures designed to eliminate all avoidable plastic by This 25-year environmental plan, said Theresa May, was because plastic has become one of the great environmental scourges of our time. In years to come, I think people will be shocked at how today we allow so much plastic to be produced needlessly. Bishop Holtam said that while a 25-year time scale does look slow, at least it was a start. The Government has also announced plans to help wildlife, by introducing 500,000 new hectares of habitat for endangered species, and has promised to provide 5.7 million to kick-start a new Northern Forest project, where 50 million trees will be planted between Liverpool and Hull. The head of global policy at Christian Aid, Dr Alison Doig, also welcomed the plans. God s creation is not something for us to simply use and abuse, but to cherish, protect and pass on. Sadly, we have not taken good care of it. Here at St Laurence s the PCC is already looking at ways of reducing avoidable plastic, such as alternatives to the nonrecyclable cups in which we serve coffee after services. When candles were a vital necessity in every home and workplace, those who made them (chandlers) were highly-regarded craftsmen and their goods commanded high prices. Wanted - APPRENTICE chandler For many years handmade beeswax candles were one of the most popular lines in the church shop. We are now looking for someone to take on the role of candle maker. We can provide the beeswax and all the equipment required to make both poured and rolled candles as well as training in the different techniques. If you are interested in learning more about this unusual opportunity please contact the parish office: It is not difficult to learn and can make a very satisfying hobby, as well as making a valuable contribution to the shop income office@stlaurences.org.uk 21

22 WHO WANTS TO BE A TOUR GUIDE? While we all know that large numbers come to our church, we can often forget the impact which the building makes on our visitors with its impressive architecture and its exceptional mediaeval woodwork and stained glass. To add to their experience of the building a group of us have, since 2013, been offering free guided tours to our visitors on Saturday afternoons throughout the summer months. We also provide pre-booked guided tours throughout the year for visiting groups (for a small charge in aid of St Laurence s) and for school visits (at no charge). This year our tour season begins at Easter. Apart from those Saturdays when the church is in use for other events we expect to offer guided tours every Saturday afternoon through to mid November. Currently our team of volunteer guides is 10 strong, but we are always looking for more. Anyone interested in exploring what is involved should contact Barry Forrester on DAFFODIL DAY AT SPARCHFORD COTTAGE CULMINGTON ON EASTER MONDAY 2 APRIL 2-5 P M Teas and refreshments Donations in aid of Corvedale Benefice That daffodil time of year O how I love, as poets do That time when skies turn deeper blue, And all can know the vernal thrills Of landscapes filled with daffodils. I love to spend a pleasing hour Admiring nature s golden flower; That trumpet shape, enhanced by dew That vibrant, cheering yellow hue! No better herald of the spring No flower can more pleasure bring; And spirits crushed by winter s ills Are lifted by the daffodils! Nigel Beeton 22

23 Conservation Trust for ST Laurence Ludlow Palmers Pilgrimage to Hereford Cathedral The Ludlow Palmers 2018 Year of Pilgrimage includes talks and an art exhibition and will culminate on the weekend of May 2018 with a pilgrimage to Hereford Cathedral. You can walk, cycle or take the coach to Hereford Cathedral. More information and registration links can be found at the Ludlow Palmers website: Ludlow Palmers' Coffee Morning Wednesday 14 March 10am - 12 noon, 145 Corve Street An opportunity for Ludlow to support the work of the Conservation Trust. All proceeds from this Coffee Morning go towards the repair of St Laurence's building and historic treasures. Food and Feast - Medieval Food and Banquets Thursday 15 March pm, Ludlow Methodist Church, Broad Street Forget Hollywood's version of bone throwing and dogs all over the place. Discover how the wealthy really ate, and what the peasants had too. Michael Brown, mediaeval historian, shares insights into the world of the mediaeval food. Part of the Palmers Talk and Tea series. Tickets (limited seating): 5 on door (tea and cake included). 23 The Ludlow Palmers' Symposium on English Tiles Saturday 21 April 9.30am pm at St Laurence's and the Jackfield Tile Museum. Lectures by experts: Ian Betts (senior finds specialist, Museum of London Archaeology); Hans van Lemmen, (President of the Tiles and Architectural Ceramics Society); and Lesley Durbin, (senior conservator, Jackfield Conservation Studio) on English tiles Mediaeval to Victorian, Ecclesiastical and Domestic. Talks take place in the morning, followed by a short lunch. A coach will take participants to the Jackfield Tile Museum at Ironbridge to discover tile history and see unique installations of tiles in situ, followed by tea, coffee and biscuits and a return coach trip back to Ludlow. Optional tour of Ludlow Museum s medieval floor tile collection on the afternoon of Friday, 20 April. Tickets: Ludlow Palmers and TACS members - 45; non-members - 50 (half-day tickets available). Display, Jackfield Tile Museum

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26 Thank you to all our contributors. PLEASE SEND ALL COPY FOR THE APRIL TOWERS TO THE PARISH OFFICE BY TUESDAY 6 MARCH The deadline for submission of material will normally fall in the first week of the month preceding the month of issue. There is no guarantee that all material received by that date will be included in the next issue. Material arriving after the deadline will not be included. Please send articles by to office@stlaurences.org.uk We are happy to receive contributions and suggestions for inclusion in the magazine. Please limit items to no more 400 words. Editor s Note Opinions expressed in contributed articles in this magazine are those of the contributor and do not necessarily represent the position or opinions of the PCC or the Editorial Committee. Towers Editorial Committee The current members of the Towers editorial committee are: Lesley Harling (Editor) John Burley Lesley Gosbee-Harper If you would like to join us please contact the editor. LARGE PRINT Copies in large print are available from the St Laurence Parish Office

27 CONTACT US LUDLOW ST LAURENCE Parish Office 2 College Street, Ludlow SY8 1AN Churchwardens Val Hardwick, Sparchford Cottage, Culmington SY8 2DE Jim Hooper, 37 Beech Close, Ludlow SY8 2PD Deputy Churchwarden Michael Davies, 5 Hosyers Almshouses, College St PCC Secretary Lesley Harling, Ottie s Lodge, Steventon Electoral Roll Officer Dick Franks 7 Angel Bank, Bitterley, Ludlow Bible Reading F ship Penelope Bridstrup, 4 The Vineyard, Lower Broad St Children s Church c/o Parish Office Communion Rota Fay Carson, Fairfield, Linney, Ludlow Conservation Trust Rory Chase, c/o Parish Office Custodian Matthew Lenthall c/o Parish Office Director of Music Shaun Ward, c/o Parish Office Flowers Mary Loewenthal, 58 Julian Road, Ludlow Parish Safeguarding Officer Angela Aycliffe, c/o Parish Office Pastoral Links c/o Parish Office Sidesmen s Rota (8am) Barbara Burns, 8 Poyner Road, Ludlow Sidesmen s Rota (other) Fay Carson, Fairfield, Linney, Ludlow Stewards Rota Fay Carson, Fairfield, Linney, Ludlow St Laurence s Shop Amanda Davidson, c/o Parish Office Tower Captain Tony Greatrex, Church House, Bell Lane, Orleton Tower Floodlighting Forms at St Laurence s Shop Towers Editor Lesley Harling, Ottie s Lodge, Steventon LUDLOW ST JOHN Church Wardens Mrs Sheila French, 4 Coach House Fields, Livesey Rd Dr Brian Childs, 12 Vashon Close, Ludlow Treasurer Mr Peter Phelps, Hill Crest, Gravel Hill, Ludlow Secretary Mr John French, 4 Coach House Fields, Livesey Road Electoral Roll Mr John French, 4 Coach House Fields, Livesey Road Organist Mr Colin Reeves

28 Parish of Ludlow Saint Laurence Registered Charity No