PENTREF BAPTIST CHAPEL The Chapel at the Heart of Newbridge The Newsletter Of Newbridge-On-Wye Baptist Church JULY 2016
FROM THE MINISTER As a relative newcomer to the village, I was surprised by just how much goes on in June. There was the over 60 s dinner at the New Inn, the Duck Race and the Carnival. In this edition of the Newsletter I want to say a big thank-you to all of those who were involved in making these events such a success. (Pictures with more fulsome thanks later on in the Newsletter). The last few weeks have been dominated by the campaign about the referendum whether to stay or whether to go. The hullabaloo is now over, the vote has been taken and a decision reached. I don t want to talk about the result or the politics, but with the heart of a pastor I do want to talk about the hurts that some people will be feeling now. Those Who Feel Let Down: Since the vote, politicians on the leave side appear to be backtracking on some of the things that they said before the vote: -Leaving does not mean that we will take back control of our boarders, if we want to stay as part of the single market that includes the free movement of labour. - Three-hundred and fifty million pounds will not be saved every week. If we want to stay as part of the single market then for every person in the population the UK government would have to make a payment into the EU amounting to about three hundred and fifty million pounds a week. Neither of these facts came as a surprise to me I knew them before the vote what I didn t know was that part of the leave campaign was planning to keep the UK as part of the single market. -The money that it was alleged could be saved by leaving the EU would be spent on the NHS, apparently not, this was only one of the ideas about where the money could be spent (that s not the impression I got by reading the poster on the bus!). The Lost: One of the slogans that was heard during the campaign was about taking our country back. After the vote some will think that they are on the way to doing that. Others (and I have had people tell me this) think that the vote has taken their country away from them, it is not that they do not feel British but they also feel themselves to be European, we are a divided society. Some feel that they have their country back and some feel a sense of loss as they feel their country is being taken away from them.
The Confused and the Worried: There are those who feel confused, worried that they might not have voted the right way. Concerned about what the future holds; confused about the way forward. As I said I don t want to get involved in the politics, but I do want to say something pastorally into the situation. If our Christian faith, our belief in Jesus has nothing to say to a hurting society, then what is the point of us trying to follow Jesus. So to those who are feeling let down, may I point you to Jesus. Jesus said that he was: the Way, the Truth and the Life. We may think that some people were not telling the whole truth during the campaign; that is never the way with Jesus. He lets you know the whole truth. He does not promise his followers an easy way, but a tough road through life. There are no false promises, but only truth that can be replied upon. We are told in the Bible that Jesus is the Rock of our salvation. Rock is a foundation to build upon. Just as you can with confidence build a house upon a rock, so you with confidence can build a life by following Jesus. If you are feeling let down by the things of this world, pastorally all I can do is point you to Jesus. If you are feeling worried or confused, pastorally all I can do is point you to Jesus who told his followers to cast all their cares upon Him. Finally when Jesus taught his disciples to pray he used the words: Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. The followers of Jesus have a hope for a heavenly kingdom. You may feel like you have lost or regained your country in the here and now, but our hope is for an eternal kingdom where all the strife of this world will cease, where nationalism and boarders will be a thing of the past. If you think you have lost your country, turn to Jesus and find a new one. Steve P.S. The result of the referendum does not bring an end to democracy and free speech. Those who disagree have a right to speak out, have the right to campaign for change. Whichever side you are on maybe we could learn to speak and listen with a little more charity, a little more understanding and a little more truth. Maybe we could find a way to disagree without bringing about the divisions that this referendum campaign has brought. P.P.S. On the matter of the other Euro exit, I am told that the England football team are collectively paid a hundred and seventy million pounds a week, maybe we could save that money and spend it on the NHS!
COFFEE MORNING First Wednesday of the month 10:30 12ish The next Coffee Morning is on Wednesday July 6 th We will supply the coffee and tea the cakes and biscuits and you can come along to supply the good humoured company. No charge but donations gratefully received in aid of the: Hope House Children s Hospice Bible Study On Tuesday mornings a group of us get together to look at a particular part of the Bible. This is an informal gathering where all are encouraged to take part. At the moment we are looking at the gospel of Mark. If you would like to come along we will be meeting on Tuesday 12 th and 26 th July, in the Baptist Church hall at 10:30am.
JUNE 2016 AT PENTREF (By Clive Barrett). Generally speaking and for no obvious reason compared to May, June has been a much quieter month. Both of the first Sunday services were conducted by Revd Steve, with communion and studies in the book of James A lesson for teachers in the morning, and studies in the life of Abraham Trust in God, or do it yourself in the evening. On the second Sunday of June, Revd Steve and Vanessa were away at a family wedding, so the service was taken by Revd Ifor Williams of Erwrood in the morning. He spoke about dreams in the bible and our own dreams. In the evening the preacher was the Revd Preb. Paul Tarling of Holy Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells, who also delivered an interesting sermon. Revd Steve returned for the third Sunday to speak about learning to control the tongue as our studies continued in the book of James. In the evening Communion Service we continued our studies in the life of Abraham. On the final Sunday Pentref were very pleased to welcome to the pulpit, the Revd Simeon Baker, Director of Mission for the Baptist Union of Wales, who gave two excellent sermons. On the social front, the month started early on the first day with the now monthly Coffee Morning for charity, when donations received resulted in the target of 100 being raised for the Blind Veterans Association. These monies will be presented to Chris Ottewell, the Llandrindod Wells representative of the association at a later date. On Wednesday 22 nd Revd Steve commenced a course for those preparing for baptism. The course is not just directed at those preparing to be baptised, but also to anyone who wishes to know more about the Christian faith. The course held at Revd Steve and Vanessa's home, Cartref is aimed to be informal and fun. At the Bible Study sessions held on the 14 th and 28 th those attending continued to look at the gospel of Mark, with a detailed study of the Last Supper on the first Tuesday. As in previous months the Painting for Pleasure continued to meet on three Thursday afternoons. The vibrant Welsh for Beginners continued to meet on Monday evenings, although unavoidable absences resulted in varying numbers attending. The group were fortunate and grateful to be able to continue under the expert guidance of either Falmai or Bronwen. It was good to welcome back our Welsh Tutor Nelda after her recent illness and operation. Editors Note: I would like to express a big thank you to Clive for his regular contribution to the newsletter and take this opportunity to wish him a speedy recovery from his recent illness.
MEN'S FELLOWSHIP MEETING In June the men invited the Ladies to join them for their annual outing. We met together at Pentref and from there made our way to Bethania Baptist Chapel in the Elan Valley. We had the opportunity to look around the chapel and it s grounds. Mr Alwyn Batley and the Rev Ron Downey shared with us some of the history of the chapel, which was built to replace the original Baptist Chapel which was demolished before the valley was flooded after the building of the dam. Mr Alwyn Batley, the Rev Ron Downey and the Rev Steve Wallis all took part in the leading of the devotions. After the visit to Bethania we all adjourned to the Elan Valley Visitors Centre to enjoy a good meal. THE MEN S FELLOWSHIP DOES NOT MEET IN JULY AND AUGUST Look forward to seeing you all again in September. USED POSTAGE STAMPS Pentref Chapel collect used postage stamps which are sold to support the work of the Leprosy Mission. The Leprosy mission works in countries all over the world bringing support to those who are suffering from leprosy. If you have any used stamps, please drop them into the chapel or give them to someone you know who goes to the chapel. Thank you in anticipation of your support. TRANSPORT If you have difficulty getting about and would like a lift to any of the Pentref activities then ring Clive on 860571 and if possible he will arrange for someone to pick you up and take you home.
Meets on a Thursday afternoon. If you like painting or drawing, or if you have never done it but fancy having a go, then you would be welcome to come and join the group. Come along and share your skills in a group where we learn from each other. Refreshments will be provided. You will need to bring your own equipment for the painting and drawing. 2pm 4pm In the hall of the Baptist Church Further info from: Vanessa 01597 860185
SUNDAY SERVICES AT PENTREF 3 rd July 10:30am Rev Steve Wallis (Communion) (Studies in the book of James The Wisdom of God and the wisdom of the world) 5:00pm Rev Steve Wallis (Studies in the life of Abraham No laughing matter!) 10 th July 10:30pm Rev Steve Wallis (Studies in the book of James God s wisdom What s it like!) 5:00pm Rev Steve Wallis (Studies in the life of Abraham A lesson in prayer) 17 th July 10:30am Rev Steve Wallis (Studies in the book of James Wisdom and peace) 5:00pm Rev Steve Wallis (Communion) (Studies in the life of Abraham Saved by a righteous uncle) 24 th July 10:30am Rev Paul Tarling 5:00pm Rev Ron Downey 31 st July 10:30am Rev Philip Lewis 5:00pm Rev Philip Lewis
SERVICES AT ALL SAINTS Sunday 3 rd July 11:00am Morning Worship Sunday 10 th July 11:00am Combined Benefice. Eucharist at St James, Llanwrtyd Sunday 17 th July 11:00am Morning Worship Sunday 24 th June 11:00am Holy Eucharist Sunday 31 st July 11:00am 150 Anniversary Eglwys Oen Duw Joint, at Beailah. Eucharist with Confirmation. Midweek Eucharist every Wednesday at 10:00am. See Church notice-board for details of other services in July.
NEWBRIDGE-ON-WYE Strollers and Walkers Come and join us as we explore the hills and valleys of the local area. Strollers meet fortnightly on a Tuesday Walkers meet weekly on a Thursday We always meet in the car park by the Village Green at 10am we aim to be back between 12:30 & 1:30 Strollers is quite gentle Walkers is a bit more strenuous. Further info from: Phil or Val 01597 860569 Joyce 01597 860429 John or Jane 01597 860553 Have you heard of the Trefoil Guild? The Trefoil Guild is part of the Girlguiding movement, intended to provide adults with opportunities to find friendship, get active, give support and get involved. Most members were formerly involved in Guiding or Scouting but anyone who subscribes to the aims and principles of the organisations may join.
I don t know who organised the DUCK RACE But it was fun to watch and everyone seemed to have a good time
To the For all the hard work that they have done over the year in fund raising and for putting on such a spectacular event. The Ghost Busters winners of the first prize in the best float category
Zac Spraggon winner of the first prize in the best dressed under fives category.
To the team at the NEW INN for a really good occasion at the annual over 60 s dinner
To the Llanyre Community Council for a grant towards the production of this newsletter. Llanyre Community Council Did you know that copies of your Community Council s minutes and other information are published on their web site http://llanyre.org.uk/ One of your Community Council s responsibilities is the distribution of the funds raised from the recycling facilities which are situated in the car park adjacent to Newbridge on Wye Primary School. If your club, society or other good cause would like to be considered for a grant please contact one of your councillors or the clerk Linda Brown (see the above web site) on 01982 570317 for an application form.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Sunday 3 rd July 7:00pm Songs of Praise At New Radnor Baptist Chapel Saturday 9 th July at 6:30pm An Evening of Gospel Praise with the Swansea Gospel Male Voice Choir ADMISSION IS FREE, Those interested are invited to come and join them for an evening of wonderful Welsh Gospel Praise, at the Grand Pavilion, Spa Road, Llandrindod Wells. A freewill offering will be taken on the night. An evening organised by The Grand Pavilion Events. Sunday 10 th July 3:00pm Songs of Praise St Francis RC, Dark Lane, Rhayader Sunday 10 th July 2016, from 2:00pm to 5:00pm OPEN GARDEN at PEN-Y-CAE, LLANYRE ADMISSION 1.00 Home-made Teas available at a reasonable price. Stalls, Plants, Produce, Bric a Brac etc. Proceeds in aid of Hope House Children's Hospice who are celebrating 21 years since formation. Sunday 17 th July 2016, from 2:30pm to 5:00pm MODEL VILLAGE & GARDEN RAILWAY ADMISSION: Adults 2.00, Children 50p, Under 5 s free Everyone is invited to come and see the MODEL VILLAGE with the main feature being the GARDEN RAILWAY at 5, Meadowlands, Newbridge on Wye. Tea/coffee and cakes will also be available, all funds raised will go to Welsh Cancer Research. Please telephone 01597 860134, if the weather is inclement.
Monday 18 th 21 st July Royal Welsh Show Sunday 24 th July 6:30pm Songs of Praise Gravel Chapel Monday 25 th 29 th July Keswick in Wales Tabernacle, Llandrindod Wells Saturday 30 th & 31 st July FLOWER FESTIVAL Eglwys Oen Duw Joint, at Beailah.
PRAYER Each month at various times people from the Chapel get together to pray. If you have any prayer requests you can email them to me at steveoncomputer@aol.com putting Prayer Requests in the subject bar. Alternatively put them in an envelope marked Prayer Requests and put it through my letter box. Cartref (On the main road opposite the mile post.) The minister of the chapel is available not just for those who come to chapel but to anyone in the village who needs help and support: If you want someone to talk to who will listen get in touch and he will arrange a visit If you would like someone to pray with you please get in touch and he will arrange a visit. If you are going into hospital and would like a pastoral visit, please let the minister know and if possible he will visit. The minister of the chapel is here as chaplain to the village. If he can be of help in any way please get in touch. Tel: 01597 860185. Email:steveoncomputer@aol.com
This newsletter is aimed to let the whole village know what is happening at the Baptist Church. We intend to continue putting this newsletter out monthly to every home in the village. We would like the newsletter to be a service to the village and will happily publicise events organised by other groups. If you have an event you would like included in future issues please contact either Steve or Elsa. Steveoncomputer@aol.com 01597 860185 Elsa.harflett@hotmail.com 01597 860894 You can also find us on the internet at: www.newbridgebaptistchurch.co.uk or on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/pentref-baptist-chapel Cover Photographs If you have a photo of Newbridge and a story to go with it please let Steve know and we will use the picture on the front cover and print the story inside a future issue.
Fancy a sing along to some of the old favourite hymns and the opportunity to learn some of the newer Christian songs then come along to Cartref on Tuesday 12 th July at 7:30pm where some of us from the chapel will be gathering to practice some of the songs we will be using in services in August. Tea,, Coffffee And biiscuiitts And maybe even a cake wiillll be supplliied